December at MODS Brings Winter Science, Holiday Events and Family Programs
- camilarosiaz
- Dec 5
- 2 min read
The Museum of Discovery and Science is offering a full month of seasonal programming that blends hands-on science with holiday-themed activities. December’s schedule includes winter experiments, ocean conservation talks, early-childhood programs, volunteer opportunities and special events tied to PAW Patrol, IMAX films and New Year’s celebrations.
The museum’s president and CEO, Joseph P. Cox, noted that the season provides an opportunity to pair STEM learning with playful experiences. The month’s programming highlights include interactive snow-themed activities, community engagement with first responders, and events designed for families with sensory-sensitive children.
Winter Wonderlab Science Weekends
Saturdays (10 a.m.–5 p.m.) and Sundays (12 p.m.–5 p.m.)
The museum hosts seasonal STEM projects, the Winter Nitro Show, animal encounters and winter-themed engineering challenges. Details are available at website.
Save Our Seas Distinguished Speaker Series
December 4 and 18 • 6 p.m.
Two virtual presentations explore marine conservation, including research on endangered devil rays and shark ecology in the Galápagos. Registration is offered at website.
Beach Cleanup
December 6 • 8 a.m.–11 a.m. • Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park
Volunteers can participate in a coastal cleanup supported by The Extra Catch. Materials are provided, and entry fees are waived. Registration is available at website.
A PAW Patrol Christmas – Holiday Special
December 6 and 13 • 9 a.m.–11 a.m. (10 a.m. screening)
Families can enjoy early museum access, themed science activities, crafts and an IMAX screening of the holiday special. On December 13, the program expands with a Touch-A-Truck and Pet-A-Pup meet-and-greet. Registration is available at website.
Baby’s First Winter and Baby’s First New Year’s
December 9 and 31 • 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
These early-childhood sessions include themed stories, sensory learning and photography moments. Details are available at website.
Sensory-Friendly Sunday Morning
December 28 • 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
Families can explore the museum with adjusted lights and sound, followed by an optional IMAX screening of Arctic: Our Frozen Planet. Registration is offered at website.
Noon Year’s Eve
Wednesday, December 31 • 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (ball drop at noon)
Activities include music, science projects and a balloon drop. Admission is free for first responders and up to four family members with valid ID.
Touch-A-Truck and Pet-A-Pup
Wednesday, December 31 • 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Visitors can meet first responders, explore emergency vehicles and view K-9 demonstrations.
Camp STEAMology
Sessions on December 22, 23, 26, 29, 30 and January 2
Holiday-week STEAM programs offer creative challenges, museum exploration and IMAX tie-ins. Information is available at website.
IMAX Hollywood Films
Screenings include Rolling Stones – At the Max on December 10 and Avatar: Fire and Ash on December 18. Showtimes are listed at website.
IMAX Documentary: Secrets of the Great Salt Lake
Opens December 19
The new documentary examines the ecosystems and environmental importance of the Great Salt Lake. Admission is included with museum entry.
PAW Patrol: Adventure Play!
Open through January 11
The interactive exhibit introduces families to the world of Adventure Bay through hands-on activities about teamwork and problem-solving. Information is available at website.
Additional details about the museum’s programs and seasonal events can be found at mods.org.