‘Season of Light’ at planetarium

The Downing Planetarium will present its popular holiday show, “Season of Light,” during the month of December.  

The family-oriented program focuses on winter holiday traditions and how cultures have used them for more than a millennium to light up the dark and cold season. The program features winter holiday traditions from different faiths and around the world: Christian, Jewish, Celtic, Nordic, Roman, Irish, Mexican and Hopi.

Season of Light will show on three Fridays, Dec. 3, 10 and 17, at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m., and on three Saturdays, Dec. 4, 11 and 18, at 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.

The show highlights some of the season’s lighthearted customs, such as giving gifts, kissing under the mistletoe and decorating Christmas trees.  

The program will point out some of the winter constellations, as well as demonstrate the cause of the four seasons and the meaning of the winter solstice. It also will explore some astronomical possibilities for the Star of Bethlehem that guided the Magi to the birthplace of Jesus.

The cost is $2.50 for children and students, $4 for seniors and $5 for adults. The ticket window opens 30 minutes before the first show.

Free telescope viewing is available, weather permitting, beginning at approximately 8:15 p.m. on all Fridays when public shows are held.  

For more information call 8-4121 or see www.downing-planetarium.org.