A Journey to the First ChristmasWalk Through Bethlehem
Step off a Jacksonville field and into the night Jesus was born, with live animals, living streets, and the sights, sounds, and wonder of 2,000 years ago.
Free to attend · Reservations recommended · ~30-minute guided walk
Walk Into the World of the First Christmas
For about thirty minutes, you become a traveler on the road to Bethlehem. Every street, every face, every sound is here to carry you back to the first Christmas.
Live the Nativity
Costumed townspeople, Roman soldiers, shepherds, and the holy family bring the streets of Bethlehem to life all around you.
Real Live Animals
Meet the sheep, donkeys, and creatures of the stable up close. A favorite for kids and grandparents alike.
Sights, Sounds & Scents
Firelight, marketplace bustle, and the aromas of an ancient village make it feel unmistakably real.
A Guided Walking Tour
A guide leads your group scene by scene along the ~30-minute path at a gentle pace, with time to take it all in.
Made for Families
Wholesome, welcoming, and awe-inspiring for every age, from toddlers to great-grandparents.
The Heart of Christmas
Beyond the lights and pageantry, you'll encounter the reason for it all: the birth of a Savior.
A Look Inside Bethlehem
Real moments from the streets, shops, and stable, all brought to life on our grounds right here in Jacksonville.
Experience the Story That Changed Everything
Christmas can rush past in a blur of lights and lists. Walk Through Bethlehem slows it all down and puts you inside the story: the crowded inn, the humble stable, the quiet holy moment the whole world was waiting for.
Thousands have walked this path with us. This year, bring the people you love and let the first Christmas become real for them too.
Reserve Free TicketsChoose Your Evening
Open two weekends this December, 6:00 to 9:00 PM each night. Last groups enter before 9:00. Arrive early for the shortest wait.
What Guests Are Saying
"This event was great. I literally felt like I was there in Bethlehem. Thank you very much for this beautiful experience, we loved it."
"I went with my husband and 3 kids and it was great! We've seen family movies about the star of Bethlehem, but walking through it helped the kids understand so much more. Our first time, but we'll definitely be returning."
"So much better than I expected. I appreciated how orderly everything was with the groups, the worship music while waiting, and the life-like tour, just as if we were walking to Bethlehem ourselves. I'm recommending this to anyone and everyone I can."
Everything You Need to Know
When
6:00 to 9:00 PM each night.
Admission
Reservations recommended so we can keep lines short and welcome everyone.
What to Wear
The tour is outdoors on a grassy, uneven field. Closed-toe shoes recommended.
How Long
A guided walking tour, scene by scene, at an easy pace.
Come See Where It All Began
It's free, it's unforgettable, and it fills up fast. Reserve your spot now and give your family a Christmas memory they'll carry for years.
Reserve My Free TicketsFree admission · Walk-ups welcome while space allows · December 4, 5, 11 and 12, 6 to 9 PM
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it really free?+
Yes! Walk Through Bethlehem is a free gift to our community from East Pointe Church. Reservations are recommended so we can manage crowds, but there's no admission charge.
Do I need to reserve tickets?+
Reservations aren't required, but they're strongly recommended. They help us keep wait times short and make sure we can welcome everyone. Walk-ups are accommodated as space allows.
Is it suitable for young kids and seniors?+
Absolutely. It's designed to be family-friendly for all ages. Note that the tour is a roughly 30-minute walk on a grassy, uneven field, so wear comfortable shoes and plan accordingly for strollers or mobility needs.
What happens if it rains?+
The event is largely outdoors. For weather updates or any schedule changes, check this page or reach out to us at [email protected].
How long does the tour take?+
The guided walk takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, moving scene by scene at a relaxed pace.
Where do we park?+
Parking is available on-site at 270 Kernan Blvd N, Jacksonville, FL 32225. Volunteers will help direct you when you arrive.
Can I volunteer or partner with the event?+
Yes! It takes a wonderful team to bring Bethlehem to life. Email us at [email protected] to learn about volunteering or partnering.