This festive exhibition in Basel reveals how the historical Bishop of Myra evolved into the modern Santa Claus. Visitors can admire traditional depictions, including the Russian Ded Moroz and intricate Victorian-era Christmas ornaments. Delve into the rich global history of holiday decorations and discover how different cultures have celebrated this seasonal figure.
Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for HO HO HO: From Saint Nicholas to Santa Claus at Toy Worlds Museum Basel in Basel
This exhibition traces the historical evolution of Saint Nicholas into the contemporary figure of Santa Claus. Visitors explore a variety of traditional depictions of the saint, ranging from his origins as the Bishop of Myra to the Russian Ded Moroz, presented through diverse historical holiday decorations.
The exhibition 'HO HO HO' invites visitors to explore the fascinating origins and cultural transformations of Saint Nicholas. Featuring a wide range of depictions, the show highlights how the figure has appeared in various shapes and hues throughout history, including his traditional bishop's vestments and the colorful coats associated with figures like the Russian Ded Moroz. The exhibition provides a festive and educational look at how different cultures have interpreted this beloved holiday character over time. Beyond historical figurines, the display includes intricate Victorian-era Christmas decorations, such as depictions of Santa Claus arriving in hot-air balloons and zeppelins, as well as unique candy containers from the period. The exhibition also offers interactive elements for young visitors, inviting them to participate by recording poems for Saint Nicholas and engaging with special holiday-themed activity books provided by the museum.
Standard museum entry is CHF 7, with discounted tickets available for seniors and persons with disabilities at CHF 5. Children and youth up to 16 years of age enjoy free admission to the museum and the exhibition. Tickets can be purchased at the museum on the day of the visit during standard opening hours, which are Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 to 18:00; the museum is open daily throughout December and closed on Mondays.
Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for HO HO HO: From Saint Nicholas to Santa Claus at Toy Worlds Museum Basel in Basel
Explore historical gadget canes with hidden compartments and tools.
Examine more than 250 system canes from the 18th and 19th centuries. Discover ingenious devices like clarinet canes, fans, and sewing kits hidden within these historical artifacts at Toy Worlds Museum Basel.
Exhibition Details
Discover female pioneers shaping the history of play.
See how pioneering women designed educational board games, traditional dolls, and iconic plush toys. Admission is CHF 7 for adults and free for children up to 16 years old at Toy Worlds Museum Basel.
Exhibition Details
Discover vintage Advent calendars and 19th-century holiday craftsmanship.
Learn about the evolution of holiday countdowns through historical artifacts and pull-out designs. Engage with creative interactive stations presenting the rich seasonal heritage of the Alfred Dünnenberger collection.
View Exhibition Details
Discover how a childhood toy became a design icon.
Follow the fascinating journey of the teddy bear from its 1907 craze to modern popular culture. See how Winnie-the-Pooh, Paddington, and other famous characters shaped global design and personal comfort. This Basel display offers a deep look into cultural history.
Teddy Bear Exhibition
Explore seasonal holiday ornaments, postcards, and porcelain figurines.
Discover the cultural evolution of winter celebrations at Toy Worlds Museum Basel. View historical ornaments and delicate porcelain Snowbabies alongside a curated winter selection by Swiss artist Silas Kreienbühl. Immerse yourself in the artistic heritage of festive holiday traditions.
White Christmas Exhibition
An interactive augmented reality journey through the history of play.
Learn about the developmental importance of play through animated historic objects and specialized narration tracks. This presentation utilizes modern technology to animate the museum's historic collection of toys. Visitors can actively participate in interactive installations, including a custom bowling alley.
Exhibition DetailsSearch for active history, design, and art displays.
Explore a wide variety of public museum displays in Basel. Locate specific thematic installations, from fine art to heritage collections, and plan your next inspiring gallery visit.