The Franklin Institute Block Party: A Summer Celebration
Event Details
- Date: Saturday, June 20, 2026
- Time: 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
- Audience: All Ages
- Tickets: Included with General Admission | Select activities on the front steps are free
About the Event
Philly knows how to throw a party, and this year, The Franklin Institute is taking the celebration outdoors to celebrate the start to summer. On Saturday, June 20, Philadelphia’s iconic science museum transforms into an afternoon of live music, and hands-on science,. With programming for every age, the festivities will spread across the front steps, atrium, and museum grounds.
Rain or shine, the fun goes on*.
Tickets Include
All programming is included with your General Admission ticket. Select activities on the front steps are free and open to the public without a ticket.
Featured Programming
- Science of Soccer featuring The Philadelphia Union: Explore the physics of force, motion, friction, and reaction time through hands-on soccer activities. Discover how every pass, kick, and goal is live STEM in action.
- Weather Science Show with NBC10 Meteorologist Justin Gozdzicki: Ever wondered what actually goes into making a storm? NBC10's Justin Gozdzicki joins us for a live show that breaks down the recipe.
- Stoop Dance Party featuring DJ Ben Arsenal: Kick off Summer with a full-on dance party on The Franklin Institute's iconic front steps.
- Solar Viewing only at The Franklin Institute: On the eve of summer solstice — our longest day of sunlight — take a safe, telescope-assisted look at the star at the center of it all.
- Soap Bubble Monster: An explosive, sudsy science demonstration followed by open bubble play. Giant foam, giant fun — and actual science behind every bubble.
- PNC Grow Up Great Activities presented by PNC Bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the TFI Block Party free to attend?
The TFI Block Party is included with General Admission. Select programming on the front steps is free and open to all.
What happens if it rains?
*Some outdoor activities are weather dependent — in the event of inclement weather, as much programming as possible will be moved indoors. Check this page for updates closer to the date.
Is the Block Party good for kids?
Yes, the TFI Block Party is fun for all ages.
Will there be food and drinks?
The Eatery is open to the public and offers light entrees, snack, drinks, and treats for purchase.
Will food and drink be available?
The Eatery, which is open to the general public, offers light entrees, snacks, drinks, and cool treats for purchase.
Will the Philadelphia Union be at The Franklin Institute?
Yes, select players and the mascot, Phang, will be celebrating at TFI!
Programming Partners
