VIRTUAL ZONE
W:420.411pt H:308.001pt
12 and 13 December, plus 17–23 December
Meet Father Christmas and step into a painter’s winter wonderland
National Gallery
For the first time, in 2020, Father Christmas is making a very special appearance at the National Gallery during the festive season.
During selected days in December, children and their parents or caregivers can come and meet Father Christmas with his elves and step into our painter’s winter wonderland inspired by the iconic National Gallery painting A Winter Scene with Skaters near a Castle (about 1608–9) by Hendrick Avercam.
Take a journey with the National Gallery and get to know the characters in Avercamp’s imaginary little town having fun in this wintry scene: playing, showing off, laughing or just falling over, all overlooked by the luscious pink castle that looks almost like a giant, iced Christmas cake!
There is also an opportunity to put yourself in the painting and take photos whilst exploring three life-size seasonal scenes based on A Winter Scene with Skaters near a Castle, including skaters, Christmas trees and a sleigh.
There will be tasty treats in the café to keep everyone warm and toasty, and a gift from Father Christmas for each child.
At the end of the event, take a trip to Room 25 to see A Winter Scene with Skaters near a Castle, and all the other works in the National Gallery.
Santa’s helpers will make sure you and your family are kept COVID-safe and socially distanced.
Entry to the event is staggered to allow one household/bubble at a time.
This event is suitable for children up to 12 years old. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Tickets cost £20 per child (up to the age of 12), inclusive of entry to the experience and an ageappropriate gift from Father Christmas.
Adult tickets are £10 each (age 12 upwards), inclusive of entry into the experience and tea/coffee/soft drink and a mince pie.
You can find out more and book tickets now at nationalgallery.org.uk