The Nativity Journey
Altrincham BID, the team behind Visit Altrincham, is thrilled to present a new Christmas event for 2024 – Altrincham’s Nativity Journey – taking place on Saturday, 14th December. In partnership with St George’s Church and the Altrincham Garrick Playhouse, this town-wide event brings the Nativity story to life in an interactive and magical way for all the family.
The event has been made even more special with the addition of a parade and stage performances following the cancellation of Altrincham’s Lantern Parade originally planned for 7th December.
Start the Journey and Collect Trail Cards
From 12.30pm, families can collect Nativity Trail Cards from Stamford Square (WA14 1SG) 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.
Nativity Characters and Locations
The Nativity story unfolds across Altrincham, with characters ready to engage and share their stories:
· Mary, Joseph, Baby Jesus, and their Donkey in Stamford Square (WA14 1SG).
· The Shepherds and their Sheep at Bounceback Food Community Kitchen, 1 Central Way (WA14 1SB).
· The Three Kings at Altrincham Interchange, Stamford New Road (WA14 1EN).
· The Inn Keeper and his Wife at King’s Court, Railway Street (WA14 2RD).
· Angel Gabriel and the Star at Nell’s Pizza, 2 George Street (WA14 1SG).
· King Herod at OYEZ Arts, Altrincham Town Hall (WA14 1PF).
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.”
Plan Your Visit
Altrincham’s Nativity Journey is a free, family-friendly event, blending storytelling, music, and festive cheer. For more details, visit VisitAltrincham.com or follow @visitaltrincham on social media.
Altrincham is easily accessible by public transport, with Altrincham Interchange offering convenient connections via tram, train, and bus. The Bee Network provides an eco-friendly travel option – why not follow in the footsteps of our Three Wise Men, who have travelled from afar on the Bee Network!
This event has been funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
