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With MAYA 2012: Lords of Time — a world premiere exhibition opening this Saturday, May 5 — the Penn Museum confronts the current fascination with the year 2012, comparing predictions of an apocalypse with their supposed origins among the ancient Maya. (Photos courtesy Penn Museum)

The Penn Museum is going all-out for the opening of its newest exhibition: Maya.2012: Lords of Time.

The ground-breaking exhibit offers an unprecedented look deep into Mayan culture, beginning with its complex calendar and featuring priceless artifacts, testimonials and more.

In honor of Maya.2012, the museum is being taken over for the weekend by Maya-inspired activities and events that range from serious and scholarly to just plain fun. Here’s the deal:

• 30th Annual Maya Weekend: This year’s annual gathering of scholars, artists, linguists and archaeologists coincides with the exhibit’s opening. It features talks and programs covering many topics around the Mayan world, including lectures on current archaeological work at Mayan sites, and even interactive hieroglyphic workshops. Plus attendees will experience an exhibition preview with the curators, and enjoy multiple banquet-style meals inspired by Maya cuisine. The event runs May 4-6 and tickets are available here.

• Maya.2012 Opening Weekend Celebration: For those looking for a more casual way to ring in the Maya.2012 opening, the museum is hosting a family-friendly celebration on May 5-6, rife with Maya-inspired fun. Activities include workshops in weaving, painting, dancing and even doll making, plus visits from Central-American animals like majestic macaws. And best of all, everything is free with admission to the museum or the separately ticketed exhibit.

Maya.2012: Lords of Time Opening Festivities at the Penn Museum
When: May 4-6
Where: 3260 South Street
Cost: Celebration is free with admission; Maya Weekend tickets range from $50-180
More info: www.penn.museum