The historic downtown district of Minden was transformed into Bethlehem on Saturday, December 21, as visitors experienced a Live Nativity event that brought the story of Jesus Christ’s birth to life. Hosted by Pearls of Purpose and local churches, the walking tour showcased vignettes that captured Mary and Joseph’s journey in a heartfelt and immersive way.

Families strolled through the streets, encountering characters, a shepherd’s field, and live performances by a community choir. Those unable to walk the route were accommodated with golf cart guides, while a hayride from the First Baptist Church provided convenient transportation to the starting point.

“It felt like I was living in the middle of a Hallmark Channel Christmas movie!” said Sara McDaniel of Simply Southern Cottage, praising the attention to detail and dedication of the event organizers.

The scenes along the tour were designed to evoke the spirit of the first Christmas, with local talent and volunteers contributing to an authentic and memorable experience. Organizers said the event’s goal was to create a meaningful adventure for all ages, blending tradition with the unique charm of Minden’s historic district.

As the evening came to a close, attendees reflected on the powerful storytelling and sense of community that marked the event. “The effort and love that went into this production were truly remarkable,” said one participant.

The Live Nativity was a reminder of the timeless story at the heart of the Christmas season and showcased the talents and hospitality of the Minden community.




