Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light
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MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY CELEBRATES 80TH ANNIVERSARY OF CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD
Chicago's beloved holiday tradition celebrates over 50 countries and cultures
CHICAGO (October 27, 2022)—The Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (MSI) is ringing in the holiday season with the 80th anniversary of Christmas Around the World. The exhibit allows guests to connect with their heritage as they explore dozens of trees and displays meticulously decorated with hand-crafted ornaments, all while learning about traditions that are celebrated across the globe.
The annual holiday tradition began with a single tree in 1942, which was newly decorated every day for 12 days to represent the countries fighting alongside America during World War II. Today, the exhibit features more than 50 trees decorated by volunteers from around the Chicagoland area to represent the holiday traditions from cultures around the globe.
"For the past 80 years, the Museum of Science and Industry has invited guests to celebrate the rich history and heritage of cultures around the globe, all under one roof," said Peter Vega, Deputy Director of Communications and Engagement. "The celebration is a core part of MSI's mission statement to inspire the inventive genius in everyone as a reminder to appreciate the differences and similarities that make everyone unique."
In addition to the decorated trees, families can explore Holidays of Light, which offers vitrines that contain symbolic objects that showcase celebrations honoring light and enlightenment, including Chinese New Year, Diwali, Kwanzaa, Ramadan, Hanukkah, Visakha Puja Day and St. Lucia Day. Holidays of Light is located among the trees throughout the Museum's Main Floor.
Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light will take place from November 16, 2022 to January 8, 2023, and are included in Museum Entry. For more information, please visit msichicago.org/holidays.