Nativity Scene Display Ideas
There’s something truly special about nativity scene displays this time of year. Here are over 20 ideas for bringing this essence of Christmas to life in your home.
Amidst all of the other holiday decor that fills our homes with warmth and joy, nothing captures the true meaning of Christmas quite like a nativity scene.
Displaying a nativity scene in your home is a timeless tradition that commemorates the birth of Jesus and serves to keep the real reason that we celebrate Christmas at the forefront of our minds.
People can get really creative and go to great lengths with their displays. Some reimagine the classic scene by crafting intricate backdrops. Others display their nativities very simply.
No matter how it’s displayed, the beauty lies in how individuals blend tradition with their own imagination.
In this blog post, I’ve rounded up a variety of creative and inspiring ideas to inspire you when setting up your own meaningful display.
Traditional Tabletop Nativity Display
Placing a traditionally styled nativity scene on a sideboard or small chest is an elegant, classic choice.
Many use a stable or manger as a centerpiece, surrounding it with figurines representing Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus, the shepherds, angels, and the Wise Men.
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The figures in the truly traditional style nativity sets are painted various colors, instead of being all white or neutral colors.
But in newer sets, the figures are often all one color or all neutral colors, with the figures still being traditional in style.
The color of the figurines in this traditional style nativity display is stunning against the backdrop of a dark wall.
Incorporating Natural Elements
To give a more natural, authentic look to a nativity display, natural elements like moss, hay, or rocks are often added to the scene.
Adding twinkling lights or candles adds to the ambiance and provides a special reference to the star of Bethlehem.
Displays In Lanterns & Cloches
Placing a nativity in a lantern or under a cloche is a great way to add visual weight to a small-scale set.
Nativities In Dioramas
Creating a scene within a box or a frame adds depth and dimension to a nativity display. It works especially well when you don’t have a creche.
A box can add importance and visual weight to a more compact set of figurines.
Unique Nativity Displays
Displaying a nativity set in a unique way will allow you to infuse your personal creativity.
Out-of-the-box types of displays are a fun way to showcase collections.
Unconventional displays often prompt discussion about the symbolism and meaning behind each element of the nativity.
Additionally, showcasing a nativity set uniquely can simply bring joy and excitement during the holiday season, adding a touch of wonder to the home’s décor.
Oftentimes, nativities are overlooked amongst all of the other decorations, but a unique display will draw the eye and create conversation.
Warm & Intimate Nativities
Nativity displays that exude a cozy, intimate charm go hand-in-hand with what Christmas is really all about.
Not only does a display such as this create a cozy Christmas vibe – but it also conveys a sense of personal connection to the true meaning of Christmas.
This nativity scene display is simply charming located beneath the wall art.
The uniqueness of this display is the simplicity of it.
In the heart of every home, the nativity scene stands as a timeless emblem of Christmas.
Whether nestled in a lantern, set against a backdrop of nature, or reimagined in a unique way, the nativity scene speaks to the essence of the season—reminding us of God’s great love for each one of us.
So, as you craft your own nativity display, may it not only beautify your home but also serve as a beacon of the true spirit of Christmas, bringing joy, contemplation, and a touch of magic to this special time of year.
My ceramic nativity stays in my kitchen china cabinet year round. They figures are small and I painted them to look like stone ( I was very young). My late mother-in-law’s white nativity is displayed during the holiday season in the family room. I add angels according to where it is that year. My mother’s Santa collection and mine come out too. This year I filled my dough bowl with apples and nutcrackers. I love to display my holiday decorations. One of these days I need to think about downsizing -just not yet. My middle daughter shares my love of the holiday decorating. I follow your blog and have for several years.
Thank you so much for sharing with me. It all sounds just wonderful. I’m with you with it comes to downsizing – I’m just not ready yet. Merry and blessed Christmas!
Thank you very much for encouraging the use of nativities in our Christmas decor. Your examples are beautiful, and I love the different ideas of ways to display them. The trees and garlands get so much attention that we can forget the importance of remembering that we’re celebrating Jesus’ birth.
I’m glad you enjoyed seeing all of the different ideas! You are so, so right – Jesus’ birth just does get lost in all of the hustle and bustle.
I just love your naivety set. would you share where you bought it?
Are you asking about the nativity in the very first image in the post? If so, it’s Fitz and Floyd and can be ordered from their site.
THANK YOU FOR THIS FABULOUS POST FEATURING NATIVITY SCENES! The faith-based focus was refreshing during this final blitz before Christmas of busy doing, decorating, cooking, commercial, secular environment. I needed this re-direction that made my heart soar. The nativity images were a beautiful prayer. I am blessed.
That’s wonderful to hear. I purposely waited until closer to Christmas to publish this post hoping it would help to refocus our attention. 🙂
Loved each one of your nativity scenes. Each one so creative and unique. Thank you for sharing all the different ideas.
There were so many great ideas. Hope you found some inspiration!