Presented by the Museum of Cultural and Natural History at Central Michigan University, this fascinating program explores how cultures across the globe celebrate the arrival of the New Year. Discover the rich histories behind beloved traditions, learn about unique customs from around the world, and find inspiration to bring new meaning to your own celebrations!
For much of the 20th century, the deli was an iconic institution in both Jewish and American life, a kind of homeland for the soul. Today, after a long period of being considered hopelessly old-fashioned, the Jewish deli is experiencing a resurgence. Ted Merwin, author of Pastrami on Rye: An Overstuffed History, discusses the past, present, and future of the deli in an age of ethnic nostalgia, sustainability, and artisanal food and drink.
Take a festive journey through time and explore how Christmas gifts and traditions have evolved at Liberty Hall in Union, New Jersey. Step into the lives of the Hall’s former children, admire holiday decorations from different eras, and get a glimpse of the presents tucked beneath the tree. This program features images from Liberty Hall’s past holiday exhibits, bringing the magic of historic Christmas celebrations to life.
Art Historian Jennie Hirsch returns to explore the rich history of glassmaking in Bohemia and Silesia, regions renowned for innovation and exquisite craftsmanship. This program highlights how natural resources shaped the Czech glass industry, from early techniques to luxury firms like Moser and Swarovski. We’ll also examine the celebrated Ware Collection of Blaschka Glass Models of Plants at Harvard University—the so-called “Glass Flowers”—featuring 4,300 intricate botanical models made entirely of glass.
Join cultural enrichment speaker Margery Marcus for a lively discussion of beloved books that have captured readers’ hearts for generations. From timeless classics like Charlotte’s Web, Little Women, Anne of Green Gables, and A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, to modern favorites such as Gone Girl, The Nightingale, and Lessons in Chemistry, this talk explores what makes these stories unforgettable — and why they continue to resonate with readers of all ages.
Discover and experience the ancient practice of Qigong and cultivate balance and well-being. Qigong has both psychological and physical components, with gentle movements, posture, and deep breathing guiding you towards improved health, flexibility, and stress reduction. Class Limit: 25
Unleash your creativity and find tranquility through Zentangle. This meditative art form invites you to create intricate patterns and experience the joy of mindful expression. Suitable for all skill levels, Zentangle is a wonderful way to relax and connect with your inner artist.
Unleash your creativity and find tranquility through Zentangle. This meditative art form invites you to create intricate patterns and experience the joy of mindful expression. Suitable for all skill levels, Zentangle is a wonderful way to relax and connect with your inner artist.
Explore Festivus, the quirky holiday highlighted in Seinfeld, celebrated every December 23rd as “a holiday for the rest of us.” Film historian Kelli Marshall dives into its origins as a humorous alternative to Christmas, centered around the iconic undecorated silver pole. Discover the history behind this unconventional celebration.
Start your weekend with a relaxed state of mind by practicing conscious breathing followed by a 20-minute guided meditation. Our instructor, Certified Chair Yoga Instructor Pat Richter, will help you feel supported and confident in exploring these mindfulness techniques