A faith-based way to celebrate the Christmas season: Live Nativity displays in Champaign-Urbana
Celebrate the Christmas season by experiencing the Biblical story of Jesus’ birth
Many Champaign-Urbana area churches will invite local families to bring their children to see a depiction of how the Bible describes the birth of Jesus through the use of live actors and animals.
Live Nativity displays allow those who celebrate in Champaign-Urbana to share their faith with the community. When you visit a live Nativity, you can expect to see individuals acting out different roles from the story of Jesus’ birth and typically there will be live animals there at the “manger” too. Some churches will welcome visitors in for hot chocolate, cookies, etc. to warm up during the event.
C-U churches produce several displays, and you can check the links below for more information, including locations, timing and details.

Champaign-Urbana Area Live Nativity Events:
Sunday, December 3, 2023
Live Nativity at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church
Time: 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church
2101 S. Prospect
Champaign
Come out Sunday December 3, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. for the Live Nativity at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. Experience the Christmas story through carolers, shepherds, Mary and Joseph in the manger, the three kings, and live animals.
Lutheran Church of Mahomet Live Nativity
Time: 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Lutheran Church of Mahomet
410 Andover Drive
Mahomet
The Lutheran Church of Mahomet invites you to drive through their annual Live Nativity - a Christmas card to the community! Experience the Christmas story as you visit the shepherds, Mary & Joseph in the manger, and the three kings. There are storyboards sharing the story of Jesus' birth, live animals, and Christmas music playing to your vehicles. They invite you to join them inside for refreshments and live music following your journey to Bethlehem!
Friday, December 8, 2023
Live Nativity at Christ Lutheran Church
Time: 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Christ Lutheran Church of Monticello
779 E Old Rte 47
Monticello
Come experience a live nativity complete with animals! Attendees are invited to drive or walk through scenes of the Nativity story. In the past, donations have been collected to benefit a local food pantry.
Looking for more? Subscribe to our Home for the Holidays Newsletter. Want more ideas for holiday (or everyday) fun? Check out our Event Calendar.
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