You can set up a nativity scene with figurines at home (there are even little people nativity sets for young children to play with), but a live reenactment really makes the first Christmas come alive for your kids. Use our roundup to find a live Nativity near you and introduce your kids to a special experience this Christmas season.
While we do our best to offer accurate information, please always call ahead to double check with the organizers website before visiting.
Find a Live Nativity Near You
FREE Berlin's Live Nativity Parade {Find Out More}
Where: Berlin Main Street Merchants, 4900 Oak St., Berlin, OH 44610 (Begins at Sheiyah Market and proceeds to the Square)
When: Friday, November 24, 2023
FREE Live Nativity & Tree Lighting at Willoughby UMC {Find Out More}
Where: Willoughby United Methodist Church, 15 Public Square (beside city public parking lot), Willoughby, OH 44094
When: Thursday, November 30, 2023
FREE Search for the Christ Child {Find Out More}
Where: First Christian Church Wadsworth, 116 E. Boyer St., Wadsworth, OH 44281
When: Friday, December 1, 2023
FREE Journey to Bethlehem {Find Out More}
Where: The first stop on the Journey is Walnut Creek Mennonite Church, 2619 CR-144, Sugarcreek, OH, 44681. Stop here first to register and receive a map of the other stops.
When: December 1-2, 2023
FREE Old-Fashioned Williamsburg Christmas Celebration {Find Out More}
Where: Jefferson Depot Village, 147 E. Jefferson St., Jefferson, OH 44047
When: Saturday, December 2, 2023
FREE A Night in Bethlehem {Find Out More}
Where: Calvary Chapel, 8151 Stuhldreher St. NW, Massillon, OH 44646
When: Saturdays & Sundays, December 2-10, 2023
FREE Live Nativity & Open House {Find Out More}
Where: First Congregational Church of Hudson, 47 Aurora St., Hudson, OH 44236
When: Sunday, December 3, 2023
FREE Live Nativity at an Evening in the Village {Find Out More}
Part of the tree lighting event in downtown Hartville.
Where: Hartville Elevator – 111 Prospect Ave N, Hartville, OH 44632
When: Saturday, December 3, 2023; 4:30pm-7pm
FREE Live Nativity at Valley View Village Church {Find Out More}
Where: 11401 Tinkers Creek Rd., Valley View, OH 44125
When: December 8-9, 2023
FREE A Night in Bethlehem {Find Out More}
Where: Western Reserve Grace Church, 1066 E. Aurora Rd., Macedonia, OH 44056
When: Thursday, December 14, 2023
FREE A Night in Bethlehem {Find Out More}
Where: Bethesda On the Bay Lutheran, 28607 Wolf Rd., Bay Village, OH 44140
When: Sunday, December 17, 2023
Nativity Exhibits
It's not a live nativity, but it's probably the largest quantity and variety of nativity sets you've ever seen in one location!
FREE Historic Kirtland Nativity Exhibit {Find Out More}
Where: Historic Kirtland Visitors' Center, 7800 Kirtland-Chardon Rd., Kirtland, OH 44094
When: November 26-December 31, 2023
Top Tips for Visiting a Live Nativity
Plan now which events to attend – Use our list below to choose the live nativity event(s) you want to attend and block the date in your calendar now. That way you won't forget when the day comes.
Set the Stage Before You Go – Have a conversation with your kids about Jesus's birth and read Luke 2:1-20 out loud together before visiting. This will help make the experience more meaningful and bring the scripture reading to life for the whole family.
Set realistic expectations with your kids – Let them know that they might have to patiently wait in line to see some of the scenes. If you have a child who gets frightened by strange animals, explain that some of the animals might be large and they should keep their distance. If your child has never seen nativity animals up close before, it might be helpful and fun to find and play the “noises they make” beforehand.
Arrive early – Or right on time. Holiday events are very popular and can become crowded fast. If you wait until the event is in full swing, you might not get to spend as much time enjoying each scene.
Be prepared to walk and stand – Bringing a stroller or wagon for little ones is probably best.
Protect your kids (and yourself!) from the weather – Many of the events are held outdoors. Consider wearing layers so everyone is comfortable even in the cold.
Pack your own snacks – Pack plenty of water and bring along some food to snack on while you are waiting in line. If you'd prefer to purchase your food, check to see if there will be food available to purchase onsite before you go.
Remember your camera – Make sure your phone is charged or bring along a camera to capture the fun kid/nativity photo ops.
Check the forecast before you go – Most of the events are weather-dependent. Always check the host website or Facebook page if the weather forecast doesn't look promising.
Want more holiday fun? Check out our Christmas Events Guide filled with many fun things to do this holiday season.
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