more than 3,000 visitors were treated to living nativity displays presented by the Idaho Conference's Eagle and La Grande churches.
Guests made their way through interactive Bethlehem villages complete with calling vendors, tax collectors, Roman soldiers, beggars and authentic barnyard sounds and smells. Both journeys highlighted the humble birth of Jesus. Visitors mingled with shepherds and were witnesses to the angelic announcement of the Savior's arrival.
Church and community members, as well as dozens of live animals were called into action. La Grande's nativity included more than 75 costumed actors. Jon Hanley, local artist and member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, volunteered his time to create a unique Bethlehem replica. Visitors to the Eagle living nativity were treated to homemade bread, hummus and soup. They also enjoyed live music from a Christmas choir and the Gem State Adventist Academy hand bell choir.
Each nativity also featured plenty of warm drinks for Bethlehem travelers coming in out of the cold.
Kirk Shea portrays a local beggar.
Blaine Hosey in The Carpenter's Shop
Jennifer Shelman sits in the weaving shop.
Meghan Spracklen (left) and Sabrina Beckner sit in Hadassah's home.
Local professional artist Jon Hanley adding the finishing touches to the town of Bethlehem
Roman Guards (from left): Jim Bars, Jonathan Spracklen and Trevor Jones stand by an entry.
Lewis and Leslie Michael - the Bethlehem Inn caretakers
Gary Haegy greets people as the Census Taker
Makenzie Way in the Candle Shop
Josh Messecar, shepherd, stands with camel Clyde, one of the favorite attractions for the annual nativity.
Don Hutchison, Josh Messecar and John Aleman, three shepherds (left to right), warm themselves by the fire as they watch their flocks.
Patrick Fleming, angel of the Lord, announces the birth of Christ to the shepherds.
Mary and Joseph (Cassie Fleming and Joe Messecar) smile as they watch Baby Jesus asleep in the hay.
Irv Newby (left), a wiseman, discusses the heavy taxes levied on the citizens with Bruce Walker, tax collector.
