The Nelson-Atkins elves are busy getting ready for Thanksgiving weekend. The day after turkey day kicks off a weekend of special programs, events, dining and shopping at the Museum.
One of my favorite traditions is the annual Tree-Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Concert in the Museum’s glorious Kirkwood Hall. Holiday songs by the respected Kansas City Chorale and family caroling will provide a harmonious accompaniment to this beloved event.
The 22-foot tree is quite majestic but it is what's under it that catches everyone's attention. Placed around the tree’s base are dozens of 18th-century Neapolitan nativity-scene figures, or presepio. An important part of the Italian Christmas season, the presepio was first popularized by St. Francis of Assisi in 1223 in the Italian village of Greccio. Spectacular compositions of scenes and characters were displayed in churches and the chapels of noble families in 17th- and 18th-century Naples.