Family Fun Events
Friday, November 25 @ 10:00am–7:00pm
The Springfield Museums present Holiday Happenings 2022, Friday, November 25, from 10am–5pm. Get into the holiday spirit with the Grinch, our Gingerbread exhibit, art activities, and more. Free with museum admission!
“The activities during Holiday Happenings are always the most exciting,” said Larissa Murray, Director of Education. “It’s a day filled with fun for everyone and a great way to kick-start the holiday season.”
“Holiday Happenings is a perfect day for visitors embrace the season as well as engage with art and science through fun, interactive activities led by our staff,” said Clarissa Leverich, Family Engagement Coordinator for the Springfield Museums.
Highlights
Meet The Grinch, 11 am-4 pm
Dr. Seuss’s iconic Christmas creation will be here from Who-ville to celebrate the holidays.
Giant Bubbles with Mr. Vinny, 1-4 pm
Using giant bubble wands he designed and constructed, Mr. Vinny will gather kids for a fun game of watch, chase, and pop the bubbles.
Ongoing Activities
Flour to Fables: Gingerbread 2022, 10 am-5 pm
Step into a fantastical world of fables where flour, sugar, and spice have been blended and baked to bring classic stories to life. Colorful and sweet displays tell the stories of clever and bold animals as they go on adventures and learn important lessons.
Aesop’s Fables Ornaments, 12—4 pm
Create an ornament inspired by favorite fables presented in special exhibit Flour to Fables: Gingerbread 2022.
How Do Animals Stay Warm?, 1—4 pm
Learn the science behind how animals keep warm in cold weather.
Live Animal Demonstration, 1—4 pm
Join one of our knowledgeable museum educators at the Reptile Wall in our Live Animal Center to get a closer look and learn more about animals like the painted turtle, box turtle, ball python, and bearded dragon!
Following Holiday Happenings, crowds will gather for The Lighting of the Quadrangle 2022, Friday, November 25, from 5pm–7pm. The spectacular architecture and beautifully landscaped grounds of the Museums will sparkle and shimmer against a dazzling outdoor lighting display. This festive holiday celebration features train rides; appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus; hot cocoa, cider, and cookies; and visits to the Grinch’s Grotto and the gingerbread exhibition Flour to Fables. Free and open to the public–museum admission not required!
“The Lighting of the Quadrangle has become a tradition for many families,” said Larissa Murray, Director of Education. “It is the perfect time to socialize and explore the amazing creations in the Gingerbread: Flour to Fables exhibit while enjoying holiday refreshments.”
“Seeing families with their Christmas sweaters on and big smiles on their face is always a highlight of the Lighting of the Quadrangle,” said Sharon Ferrara, Welcome Center Manager and Group Tour Coordinator. “It’s a great experience to watch the community gather together at the Museums for a night of holiday celebrations.”
Grinchmas at the Springfield Museums is sponsored by Hope for Youth and Families Foundation, The Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation, and Eversource.
