A dozen suburban Chicago Norwegian-Americans decorated a typical Norwegian Christmas tree at Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry. The tree is among 51 trees each representing a country in the Museum’s 82nd annual Christmas Around the World and Holiday of Lights exhibit which runs through January 6, 2024.
Each tree’s decorations reflect that country’s culture, with a description of Christmas customs and how to say “merry Christmas” in their language.
Polar Star member Fran Berg of Aurora said volunteers decorated the Norwegian tree with rosemaled ornaments, Norwegian flags, Christmas pixies, unlit candles, heart-shaped baskets and other ornaments.
Christmas Around the World began in 1942 with a single tree decorated as a salute of solidarity to the Allies in World War II.
The Museum’s annual celebration features a four-story, floor-to-dome grand tree surrounded by a forest of more than 50 national trees and displays. The festive forest features holiday tunes and “snow” falling every half hour.
On the weekends and select weekdays, Holiday Stage performances by various dance and choral groups make the spirit of the season even brighter.
The holiday celebration is included in Museum entry, along with all performances.
Polar Star members participated through Chicago’s Norwegian National League (NNL), an umbrella organization that unites area Norwegian-American organizations with programs designed to spotlight the Norwegian cultural heritage.
The Museum, at 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, is open daily except Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Hours are 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Entry fees are adult, $18; child (3-11), $11; and seniors (65+), $17.
Call (773) 684-1414 or visit msichicago.org for more information.
—Al Benson