A Live Nativity is one of the most meaningful ways to share the Christmas story with your community. Whether you're hosting a small church presentation or a large community event, bringing the Nativity to life with real animals and volunteers creates an unforgettable experience for guests of all ages.

With a little planning and the right team, your Live Nativity can become an annual tradition that reaches both your congregation and the surrounding community.

​

1. Reserve Your Date Early

Christmas weekends fill quickly, so we recommend reserving your Live Nativity in late summer or early fall.

Chamberlin Pony Rides offers two Live Nativity packages:

• Complete Nativity

• Deluxe Nativity

Both include friendly, well-trained animals and two professional animal handlers dressed as shepherds.

Please note: We provide the animals, shepherds, and a few decorative straw bales. Churches are responsible for supplying the manger, Baby Jesus, costumes, scenery, and additional props.

​

2. Choose the Right Location

Most churches use:

• The front lawn

• Courtyard

• Parking lot

• Outdoor worship area

Before finalizing your location, consider:

• Guest parking

• Walking paths

• Lighting

• Electrical access (if needed)

• Easy access for our trailer

• Space for guests to comfortably view the Nativity

​

3. Build Your Volunteer Team

A successful Live Nativity depends on great volunteers.

Consider assigning leaders for:

• Director/Event Coordinator

• Mary & Joseph

• Wise Men

• Angels

• Shepherds

• Innkeeper

• Roman Soldiers (optional)

• Greeters

• Parking Team

• Costume Coordinator

• Hospitality & Refreshments

• Musicians or Choir

• Photography & Social Media

Giving volunteers specific responsibilities helps everything run smoothly.

​

4. Hold a Planning Meeting

Your first volunteer meeting doesn't have to be complicated.

Use it to:

• Explain the vision for the event

• Assign volunteer roles

• Discuss costumes and scenery

• Review the event schedule

• Answer questions

• Pray together

Encourage everyone to share ideas and experiences from previous Live Nativities.

​

5. Plan Your Scene

Decide how you'd like guests to experience the Christmas story.

Some churches prefer a traditional stationary Nativity scene, while others create a walk-through experience featuring multiple scenes, such as:

• The Roman census

• The journey to Bethlehem

• The Inn

• The Stable

• The Visit of the Shepherds

• The Arrival of the Wise Men

Keep the presentation faithful to Scripture while creating an engaging experience for your visitors.

​

6. Prepare Your Costumes

Simple costumes often look the most authentic.

Don't forget:

• Head coverings

• Belts and ropes

• Sandals or period-appropriate footwear

• Staffs or lanterns

• Warm clothing hidden beneath robes for cold weather

Remind participants to stay in character during the event and avoid using phones or modern items where guests can see them.

​

7. Rehearse Before Event Day

Schedule at least one full dress rehearsal.

Practice:

• Actor positions

• Guest flow

• Lighting

• Music

• Timing

• Animal placement

• Entrances and exits

A rehearsal helps everyone feel comfortable before the event begins.

​

8. Prepare for Winter Weather

Michigan weather can change quickly.

Plan ahead by having:

• Portable heaters or fire pits (where appropriate)

• Wood chips or straw for muddy areas

• Umbrellas for volunteers

• Wind-resistant decorations

• Extra lighting

• Warm beverages for volunteers

​

9. Welcome Your Guests

First impressions matter.

Consider providing:

• Greeters

• Event maps

• Christmas service information

• Hot chocolate or coffee

• Cookies or light refreshments

• Christmas music before and after the presentation

Many churches also provide a quiet area for prayer or distribute devotional materials to guests.

​

10. Promote Your Event

Start advertising several weeks in advance.

Use:

• Church website

• Facebook

• Instagram

• Community calendars

• Local newspapers

• Flyers

• Yard signs

• Church bulletins

Take photos during rehearsals to build excitement before the event.

​

11. Event Day Tips

To help everything run smoothly:

• Reserve trailer parking close to the setup area.

• Have volunteers arrive early.

• Keep pathways clear for guests.

• Provide water and access to electricity if requested.

• Assign volunteers to assist with parking and guest flow.

• Follow any instructions provided by your Chamberlin event manager regarding the animals.

​

12. After the Event

Before Christmas is over, gather your team to celebrate and review the event.

Discuss:

• What worked well

• Guest feedback

• Ideas for improvement

• Supplies to save for next year

• Volunteer appreciation

Keeping notes each year will make planning even easier in the future.

​

Keep the Focus on Christmas

Above all, remember why you're hosting a Live Nativity.

While the animals create excitement, the true purpose is sharing the story of Christ's birth with your community. With thoughtful planning, dedicated volunteers, and prayer, your Live Nativity can become a meaningful tradition that families look forward to year after year.