Christmas tree display up at Museum of Science and Industry

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The 75th anniversary of "Christmas Around the World" and "Holidays of Lights" kicked off Thursday at the Museum of Science and Industry.

More than 50 trees representing cultures from around the world are on display, along with displays representing holidays of light, like Chinese New Year, Hanukah, Kwanzaa and Ramadan. This year, trees from Assyria, Australia and Nigeria were added.

"It started in 1942 as a tribute to our allied nations during the war, and it started out with one tree with 12 different countries decorating it every night...now we have more than 50 trees," said Director of Temporary Exhibits at MSI, Anne Rashford.

Cultural performances are planned every weekend, but the trees and falling snow can be seen every day.