If your family tradition is to display am indoor nativity scene at Christmas, consider decorating it to make it extra special.
Here are a few ideas for how to decorate a nativity scene to make it a focal point in your home at Christmas time.
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A nativity scene, also called a creche or manger scene, is a display of the baby Jesus with his parents Mary and Joseph around the time that Jesus was born in a manger.
Some nativity scenes might also include many additional figures of angels, shepherds, wise men, and animals.
Choosing the Right Location
When displaying a nativity scene in your home, remember that Jesus is the reason for the season, so make sure to put it in a prominent location to keep that in mind when you set up.
Consider placing your nativity scene on your fireplace mantel, on top of your piano, in a prominent art niche, or on a console table.
Barn or Cave
Jesus was born in a place to hold animals, which was most likely a barn or a cave.
You can decorate your nativity with items appropriate for that environment.
Many people add a simple structure over the nativity that can be made of wood (perhaps with the roof covered in moss or greenery) or you can use a decorated cardboard box.
Also consider using straw on the ground.
Baby Jesus was put in a manger, which is an animal feeding trough, so you can add that to your decorations as well.
Fabric
Some people add fabric clothing to their statues to make them feel more life like.
Consider also adding fabric blankets.
Star
Adding a star over the top of the nativity scene is very popular.
The star represents the star of Bethlehem that led the wise men to Jesus.
Illuminating Your Display
Consider adding lights to your nativity scene to give it extra prominence.
You can add Christmas string lights or lights in the background.
Also consider adding a spot light to shine on it or the star.
Additional Figures
Many people add additional figures to their nativity scene, even if they did not originally come with the set.
You can add animals, angels, wise men, or shepherds if you wish.
Other Christmas Decorations
Here are a few more nativity display ideas......
Feel free to add other Christmas decorations to your nativity scene, even though they may not be historically accurate.
You can add small Christmas trees, garland, poinsettias, candles, artificial snow, feathers, a written inspirational message, Christmas ornaments, the wise men's gifts, other religious figures, a rosary, or whatever inspires you.
