On the fourth Wednesday of every month, self-proclaimed nerds gather at Wilmington Brew Works for the aptly named Nerd Nite, an event that aims to satisfy curious minds with a host of expert-led presentations. Attendees can grab a beer, bring dinner (La Pizzeria Metro is next door), and learn about everything from marine biology to Brazilian jiujitsu.
Launched in Boston in 2003, the global event now takes place in 100 cities, including Tokyo, Melbourne, and Toronto. Sensing the East Coast was missing out, local nerd Patrick Wittwer, who has worked at several museums, sparked interest in Wilmington—leading to sold-out shows.
Anybody can present on a topic they’re knowledgeable and passionate about, Wittwer says.
Recently, presenter Liz Shea, Ph.D., the director of collections and curator of mollusks at the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science, educated guests about “itty-bitty squiddies,” while museum director of advancement Jennifer Accord lectured on the phenomenon of museum cats everywhere, including their own resident feline, Dude. Material science expert Eric Bailey, Ph.D., concluded the evening with an informative discussion on elements and their properties.
Initiating fun, science-based conversations while inspiring adults to visit museums is Wittwer’s main objective. “It’s just a bunch of people hanging out at a bar, learning about some nerdy stuff. It feels like a really accessible way to have some education in the community.”
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