When you think of Christmas displays and events you probably don’t think of a science museum. Think Again! One of my favorite holiday traditions is going to the Christmas Around the World Exhibit at the Museum of Science and Industry.
I have been visiting this exhibit since I was a child and I enjoy taking my kids back to see it. Surrounding the main tree of lights (boasting more than 30,000 lights!) are 50 smaller trees beautifully decorated by volunteers from Chicago’s ethnic communities to represent their various cultures and holiday traditions. Each tree has traditional ornaments and decorations as well as some history and information on the country, so it’s educational as well!
In addition to all the trees School choral groups will perform during the week, and ethnic song and dance performances will take place on the weekends in conjunction with the exhibit. All performances are also included in general admission. Full performance schedule is available at the MSI Website.
Another special treat is that many of the ornaments that you see on the trees are available for purchase at the holiday gift shop.
Today is the Grand Opening Celebration: Thursday, November 17 at 10:30 a.m.
Join us for song, spectacle and seasonal sweets as we celebrate 70 years of Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light. There will be live music, cookies and hot chocolate, and our Month at the Museum roommate Kevin Byrne will wrap up his 30 days living at the Museum by helping to light the tree. Not to mention, with the exhibit Dr. Seuss & The Art of Invention open at the same time, you never know who—or what—might show up. This event is included in general Museum admission.
Museum of Science and Industry
Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light
November 17, 2011- January 12, 2012
Free with general admission to the Museum.
The Museum of Science and Industry
57th Street and Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60637
Main: (773) 684-1414
TTY: (773) 753-1351
Museum Hours
Daily: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.*
The Museum is open every day of the year except December 25th.
Admission Rates
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