New events replace Martinis & Imax series

‘Fernbank After Dark’ is an interactive science series for adults.

The Fernbank Museum of Natural History has ended its longrunning Martinis & Imax series and has started new, adults-only, interactive science events.

Coined “Fernbank After Dark,” this series launched earlier this year and will be held 7-11 p.m. on the second Friday of each month. The next one is April 14.

“Fernbank After Dark” will feature different science experiments every month such as making Alka-Seltzer rockets or producing dry ice bubbles. The new evening series also features live music and films on the new giant screen theater. Small bites and a rotating menu of craft cocktails and beers are served.

The April 14 evening will have an Engineering and Technology theme, inspired by the film “Dream Big” currently playing on the giant screen. Engineering activities will include creating a building out of playing cards and a bridge out of dry pasta. Exhibits at the museum will be open during the events. From May to September, Fernbank After Dark visitors will also have access to Fernbank’s new outdoor experience, “WildWoods.”

“Guests will experience something different and exciting each time they attend Fernbank After Dark,” said Sara Brumfield, Fernbank’s event and beverage manager said in a press release. “We are excited to offer the museum in an adults-only environment and are thrilled to work with a wide array of partners so that each event will spark an interest in something new for our visitors.”

At the March event, represen-

tatives from Orpheus Brewing, American Spirit Works and others delved into the science behind how brewing, fermenting, distilling and developing their products in what was called the “Science of Spirits Series.” A second installment of this series will be held May 12 when Cathead Vodka, partnering with Fernbank, will look into botanicals and their uses in gin and other spirits.

Fernbank After Dark’s beverage menu will rotate seasonally and highlight local spirits and beers.

Cocktails kicking off the series include an updated take on the classic Old Fashioned, featuring Virgil Kaine Rye Whiskey, Hoodoo Chicory Liqueur and bitters; the effervescent Fossil Fizz combining botanical gin and blackberry jam; and the refreshing Mad Hatter with Earl Gray-infused vodka, citrus and sugar. Fernbank has also partnered with craft breweries to offer beer selections from Atlanta favorites such as Creature Comforts, Wild Heaven, Second Self and more.

Films will be shown at Fernbank After Dark in the Giant Screen Theater at 8 p.m., 9 p.m. and 10 p.m.

CONTRIBUTED BY GLORIA STEVENS During the adults-only events, exhibits will remain open.