This review is for Grace Bible Church's annual Living Nativity event. We are not parishioners at this church, but for two years in a row now have made the trek up for the Living Nativity. It's held the first weekend of December each year we've attended, Friday through Sunday from 5:30pm to 8:30pm. Last year we learned about the event from a flyer in the Y; this year our son reminded us of how much fun he had a the "God camel show." So off we went again. :-) When I think of a Living Nativity, I think of actors standing silently in the manger scene. This is not that. Grace Bible takes you on a half-hour outdoor walking tour through various bible scenes, including the manger. You walk through the village of Bethlehem, and several other scenes that they change up each year. There are dozens of costumed actors involved, including a live animal cast. Of course the camel is a crowd favorite. ;-) In addition to the Living Nativity, there are activities in the main hall of the church. It includes lots of seating, trays and trays and and trays and TRAYS of delicious free cookies (most of which are homemade), free cocoa, free coffee and free gourmet lattes made to order. There are also several craft stations for the kids, and a small indoor playground. When you arrive, you get a tour number, and wait in the hall for your group to be called. Also part of the festivities is the ride over to the church. You park at the Newfane Town Hall, and a tractor-pulled trailer adorn with lights brings you over the few blocks to the church. It's a fun way to kick off and end the night. Our family is not practicing Christians. My husband and I were raised Catholic, but aren't practicing ones of those either anymore. We do our best to expose our kids to lots of different faith practices and traditions. The Living Nativity event at Grace Bible Church is a fantastic, well-attended holiday happening that has been very welcoming to our family. We're grateful our kids can have this memorable experience. Merry Christmas! read more

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