Get ready to mark your calendars! December at The Discovery Center of the Southern Tier is officially the epicenter of family fun, packed with play, learning, and holiday cheer. Located right here at 60 Morgan Rd in Binghamton, we’ve prepared an incredible lineup of seasonal programs and events to celebrate every tradition and keep little hands busy all month long!
From dazzling gingerbread villages to celebrating the Festival of Lights, here’s a look at the holiday magic waiting for you this December:
A Month of Holiday Magic!
Village of Gingerbread Grand Opening: A Magical Trip Around the World
-
When: 4–7 PM on Friday, December 5, 2025
-
What: Join us for the spectacular unveiling of A Village of Gingerbread, built by creative community members! Enjoy FREE ADMISSION (thanks to the Broome County Arts Council’s United Cultural Fund) for the grand opening. This oh-so-yummy masterpiece will be on display through January 4, 2025.
Ho! Ho! Ho! Holidays & Santa’s Workshop Opening
-
When: 10 AM–2 PM on Saturday, December 6, 2025
-
What: Kick off your holiday season! From 10 AM – 1 PM, enjoy fun holiday activities, crafts, and a playful gingerbread man scavenger hunt. Meet Santa and Buddy the Elf, and catch the special Holiday Show performed by the Johnson City High School Sophisticats at 1 PM.
-
Bonus: Although Santa has to head back to the North Pole, his Workshop remains open all month! Tinker with toys, sit in his sleigh, or visit the reindeer barn. Keep an eye out for King Moon Racer and maybe even the Grinch!
-
Admission: Included with Museum admission.
Discover Hanukkah: Celebrate the Festival of Lights
-
When: 1–3 PM on Sunday, December 14, 2025
-
What: We invite everyone to celebrate the Festival of Lights with the Jewish Federation of Greater Binghamton, PJ Library, JCC, and Hillel Academy. Enjoy festive songs, create meaningful Hanukkah crafts, and enjoy delicious treats.
-
Special Note: Jewish families can register for free admission by December 12, 2025!
-
Admission: Included with Museum admission (unless registered for free access).
Winter Movie Magic & Themed Play
Get ready for holiday fun with themed activities followed immediately by a special festive film!
-
December 22 (11 AM–1 PM): Elf – Bring your Buddy for approved fun, crafts, and cheer!
-
December 23 (11 AM–1 PM): The Polar Express – Wear your pajamas, sip hot cocoa, and take a magical ride!
-
December 26 (11 AM–1 PM): Happy Feet – Dance along with Mumble, themed crafts, and winter activities!
-
December 29 (11 AM–1 PM): Harry Potter – End the year with wizarding wonder! Come dressed as your favorite character!
-
Admission: Included with Museum admission.
New Year’s Eve Extravaganza: A Trip Around the World!
-
When: 10 AM–2 PM on Tuesday, December 30, 2025
-
What: Embark on a whirlwind global trip! Explore how The Philippines, Spain, and Puerto Rico welcome the new year. We ring in the New Year early with exciting balloon drops at 11 AM, 12 PM, and 1 PM!
-
Admission: Included with Museum admission.
Weekly Programs: Learning Meets Fun!
The fun continues every week with our signature developmental and educational programs designed just for toddlers and preschoolers:
-
Toddler Time (Mondays, 10 AM–12 PM): Focused on developmental skills and fun. Upcoming Themes include: Frost and Fun Gingerbread, Jingle Bell Shakers, Puffy Paint Christmas Cookies, and more!
-
STEAM for Little Hands (Wednesdays, 10 AM–12 PM): Exploratory activities combining Science, Tech, Engineering, Art, and Math. Upcoming Themes include: Holiday House, Snowy Day Sensory, and Arctic Adventures!
🌟 GIVEAWAY ALERT! Win a Full Year of Discovery!
Here’s your chance to win a gift that inspires curiosity, creativity, and year-round family fun!
We are giving away a One-Year Family Membership to The Discovery Center of the Southern Tier, valued at $110! Imagine 12 months of free access to all exhibits, including our special December programs!