Elgin Public Museum events

The staff of the Elgin Public Museum will present a winter solstice progra,m complete with bonfire, at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21. Learn about the darkest time of the year in the northern hemisphere through stories and fun. The winter solstice has been celebrated since ancient times and signifies the rebirth of the sun.

The program will begin at "Touching on Traditions," the holiday display presented at the Lords Park Pavilion, 100 Oakwood Blvd., Elgin.

Participants can tour "Touching on Traditions" and then walk to the Lords Park Zoo for the rest of the program. You will hear about long ago cultures and the astronomical significance of the winter solstice. Stories about the Oak King, other legends and the yule log will be discussed. Lords Park Zoo is beautiful in the winter and the animals are an added bonus.

Registration is required for this program so the museum staff knows how much cookies and cider to have ready in the little red barn. The fee is $5 per person, $3 for members, and includes "Touching on Traditions," the solstice program and refreshments. To register, call (847) 741-6655 or email to epm@cityofelgin.org. Provide a name, phone number and e-mail address (if one is available).