The Christmas nativity will be brought to life on a grand scale in Altrincham this Saturday as a brand new festive event arrives in the town centre.
The Nativity Journey will see the magical Christmas story unfold across Altrincham, with real people representing the main characters.
Organised by Altrincham BID in partnership with St George’s Church and the Altrincham Garrick Playhouse, the town-wide event will bring the nativity story to life in an interactive and magical way for all the family.
Here's where all the action will be staged:
- Mary, Joseph, Baby Jesus and their Donkey in Stamford Square by WHSmith and Sostrene Grene
- The Shepherds and their Sheep at Bounceback Food Community Kitchen on Central Way
- The Three Kings at Altrincham Interchange on Stamford New Road
- The Inn Keeper and his Wife at King’s Court on Railway Street
- Angel Gabriel and the Star at Nell’s Pizza at Foundation
- King Herod at OYEZ Arts in Altrincham Town Hall
Not only that, but there will also now be a parade and stage performances following the cancellation of Altrincham’s Lantern Parade, which was originally planned for Saturday 7th December before bad weather called it off.
Start the Journey and Collect Trail Cards
From 12.30pm, families can collect nativity trail cards from Stamford Square to begin their festive adventure. Visit the nativity characters in different locations across the town and collect a “Star Stamp” from each location, returning to Stamford Square to receive a special Christmas treat.
Stage Performances in Stamford Square
Throughout the day, enjoy live musical performances on the stage in Stamford Square. Festivities kick off at 12.30pm with the Altrincham Garrick Show Choir and continue with a variety of performers, including the Randalls Band, to keep the Christmas spirit alive.
Lantern Parade and Live Nativity Play
At 3.45pm, the Lantern Parade will gather in Goose Green, featuring all the members of the nativity cast including the donkey, the Altrincham Garrick Panto, Santa with Altrincham Rotary, children with lanterns made in workshops, lantern puppets and circus performers.
Goose Green businesses will provide festive refreshments, and students from the Aura Music Academy will lead carol singing. The parade route will include Denmark Street, Moss Lane, Stamford New Road, Regent Road, Market Street, Shaw’s Road and George Street.
The parade will then proceed to Stamford Square, where a live Nativity performance will start at the slightly later time of 4.45pm, narrated by Reverend Claire Corley and Dee Owen from St George’s Church, with actors from Altrincham Garrick Playhouse. Accompanied by the Sale District Scout and Guide Band, audiences can enjoy traditional carols alongside the Nativity play.
Mandy White, Altrincham BID Director, said: “This event captures the spirit of Christmas by bringing families together in a creative and heartwarming way.
"The Nativity Journey will encourage families to explore the town and share the timeless story of Christmas. Come along and enjoy the occasion, and why not have a spot of lunch or enjoy some Christmas shopping while you’re here.”
Reverend Claire Corley, of St George’s Church, added: “We are delighted to partner with Altrincham BID and the Altrincham Garrick Theatre to bring the Nativity story to life.
"This journey reminds us of the hope and joy of Christmas, and we’re excited to share that message with the community.”
