
Franklin Frost
Celebrate the holiday season under the grandeur of a 25-foot-tall celestial tree, viewing model train displays, and participating in holiday crafting and festive photo opportunities. TFI’s annual winter experience is available on weekends starting Friday, November 24 and continuing daily throughout Holiday Week (December 26 to 31).
Franklin Frost features:
Celestial Tree – Atrium
Daily, 11/24 – 12/ 31
Marvel at the 25-foot-tall celestial tree sparkling with stars as model trains loop around this spectacular tree, designed to reflect the magnificent night sky. Experience it daily during Franklin Frost.
Celestial Village – Floor 3
Weekends, 11/24 through 12/31* and daily during Holiday Week, 12/26-31
10:00 am - 4:30 pm
- Big Chill Valley and Aurora Mountain Model Train Displays
A train lover's delight! Enter Celestial Village and explore a collection of hand-painted model trains navigating the many elevated tracks, loops, and tunnels against the scenic backdrop of flocked trees, twinkling lights, and whistling sounds. - Photo Opportunities: a giant “Self on a Shelf” and a “Holiday Pop-up Card.”
- Craft and decorate a personalized holiday card to take home in the Card Making Factory. Type a message for your card at one of the vintage typewriters provided by Philly Typewriter. Learn more about Philly Typewriter.
- New for 2023, Open Studios with NextFab Members welcomes local artists and craftsmen to display their work, share their creative process, and offer handmade items for purchase. Learn more about NextFab.
Programming in Celestial Village takes place from 10:00 am - 4:30 pm and is included with museum admission. Be sure to check out the daily program for additional information.
Buy General Admission Tickets Reserve Member Tickets
*The Franklin Institute is closed December 24 and 25.
Upcoming Events

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In celebration of Pixar’s upcoming film Elio (in theaters June 20), come join us for a day of hands-on, imagination-fueled fun for space explorers of all ages to enjoy.

Thursday night plans? Handled! This 18+ event is your chance to experience The Franklin Institute as an adult. Think rooftop sunsets, explosive experiments, and cocktails that hit just right.

Thursday night plans? Handled! This 18+ event is your chance to experience The Franklin Institute as an adult. Think rooftop sunsets, explosive experiments, and cocktails that hit just right.

Experience a sizzling science spectacle packed with wild, over-the-top experiments you should absolutely not attempt in your kitchen. One day only where science gets dangerously fun.

Thursday night plans? Handled! This 18+ event is your chance to experience The Franklin Institute as an adult. Think rooftop sunsets, explosive experiments, and cocktails that hit just right.

Calling all curious kiddos, playful parents, and thrill-seeking families—FunFest: A Night at the Museum is your golden ticket to an after-hours adventure where the museum turns into your playground!