Fernbank Museum has plenty to see and do during the day, but for an extra dose of fun for the 21-and-over crowd, visit the natural history museum’s monthly Fernbank After Dark nights. Each has its own theme, with “Watts Up 2025″ scheduled from 7-11 p.m. Friday, Jan. 10.

“They’re probably the most popular events that we do at Fernbank,” Jena Allison, the museum’s communications manager, said. “They seem to always gather a big crowd, which is exciting.”

The special nights frequently sell out at the door, so Allison suggests arriving early to ensure admittance.

Science-related activities add to the fun at Fernbank After Dark.

Credit: Photo courtesy of Fernbank Museum

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Credit: Photo courtesy of Fernbank Museum

Each After Dark event features snacks, sodas, cocktails, craft beers and, in the colder months, a warm drink. Guests have the chance to socialize and enjoy live music, view exhibits as well as take part in activities related to each night’s theme.

Friday’s After Dark activities light up the night with a Van de Graff generator, which creates a buildup of static electricity that causes you to become charged if you touch it. You may be surprised to experience your hair standing on end as a result!

Other electricity-themed activities include Squishy Circuits, which utilize conductive dough to explore how circuits work, and Electricks, demonstrating party tricks that can be done at home.

Attendees will also be able to explore Wildwoods: AGLOW during this month’s After Dark as they immerse themselves in a natural environment with glowing displays. Larger-than-life incandescent mushrooms, fluttering dragonflies and more are featured and are set to original music compositions.

Fernbank is at 767 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta. Tickets to After Dark cost $39.95 for nonmembers and $34.95 for members. The event is from 7-11 p.m., with Wildwoods: AGLOW visits ending at 10 p.m. (last entry is at 9:30). More information: 404-929-6300, fernbankmuseum.org.

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