It’s the most wonderful time of year as we continue with our STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) theme but throw in a holiday twist or two for the month of December. This month, we’re focusing on math, and STEAM in general, while keeping an eye on the holiday season.

Daily fun

From December 1-15, join us daily for a Math Surprise that teaches us all the ways we use math without even noticing it. For example, cooking, playing games, telling time and building with blocks all use math. Solve equations with us as we multiply our knowledge of math during the first half of the month. We will be doing everything from snowball sorting and a snow hunt to giant tangrams and a dice game.

Then, go Full (Holiday) STEAM Ahead, during the second half of the month as we bring together all of science, technology, engineering, art and math to create something amazing. Be sure to visit the Museum and immerse yourself in these fun daily activities that reach all our senses and celebrate the season. Activities will range from creating an elf parachute and hot chocolate experiments to holiday light circuits and using binary code to create ornaments.

Special holiday events

Keep yourself in the holiday mood with several festive events taking place this month at the Museum. These include a special day on December 8 when our friends from Temple Kol Kivah share with us some Jewish traditions and customs.

Then, on December 18, hurry in to take part in our Gingerbread Workshop, where we’ll read a special story and make some yummy creations.

On December 28-29, you won’t want to miss our Holiday Celebrations Around the World through which you and your loved ones can join us as we learn about the different holiday celebrations that occur across the globe.

A new tradition for New Year’s at Noon

We’re ringing in the “noon year” on December 31 with our annual New Year’s at Noon celebration, complete with a balloon drop and other festive activities. New this year, this will be a ticketed event with limited capacity.

The event will occur from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a special Members-only hour taking place from 9-10 a.m. Cost for Members is $5 per person; cost for non-Members is $15 per person. Tickets must be purchased in advance of the event. Tickets go on sale December 10 to Members and December 12 to non-Members.