Santas of the World Exhibit

Holiday Santas of the World Exhibit

Window displays in The Arcade - enter either 401 Euclid Avenue or 420 Superior Avenue

The exhibit is free and accessible during The Arcade operating hours.

November 30 - January 5.

 

Santas of the World Exhibit: Timeless Traditions, Modern Celebrations offers a unique and heartwarming journey through global holiday traditions, as well as a celebration of Cleveland's rich cultural diversity. Nestled in the stunning historic The Arcade at 401 Euclid Avenue (and 420 Superior Avenue), the exhibit is both an aesthetic and cultural experience, combining a dozen vintage Santas with holiday-inspired displays of Italian, Puerto Rican, and Polish traditions.

The exhibit is rooted in a fascinating history. When the Marble Room (formerly National City Bank) was undergoing renovation, a collection of vintage Santas was discovered. These Santas adorned the bank's grand marble interiors during the holiday season over 50 years ago. These figures, inspired by the book Santas of the World, have been carefully restored and will be displayed, bringing the charm of these long-forgotten treasures to light for a new generation.

This year, Historic Gateway Neighborhood Corporation in partnership with cultural institutions, the Italian American Museum of Cleveland, the Julia De Burgos Cultural Arts Center, and the Polish American Cultural Center, the exhibit takes on a broader cultural significance. The added displays showcasing holiday traditions from Italy, Puerto Rico, and Poland add depth to the experience, bringing festive traditions from around the world into the heart of Cleveland.

Visitors can enjoy the restored vintage Santas while also learning about the timeless holiday still celebrated by families today, making it a truly immersive exhibit. Whether you're there for the vintage Santas, the global celebrations, or simply to take in the stunning architecture of The Arcade, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The window display exhibit is free and accessible during The Arcade operating hours November 30 - January 5.