During Christmastime it is not uncommon to see charming miniature manger scenes adorning the inside of the home alongside wreaths, stockings “hung by the chimney with care,” and trees—artificial or evergreen—sagging with bright, colorful ornaments. To really make a splash, however, you need to go BIG.
The Christmas holiday season is a magical time of year, where homes, gardens, places of worship, and businesses are transformed into enchanting public expressions of joy and celebration. One traditional type of decoration that never fails to captivate are outdoor Nativity set displays. Bear in mind, however, that there isn’t just one single “right” way to show your Christmas spirit with your eye-catching, outdoors manger scene. Multiple factors come into play. Whether you’re a novice or an expert decorator, here are some tips to guide you in buying and setting up your outdoor Nativity set displays.
Outdoor Nativity Set Display Size Selection
The first thing to consider is the size of the Nativity set. This will largely depend on your budget and available outdoor space. If you have a big yard, a full-size Nativity set (60″–72″ scale) can make a grand statement and won’t get overlooked. On the other hand, if you are working with a small yard, porch, or balcony, opt for a Nativity set that is smaller in scale (40″–57″ scale) and that has fewer figures. That way, it won’t look too crowded together. Remember, it’s not about the size; it’s about the message that the Nativity represents!
What Figures to Include in Your Nativity Set
The minimum basic figures to include in any Nativity set are Mary, Joseph, and of course the baby Jesus lying in a manger. However, you can choose to add more figures to fill out the scene, such as the three wise men (Magi), shepherds, angels, and various domesticated farm animals such as sheep, goats, oxen, donkeys, and camels. Decide how detailed you want your scene to be. Including more figures can make the scene more vivid and engaging, but it also requires more space and setup time.
Special Nativity Accessories
Accessories an enhance the overall look of your Nativity set. Consider adding a stable or manger scene backdrop.
You can also include a star of Bethlehem for a complete Nativity scene.
Lighting is another essential accessory. Use spotlights to highlight the figures and create a warm, welcoming glow.
What’s Your Style?
Nativity sets come in various styles, from traditional to modern, rustic to minimalist.
In terms of color, you can go with brightly painted figures or classic ivory-white ones.
Choose a style that appeals to your personal taste and complements your house and other outdoor holiday decorations.
Keep in mind that the style should also suit the weather conditions in your area. For instance, if you live in a region that experiences heavy snowfall, choose materials that can withstand harsh weather.
Positioning of Your Outdoor Nativity Set Figures
When setting up your Nativity set, ensure it is visible from the street but also protected from potential vandals or wildlife. If you have multiple figures, arrange them in a way that tells the story of the Nativity. For example, place the angels above the scene, position the Wise Men off to one side as if they are just arriving, and put the shepherds with their sheep on the other side.
Remember, setting up an outdoor Nativity set is about more than just decoration; it’s a way to share the joy and meaning of the holiday season with others. Take your time, plan it out, and most importantly, enjoy the process.
We hope these tips help make our customers’ outdoor Nativity set displays a stunning centerpiece of their holiday cheer. Happy decorating!
