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A nativity scene is a little different from your average Christmas village. Displaying a nativity scene is a Christmas decorating custom for those who celebrate Jesus' birth as the reason for the season. While nativities are more of a traditional concept, we've come across a variety of styles — from simple depictions of the Holy Family to more modern displays that include the Three Wise Men and animals.
With today's offerings, we love to see the mix of timeless nativity sets as well as more creative takes, like a collapsible olive wood set that looks and feels a little more up to date. Whether you want a minimalist artistic interpretation, a plastic, child-friendly scene or a figurine that doesn't require setup, there are plenty of unique nativity sets to choose from, below.
1
Kurt S. Adler Porcelain Delft Blue 11-Piece Nativity Set
Delft blue always makes a statement, so it's no surprise that this is one of the prettiest sets out there.
Give the gift of a full nativity scene, great for Willow Tree collectors or anyone who's looking to add a beautiful crèche to their home.
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For a classic option, consider this 10-piece resin nativity scene, featuring real straw accents for a rustic touch.
This 12-piece resin nativity set makes a dramatic impact, with lifelike hand-painted details.
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Does it get any more seasonally-appropriate than counting down to Christmas with a nativity Advent calendar? This is also a fun way to get the kids interested in setting up the nativity set.
Spread joy to the world with this nativity figure. Standing at 10.5 inches tall, you can spread the Christmas cheer by placing it on your desk or mantle. Look closely, and you'll see the Bethlehem skyline and shining star depicted on Joseph's robe.
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Under the hand-carved Star of Bethlehem, you'll find the Three Wise Men coming to visit Mary, Joseph and the infant Jesus. Handcrafted in Indonesia, this fair trade nativity is painted with beautiful hues of blue and gold.
Simple yet meaningful, this depiction of the Holy Family is a great Christmas gift for religious family members, figurine collectors or even your priest or pastor. The box comes ready to gift, complete with an enclosure card that reads "A child is born."
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9
Kurt S. Adler Light-Up Musical Nativity Scene
Made of acrylic, the piece plays "Silent Night" and "Away In A Manger," and also lights up. Amazon reviewers love how it gives off a "crystal" look without the price tag.
If you like the look of hand-knit or crocheted sets but don't want to break the bank, this faux version offers a similarly charmingly look without the price tag that typically accompanies the handmade versions.
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This opulent, statement-making nativity set gleams with golden touches. The 15-inch tall adult figurines can be dressed in gold or burgundy, depending on your preferred color scheme.
This lovely porcelain display includes the Holy Family, Three Wise Men, shepherds, animals and even the stable to display the scene, at an unbeatable price of $17.
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Set on a wooden base, this silhouette nativity scene is easy to display on a desk, mantle or bookshelf.
If you're an avid nativity set collector, or are just looking for a really stand-out piece, this is it. Plus, at the end of the season, you'll be able to pack it away easily because the dolls stack inside one another.
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Another minimal option, this scene features simple faceless silhouettes robed in white. It does have a few decorative details to illustrate the story, like a hay-lined crib for baby Jesus and and the Three Wise Men holding gifts.
Set the Christmas scene with the Holy Family, draped in real fabric garments. With Joseph standing at 17.5 inches tall, this larger-than-average indoor nativity is ideal for a detailed display.
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This handmade 12-piece wooden set was actually hand-crafted by Christian artisans in Bethlehem. A larger size option is also available on Amazon.
Fans of a Charlie Brown Christmas, this one's for you. This nativity is a recreation of the manager scene from the Christmas pageant the characters take part in during the holiday special. It's pricier than others on our list, but it is made of porcelain and has gold accents.
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Two decorative pieces in one, these battery-operated candles double as a nativity scene when displayed together. Line them up and turn them on and off using the included remote.
Dreaming of a white Christmas (nativity)? These monochrome resin figures create a simple, yet powerful scene. Perched at the top of the stable structure is the shining Star of Bethlehem.
Alesandra Dubin
Contributing Writer
Alesandra is a digital travel and lifestyle journalist based in Los Angeles whose work has appeared in Good Housekeeping, Woman’s Day, Prevention, Insider, Glamour, Shondaland, AFAR, Parents, TODAY and countless other online and print outlets. Alesandra has a masters degree in journalism with an emphasis on cultural reporting and criticism from NYU, and a bachelor’s degree from UC Berkeley. An avid traveler, she trots the globe with her husband and their twins.
Emily Rochotte
Freelance Writer
Emily Rochotte is a freelance writer and social media manager covering lifestyle, travel and wedding content.