Join the NHM Next Campaign
The NHM Next campaign is transforming the Museum into one of the coolest destinations in Southern California. Want to get involved in our final phase?
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T. rex Growth Series Time Lapse!
Yes, that is Thomas and company getting installed in our new Dinosaur Hall. Check out this amazing time lapse on our YouTube channel! View more >
First Fridays: Science is Sexy
Our latest installment of what might be L.A.’s hottest, smartest nighttime event starts January 4, 2013. Come have a cocktail, explore the Museum after hours, and get enlightened.
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Age of Mammals Media
Go in depth with our researchers and the unique specimens from the
Age of Mammals exhibit.
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First Fridays FAQs
If I buy a pre-sale ticket, what do I get? Does it guarantee me admission to the show?
Depending on the tier you select, you can buy a ticket which guarantees access to the concert hall or just a museum admission. Both tickets include access to the Museum after-hours, the guided tour, the scientist-led discussion and the First Fridays lounge. Due to limited capacity in the North American Mammal Hall, musical performances are sold as the Concert ticket.
If the Concert ticket for the event is listed as sold-out online, does that mean I can’t come?
We reserve a portion of the ticket sales for the door. The entire evening is based on a first-come, first-serve basis for admission, with the exception of the performance hall. If you come early in the evening, you should still be able to purchase tickets for the evening’s events. Doors for the evening open at 5:00pm.
If I purchased a Museum Admission Only, do I not get to see any of the concert?
Don’t let that deter you because the performances will be projected onto screens throughout the Grand Foyer and many people prefer to watch the performances there. Don’t forget access to the DJ lounge, Museum, curatorial tours and lectures are all part of the Museum Ticket.
When are tickets available to purchase?
Advance tickets are available to Members and Non-Members prior to the event. Members receive priority access to the Concert tickets (for $6) by purchasing tickets before sales open to the public. See breakdown of the 2013 Season ticket dates below. Ticket sales start at 10:00am on indicated dates.
January: November 30, 2012 for Members; December 3, 2012 for Non-Members
February: January 4, 2013 for Members; January 7, 2013 for Non-Members
March: February 1, 2013 for Members; February 4, 2013 for Non-Members
April: March 1, 2013 for Members; March 4, 2013 for Non-Members
May: March 29, 2013 for Members; April 1, 2013 for Non-Members
June (Sunday): May 3, 2013 for Members; May 6, 2013 for Non-Members
How do I reserve a Concert ticket if I am already a member?
Go online through the First Fridays webpage to purchase your Concert ticket for $6. Concert tickets are on a first-come first-serve basis. Members may purchase $6 concert tickets for identified members on the memberhsip only. For questions or more information, contact the Membership Office during normal business hours at (213) 763-3426.
Do members need to purchase concert tickets if they DO NOT wish to access the concert hall?
No. Members who are NOT interested in accessing the North American Mammal Hall for the concert performance do not need to purchase First Fridays concert tickets. Simply present your Membership Card with a picture ID at the Membership Desk the night of the event to gain general admission to the Museum. General admission includes free access to the lecture, tours, DJ lounge, and exhibits on a first come first serve basis. The concert can still be heard and viewed on screens in the Grand foyer.
What advantages do Members have for First Fridays?
Members receive FREE general admission to First Fridays and unlimited admission to the Museum all year long. Members also have advanced access to concert tickets before they go on-sale to the public. Plus, member enjoy 10% off all Museum Store purchases and discounts to lectures, classes and other education programs. Members are also first to see all exbhibit openings during Member Preview Days, and are invited to special member-only events.
What is the new Plus+ Membership?
By popular demand, a Plus+ membership gives members 1 extra membership card for an un-named member. This is perfect for a friend, family member or a date for First Fridays or for any visit to the Museum. A member may purchase a $6 concert ticket for the un-named member.
If I bought a ticket online, and when I arrive it says the event is SOLD OUT, will I still be able to get in?
If you have purchased a pre-sale ticket online your ticket will be available at the will call desk.
How long is Will Call open?
Will Call will be open from 4:30pm to 9:00pm at the South Entrance.
Where can I park?
Parking ($10 cash only) is available in patrolled Exposition Park lots on Bill Richardson Lane, across from the Museum. Bill Richardson is accessible from both Exposition Blvd and Martin Luther King.
How many people does the performance hall hold?
First Fridays musical performances take place in the Museum’s North American Mammal Hall, which has a capacity of 500 people. Our new ticketing policy allows guests to purchase a concert ticket for $18, which guarantees admission and eliminates the need to wait in line for the show to start. Don’t let that deter you, however, as the performances will be projected onto screens throughout the Grand Foyer and many people prefer to watch the performances there.
What time are the performances?
DJs will be spinning throughout the evening in the First Fridays lounge. Musical performances generally take place at 8:00pm (opening act) and 9:15pm (headliner). We encourage you to come early. The entire event generally sells out, early arrival is recommended.
How do I find out about future events?
You can add yourself to the First Fridays e-mail list; sign-up sheets will be available at the event. You can also visit us at nhm.org/firstfridays for information about future events.
Is the First Fridays lounge open to everyone?
Yes! Enjoy!