The Westminster College Planetarium plans its annual holiday event Nov. 30, Dec. 1-2 and 7-9 in Hoyt Science Resources Center room 116.

"Tis the Season" explores the coldest and darkest of seasons-the winter holiday season which holds some of the warmest and brightest celebrations of the year. The show traces the development of many of the world's endearing holiday customs and how they involve lighting up the winter season, from the Yule log and sparkling Christmas tree lights to the lighting of the Menorah and luminaries.

Historical, religious, and cultural rituals practiced at the time of the winter solstice are examined. Christian and Jewish traditions are recounted alongside Celtic, Pagan, Nordic, Roman, Egyptian, and Hopi practices.

"Tis the Season" also takes a look at some of the more light-hearted seasonal traditions such as gift giving, kissing under the mistletoe, songs about lords-a-leaping and ladies dancing and customs such as decking the halls with greenery and candles and visits from St. Nicholas, Sinterklass, Kris Kringle, Father Christmas or Santa Claus.

Astronomy is also included in the show. Explanations of why we have seasons, and demonstrations of winter constellations are featured. Even a possible astronomical explanation of the star over Bethlehem will be discussed.

Weather permitting, the rooftop observatory will be open following the show for a closer look at the constellations, as well as the observation of Jupiter and Saturn which are now prominent in the night sky.

The show is free and open to the public. Due to the limited seating, reservations are requested for this 45-minute show. For more information or reservations, call the Westminster College Physics Department at (724) 946-7200 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

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