Join the Western Illinois Museum for an evening of festive fun and unexpected musical delights during this year’s Dickens on the Square celebration! Families and visitors of all ages are invited to enjoy two reimagined musical performances along with hands-on holiday activities, all held in the Museum’s newly renovated and now heated former garage space.
Kick off the evening at 6:30 pm with the WIU Percussion Group. Talented students from Western Illinois University (WIU) will perform on vibraphones and marimbas to present holiday favorites. Led by Kevin Nichols, Professor in the WIU School of Music, this performance promises to surprise and delight with its playful sounds and inventive arrangements.
Next, at 7:00 pm, Tuba Christmas takes center stage. Celebrate the 52nd anniversary of this worldwide tradition featuring tubas and euphoniums performing heartwarming interpretations of holiday classics. Directed by Dr. James Land, Associate Professor in the WIU School of Music, the concert brings together players of all ages and skill levels, students, professionals, and community musicians, to perform festive carols and holiday classics arranged especially for low brass. creating a rich, resonant sound perfect for the season. The sight and sound of dozens of tubas filling the Museum’s old garage with resonant harmony has become a not-to-be-missed holiday tradition.
More Family Fun!
Drop in from 6:00 to 8:00 pm and step back in time with Victorian Ladies Mrs. Bath and Mrs. Chu, who will demonstrate how to make sugar plums and lead hands-on activities to create Victorian-inspired tree decorations. Perfect for children and adults alike, this is a wonderful way to experience the charm of a Dickens-style Christmas.
This program is funded in part by grants from the Illinois Arts Council.
Plan Your Visit
Located at 201 S. Lafayette Street, just a block south of Macomb’s Courthouse Square, the Western Illinois Museum is a nonprofit dedicated to celebrating the history, culture, and traditions of McDonough County. Admission to this program is free, and donations are gratefully accepted.
Visit wimuseum.org for a full schedule of events, or follow us on social media @wimuseum. For questions, call 309-837-2750, text 309-837-2613, or email
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