SANTA ANA, Calif.—Where can one find the perfect blend of robots, holiday themed science workshops, and performing arts fun? Look no further than Discovery Cube Orange County and its seasonal exhibit, “The Winter Lights Festival” through Jan. 8.
“Our amazing workshops, activities and hands-on programs are the courtesy of [our] education team,” Discovery Cube spokesperson Tania Weinkle told The Epoch Times, who said the team consists of “a wonderful mix of past, present and future teachers, administrators, and even school principals.”
At “The Cube”—as it is nicknamed, children aged 6 to 12 can enjoy over 100 science activities ranging from tossing holiday themed snowballs to creating digital snow shadows. They can also take in “Winter Lights; A Journey Home,” a 45-minute musical featuring a fairy, two young science enthusiasts, and a comical robot who interact with the audience.
According to Weinkle, the musical is new this year and, thus far, crowds say they are especially enjoying its 17-year-old lead, Sophia Ruiz, from the Orange County School of the Arts.
“She brings such young energy and [a] relatable message to our audience,” Weinkle said. “We’ve been blown away by the response.”
On a recent visit, a group of elementary school children followed their teacher into a tunnel of lights leading the way to all the activities. Some stopped in their tracks pondering what to do first.
“The kids look like they are having a lot of fun,” Discovery Cube staffer Selma Hassan told The Epoch Times while providing oversight of the various activities.
While the activities are designed to give children a “hands-on” experience, even adults seem to find ways to amuse themselves.
“It’s not uncommon to see any age having fun here,” staffer Kurt Van Gessel told The Epoch Times. “I see couples come on dates here all the time,” he said.
Tickets range from $14.95 to $19.95 and provide access to all shows and exhibits. Reservations can be made in advance.
“It’s really a whole team effort in creating our holiday and seasonal events and experiences,” Weinkle said. “There is science all around us ... and the holidays are no exception.”
