December 4–21, 2025 | 428 N. Erie St., Toledo, Ohio 43604 | Free Admission
Toledo, Ohio — The holiday season shines brightly at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 428 N. Erie Street in downtown Toledo, as the congregation welcomes the community to its beloved Nativity Festival, running December 4–21, 2025. This cherished annual event features more than 800 Nativities from around the world, beautifully displayed among dozens of decorated trees and themed tablescapes — creating a breathtaking setting that celebrates both the artistry and meaning of the Christmas story.
Parking and admission are free, and donations are appreciated to support future programs hosted by the church’s Heart Gallery & Makerspace.
Festival Highlights
Nativity Festival Hours
Fridays & Sundays • 4–7 PM
Thursdays • 11 AM–2 PM
- Thursday Nativi-Teas
By reservation • Program begins at 11 AM
Enjoy music and a warm, festive tea buffet followed by a private viewing of the Nativity collection — including the lifelong collection of Carl and Anna Mae Bowles, now on permanent exhibit in Nativity Hall.
- Carols & Cocktails (Cookies, Coffee & Mocktails)
Fridays, Dec 5, 12 & 19 • 4–7 PM
Sing along with holiday favorites, enjoy light appetizers and drinks, and take in the beauty of 800 Nativities from around the globe.
Music from 5:30–6:30 PM features:
– Dec 5 – Tapestry (harp & guitar)
– Dec 12 – Ben DeLong Band
– Dec 19 – SonFire Praise Band
- Sunday Concert Series in December
Doors open at 3 PM | Concerts begin at 4 PM
Each Sunday, the sanctuary fills with joyful sounds celebrating the spirit of Christmas:
– Dec 7 – Academy Brass Quintet – Seasonal favorites with a touch of humor and carol sing-along.
– Dec 14 – Asteria String Quartet – “Images of Christmas” beautiful music with slides from the Nativity exhibit.
– Dec 21 – Trans-Siberian Solstice – Exciting “Trans-Siberian”-style arrangements of Christmas carols with dazzling effects.
A Celebration of Faith and Creativity
The Nativity Festival showcases handcrafted crèches from across the globe, each telling the timeless story of Christ’s birth through unique cultural perspectives and artistic styles. The event continues to grow each year, welcoming families, artists, and visitors of all ages to experience the beauty and diversity of this remarkable collection.
Event Information
Dates: December 4–21, 2025
Location: St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 428 N. Erie St., Toledo, Ohio 43604
Admission: Free (Donations Appreciated)
Parking: Free lot and street parking available
Website: www.stpaulstoledo.org