Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light at Griffin MSI

About this adventure

A Chicago holiday tradition since 1942, the 84th annual Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light transforms the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) into an international winter wonderland. At the center of the Grand Rotunda towers the four-story, 45-foot Grand Tree, adorned with more than 30,000 twinkling lights and hundreds of glittering ornaments. Surrounding it is a vibrant forest of over 50 decorated trees and displays, each lovingly trimmed by volunteers from Chicago's diverse ethnic communities to showcase unique cultural customs, holiday folklore, and heritage crafts from across the globe. Magical simulated snow flurries gently cascade from the ceiling over the Grand Rotunda every 30 minutes, delighting children and creating unforgettable photo opportunities. In adjacent galleries, the Holidays of Light exhibit honors cultural holidays celebrated around the world during the winter solstice, including Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Diwali, Chinese New Year, Visakha Puja Day, and St. Lucia Day. The exhibit is completely included with general museum admission, providing a warm, educational full-day outing.