Find a Live Nativity Near You to Celebrate the Meaning of Christmas

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.

Churches with a Live Nativity for 2025 in the Chicago Suburbs

Some of these events are free and open to the community, but check the websites for ticket details if needed.

Live Nativity (First Presbyterian Church, Glen Ellyn)
November 28, 2025 | 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Visit the live nativity while nearby for the tree lighting ceremony. Includes live animals.

Drive Through Christmas Nativity (Batavia)
November 30, 2025 | 4:00pm – 6:00pm
Drive through this family-friendly experience that teaches the meaning of Christmas.

Journey to Bethlehem (Tinley Park)
December 5 and 6, 2025 | 5:00pm – 7:30pm
Walk through a live nativity performance. Admission is free.

A Night in Bethlehem (Lifespring Church, Plainfield)
December 5 – 7, 2025 | times vary
Live nativity performances, petting zoo, and much more throughout this three-day event. Purchase tickets in advance to guarantee admission.

Christmas Wonder – A Journey to Bethlehem (New Lenox)
December 6, 2025 | 3:30pm – 8:00pm
Guided tours through the nativity, snacks, activities, live animals, and much more.

Strollin’ to the Stable (Naperville)
December 6, 2025 | 4:00pm – 7:00pm
Outdoor and indoor events to celebrate the season. Activities included are both old and new. Registration in advance.

A Living Nativity and Craft Fair St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, Elgin)
December 7, 2025 | 3:00pm – 6:00pm
Along with the performances, visitors will find refreshments and live animals.

Live Nativity at Faith (Aurora)
December 13, 2025 | 6:00pm
Nativity actors and live animals, along with musical performances at Faith Lutheran Church.

Living Nativity (St. Barbara Catholic Church, Chicago)
December 14, 2025 | 10:30am – 2:30pm
Witness the Nativity scenes, along with music, barn animals, and more. Free cookies and hot cocoa will be provided.

Live Nativity (Compass Church, Naperville)
December 14, 2025 | 2:00pm – 8:00pm
Guided tours including actors and a petting zoo. Free admission, with last entry at 7:30pm.

Quentin Road Christmas (Quentin Road Baptist Church, Lake Zurich)
December 17-21, 2025 | times vary
A live nativity performance and more. Tickets can be purchased in advance to ensure participation.

All Saints Lutheran Church (Palatine)
December 20, 2025 | 4:30pm and 5:30pm
Live retelling of the Christmas story. You’re invited to come pet the animals after the show.

Churches with a Live Nativity in 2024 Not Yet Announced.

These churches have hosted events in past years. Check their websites for the most up-to-date details.

Live Nativity and Christmas Story (Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church)
December 20, 2024
Visit with live animals as you watch the story of Jesus’s birth performed by actors. Kid-friendly experience.

Christmas Celebration (Bethel Lutheran Church, Westmont)
December 15, 2024
Free event, featuring donkey rides, live performances, food and Christmas bake sale. Also features a family-friendly Christmas worship service from 10:15am – 11:00am.

Night in Bethelem and Live Nativity (St. Mary of Vernon Catholic Church, Indian Creek)
December 15, 2024
Visit the city of Bethelem, including a craft area, traditional foods, and live animals outside the manger.

A Nativity Tribute (Richard H. Driehaus Museum, Chicago)
December 4, 2024
Nativity performances by artists and musicians. Tickets should be purchased in advance.

Live Nativity at Oswego Presbyterian Church
December 13, 2024
Watch live nativity and visit the petting zoo. Free event.

Live Nativity at First Congregational Church (Western Springs)
December 22, 2024
Live animals and actors, before a musical performance of Christmas music.

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 2024 or winter activities to do with your kids.