The traditional Christmas story comes to life once again this season at Topaz Park as costumed actors, props and live animals tell the story of the birth of Jesus Christ.
The First Christmas Nativity Pageant, put on for the 27th consecutive year by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and friends, portrays the sights, sounds and emotions of the Biblical event in Bethlehem more than 2,000 years ago.
"For a lot of people, it's become a family tradition," said Lyanne Sanderson, co-producer of the pageant along with husband Graham. "It feels like you've been transported to Bethlehem."
In addition to the actors, llama, sheep, donkeys and goats will attract an estimated 6,000 people to Topaz Park, Dec. 21-23.
"The first show of the last night had 1,000 people alone last year," Sanderson said.
"The event is free, we don't accept donations, this is our gift to the community."
The nativity pageant runs at 6:30, 7, 7:30 and 8 p.m., Dec. 21-23.
Visit christmasnativity.ca for more information.