Visits with Santa, incredible holiday lights displays… there is so much excitement around the Christmas season. But for many families, amongst the hustle and bustle of cookie exchanges and wrapping presents, it’s important to remember the true reason they celebrate Christmas. Local churches put on remarkable live nativity productions that bring everyone back to the meaning of Christmas.
These events are almost always free, and often include extra treats such as hot cocoa, activities, and more.
Please note: this is our list from 2023 to give you an idea of places that have hosted in the past. As of October 14, 2024, many churches have not yet published details for the 2024 Christmas season. Check back for more information as the holiday gets closer.
Churches with a Live Nativity for 2023 in the Chicago Suburbs
Nearly all of these events are free and open to the community, but check the websites for details.
Journey to Bethlehem (Tinley Park)
November 24 – 26, 2023
Walk through a live nativity performance.
Live Nativity (Glen Ellyn)
November 24, 2023
Visit the live nativity while nearby for the tree lighting ceremony. Includes live animals.
Strollin’ to the Stable (Naperville)
December 2, 2023
Outdoor and indoor events to celebrate the season. Activities include a live nativity, carriage rides, and a petting zoo. Registration is required.
Christmas Wonder – A Journey to Bethlehem (New Lenox)
December 2, 2023
Photo booths, guided tours through the nativity, snacks, activities, live animals, and much more.
A Night in Bethlehem (Lifespring Church, Plainfield)
December 8 – 10, 2023
Live nativity performances, petting zoo, and much more throughout this three-day event. Purchase tickets in advance to guarantee admission.
Live Nativity (Compass Church, Naperville)
December 10, 2023
Guided tours including actors and live animals. Free admission.
Night in Bethelem and Live Nativity (St. Mary of Vernon Catholic Church, Indian Creek)
December 10, 2023
Visit the city of Bethelem, including a craft area, traditional foods, and live animals outside the manger.
Drive Through Christmas Nativity (Batavia)
December 10, 2023
Visit Immanual Lutheran Church for a drive-through experience.
Drive-Thru Live Nativity (Bartlett)
December 15 and 16, 2023
Drive-thru this live performance at Poplar Creek Church.
Live Nativity at Oswego Presbyterian Church
December 15-16, 2023
Watch live nativity and visit the petting zoo. Free event.
All Saints Lutheran Church (Palatine)
December 16, 2023
Live retelling of the Christmas story. You’re invited to come pet the animals after the show.
Instead of a live nativity, Quentin Road Baptist Church in Lake Zurich puts on a production called The Real Story of Christmas live on stage.
Live Nativity at Faith (Aurora)
December 16, 2023
Nativity actors and live animals, along with musical performances at Faith Lutheran Church.
Live Nativity at First Congregational Church (Western Springs)
December 17, 2023
Live animals and actors, before a musical performance of Christmas music.
Live Nativity and Christmas Story (Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church)
December 22, 2023
Visit with live animals as you watch the story of Jesus’s birth performed by actors. Kid-friendly experience.
Living Nativity (Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Elgin)
December 23, 2023
Keep warm with hot cocoa and cookies, as you visit with animals and listen to the story of Jesus’s birth.
Churches with Live Nativity Plans Yet to Be Announced
These churches have hosted events in past years. Check their websites for the most up-to-date details.
- Live Nativity (La Grange Park)
- Trinity Lutheran Church & School (Lombard)
- Bethel Lutheran Church’s Christmas Street Fest (Westmont)
Did we miss any live nativity events happening near you? Let us know in the comments or on our Facebook page! Then, check out more holiday fun for 2023 or winter activities to do with your kids.
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There’s also a live nativity at Highpoint Church in Wheaton. http://www.highpoint.church/wheaton