An adults-only 21+ evening event with hands-on science experiments, a live DJ, and access to exhibitions, exploring the science and movie magic behind horror.
The Franklin Institute is turning into an adults-only Halloween party on Friday, October 16, for Science After Hours: Fright Nite. It's part of the museum's Science After Hours series, which is built for the 21+ crowd and pairs hands-on science with live performances and cash bars. This particular night is all about the science, technology, and movie magic behind cinema's most iconic monsters and scary effects.
The programming runs throughout the museum. In the Fels Planetarium, DJ Drootrax provides a set with full-dome visuals, while Dragonfly Audio Post sets up hands-on audio experiences. Chief Astronomer Derrick Pitts gives a talk on pop-culture space horror, and Trauma Queen FX demonstrates how special effects artists build monsters. You'll also see how chemistry produces on-screen effects and get a look at the medical conditions that inspired classic movie monsters. There's a Blob-inspired activity that nods to the horror film's connection to nearby Phoenixville, and you can experiment with Foley sound effects and movie dubbing.
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Costumes are encouraged, though full-face masks aren't allowed. The night closes with rooftop stargazing over Philadelphia, weather permitting, and new brews from Wissahickon Brewery, including a beer created just for the event. Doors open at 7:30 PM, and the programming kicks off at 8:00 PM. Tickets are $35 for Franklin Institute members and $40 for nonmembers.
