By By Megan Fitzgerald
Whether you’re not quite ready to let the Halloween spirit go, worried about feeling like a stuffed turkey on Thanksgiving, or itching to hang the holiday lights, the Museum of Discovery and Science has exhibits, programs and events for you this holiday season.
“Get ready for an action-packed season at MODS,” said Joseph P. Cox, president and CEO of the Museum of Discovery and Science. “From solving mysteries with Scooby-Doo to stepping into a winter wonderland, there’s something exciting around every corner.”
Cox said that whether it’s thrilling science shows, hands-on fun, or festive celebrations like the museum’s North Pole Pajama Party, guests are in for an unforgettable experience.
“Each happening is designed to entertain, educate, and leave guests with lasting memories,” he said.
Cox, who describes the museum as buzzing with festive energy this time of year, said that it’s a place where families can come together to learn, explore, and enjoy special moments.
“Join us for adventures that will spark curiosity, create memories, and keep the whole family entertained,” Cox said. The Museum’s schedule of exhibits, programs and events include:
SCOOBY-DOO!™ Mansion Mayhem
Exhibit runs through January 5, 2025
SCOOBY-DOO!™ and the gang need guests’ help to solve a gem of a mystery in the SCOOBY-DOO!™ Mansion Mayhem exhibit, presented by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital and Florida Prepaid College Savings Plans. Guests are invited to work alongside Mystery Inc. to solve the case of the jewel-thieving ghost. Summoning their courage, families will enter the exhibit ready to observe, ask questions, and interpret clues to help the gang crack the case! The mysteries of Scooby-Doo deliver laughter, thrills, and spooky fun that make supernatural sleuthing enjoyable for fans of all ages.
The meddling kids, mysteries, monsters, and munchies of Scooby-Doo have captivated generations of kids and adults, encouraging them to share personal memories and favorite Scooby moments while creating new ones together.
The exhibit encourages friends and teammates to work together to uncover the truth by combining unique talents and skills to make careful observations, ask questions, and interpret clues.
Exhibit included with admission.
Healthy You Weekends in November
Saturdays: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. • Sundays: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Dive into the mysteries of what keeps our bodies healthy and strong. Discover why eating your fruits and vegetables is essential and why staying active is a must for a happy and healthy life. Test the speed of your reflexes with unique exercises and challenge your mental prowess with brain teasers that’ll leave you scratching your head. For our youngest health enthusiasts (ages 0-6), it’s a day of hands-on fun. Create a healthy plate, sort yummy food, get those little bodies moving with obstacle courses, and learn the importance of good hand hygiene.
Included with Museum admission.
Sensory-Friendly Sunday
November 24 • December 22 • 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
MODS opens early for sensory-based museum exploration and activities, presented by ABA Centers of South Florida, followed by an IMAX® film in which the theater lights will be turned up and the sound lowered. Audience members are welcome to get up, sing, walk, dance, and shout without worrying about someone complaining. Families are also able to bring snacks from home, as well as blankets and other small items to be comfortable.
To register, please visit MODS.org/SensorySundays.
Winter Wonderlab Science Weekends in December
Saturdays: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. • Sundays: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Get ready for a wonderful winter adventure! Discover the science behind wild winter storms, explore water’s magical transformations, and learn why Florida’s climate is so unique. Find out how Earth’s axis creates seasons, make your own snowflake, and witness an “un-brr-lievable” winter Nitro show. Experience a sensory winter wonderland with a sock skating rink and enchanting winter lights. For our youngest explorers (ages 0-6), enjoy snowstorms in a jar, misty bubbles, and winter magic watercolors.
Included with Museum admission.
North Pole Pajama Party
December 14 & 21 • 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. • Film starts at 10 a.m.
All aboard the Polar Express for South Florida’s favorite family winter tradition! Wear your comfiest pajamas and embark on a festive adventure. Explore museum exhibits with a frosty twist, from floating dry ice bubbles to snowy liquid nitrogen shows. Experience the magic of Florida snow and savor marshmallows frozen in liquid nitrogen swimming in hot chocolate. Don’t miss the chance to snap a picture with The Polar Express conductor! Dive into a sensory winter wonderland with a sock skating rink and enchanting winter lights. Then, cozy up for a heartwarming holiday story time. As a bonus, admission includes an invitation to watch The Polar Express in the AutoNation® IMAX® Theater.
Museum members: $30 per person (adult or child)
Non-members: $40 per person (adult or child)
Price includes all activities, museum exploration, IMAX® film, and commemorative bell.
To register, please visit MODS.org/2024NorthPole.
Noon Year’s Eve
Ring in the New Year!
December 31 • 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. • Ball Drop at 12 p.m.
Let’s ring in 2025 in style with our annual Noon Year’s Eve celebration! Get ready for a midday bash packed with immersive activities, lively tunes, dance-offs, and mind-blowing science experiments. We’ll craft fun party gear to get the party started and prepare for the epic ball drop at noon, where we’ll dance our way into the new year on a bubble wrap dance floor. Don’t forget to swing by our gallery wall and add your very own New Year’s resolution for a fresh start. It’s an electrifying celebration that’s fun for all ages and the perfect way to kick off the new year with a bang!
Included with Museum admission.
Noon Year’s Eve: Baby’s First New Year’s
December 31 • 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Babies are born scientists, constantly discovering the world around them. In this special event, presented by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, we’ll immerse early learners and their caregivers in playful learning and exploration. Get ready for themed stories, experiments, and hands-on STEM activities that will create cherished memories.
Included with Museum admission.
For more information, please visit MODS.org
