Find the 2021 Holiday Guide here.
One of the most beloved holiday traditions for many families is attending a nativity that brings the Christmas story to life. Many Des Moines area churches set the scene with actors and animals, with some even in an outdoor setting. If you’re looking to get your family into the spirit of the season, check out some of these nativity events happening in Des Moines.
Find more seasonal fun in our Holiday Fun Guide, on our Events Calendar and be sure to sign up for our Weekend Fun Guide.
Nativity events in the Des Moines area:
That Night in Bethlehem
Altoona Christian Church welcomes the advent season with hundreds of nativity scenes in a beautiful candlelit setting. Free refreshments will be provided and all ages are welcome.
Where: Altoona Christian Church; 2890 1st Ave S; Altoona
When: Friday, December 6 and Saturday, December 7 at 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and Sunday, December 8, 2019 at 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Cost: FREE
No Room at the Inn Festival
Valley United Methodist Church will host their annual “No Room at the Inn” event. Kick off your Christmas season with an inspiring display of 400+ nativities in a beautiful candlelight setting. There will be a children’s area and activities and free refreshments.
Where: Valley United Methodist Church; 4201 Ashworth Road; West Des Moines
When: Friday, December 6 and Saturday, December 7 at 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and Sunday, December 8, 2019 at 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Cost: FREE. Donations will be accepted to support Habitat for Humanity.
Back to Bethlehem
If you are looking for a fun and meaningful way to celebrate the birth of Jesus, this event is for you! Back to Bethlehem is where you can visit the town of Bethlehem, along with a special visit to the stable the morning after Jesus’ birth. Many hands-on activities, live stable animals, and Bible time characters will make your morning visit come alive, in what will become a family Christmas tradition.
Where: Urban Heights Covenant Church; 7605 Aurora Avenue; Urbandale
When: Saturday, December 7, 2019 at 9:00 am to 12:00 noon
Cost: FREE
A Night in Bethlehem
Come as a family to experience the sights and sounds of the night Jesus was born! Enjoy an interactive experience that brings the nativity to life. Families can make crafts, feed and pet the live animals and visit the shops in Bethlehem. An adult must be present with children.
Where: Meredith Drive Reformed Church; 5128 Meredith Drive; Des Moines
When: Sunday, December 8, 2019; come and go as you please 1:00 to 5:00 pm
Cost: FREE
One Starry Night
Bring your family along for this journey through Bethlehem as you visit the tax collector, hear the message with the shepherds, join Mary and Joseph on their trek, watch the three wise-men visit King Herod’s Palace, and visit a live nativity. Then spend time making crafts, having snacks, and exploring the marketplace.
Where: Grimes United Methodist Church; 801 W 1st Street A; Grimes
When: Thursday, December 12 and Friday, December 13, 2019 at 6:00 to 9:00 pm
Cost: FREE
Christmas Wonderland
The West Des Moines Christian Church will be celebrating the Christmas season with their 54th annual live nativity and Christmas Children’s Musical. The entire family will enjoy this living nativity featuring costumed actors and live animals.
Where: West Des Moines Christian Church; 4501 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines
When: Friday, December 13, Saturday, December 14 and Sunday, December 15, 2019 at 5:30 to 7:00 pm
Cost: FREE
Drive-Thru Living Nativity
The Christmas event of the season, the Drive-Thru Living Nativity at Capitol City Church will feature live animals and actors. The Grinch, Rudolph, Anna & Elsa, Buddy the Elf, Santa and many of your favorite holiday characters will also be there. Fun for the whole family to enjoy the true meaning of Christmas.
Where: Capitol City Church; 5990 NE 14th Street; Des Moines
When: Friday, December 13, Saturday, December 14 and Sunday, December 15, 2019 at 6:00 to 9:00 pm
Cost: FREE
Synchronized Lights & Live Nativity
Usher in the Christmas season by visiting Fellowship Community Church in Norwalk. Their property will be covered in 60,000+ LED lights that are synchronized to Christmas music. They’ll also have a live nativity with real animals. The best part is you can enjoy everything from the warmth of your vehicle…AND free cookies & hot chocolate will be brought to you!
Where: Fellowship Community Church; 225 North Avenue; Norwalk
When: Saturday, December 14 and Sunday 15, 2019 at 5:30 to 8:00 pm
Cost: FREE. Donations will be accepted and will be used to assist local needy families.
Where does your family attend a Nativity event in Des Moines? Let us know, so we can add it to the list!