Children's Christmas Nativity Play
Be Part of the Christmas Story!
Every Christmas Eve, our children help bring the story of Jesus' birth to life through music, costumes, and plenty of memorable moments. From our littlest sheep and angels to our shepherds, wise men, and storytellers, there's a place for everyone.
Children ages 3 through 5th grade are invited to participate, and middle and high school students can help behind the scenes.
Whether your family has been part of St. Matt's for years or you're joining us for the first time, we'd love to have you!
Registration is free. No experience needed. Costumes are provided.
There's a Part for Every Child!
Children ages 3 through 5th grade:
Every child can participate! Younger children often join our angels and sheep, learning simple songs and movements, while other children take on roles such as shepherds, wise men, and narrators.
Children interested in a speaking role can audition on November 22. No audition is needed for non-speaking roles.
Youth in 6th through 12th grade:
Too old for the cast? You can still be part of the fun! Our middle and high school students help with scenery, rehearsals, costumes, sound, lighting, and other behind-the-scenes needs.
2026 Rehearsal Schedule
Speaking Role Auditions
Sun., Nov. 22 at 10:30 AM
Only children interested in speaking roles need to audition.
Speaking Role Read-Through
Sun., Nov. 29 at 11 AM
For children with speaking roles only, we will read through the whole script together.
Rehearsals for All Participants
Sundays, December 6, 13, and 20 at 11 AM
Rehearsals start with practicing our songs and movements together, then our youngest cast members head to practice their songs and enjoy play time together as soon as they are done rehearsing.
Speaking roles practice the whole play together, and break out into groups as needed for extra practice and support.
We encourage you to attend all rehearsals, but understand that December can be busy for families. Please let us know if you will miss a week.
Dress Rehearsal
Wed., Dec. 23 at 5:30 PM
Please make every effort to attend. This is our final opportunity to bring everything together before Christmas Eve.
Christmas Eve Nativity Play & Worship Service
Thurs., Dec. 24 at 3 PM
Participants should arrive at 2 PM to get into costume and prepare.
What Parents Love About the Nativity Play
“This play is our family’s favorite part of Christmas. The kids have so much fun and it brings the story of Jesus’ birth to life in such a beautiful way.”
— The Bellamy Family
“My kids learned so much and felt proud to be part of the Christmas story. The whole experience is joyful from start to finish.”
— Parent of a Nativity Play participant
Frequently Asked Questions
Do kids need experience?
No. All children are welcome and supported.
Is an audition required?
Only for speaking roles. All kids can participate without auditioning.
Is this open to the community?
Yes. Families do not need to be members of St. Matthew’s to join.
Are costumes provided?
Yes! We have plenty of costume pieces available, however, if your child has something specific in mind, we welcome families to help get creative!
Can siblings participate?
Yes. Many families have multiple children in the play.
What if I can't make it to all of the rehearsals?
While we encourage your child to attend all rehearsals, we know that December is a busy month! Please let us know if you'll need to miss a rehearsal, and we will look forward to seeing you the next week!
Is there a cost to participate?
No. This is a free community offering.