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St. John's Living Nativity
Follow the star to St. John's Lutheran Church for their annual Living Nativity event. This immersive experience brings the story of Jesus to life through 10 biblical scenes, allowing visitors to walk or drive through the campus. It's a cherished tradition perfect for kicking off the Christmas season with family and friends.
What to Expect
Immersive biblical scenes of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: FREE
- Pets: No pets allowed
Other Christmas Events Near Decatur
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, individuals seeking a spiritual christmas experience
Vibe
Reverent, festive, community-oriented
Energy Level
Low
Budget
FREE
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate (walk-through may be affected by severe weather)
Special Events & Promotions
- Midweek Advent services in December
- Lessons and Carols service
- Christmas Eve Candlelight services
- Christmas Day service with Holy Communion
Location
Event Details
Duration
Walk-through: 4:30 pm β 5:30 pm; Drive-through: 6:00 pm β 8:00 pm
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
St. John's Lutheran Church
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early for the walk-through portion, as it's a popular time for families to experience the scenes before the drive-through begins.
- Consider visiting on the first night (November 22nd) to potentially experience fewer crowds than on the second night.
- Tune into the provided YouTube link for a preview of the Living Nativity script and to get a sense of the narrative.
- Dress warmly, especially for the walk-through, as November evenings in Illinois can be quite chilly.
- Have your camera ready for the drive-through portion to capture the illuminated scenes from the comfort of your car.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the specific dates and times for the Living Nativity?
The Living Nativity takes place on November 22-23, 2025. The walk-through is from 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm, and the drive-through is from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
Is there an admission fee for the Living Nativity?
No, admission to the Living Nativity is completely free for all visitors.
Can I walk or drive through the event?
Yes, they offer both a walk-through experience on the campus and a drive-through option for visitors.
Where exactly is St. John's Lutheran Church located?
They are located at 2727 N. Union Blvd., Decatur, IL 62526, situated one block north of Decatur Memorial Hospital and behind the Decatur Family YMCA.
What is the main focus of the Living Nativity?
The event focuses on recreating the story of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection through 10 distinct biblical scenes.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.