Holiday Events
The holiday season is approaching fast and the Milwaukee Public Museum is celebrating with a number of special activities. Stop in for any of these family-friendly events, or simply stroll among the many seasonal decorations placed throughout the museum.
Lighting of the Whale
11:30 a.m. Friday, November 27
Spend “Black Friday” at the Museum and witness a most unusual holiday tradition -- the lighting of the massive humpback whale skeleton that hangs over the Grand Staircase. Museum officials will pull a gigantic lever to light the whale and officially begin the holiday season. Free with admission.
The Polar Express
November 27, 2009 through January 3, 2010
All Aboard! The Polar Express: The IMAX Experience will delight kids and adults this holiday season! When a doubting young boy takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. At the Humphrey IMAX Dome Theater. Learn more about The Polar Express: The IMAX Experience.
Mystery of the Christmas Star
November 27, 2009 through January 3, 2010
Journey back 2000 years to Bethlehem as we seek to discover which ancient star was the one the wise men followed to find the baby Jesus. This modern retelling of the Christmas story also investigates possible dates for the birth of Christ and looks at recorded sightings of significant astronomical events during this important time in history. At the Daniel M. Soref Planetarium. Learn more about the Mystery of the Christmas Star.
European Holiday Village Comes Alive
9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Friday, December 4 and Saturday, December 5
Stroll the decorated European Village and step back in time to a turn-of-the-century holiday. See the traditional décor of European families during a walk through the decorated European village. The whale skeleton over the grand staircase will also be lit up with holiday lights. Free with admission. Learn more about our Celebrations of Culture series.
Museum Storytelling-The Christmas Tree Ship Story
10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Friday, December 4
Hear the story of the famous Christmas Tree Ship, the Rouse Simmons, which was loaded with more than 5,000 Christmas trees when she sank in a raging winter storm raging winter storm near Two Rivers, WI. Free with museum admission. Learn more about Museum Storytelling.