By the time Wednesday arrives each workweek, some people are already anxiously awaiting the weekend. The Penn Museum is making hump day a little bit easier with fun and engaging programs to inform, entertain, and stimulate your brain.

On the first Wednesday of each month until June, the Museum’s “Great Battles: Moments in Time that Changed History” lecture series highlights wars that have been instrumental in shaping human history. 

On Wednesday, March 6, Jodi Magness, a professor of religious studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, will discuss “The Siege and Fall of Masada.” In this slide-illustrated lecture, she will examine the archaeological and literary evidence for the ancient Roman siege of Masada, which is located by the southwest shore of the Dead Sea. Admission is $5 with advance registration, $2 for Museum members, and $10 at the door based on availability.

To register for the Great Battles lecture, visit the Penn Museum website.

On Wednesday, March 13, participants can gather ‘round for the Instructional Drumming Circle in the Lower Egyptian Gallery. Instructor Joseph Tayoun, an internationally acclaimed Middle Eastern percussionist, leads the six-session drum workshop series. Amateur and advanced drummers can receive instruction on rhythms, technique, and participate in a drum circle jam.

“It’s pretty much ambiance music in the Lower Egypt gallery,” says Tena Thomason, the Museum’s assistant director of special events. “Joe says his goal is to get the artifacts to levitate up with the power of music.”

A limited number of drums will be provided; drummers are encouraged to bring their own. Dancers are also welcome. The six-session package is $75. Admission is $15 for walk-ins for individual sessions, or $10 with a PennCard.

On the second Wednesday of the month, Quizzo fans can test their knowledge on a variety of topics and vie to win prizes. Held in the Museum’s Peppermill Café, visitors can compete against the Museum’s own Quizzo team.

Patrons attending any of these events can also peruse the Museum’s galleries, which remain open until 8 p.m. on Wednesday evenings.

For more information about Wednesday events at the Museum, call 215-898-2680 or visit the Penn Museum website.