Looking for a family-friendly way to celebrate the Christmas season? Walk-through nativity scenes featuring live animals and actors offer a beautiful and meaningful way to connect with the story of Jesus’ birth. Birmingham and its surrounding areas host several of these free events, creating a magical experience for all ages. Here’s your guide to the best walk-through live nativity scenes in and around Birmingham, AL, for 2024.
A Walk Through Bethlehem at Homestead Hollow
Date: December 7-8, 2024
Time: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Homestead Hollow, 1161 Murphrees Valley Rd, Springville, AL
Cost: Free
Experience the sights, smells, and sounds of Bethlehem on the night Jesus was born at this interactive event hosted at Homestead Hollow. A Walk Through Bethlehem offers a guided tour that immerses visitors in the story of Christmas, bringing the nativity to life with costumed actors and authentic settings.
Pro Tip: This free event is perfect for families looking to deepen their connection to the Christmas story. Plan to arrive early, as this popular event draws a crowd.
Experience Christmas at Asbury United Methodist Church
Date: December 8, 2024
Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Location: Asbury United Methodist Church, 6690 Cahaba Valley Rd, Birmingham, AL 35242
Cost: Free
Asbury United Methodist Church’s “Experience Christmas” event offers a walk-through nativity featuring live animals and actors. This community-centered celebration includes additional activities like ornament-making, cookies and milk, and free photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Christmas market featuring local artisans, and enjoy dinner from on-site food trucks to make the evening even more special.
Drive-Thru Nativity at Gardendale First Baptist Church
Date: December 8-10, 2024
Time: 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Gardendale First Baptist Church, 940 Main St, Gardendale, AL 35071
Cost: Free
For a cozy experience, the Drive-Thru Nativity at Gardendale First Baptist Church lets families enjoy 10 stunning nativity scenes from the comfort of their cars. Live animals, costumed actors, and synchronized narration bring the story to life. Tune in to the church’s FM radio station for music and storytelling as you drive through.
Related Reading: Check out our Birmingham Holiday Family Fun Guide 2024 for more seasonal activities near you.
Walk Through Nativity at Briarwood Presbyterian Church
Date: December 11-13, 2024
Time: 6:45 PM – 8:45 PM
Location: Briarwood Presbyterian Church, 2200 Briarwood Way, Birmingham, AL 35243
Cost: Free
Briarwood Presbyterian Church’s Walk Through Nativity has been a beloved tradition for years. Featuring live actors, stunning costumes, and real animals, this free event immerses visitors in the biblical story of Jesus’ birth. Families with young children will appreciate the stroller-friendly pathway.
Pro Tip: Stay after your walk to enjoy complimentary hot cocoa and fellowship with other families.
Walk Through Nativity at Cedar Creek Cowboy Church
Date: December 13-15, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Cedar Creek Cowboy Church, 6760 Childersburg Fayetteville Hwy, Childersburg, AL
Cost: Free (Reservations required)
Cedar Creek Cowboy Church invites you to a unique Walk Through Nativity experience. As decreed by Augustus Caesar, visitors journey to Bethlehem to witness the story of Christ’s birth in a stable. This guided tour covers about a quarter of a mile through a wooded trail and lasts approximately 15 minutes. Groups are limited to 15 people to ensure an intimate and engaging experience.
Reservations:
To reserve your spot, call or text 256-510-2658. Provide your first and last name and the number of people in your group. Groups of more than 15 require two reservation slots.
Accessibility: Golf carts are available for guests with mobility challenges during the 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM tours. Please request this accommodation when making your reservation.
Pro Tip: Arrive a few minutes early to check in at the church and enjoy complimentary coffee and hot chocolate while waiting for your tour to begin. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the outdoor trail.
Live Nativity at Bluff Park United Methodist Church
Date: December 14-15, 2024
Time: 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Location: Bluff Park United Methodist Church, 733 Valley St, Hoover, AL 35226
Cost: Free
Bluff Park United Methodist Church invites you to their live nativity, complete with live animals like donkeys, sheep, and camels. Families are welcome to walk through at their own pace while enjoying festive live music. Children especially love the chance to interact with the animals.
Local Spotlight: After the event, swing by the Bluff Park Ice Cream Shop for a sweet treat to round out your evening.
Bethlehem Walk at Bethel Baptist Church
Date: December 16-17, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Bethel Baptist Church, 8332 Moody Pkwy, Odenville, AL 35120
Cost: Free (Donations welcome)
At Bethel Baptist Church, step into a Bethlehem marketplace complete with Roman soldiers, live animals, and beautifully recreated scenes of the nativity story. The event is interactive, offering children opportunities to participate in hands-on activities like feeding the animals or making holiday crafts.
Hometown Nativity in Trussville
Date: December 18-20, 2024
Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Trussville City Park, 225 Parkway Dr, Trussville, AL 35173
Cost: Free
Trussville’s Hometown Nativity is a community-organized event that features local volunteers, live animals, and festive Christmas lights. The interactive nativity scenes are surrounded by additional holiday attractions, including a small Christmas market and food vendors offering seasonal treats.
Walk-through nativity scenes provide a meaningful way to connect with the spirit of the season while creating cherished family memories. With so many free events happening in and around Birmingham, you’re sure to find the perfect one to fit your schedule. Which one will you visit this year?
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