Open 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

Winter Break is Going to Be Cool at the Science Museum of Virginia

Actually, It Will Be Downright Cold December 21 through January 3!

December 14, 2020

What:
It’s winter in the Northern Hemisphere so the Science Museum of Virginia is celebrating all things cold for two weeks of science, discovery and fun. From winter-themed workshops to cool STEM demos, science lovers can chill at the Museum for Cold Science.

And, don’t worry … as a homage to our previous winter break tradition, we’ll still freeze and smash a fruitcake.

Here’s the flurry of activities happening:

  • Investigate the physical changes that happen when objects are frozen to -321 degrees Fahrenheit with liquid nitrogen in Super Cool demos happening daily at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
  • Experiment with the physics and chemistry of cold substances at pop-up cart stations throughout the Museum.
  • Create a LED greeting card or weave a winter wonderland on a handmade loom in The Forge during a workshop at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. each day except Saturdays.
  • Visit with Jackie Frost. The science-loving elf will be making appearances throughout the Museum daily. You never know when she’ll blow in!
  • Participate in a winter-themed seek and find in the LightPlace exhibit each afternoon for little scientists ages 5 and under.
  • Watch Henry, an avalanche rescue expert, and some of his other furry friends show off their life-saving skills and extraordinary bravery during the 10:30 a.m. showing of “Superpower Dogs” in the Dome.

When:
Normally closed to the public Mondays and Tuesdays, the Museum will have adjusted operating hours during those two weeks. During winter break, the Museum will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. December 21 – 23 and December 26 – January 3. It is closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Who:
Curious-minded guests of all ages are invited to experience all the Cold Science activities, which are included with Museum admission. It’s going to be snow much fun!

Plus, these are the last two weeks the “Giant Insects” traveling exhibition will be on display. Guests can explore six enormous, robotic insects ranging from 40 to 120 times larger than life size; numerous stations to understand how insects eat, their camouflage techniques and identify insect sounds; and terrariums with live bugs. Sponsored locally by Strange’s Florists, Greenhouses, & Garden Centers, “Giant Insects” is also included with Museum admission.

There's snowplace like home! For science lovers who would like to participate in Cold Science but prefer to stay at home right now, there are STEM at Home activities on the Museum’s website to keep discovery going, such as crystal snowflakes, blubber gloves and made-from-scratch ice cream.

Where:
Science Museum of Virginia, 2500 W. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220

How:
The Museum has made adjustments to operating procedures, including purchasing tickets online in advance, to help ensure a safe environment for all who enter the building. Guests are encouraged to review the reopening policies on the Museum’s website at www.smv.org/welcome before their visit.

Museum members and children two and under are admitted free. The Museum offers discounts for military, teachers and EBT cardholders. Call 804.864.1400 for details about reserving tickets with the discount code. Dome films require an additional ticket.