Friday & Saturday, December 4–5, 2026
Cedar Rapids Nativity Celebration
Nativity sets from around the world, live Christmas music, refreshments, and a family craft room. Come celebrate the birth of the Savior, Jesus Christ, with friends and neighbors.
Remember the Miracle of the First Christmas
The first weekend of December each year, community members bring their nativity sets, created by artists from around the world, to the exhibit. Local choirs and instrumental groups perform Christmas music throughout both days.
Let us come together as friends and neighbors as we each remember the reason for the season: God's gift to the world, His Son, Jesus Christ.
The Restored Armstrong-Smulekoff Nativity
This nearly life-size, 12-piece white plaster nativity graced the windows of Armstrong's Department Store, and later Smulekoff's Furniture, for decades. It was thought lost after the 2008 flood. After 230 hours of volunteer work, it has been completely restored.
Hours & Location
Event hours
| Friday, Dec. 4 | 11 am – 9 pm |
|---|---|
| Saturday, Dec. 5 | 11 am – 7 pm |
Family Activity Room
Kids can make a Christmas craft, dress in nativity costumes, and pose for a take-home photo in a manger scene.
Activities Schedule
Coming soon. Please check back.
Location
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints4150 Blue Jay Drive NE
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Share Your Talents
Perform Music
Our musicians and vocalists represent the talent found across our communities, denominations, and organizations. Sign your group up for an open Friday or Saturday time slot.
2026 Music ScheduleQuestions about performing?
Contact Valerie Earnest.
Display Your Nativity
Have a nativity set you'd love to share? We welcome sets from every tradition and corner of the world.
Sign Up to Display Your NativityQuestions about displaying your nativity?
Contact Cary Jacobs.
Support the Catherine McAuley Center
Admission is free. Guests are invited to bring canned or dry food items, or full-sized personal care items, for the Catherine McAuley Center.