"Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord".
The Nativity story is the pivotal moment in human history—the moment when God stepped into our world in human form, fulfilling His plan of salvation. Everything about the human experience was forever changed that night in Bethlehem.
Have you ever wondered what it was like for Mary and Joseph as they traveled the countryside to register for the census? Or how heavy the weight of Roman rule felt for the Jewish people at the time? Imagine the awe of the shepherds as angels declared the good news, or the quiet peace of Christ’s presence in a humble manger surrounded by animals.
Journey to Bethlehem (J2B) is a live, interactive experience hosted at AAAC each December that brings this sacred story to life. Over 300 costumed actors, live animals, and a recreated city of Bethlehem immerse you in the sights and sounds of the first Christmas. Guided through a scripted journey, you’ll encounter characters such as King Herod, the wise men, Elizabeth, and Zechariah. You’ll wander through a bustling marketplace, feel the tension of Roman rule as taxes are collected, hear the angels’ proclamation to the shepherds, and ultimately arrive at the manger to meet the Messiah.
For more than 15 years, J2B has been a beloved tradition in the Auburn community—not just as a festive event, but as a powerful reminder of the true miracle of Christmas.
TICKETS ARE SOLD OUT FOR ALL 2025 PERFORMANCES!
• Your reservation is held under the name used to purchase the tickets. You do not need to bring a physical ticket.
• The experience is primarily outdoors. Please dress warmly and prepare for cold or wet weather.
• Check-in begins 15 minutes prior to your scheduled time slot (not earlier). Please arrive within this window. Please note that your scheduled time slot is your arrival time, not necessarily when you will begin your journey.
• When you check in, you will receive a group number. This is the group you will travel with through Bethlehem. Each group holds a maximum of 22 people.
• You will not be assigned a group number until all members of your party have arrived and are physically inside the building. Please do not approach the check-in desk until your entire group is present. Only send one representative from your group to the desk.
• If you wish to be in the same group as other families or friends, you must all check in together and with the same J2B ticketing representative (send one representative from each group to the ticketing desk).. Group numbers cannot be changed once assigned.
• After receiving your ticket, please proceed to the sanctuary to enjoy the Christmas concert while you wait for your group to be called. We kindly ask that you refrain from bringing food into the sanctuary.
• You are stepping back in time to witness something wonder-filled. Please refrain from any behavior that may distract from or diminish the experience for our cast or other guests.
This year, Journey to Bethlehem is partnering in a community food drive to support the Auburn Food Bank. Please consider bringing a non-perishable food donation to help feed those in need within our community. With 6000 people attending J2B, if every guest brings even one can of food, think of the difference that could make!
“Feed the hungry, and help those in trouble. Then your light will shine out from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon.” — Isaiah 58:10
