Explore the Science and Industry Museum after dark

Have you ever thought of partying on a railway platform, dancing the night away in a nineteenth-century warehouse, or raising a glass of craft beer among revolutionary machines? Do all of this and more during an adult-only, late-night opening at the Science and Industry Museum in Manchester.

Power Hall: After Hours will take place from 7pm – 10pm on Thursday, 12 March. Aimed at anyone over the age of 18, it promises an evening of engines, excitement, and an energizing atmosphere, where visitors can explore Power Hall: The Andrew Law Gallery’s world-class collection of machines that changed the world in a whole new light. It is the first time Power Hall has been available to explore after hours since it reopened in October following major improvement works.

Reflect on the power that propelled Manchester forward with unforgettable shows from RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star, Viola, who will be combining vocals and violin during powerful pop-up performances. See the museum illuminate with big beats and bright lights from international percussionist, Mike Cunningham, whose bold and colourful LED drumming session has been inspired by the sounds of industrial Manchester.

The entire museum will be available to explore after hours with a drink in hand, courtesy of GRUB, who have collaborated with Northern Monk to deliver a pop-up bar that also offers guests an in-depth look at brewing techniques, flavour development, and the science behind every pint.

Visitors can also embrace their inner child by being blasted into a hands-on, highly humorous voyage around the Solar System with Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos, or get stuck into some friendly competition by dropping into the ultimate gaming experience, Power Up, and taking their pick of more than 150 consoles to play on.

The competition continues with high-energy interactive games introduced for one night only as part of the event. Visitors can test their nerves against a giant buzz wire, challenge reflexes during a tabletop maze, and face down friends in a pedal-powered Scalextric race.

The museum’s permanent galleries will all be open to explore, including the hands-on science playground, Experiment, the mighty machines in the Textiles Gallery, and Manchester’s rich legacy of industrial innovations, creativity, and world-changing ideas in Revolution Manchester.

Public programme producer at the Science and Industry Museum, Gina Cooke, said: “There’s something truly exciting about being in a museum after hours. Power Hall is already such a special space, full of atmosphere and inspiration, but being able to explore its amazing collection at night alongside live music and performances makes it even more magical.”

Tickets for Power Hall: After Hours are available to book now via the museum’s website, priced at £10/£5 for students and concessions. A selection of loaded fries from caterers, Benugo, and drinks from GRUB’s pop-up bar will be available throughout the night.

The museum is also running a free session dedicated to teachers from 18:00 – 19:00 on the night. Tickets for the STEM educator event are free and will also allow entry to the After Hours. Visit the museum’s website for more information.