Explore science through exciting events that include demonstrations, experiments, presentations, and hands-on themed activities. There’s always something upcoming at Cranbrook Institute of Science!

Winter Solstice Celebration

Saturday, December 20, 2025
Cranbrook Art Museum/Cranbrook Institute of Science
11:00am – 5:00pm

Join Cranbrook Art Museum and Cranbrook Institute of Science for a Winter Solstice celebration! Your ticket gives you access to activities taking place at BOTH venues!

The Winter Solstice is a turning point, marking both the longest night of the year – and the first promise of returning light and warmth. Our celebration draws on Solstice traditions across cultures and time.

Things to Do at Cranbrook Institute of Science:

  • Join an ongoing workshop to create a lantern for the afternoon’s Lantern Parade.
  • Add to our Yule Log display, representing closeness with Nature and community with each other, even during dark times.
  • Decorate a bag to hold the Winter Solstice treasures that you’ll take home from the event.
  • Craft a Suncatcher to capture the returning rays of the Sun.
  • Gather aromatic, seasonal spices that bring warmth to the hearth, the heart of the home.
  • Build a feeder for an outdoor tree to help animals set up for spring and new growth.
  • Make a paper wheel ornament to represent the ongoing cycling of the seasons.
  • Settle in to hear Winter Solstice stories.
  • Enjoy a late afternoon musical performance of medieval Christmas carols and wassails by the costumed Roaring Wastrels.
  • Savor the sights, smells and sounds of Nature as you walk back and forth to the Cranbrook Art Museum.
  • At 4:45pm, join us for a culminating outdoor parade/processional as we bring light into the gathering darkness!

Seasonal snacks and treats will be available at the Reflections Café.

Tickets for Acheson Planetarium shows, with seasonal and event-related programs, will be available for purchase.

Dinosaur programs, and access to our newest traveling exhibit, Permian Monsters: Life Before Dinosaurs, will be available for an extra charge.

Tickets are $15 for CAM or CIS Members or $20 for non-Members.

Preregistration closes 3:00pm on Friday, December 19, 2025.

Walk-ups welcome, but are not guaranteed.

Jupiter January

January 16, 2026
7:00pm – 10:00pm

This January, Jupiter shines its brightest as Earth passes between it and the Sun. Join astronomy experts at the Institute for an unforgettable viewing experience with cutting-edge technology.

Check back soon for more information!

Member Exclusive Preview of New Exhibit, Mystery of the Mayan Medallion

January 31, 2026
12:00pm – 5:00pm

Institute members are invited to be the first to explore our newest traveling exhibition, Mystery of the Mayan Medallion.

Check back soon for more information!