Mummies, Martinis and Marvelous

Upping its game to the point that now it’s almost posh, Halloween stopped being only about kids years ago.  Which may have helped inspire the Oriental Institute’s classy and patently eclectic re-imagining of what a Halloween celebration could look and feel like.  The brainchild of the Oriental Institute’s Young Professionals Board, who titled their foray into quasi-fright Mummies and Martini’s, they and the highly-regarded museum of antiquities let you hang out with the real deal Thursday night. A DJ threw down dance floor worthy tracks in the background while guests grazed on top drawer appetizers, splendid desserts and sipped Halloween themed cocktails in addition to martinis.

Part of an array of events commemorating the museum’s 100^th anniversary, the event felt like a clandestine and exclusive adventure as Egyptologist and Head of the Research Archives, Foy Scalf, led a rapid and endlessly absorbing tour of ancient coffins and mummies; mixing fascinating details of early Egyptian funerary science along the way.  All in the shadow of a towering and spectacularly beautiful 17’ statute of King Tutankhamun. 

At the end of the evening, you not only walked away with a brand-new respect for one of the world most captivating civilizations, you’ll never think of Halloween in quite the same way.  Mummies and Martini’s proved to be a great idea that can only get better.   

Mummies and Martini’s

October 24, 2019

The Oriental Institute

University of Chicago

1155 W. 58^th St.

Chicago, IL  60637

oi/uchicago.edu