When the lights go out, the fun begins at Kelham Island Museum

Visiting one of the city’s most well-known museums could be a night to remember for Sheffield’s night owls.

Kelham Island Museum is hosting ‘A Night at the Museum’ on Saturday 19 June 2010 for families to take part in a sleep-over, followed by a breakfast feast in the Furnace Cafe in the morning.

The following day, when families have packed up their duvets and pyjamas, visitors can enjoy a free open day at Kelham Island Museum on Father’s Day, Sunday 20 June 2010.

The Museum is opening its doors after dark for the very first time in conjunction with the Sheffield Children’s Festival 2010, which takes place from 12 June to 3 July 2010.

Niki Connolly, Events and Marketing Officer for Sheffield Industrial Museums Trust, said:

“If you have ever wondered what goes on in a museum after dark, this is the perfect opportunity to find out. We are keen to host events that encourage families to do things together, so ‘A Night at the Museum’ will be family fun at its best – and a little bit spooky too.

“This is a great way for Kelham Island Museum to be involved in the Sheffield Children’s Festival 2010 and it will be the first time we have opened our doors overnight. If the sleepover is successful we hope to make it a regular addition to our events calendar.

“The following day is Fathers Day and admission will be free for the entire day at Kelham Island Museum..”

The museum will be brought to life during the evening by living history characters, including Bad Bill who will tell stories about Kelham Island’s industrial history.

Families will be encouraged to look the part by dressing in period costume and taking part in activities and trails around the museum to help them rediscover the past. The Melting Shop, an interactive play area for young children will be open, where children can clock in and be melted, rolled and hammered like steel.

At midnight the 12,000 horse-power River Don engine will roar to life as night-time snacks of hot chocolate and cookies are served.

The sleep-over will take place between 8pm and 8am followed by a breakfast brunch available to all visitors from 10am at the Furnace Cafe.

For more information about the event visit www.simt.co.uk and to book your family a place, email ask@simt.co.uk or call 0114 2722106.