MSI's Christmas Around The World. Photo by Marielle Shaw.
Now that the turkey's gone and the pumpkin pie a memory, it's time to get in the full swing of the holiday season. The Magnificent Mile's had its lighting and our tree is decked out and shining bright. Christkindlmarket is open for business. I love our city's holiday traditions, but for me it's not really Christmas until I head to the
Museum of Science and Industry for
Christmas Around The World and
Holidays of Light.
The grand tree at MSI is over four stories tall. Photo by Marielle Shaw.
Coming up the escalators into the main hall where the grand tree reaches for the top of the dome is an experience. Every so often a light snow will fall, and every last nook and cranny seems to be filled with trees from nations all over the world. It's a huge transformation and it always inspires awe.
MSI's Christmas Around The World. Photo by Marielle Shaw.
Christmas Around the World started off in 1942, with one tree that representatives from different nations would adorn with pieces from their culture and eventually evolved into those same nations being represented with their own trees. Walking around, you'll learn the different holiday traditions involved in each culture. You'll also learn about other 'holidays of light' including Diwali and Hannukah. On the weekends and during special events, this will include local talent representing all these nations performing. It's song, dance, art and somehow still all the science and industry you already loved, and for me, it's the real jump start to my holiday spirit.
Take a look at some of the beautiful details involved, then
take your own trip out to MSI to enjoy the holidays and learn a few things all at once.
