Celebrate winter solstice, holiday traditions at Elgin Public Museum this weekend

The Elgin Public Museum of Natural History and Anthropology will celebrate the Winter Solstice from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21.

Come all ye Druid Oak Kings and Holly Queens to rejoice in the return of a little more daylight every day!

Learn about the astronomical reason for the solstice and its significance to ancient cultures. Warm cider and treats will be served by a glowing campfire. The cost is $6 or $4 for museum members.

Stop by "Touching on Traditions," the annual colorful, multicultural display of holiday decorations from around the world, from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sundays, Dec. 21-28, at the museum.

People from around the world have made their homes in Elgin. They brought with them beliefs and traditions from their countries of origin giving the Elgin community a rich diversity, which is now a part of our cultural heritage.

Visit the museum's winter holiday exhibition, featuring displays and objects of traditional holiday significance. Admission is $2; $1 for kids age 3 to 12; or free for kids under age 3 or museum members. For information, including group tours during the week and evenings, call (847) 741-6655.

On Saturday, Dec. 28, the Elgin Public Museum and Friends of the Lords Park Zoo will host the monthly Bison Feeding from 7 to 8:30 a.m. Get an up-close and personal look as the zoo's elk and deer are fed, then actually help serve breakfast to bison Becky, Drew and Takoda!

Meet first inside the museum for a short presentation on bison.

Space is limited to 12 people per month, so make your reservation as early as possible. Cost is $5 or $2 for kids, age 3 to 12. Kids under age 3 and museum members are admitted free.

The museum is at 225 Grand Blvd. in Lords Park on Elgin's east side. For information call (847) 741-6655 or visit www.elginpublicmuseum.org.