Nativity Live extends Christmas spirit to north Oakland residents

The story of Jesus' birth to a young, unwed mother, has been told and retold in many forms and multiple languages for more than 2,00 years.

Nativity Live, on Dec. 4-5 and Dec. 9-11, is Woodside Bible Church's dramatization of the story of Jesus’s birth.

You can travel along with Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem, celebrate Jesus’ birth in humble circumstances and encounter the wise men from the East and the local shepherds as they seek and find the newborn babe.

The 30-minute outdoor trek takes place at designated intervals between 5 and 9 p.m. each night. Admission is free and you can reserve a date and time to enjoy the experience by registering online at woodsidebible.org/nativity. The church is located at 6600 Rochester Road in Troy.

It’s a story and event meant to be shared, so invite family, friends and neighbors to come along.

Guides will escort groups of travelers to a series of scenes, acted out by costumed Woodside volunteers, that tells what has been popularly called “the greatest story ever told.” Live animals such as sheep and a camel add to the story telling. There will be tended fire pits to ward off the night chill.

At the journey’s end there will be an opportunity to stroll through Bethlehem on your own and visit the animal petting area and marketplace. Gifts items are available for purchase and there will be hot drinks and snacks for your enjoyment. Christmas songs will ring out on the hour.