If the last time you visited Melbourne Museum was on a school trip to see the hall of taxidermy animals, you're definitely long overdue for a return. Luckily, the museum is kicking off Nocturnal, a new adults-only event series.

Starting Friday July 7, Nocturnal will transform the museum into an after-hours adult playground on the first Friday of every month. Punters will have access to the museum long after the last school group have left the building and can expect a lounge bar serving frothies, wine, cocktails and bar snacks. The event's crowning glory is the pop-up stage in front of the Forest Gallery where Melbourne's best music acts will perform monthly.

This isn't the first time that Melbourne Museum has put on an after-hours event for adult science fans. A few years ago, the now discontinued Smart Bar events opened up the museum to punters looking to explore the space after work as well as themed talks and activities. Nocturnal seems to be following on from Smart Bar's tradition by running expert demonstrations, talks from the museum's curators, exclusive viewings of collection items and roving entertainment.

The inaugural Nocturnal event will be soundtracked with a DJ set from Melbourne band Jakubi, followed by a headlining set from Dorsal Fins, who will be bringing their signature blend of pop and psych rock sounds. Early bird tickets are out now for $25, or $35 on the door.

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