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 1, 2024
Trinity Lutheran Church Urbana Live Nativity
Time: 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Trinity Lutheran Church
701 E. Florida Ave.
Urbana
This live nativity is held in front of the church at the corner of Florida and Anderson in Urbana. Join in celebrating Jesus' birth!
Sunday, December 8, 2024
Live Nativity at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church
Time: 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church
2101 S. Prospect
Champaign
Good Shepherd's annual Live Nativity includes pet-able live farm animals, costumed characters, singers, snacks, and cocoa. Drive thru or park to enjoy the animals and characters up close. This is a FREE event.
Friday, December 13, 2024
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 see the Christmas Story come to life! Attendees are invited to drive or walk through scenes of the Nativity story, complete with sheep, donkeys, and camel! Donations collected to benefit local food pantries.
Looking for more? Subscribe to our Holiday Newsletter. Want more ideas for holiday (or everyday) fun? Check out our Event Calendar.
Everything Holiday Season In and Around Champaign-Urbana
- 50+ Experience Gift Ideas for Kids in Champaign-Urbana
- Live Nativity Displays in Champaign-Urbana
- Where to Find Santa Claus in the Champaign-Urbana Area
- 8 Great Places to See Holiday Lights in Central Illinois
- 10+ Reasons to Visit Chicago During the Holiday Season
- Zoo Lights: Where to Drive From Champaign-Urbana
- Where to Eat Dinner on Thanksgiving in Champaign-Urbana
- Celebrate the Holidays with a Local Twist: Shop, Play, and Dine around Champaign-Urbana
- How to Chop Down Your Own Christmas Tree in the Shawnee National Forest – For $5 (or Less)
- Where to Buy a Live Christmas Tree Near Champaign-Urbana
- Champaign-Urbana Area Christmas Shows, Concerts, Performances and More
- Holiday Season Parades in the Champaign-Urbana Area
- Champaign-Urbana Area Holiday Events and Activities
- Where to Order Your Thanksgiving Turkey in Champaign-Urbana
- What You Need to Know About the Holiday Lights at Allerton Park
