The Franklin Institute Presents: Don’t Try This at Home Day
Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Extreme Science Live in Philadelphia
Experience one of the most exciting family-friendly science events in Philadelphia - Don’t Try This at Home Day at The Franklin Institute. For one day only, enjoy high-energy, large-scale science demonstrations that push experiments to the limit, all conducted safely by expert performers and fearless partners.
This is not a typical classroom experience. It is live STEM entertainment where science ignites, erupts, and surprises audiences in real time.
Live Science Shows and Demonstrations
Guests will see a series of dynamic experiments designed to showcase science at its most dramatic, including:
- A 500-ball blast powered by ultra-cold Liquid Nitrogen
- A multi-balloon explosion fueled by hydrogen
- Large-scale cloud formations created from thin air
- The Periodic Chef experience, featuring short, fast-paced shows inspired by cooking programs that combine everyday ingredients with unexpected scientific elements
Special Guests and Interactive Experiences
- Explore a real fire truck with the Philadelphia Fire Department
- Meet Crazy Aaron, creator of Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty
- Learn about polymers and the science behind putty-making
- Participate in hands-on activities and preview select putties featured in the event
Discover science at its most powerful, engaging, and unexpected.
Free with general admission.
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