Shared Light: Winter Celebrations at Eastern State
Saturday, December 20 to Wednesday, December 31, 2025
Through historical accounts, guided tours, and hands-on activities, learn how people at Eastern State Penitentiary marked holidays like Hanukkah, Christmas, and New Year’s Day—finding moments of light, connection, and meaning within the confines of prison life. These stories reflect not only the traditions of the time, but also the deep human need for hope and community, even in the harshest conditions.
The program also invites reflection on the experiences of incarcerated people today. Across the U.S., people in prisons and jails continue to observe holidays—sometimes with support, often with significant restrictions.
Shared Light: Winter Celebrations at Eastern State offers an opportunity to consider the lasting impact of incarceration on people, families, and communities during a season traditionally centered around togetherness. All programs included with standard admission.
Events in this Series
Winter Celebrations Scavenger Hunt
Saturday, December 20, 2025
All Day
Complete this winter celebrations scavenger hunt to receive an exclusive sticker prize.
NEW Mini-Tour: Sacred Spaces in Unlikely Places
Saturday, December 20, 2025
All Day
Join an Educator for a 10-minute exploration of the history and significance of our synagogue.
Mini Tour: Chaplain’s Office Murals
Saturday, December 20, 2025
All Day
Winter Celebrations Guide-Led Tour & Discussion
Saturday, December 20, 2025
All Day
Our guide-led tour will include additional content about winter celebrations at Eastern State Penitentiary and in prisons today.
Winter Celebrations Hands-On Activities
Saturday, December 20, 2025
All Day
Drop-in hands-on activities inspired by winter celebrations. All materials provided—just bring your creativity!
Winter Celebrations Scavenger Hunt
Saturday, December 20, 2025 - Wednesday, December 31, 2025
Complete this winter celebrations scavenger hunt to receive an exclusive sticker prize.
NEW Mini-Tour: Sacred Spaces in Unlikely Places
Saturday, December 20, 2025 - Wednesday, December 31, 2025
Join an Educator for a 10-minute exploration of the history and significance of our synagogue.
Mini Tour: Chaplain’s Office Murals
Saturday, December 20, 2025 - Wednesday, December 31, 2025
Winter Celebrations Guide-Led Tour & Discussion
Saturday, December 20, 2025 - Wednesday, December 31, 2025
Our guide-led tour will include additional content about winter celebrations at Eastern State Penitentiary and in prisons today.
Winter Celebrations Hands-On Activities
Saturday, December 20, 2025 - Wednesday, December 31, 2025
Drop-in hands-on activities inspired by winter celebrations. All materials provided—just bring your creativity!