The Springfield Museums always have a broad array of special exhibits and programs in store for visitors during the holiday season. The highlight each year is the annual Gingerbread Exhibit and Competition, which has become one of the region’s best-loved traditions. Entries from local bakers and talented amateurs will be displayed at the Science Museum amidst colorful and festive murals. This year’s theme is Seussian Holiday, inspired by the popular stories and characters of Springfield native Theodor “Seuss” Geisel.
All of the entries in the Gingerbread Competition will be unveiled at the Museums’ “Holiday Happenings” event on Friday, November 27, which includes a full day of family-friendly activities and performances from 10 a.m – 5 p.m. Visitors can stroll among the festive lighting displays around the Quadrangle while taking in a performance of “A Christmas Carol” by The Puppet People (2 p.m., D’Amour Museum), plus music by Springfield’s Sci-Tech Band and the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus (3 – 4:30 p.m. Wood Museum). Back by popular demand, TEN31 will also present one of their captivating “living topiaries” – in this case, a Red Poinsettia in honor of the holidays. All events are free with museum admission.
The day’s events will serve as the primary kick-off of the holiday season in downtown Springfield; although the Museums will not be hosting a separate Holiday Lighting ceremony as in past years, they will instead have a presence at the December 4 Court Square lighting hosted annually by Spirit of Springfield.
Other programs and exhibits during the holidays include the Museums’ next Culture & Cocktails event, “Merry and Bright,” on December 10 (ages 21 and up). For kids and families, there are holiday-themed crafts, letters to Santa, and gallery games on weekends from November 28 – December 20, and “Week of Wonder” programs and family shows during school vacation, December 26 – 30.
The Museum Store is also a major draw during the holidays, thanks to the wide variety of gifts available for all ages and tastes. Decorative glassware and handcrafted pottery items are available, along with a large selection of children’s games, books, and educational kits and models. Gift wrapping and parking is always free.
MassMutual is the 2015-16 Premier Sponsor of the Springfield Museums.