Nativity Crib Festival at St George’s

From Wednesday 10 December (9 am – 6 pm) through to Saturday 13 December (closing at 4 pm), St George’s Church will be transformed into a joyful celebration of creativity, community, and the birth of Jesus.

Step inside and discover a remarkable collection of handcrafted Nativity scenes, each lovingly created by local schools, community groups and individuals. Some are beautifully traditional, others wonderfully imaginative, but all tell the Christmas story in their own unique way. Among the highlights is the Calligraphy Group’s depiction of Bethlehem, where buildings are adorned with hand‑written carol verses. You’ll also find playful finger puppets featuring inclusive characters such as a king in a wheelchair and a shepherd with crutches, joyfully proclaiming “Oh come let Everyone adore Him!”. There are ornate silk wall hangings portraying the three kings with plaited beards, and a crib scene that has travelled more than 4,000 miles across continents to reach Ashtead. At the heart of the festival stands a breathtaking centrepiece: a life‑sized silhouette of the Nativity stretching an impressive 16 feet wide, inviting you to step right into the Christmas story.

Children will be kept busy with craft activities throughout the festival, and they’ll have the chance to try on nativity costumes—perfect for a festive photo. Daily story times at 3.20pm and 3.40pm add to the fun, while music fills the church with joy. The Ashtead Community Choir will perform on Wednesday, 10 December from 1.00–1.45pm, and other local musicians will join across the festival.

And of course, no celebration is complete without something delicious. The Café will be serving festive treats and warming drinks, open on weekdays until 2.30pm—an ideal way to make your visit even sweeter.

All are welcome—bring friends, neighbours, children, grandchildren, or simply yourself. Together, let’s make this a celebration to remember.