An annual tradition for this 50th tree, the delightfully decorated Origami Holiday Tree marks the start of the holiday season at the Museum. The theme of this year’s tree is Gems of the Museum, highlighting the newly renovated Allison & Roberto Mignone Hall of Gems and Minerals, the new special exhibition Sharks and the many iconic Museum favorites like the Blue Whale, Titanosaur Skeleton and T. rex. A dazzling array of gold-colored origami are also displayed on the tree in recognition of this tree’s “golden anniversary.” Creations on the tree were made by volunteers from around the US and the world.

Even though there are no Teaching Tables this year, you can still see the tree in person Wednesday through Sunday safely by way of advance tickets sales and the museum’s social distancing efforts. See directions to the AMNH.

Our tree designers, Ros Joyce and Talo Kawasaki, also want to thank all of the many, many volunteers for their amazing artistry and time, as well as the staff of OrigamiUSA and the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) in New York City who make this annual tradition possible.