Science After Hours: Fright Nite
An adults-only Halloween night of science, scares, movie magic, and after-hours access at The Franklin Institute
Friday, October 16, 2026 | 7:30 pm – 11:30 pm
Tickets: $35 Members | $40 Non-members
Lights. Camera. Screams.
Looking for a 21+ Halloween event in Philadelphia? Science After Hours: Fright Nite brings together scary movie science, after-hours museum access, themed entertainment, food and drink, and rooftop stargazing for an unforgettable night out at The Franklin Institute.
For one night only, Science After Hours: Fright Nite transforms The Franklin Institute into an adults-only Halloween experience exploring the science, technology, and movie magic behind cinema’s most iconic monsters, creatures, and scary effects.
Come in costume as your favorite horror movie character and enjoy a night of science, scares, exhibits, stargazing, and Halloween-themed science programming designed for adults 21 and older.
Your Science After Hours: Fright Nite ticket includes Halloween-themed science activities, live entertainment, hands-on experiences, and special partner programming throughout the museum.
- An exclusive “Fright Nite” limited edition lapel pin.
- Stargazing from the rooftop, with spectacular views and facilitated stargazing (weather permitting).
- Food and drinks by Seravezza Events are available for purchase at bars across the museum
Featured Programming:
- Dance among the stars with a live DJ set by Drootrax while watching full dome visuals with modified analog gear by Liquid Light Lab in the Fels Planetarium.
- Create movie magic with sound effects, Foley, and your own movie dubbing in this interactive audio experience from Dragonfly Audio Post.
- Can anyone hear you scream in space? Learn from our Chief Astronomer Derrick Pitts on some of his favorite pop culture space horror moments on what is fact or maybe even stranger than fiction.
- Get a behind-the-scenes look at the art and special effects that bring movie monsters, creatures and gruesome characters to life with Trauma Queen FX.
- Get hands-on with Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty & Land of Dough in a The Blob-inspired experience celebrating Phoenixville’s connection to the classic film
- Enjoy a curated collection of short films on real celluloid, presented by Philadelphia’s Secret Cinema.
- Discover how the chemistry of biopolymers is used in practical effects with the American Chemical Society, Philadelphia.
- Explore the medical conditions that inspired classic movie monsters through an interactive game from Forensic Medicine Program at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.
- Sample new brews with Wissahickon Brewery, including the premiere of a beer created just for Science After Hours: Fright Nite.
- Learn to spot cardiac arrest, perform CPR, and use an automated external defibrillator (AED) with The Mobile CPR Project.
Know Before You Go
- This is a 21+ event. All guests must show a valid form of identification upon entry.
- Only small clutch bags (4.5” x 6.5”) are allowed.
- Doors for the event open at 7:30 pm, with programming starting at 8:00 pm. A complete event schedule will be released closer to the date.
- While we encourage everyone to dress up to the theme, there is no formal dress code for Science After Hours; however, please note that full-face masks are not permitted, and shoes, tops, and bottoms are required for entry.
- The Franklin Institute does not discriminate based on gender orientation, race, or religion. The Franklin Institute is committed to creating a welcoming environment for all guests. Harassment of any kind will not be tolerated, and anyone who harasses other guests may be removed from the event.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in my ticket?
Your ticket to Science After Hours: Fright Nite includes access to all core museum exhibits and galleries, featured event programming, an exclusive limited-edition lapel pin, and access to the roof deck and facilitated stargazing, weather permitting.
Are costumes encouraged?
Absolutely! Halloween costumes inspired by monsters, horror films, and scary movie characters are encouraged. Please note that full-face masks are not permitted, and shoes, tops, and bottoms are required for entry.
Are food and drinks available?
Yes. Food and beverages will be available for purchase from bars throughout the museum and in The Eatery, provided by Seravezza Events.
Can I visit the museum exhibits during the event?
Yes! Your Science After Hours event ticket includes access to The Franklin Institute’s core exhibits and galleries.
Is the event appropriate for kids?
No. Science After Hours: Fright Nite is an adults-only event for guests 21 and older. All guests must show a valid form of identification upon entry.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Advance ticket purchase is recommended. Science After Hours events are limited, ticketed experiences, and availability may be limited.
