Thinking of planning a science-themed soirée with colleagues at work or other students at school? You’ve come to the right place. Hosting a science-related dinner party is a great way to connect with and get to know your peers on a personal level, as well as to learn more about each other’s respective fields of interest. No matter if you’re a seasoned host or hostess, or if this is your first time planning a science dinner party, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know to make it a success.

Step 1: Set the Scene With Science-Inspired Decor

Welcome guests to a night of scientific splendor by decking out your home with creative decorations. Think test tube flower vases that can be arranged across the center of your dinner table or displayed on a serve-yourself food table. Make name tags for each guest with their name and a sticker related to their specialty from our Science Sticker Book placed in the corner. Printing out common signs found around the laboratory, placing textbooks or academic journals around is an easy way to add more decor. Your guests will appreciate the attention to detail and subtle nods at their area of study. Plus, it’s a great way to get conversation flowing as everyone settles in and places their belongings at the table. 

Step 2: Mix Up Some Molecular Cocktails

Encourage guests to run their own science experiment at your cocktail table by leaving out an assortment of mixers and liquors — bonus points if they’re stored in beakers! Whip up some DIY foam with soy lecithin, carbonate your drinks with a CO2 canister or snag some dry ice for the ultimate beverage. Make layered density drinks by adjusting the sugar concentration of each colored juice. Whether you're serving up a smoking dry ice concoction or a classic beaker of bubbly, your guests will be blown away by your mixology prowess. 

Step 3: Earn Your PhD in Gastronomy

Now it’s time for the star of the show: your dinner party menu. Blow minds — and taste buds — by basing each dish off a particular science field, groundbreaking discovery or memorable scientist in history. For example, you could honor Mendel, the founder of genetics by creating a salad with heirloom tomatoes (or GMO, either will work.) Another option would be a citrus salad using pectinase as a catalyst in the hydrolysis of pectin to remove the pith will impress those protein enthusiasts. Have fun with the dishes and just remember working in the kitchen and working in the lab have a lot of similar skills - just take a look at the equipment and recipes they have in Michelin star restaurants. Be sure to label each dish with its scientific inspiration and scientific name for some extra nerdy fun.

Step 4: Serve Up Edible Experiments for Dessert

Who says science experiments can't be delicious? Not us! Once it’s time for dessert, treat your guests to a hands-on edible experiment station by setting up a DIY s'mores bar with a twist. Allow guests to roast marshmallows over a Bunsen burner or create their own masterpieces with flavored foams and edible spheres. Another option would be jello served in petri dishes for an easy prepared dish. It's like Willy Wonka's chocolate factory meets the chemistry lab and is sure to leave a lasting impression on guests.

Step 5: Keep the Conversation Flowing With Science Trivia and Games

As the night winds down, keep the scientific vibes going with some after-dinner trivia. You can challenge your guests to a round of periodic table bingo, host a science-themed charades competition or test their knowledge with a round of "name that scientist". Not only will it keep the party going, it will also give everyone a chance to show off their inner science geek.

There you have it: the ultimate guide to throwing a science-related dinner party that's sure to be the talk of the town — or at least the lab. Now it’s time to put on your snazziest pair of safety goggles, fire up those Bunsen burners and get ready to dazzle your guests with a night they'll never forget. 

Happy experimenting and bon appétit!