Come with us on an enchanting Christmas journey as Thackray is transformed into a stunning winter wonderland throughout December.  

‘Twas the night before Christmas

When all through the land

The sick were still cared for, by an NHS hand.'

Every year we snuggle down in our beds on Christmas Eve waiting for the big day, whilst staff in hospitals across the land get ready for another night on shift, looking after everyone who needs care over the holidays. This year, Thackray will share these hardworking voices – from porters to nurses, anaesthetists to paediatricians – taking you into their world and bringing their stories to life, both with care and a great big dollop of festive feeling.

Working with renowned illustrator and paper artist Andy Singleton we will be decking our halls with his trademark ornate paper sculpture and illustration. Drawing influence from memories shared with us by staff from across the NHS Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust, Andy will turn our building into a delicate winter wonderland of scenes straight out of a picture book. Every weekend, local award-winning theatre company Wrongsemble will add an additional dose of medical magic to the narrative, bringing these extraordinary experiences to life through pop-up performances of theatre and song across our building.  

Cosy up in your dressing gown and slippers, grab a fresh cup of cocoa and prepare to be immersed in a unique and heartwarming take on a festive classic, The Night Before Christmas.

This experience is free with your museum ticket and a must to get you in the festive spirit.  

Keep an eye on our What’s On pages for more craft and hands-on workshops exploring this magical world, set to be announced soon.