Celebrating Santa and Christmas at the Norton Art Gallery

SHREVEPORT, La. (Ark-La-Tex Weekend) - Take a break from all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season and visit the R.W. Norton Art Gallery and their special Christmas exhibitions. Until January 8, 2023, view Good Tidings We Bring: The Family History of Santa and Friends and The Man Behind the Beard: The Life & Times of Santa Claus.

Origin Stories of Our Favorite Christmas Characters

Take a look at the beginnings of many Christmas characters from Jack Frost to Santa’s elves and even the famous story of The Nutcracker. Emily Feazel, Designer of Exhibits and Special Events, teased us with the backstory Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. When it comes to Rudolph, “he started out as a little book that was used as a department store giveaway.”

The History of Santa Claus

Go on a journey of Santa’s history. See an icon of Saint Nicholas on whom Santa Claus is based on. Follow the representations of the gift deliverer throughout the ages from the third century to today. Not only is it a great history lesson, but told through the medium of art.

The gallery also planned more events during the Christmas season including a Cookies & Cocoa with Mrs. Claus and Wednesday, December 21. This children’s event requires tickets. Come out on the Thursday and Friday before Christmas for Holiday Lunch on the Lawn. Each day enjoy food trucks and Christmas music around the gardens and on the South Stage. Kids can write letters to Santa and drop them off in a special mailbox.

Spend a little time unwinding from the holiday craziness at the Norton and bring the family to explore the quiet galleries and the Botanical Gardens.

Related Topic: See local ceramic makers and animal paintings at another Shreveport museum right now.

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