The Christmas season in Atlanta is jam-packed with shopping, cooking, traveling and more.
Why not slow down for a spell and immerse yourself in one of these live and interactive Nativity scenes around metro Atlanta?
Cobb County
Mountain View United Methodist Church (Bethlehem Walk), Dec. 3, 4, 9, 10. 7-9 p.m.
Wander through the streets of Bethlehem and interact with shopkeepers, pay your taxes to Caesar Augustus and even sample dried fruits, hot apple cider and fresh bread. Free, donations accepted.
DeKalb County
Clairmont Hills Baptist Church, Dec. 9, 10, 11. 7-9 p.m.
From your car, journey through 12 scenes from the first Christmas. Free.
St. John's United Methodist Church (Bethlehem Walk) Dec. 10, 11. 6-8 p.m.
Stroll through the busy streets of Bethlehem and interact with merchants, animals and three kings. Free.
Chamblee First United Methodist Church, Dec. 13. 7 p.m.
The story of Christmas comes to life with music, animals, cookies and hot chocolate. Free.
Gwinnett County
Lanier Islands Magical Lights, Dec. 1 - 25
Grab your family and friends and head to the 20th annual holiday celebration. In addition to the live Nativity scene (Dec 1-24. 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the Grand Hall), visitors will be treated to a myriad of festive characters and millions of sparkling lights. Cost varies.
Simpsonwood United Methodist Church, Dec. 9, 10, 7-9 p.m.; Dec. 11, 6-8 p.m.
Walk through the candlelit streets of Bethlehem, complete with Roman guards, shepherds and animals. Free, canned goods accepted.
Snellville United Methodist Church (Journey to Bethlehem), Dec. 3-5. 6-8:30 p.m.
Follow your guide through ancient Bethlehem bustling with merchants, an inn, shepherds (with live animals), and Roman soldiers to find Mary, Joseph, and a baby in a manger. Free.
Fulton County
Peachtree Road Lutheran Church, Dec. 9,10,11. 7-9 p.m.
One of Atlanta’s longest running traditions, complete with a petting zoo and refreshments. Free.
Roswell United Methodist Church, Dec. 3. 4, 5, 6 p.m.
Travel back in time to the very first Christmas, complete with shepherds, Roman soldiers and shopkeepers. Free.
Sardis United Methodist Church, Dec. 10, 11. 6-8 p.m.
Performances on the hour and half-hour. After witnessing the Christmas story, enjoy cookies and hot cider. Free.
Episcopal Church of the Epiphany, Dec. 3-11. (Hours vary, check their website)
Not a live nativity, but well worth the visit, take a tour through the gospels of Luke and Matthew with more than 300 crèches from around the world. $5 for adults; Children under 12 free.
Southwest Arts Center (Black Nativity) , Nov. 30-Dec. 18
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