MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY CELEBRATES 80TH ANNIVERSARY OF CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD

Photo by Heidi Peters
Photo by Heidi Peters

 MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY CELEBRATES 80TH
ANNIVERSARY OF CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD

CHICAGO — 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 Nov. 16 to Jan. 8, and are included in Museum entry.
For more information, please visit msichicago.org/holidays.

The Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (MSI) offers
world-class and uniquely interactive experiences that inspire inventive genius and foster curiosity. As one of the largest science
museums in the world, from groundbreaking and award-winning
exhibits to hands-on opportunities —a visit to MSI is guaranteed to connect fun and learning. MSI is committed to offering
comprehensive educational programs - for students, teachers, and families - that make a difference in local communities and
contribute to MSI’s larger vision: to inspire and motivate children to achieve their full potential in STEM - science, technology,
engineering, and math. The Museum is grateful for the support of its generous donors and guests, who make its work possible. MSI is also supported in part by the people of Chicago through the Chicago Park District. For more information, visit msichicago.org or call (773) 684-1414.

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