Science on Tap: Mate Night

Science Museum of Virginia Arousing Excitement with Science on Tap: Mate Night!

Virtual Adults-Only Event Explores Attraction Ahead of Valentine’s Day

February 5, 2021

What: The Science Museum of Virginia is back with another virtual Science on Tap, this time dubbed Mate Night. Due to its proximity to Valentine’s Day, and just as the name suggests, the event will be full of STEaMy fun tied to attraction, mating, romance and more.

From the comfort of their own home – and while listening to the love songs of their choice – guests will enjoy the following stimulating programming:

• The Museum’s resident lecturer of all things blush-worthy, Jim Blow, will present “This is How We Do It” about mating habits animals and humans have in common.
• Neuroscientist Dr. Catherine Franssen will explore the five sense of attraction in “I Touch Myself.”
• Museum educators will lead a rousing round of “Wicked Games” to test guests’ knowledge of horny animals. (horns, people … animals with horns!)
• Romance is in the air, but what about the vacuum of space? Astronomer Justin Bartel will celebrate cosmic anniversaries with “Feels Like the First Time.”

Just because Science on Tap is on Zoom does not mean the rules change: as with the in-person events, the content is aimed at an adult audience and is not kid friendly.

When: Wednesday, Feb. 10, from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Who: Curious-minded adults are invited to pop some bubbly, grab some oysters, put on heart-covered PJs and plug in a laptop as hosts digitally unzip all the irresistible science fun that will surely include plenty of innuendo.

Science on Tap: Mate Night is presented by WestRock.

How: Guests should register on the Museum’s website before 7 p.m. on February 10. No matter when they register, guests will not be emailed the link to access the Zoom program until the day of the event. Guests should register per device access, not per person.

Museum staff are working hard to keep people entertained and enriched while socially distant. The Museum is not charging for Science on Tap events, but – as they don’t create themselves – guests are welcome to support the programming efforts by donating to the Science Museum of Virginia Foundation after registering.

Why: The Museum hosted the first virtual Science on Tap in May 2020. Feedback from guests who have joined the digital events said they have enjoyed the show’s humorous and informative content, and want the Museum to continue offering more adults-only digital programs. The Museum is happy to oblige as providing a reminder about the importance of science in people’s lives has never been more vital, and continues to be paramount to the organization’s mission.