Skip to main content

Westminster Planetarium Presents "Tis the Season"

Share on:

Posted on Tuesday, November 30, 2004

"Tis the Season" planetarium presentation is scheduled Thursday-Saturday, Dec. 9-11, at 7 p.m. with an additional matinee showing Saturday, Dec. 11, at 3 p.m.

"Tis the Season" explores the coldest and darkest of seasons the winter holiday season, which holds some of the warmest and brightest celebrations of the year.  The show traces the development of many of the world's endearing holiday customs and how they involve lighting up with the Christmas tree lights, Menorah lighting, luminaries, and Yule log.

Traditions such as gift giving, kissing under the mistletoe, songs about lords-a-leaping and ladies dancing, as well as the custom of decking the halls and visits from St. Nicholas under his various names are explored.  Historical, religious, and cultural rituals practiced at the time of the winter solstice are also examined in the show.  Astronomy is examined to give a possible explanation of the star over Bethlehem.

Weather permitting, the rooftop observatory will be open following the show for a closer look at the constellations discussed in the show.

The show is free and open to the public.  Due to limited seating, reservations are requested for this 45-minute show.  For more information, call the Westminster College Physics Department at (724) 946-7200.