Long Night of the Museums 2023

Join us on an environmental adventure to discover how children learn to protect the planet! Based on the inaugural online exhibition of the Digital Museum of Learning, “Making the Environment Matter", this exhibition encourages visitors of all ages to think playfully and critically about their relationship with the natural world.

Immerse yourself in interactive and multisensory exhibits, inspiring workshops, and games as you explore the history of environmental education and reflect on your role in preserving the planet.

Birder’s corner

Peek into bird boxes for a look at the fascinating world of birds. Learn more about our feathered friends and how we can protect them with short animations inspired by the illustrations of John (1804-1881) and Elizabeth Gould (1804-1841), the naturalists who inspired the Austalian Gould League of Bird Lovers.

Feasting with nature

Who would nature invite to a dinner party, and what would the guests eat? At the Naturalist’s Dinner Party, key figures from our online exhibition “Making the Environment Matter” sit down to dine with the Earth. Examine the dinner plates of such influential figures as Rachel Carson, Élisée Reclus, Dr. Auzoux or Leopold and Rudolph Blaschka. Discover how the contents of these plates reflect the consequences of our food choices for the environment.

Landscape factory

What makes a landscape desirable to live in? Discover your inner artist and create your ideal landscape using examples from art and botanical illustrations from around the world. Find your designs in the Digital Museum of Learning’s Landscape Gallery after the event!

Blaschka’s underwater orchestra

All aboard! We’re setting out to sea! Navigate your boat to discover beautiful glass models of strange marine invertebrates made by the Blaschkas! Leopold and his son Rudolph Blaschka were two exceptional glass-artists who created extraordinary collections of animal and flower models.

Peter Fried, a professor of Applied Physics at NYU, was captivated by the craftsmanship of the Blaschka glass models. Collaborating with experts from Cornell University and Harvard University, he created the 3D models of these delicate masterpieces that are notoriously challenging to replicate.

Fight water monsters

Have you ever wondered what’s in a tiny drop of water? A long time ago (in the 1800s) there was a funny picture called “London Monster Soup”. It showed scary creatures like bacteria, gorgons, and hydras in the water from the Thames River - where people got their drinking water! But don't worry, there have been many improvements and London's drinking water is safe to drink now. Sadly, 2.2 billion people around the world still have to deal with “water monsters” in their drinking water every day. So let’s strike a pose and join the fight against those water monsters!

Food, drink, and entertainment

Come and join us at the bar for a taste of special themed drinks or indulge in some culinary delights from the food truck. The duo Walter Baumgartner and Hannes Kasehs will perform live music featuring Dust Bowl songs by the American folk singer, Woody Guthrie. Enjoy the unique atmosphere on the beautiful terrace of the Johann Jacobs Museum.