Families looking for fun and affordable activities during Spring Break Week this month are invited to participate in a series of programs presented by the Elmhurst History Museum. The programs take place on March 28, 30 and April 1 and offer interesting options for local families and kids of all ages.
The Spring Break programs are designed to connect to the Elmhurst History Museum’s current exhibit, “People of the Prairie: 12,000 Years in DuPage County,” which takes an archaeological journey back in time to find out about the Native people who inhabited northeastern Illinois before European settlers arrived. Here’s the lineup of Spring Break Week activities offered by the Elmhurst History Museum, which is located at 120 E. Park Ave. in Elmhurst:
Monday, March 28
Meet an Archaeologist!
This free drop-in program takes place in the Elmhurst History Museum’s galleries on a special day reserved just for families. Drop in at the museum from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. to explore the “People of the Prairie: 12,000 Years in DuPage County” exhibit. Participants will encounter archaeologist and exhibit partner Sara Pfannkuche and learn about the myths and truths behind this fascinating profession. Kids can also try out a variety of activities including a chocolate chip cookie excavation, make your own time capsule and create a pinch pot while supplies last. Drop in program, no registration required.
Wednesday, March 30
From Atlatl to Archery: Ancient Hunting Techniques
Participants in this off-site workshop will meet at St. James Farm, located at 2S541 Winfield Road in Warrenville, to learn about different tools used by Native hunters to take down big game like mastodon and bison. Kids will find out how an atlatl is used and can test their archery skills with a bow and arrow. Presented by Elmhurst History Museum staff in collaboration with DuPage Forest Preserve District. Appropriate for ages 8 and up. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Cost is $5 per participant, and registration can be made at elmhursthistory.org/320/Programs.
Friday, April 1
Three Sisters Make-and-Take Activity
Drop in at the Elmhurst History Museum from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for a free program based on the story of the Three Sisters, the Native method of planting corn, beans and squash together in a harmonious ecosystem. Participants will hear the story (read on the hour and half hour) and plant seeds to grow for their own Three Sisters Garden at home while supplies last. No registration required.
Put some fun in your spring break vacation with a visit to the Elmhurst History Museum. For more information, visit www.elmhursthistory.org or call 630-833-1457.
