Christmas Around the World at the Museum of Science and Industry

Now in its 74th year, the Museum of Science & Industry’s Annual holiday event kicks off November 19th.

Christmas Around the World began in 1942, when a lone, solitary tree was placed on the museum floor. It was originally decorated to support the Allied forces in World War II, and the tradition has grown brilliantly ever since.

Nowadays, more than 50 trees saturate the museum’s ever-growing exhibit. In the middle, the Grand Tree, a towering 45-foot goliath. The pine is decorated with more than 30,000 sparkling lights and hundreds of vividly glowing ornaments. The other trees are decorated by volunteers from Chicago’s vibrant ethnic communities, giving each a unique cultural feel. You can learn more about the various trees and the countries they represent here

Deck the Halls With… Robots?

This year’s theme is inspired by the temporary exhibit, Robot Revolution, a Google-supported, innovative assortment of robots.

The Fun Doesn’t Stop There!

For many, it’s great enough to stand amongst the trees and take in their splendor, but Christmas Around the World brings even more to the table. Ethnic dances and performances are scheduled out each weekend from now until Christmas Eve. All of them take place on the museum’s main level, at the holiday stage. You can view the events for November here, and  December here

Get Your Santa Photos!

That’s right, Santa Claus himself is making an appearance at the Museum of Science and Industry this winter. The jolly big man will be available on select weekends from 10 am to 3 pm:

• December 5-6
• December 12-13
• December 19-20

Family photoshoots are also available in front of the Grand Tree. Professional photographers will be on site for the following dates:

• November 19-22
• November 27-29
• December 4-6
• December 11-13
• December 18-24
• December 26-31