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VISIT USSaturday, November 17 at 1 p.m.
Lithuanian Straw Christmas Ornament Workshop
A Twist on a Tradition
The unique white paper or plastic straw ornaments so typical of Lithuanian Christmas trees today, have an interesting origin. Juze Dauzvardis, the wife of Petras Dauzvardis, Consul General of Lithuania in Chicago (1961-71), was asked to decorate a Christmas tree with Lithuanian ornaments as part of an international Christmas tree exhibition at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago. Wanting to distinguish the Lithuanian tree from all others, Juze Dauzvardis, with the help of Sisters of St. Casimir, came up with the idea to use ornaments made of white paper drinking straws. The Lithuanian Christmas tree with its distinctive white ornaments became a great hit at the exhibition and drinking straw Christmas tree ornaments became a popular modern and urban twist on an old Lithuanian tradition, particularly because natural straw is more difficult to procure for American city dwellers than it is on the Lithuanian homestead.Workshop Registration:
Learn how to make your own Lithuanian Christmas tree ornaments from white plastic drinking straws made into shapes of stars, the sun snowflakes, bells and angels. Traditionally, the ornaments were made from natural straw. Participants may view the Museum's Christmas tree for inspiration and ideas.
Experienced folk artist Vaida Lagoneckytė will instruct the class in English. Participants are asked to bring their own scissors, a pencil and a ruler. All other supplies (straws, needle, thread and instructions sheet) will be provided at the workshop. Extra supplies for work at home will be available in the Gift Shop.
- When: Saturday, November 17, 1 p.m.
- Where: Balzekas Museum of Lithuanian Culture, 6500 S. Pulaski Rd., Chicago 60629 Directions
- Fee: $15 | Museum members $12 | Children 12 and under - $6
Fee includes supplies (straws, needle, thread and instructions sheet); free admission to the Museum; and light refreshments
Free parking is available in the back of the Museum.
For more information and registration, please call the Museum at 773-582-6500.
The Museum is open 7 days a week, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
This project is partially supported by Grants from the Illinois Arts Council, City Arts Program 3, City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs, the ECPC.
