Museum’s Summer Hands-On Series Explores Treasures

06/13/2012

The Kalamazoo Valley Museum’s Summer Hands-On Happenings series is based on the theme of the new traveling exhibit, “Treasure!”

The exhibit, which runs from June 16 to August 26, explores the history of treasures and treasure hunting, the technology that enhances treasure hunting, and the people and personalities who hunt for treasure.

The popular Summer Hands-On Happenings program, "In Search of Lost Treasures," takes place on Wednesdays from 1 to 4 p.m. beginning on June 27 and ending on August 15. There is no Hands-On session on July 4.

Local law enforcement will help kick off the summer with the June 27 session, “Holding On to Treasure,” which is about the ways that treasures are protected.

Pirate-related crafts like eye patches and treasure maps will be created during the July 11 Hands-On session, “Pirates and Their Treasures.”

The July 18 event, “Treasures of the Sea,” is all about mysterious treasures waiting to be found under the sea.

On July 25, “Buried Treasure” participants will explore underground treasures like fossils, rocks, and metals.

The focus moves to space travel within and beyond the solar system during the Aug. 1 session, “Treasures in the Sky.” 

On Aug. 8, “Treasures in the Attic” participants will make their own treasures, including crowns, jewelry, and other artifacts.

The series ends with “Famous Treasures” on Aug. 15. Children will make collectibles like trading cards and other one-of-a-kind items.

Free movies related to the weekly theme will be shown at noon each Wednesday.

The Planetarium will have shows at 11 a.m. and 1 and 3 p.m. each day for $3 per person. Challenger simulated space missions take place at 1:30 and 3 p.m. for $3 per person.