Nativities from around the world will be on display in Moscow and Clarkston.
By MICHELLE SCHMIDT
themichelleschmidt@gmail.com
Nativity Showcase
in Clarkston
The Clarkston United Methodist Church is holding its first Nativity Showcase that is open to the public. More than 30 nativities will be on display, giving people a chance to visit with others and talk about the biblical Christmas story.
Besides “look-only” nativities that are displayed next to a description about the set, the Nativity Showcase offers activities for kids, including a nativity dress-up station, interactive nativities, storybooks and coloring. Refreshments are available during the entire event, with a breakfast offered from 8 to 10 a.m. Dec. 13. A donation is suggested but not required for the breakfast.
The public can submit their own nativities for display. Registration can be done at the church office or online at http://goo.gl/forms/MFN026mDu2. Nativities must be received by Thursday, Dec. 11.
Nativities Around the World in Moscow
More than 400 nativities are on display at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Moscow. Now in its sixth year, the event draws thousands of visitors from the region.
The nativities are supplied by local collectors and represent a wide range of cultures around the world. Live Christmas music by dozens of Palouse singers and musicians accompanies the display.
In addition to the display, costumes are provided so visitors can dress up as a nativity character and have their picture taken in a full-size manger setting. Pictures are available later online for download. A Children’s Room offers a comfortable setting for kids to enjoy the event, as well as activities including an “I Spy” to find images among the nativities on display.
The public can share their nativities for display at the event, which is guarded each night. To share a nativity, perform Christmas music or volunteer, visit www.moscownativities.org.
Some nativity scenes even have a sense of humor.
If you go:
WHAT: Clarkston Nativity Showcase
WHEN:
l 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 12
l 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 13
l Noon to 4 p.m. Dec. 14
WHERE: Clarkston United Methodist Church, 1242 Highland Ave. in Clarkston
COST: Free
WHAT: Nativities Around the World in Moscow
WHEN:
l 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 10 through Dec. 12
l Noon to 9 p.m. Dec. 13-14
WHERE: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1657 S. Blaine St. in Moscow
COST: Free
