Christmas Lecture, a Madison holiday tradition, returns

The weather outside may soon be frightful.

But inside, Chemistry professor Bassam Z. Shakhashiri will soon be spreading science cheer.

This year Shakhashiri will celebrate a 42-year tradition with his holiday demonstration, “Once Upon a Christmas Cheery in the Lab of Shakhashiri.” The Christmas Lecture showcases eye-catching science demonstrations and is open to the campus and Madison community.

The event will also feature special guests Bucky Badger and a certain red suit-clad holiday character whose identity Shakhashiri hinted at, but could not reveal.

Shakhashiri, who is the President of the American Chemical Society, said the annual Christmas Lecture is “rewarding and satisfying. It is my holiday gift to the community.”

The event is free, but tickets are required. Seats are limited so Shakhashiri advises to get your tickets early by visiting The Christmas Lecture website.

The Christmas Lecture will take place on Saturday, Dec. 10 and Sunday, Dec. 11 at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. and will also be broadcast on Wisconsin Public Television on Friday, Dec. 23 and Sunday, Dec. 25.