Go beyond the Institute's award-winning "Your Brain" exhibit to explore even more of the mysteries of the mind and inner workings of the brain through special, supplementary hands-on programming. Take in the two-story neural climb, see and feel dynamic brain models, and experience interactive, hands-on activities focused on neurons, multi-tasking, and vision on a day designed with the human body's most ingenious organ in mind.

Go beyond the Institute's award-winning "Your Brain" exhibit to explore even more of the mysteries of the mind and inner workings of the brain through special, supplementary hands-on programming. Take in the two-story neural climb, see and feel dynamic brain models, and experience interactive, hands-on activities focused on neurons, multi-tasking, and vision on a day designed with the human body's most ingenious organ in mind.

The Polar Express Day

Saturday, December 15, 2018 - 10:00am to 3:00pm

Museum-wide

• Families
• Public
• Members

Relive the magic and wonder of the timeless classic holiday tale "The Polar Express" with activities inspired by the award-winning book and beloved film. Let your imagination soar and settle in for a unique guided experience aboard the authentic Baldwin 60,000 locomotive. Understand steam vs. diesel and how trains move, the harmonics of sleigh bells, and why no two snowflakes are alike — plus more holiday-related science happenings and all-day screenings of "The Polar Express."

Science After Hours

Tuesday, December 18, 2018 - 7:00pm to 10:00pm

• Adults
• Evening
• Members

Get in the spirit of the season with some strange science. From the fireplace mantle to the cabinet of curiosities, our halls are decked with boughs of holly and folly for the scientific soiree of the season. Filled to the brim with crafts, carols, and explosive demonstrations—this night will leave you hankering for the holidays! 

Holiday Bizarre activities include:

DIY Science: Holiday Crafting

Saturday, December 22, 2018 - 10:00am to 2:00pm

Key Hallway

• Families
• Members
• Public

Be a little crafty and a lot festive this holiday season and explore your love of science. The Franklin Institue provides the tools and techniques needed to create the most treasured, handmade crafts just in time for the holidays. From chromatography ornaments to e-crafting magnets and paper circuit holiday cards, see how a sparkle of science and a touch of technology can make the most ordinary objects come to life!

Ring in the New Year early this year as The Franklin Institute counts down to an explosive pre-launch to 2019. Celebrate with fiery live science shows, magic milk firework experiments, make-and-take noisemakers, plus live shows on the Science of Fireworks, and other surprises — all well before midnight on New Year's Eve. Plus, when the clock strikes NOON, what better way to close out 2018 and welcome in the New Year than with a massive ball pit explosion!