While Santa prepares for another successful festive season, Londoners can learn all about the jolliest figure of holiday cheer at this must-visit outdoor exhibition in Wembley Park. Originating as Saint Nicholas, a 4th-century bishop renowned for his generosity, find out how the Saint became Santa through this insightful collection of photographs and illustrations.
From the Dutch Sinterklaas to Coca-Cola’s influence on our modern-day Santa, his legend has evolved drastically over time through similar folklore and cultural traditions from all over the world.
From Saint to Santa: The Making of a Holiday Hero
Located at the Outdoor Gallery on Arena Square, famed for the iconic Wembley Arena, this captivating (and completely free-of-charge) exhibition traces the evolution of Saint Nick throughout the ages. From historical imagery to vintage advertising and stories from across the globe, don’t miss out on the chance to discover one bishop’s story slowly but surely transition into a festive phenomenon.
Learn how legendary American writers like Washington Irving and Clement Clarke Moore, along with artists such as Thomas Nast and Norman Rockwell, helped shape and craft the Santa we know today.
Perfect for history buffs and Christmas-lovers alike, this fabulous exhibit is a delightful way to get into the spirit of the season. And it doesn’t stop there – Wembley Park is offering an entire line-up of activities for an unforgettable winter.
Expect live carol concerts, festive markets, dazzling decorations and so much more. Little ones can even meet Santa himself inside the Designer Outlet every weekend up until the big day. For more information and their full lineup of events, click here to visit the Wembley Park website.
Saint to Santa: The Making of a Holiday Hero will be on display at the Outdoor Gallery on Arena Square in Wembley until 10th January 2025.