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Nativity sets for a Catholic home: how to choose one (2026)

Short answer: If you have small children, start with an unbreakable wooden or soft set they can hold and arrange. For a set that lasts for generations, choose resin or porcelain figures with a separate stable. Many Catholic families set up the stable during Advent, add the Christ Child on Christmas Eve (December 24), and move the Magi in on the Epiphany (Sunday, January 3, 2027, in the US). To have it in time for Advent, order by about November 20.

1. A set children can play with

Wooden, felt or sturdy plastic figures survive being carried around, and children remember a Nativity they were allowed to touch. Look for a set with the Holy Family, shepherds, the Magi and a few animals.

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2. An heirloom set

Resin and porcelain figures hold detail and color well. Check the figure height (often 4 to 10 inches) against the shelf or table you have in mind, and whether the set can be added to in later years.

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3. The stable

Many sets come without a stable. A wooden crèche gives the scene a home and lets you set it up empty at the start of Advent.

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4. The Magi, and Epiphany chalk

Some families start the three kings across the room and move them a little closer each day until the Epiphany. On or around the Epiphany, many Catholic households also chalk the year and the kings' initials above the front door; blessed chalk is often available from the parish, or you can bring ordinary chalk to be blessed.

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Christmas season dates, 2026–2027

Every day of the season is on the Christmas 2026–2027 page, and the wreath, candles and Advent dates are in the Advent wreath & candles guide.

Questions

When should the Nativity scene come down?

Many families keep it up through the end of the Christmas season, the Baptism of the Lord (January 10, 2027), and some until the Presentation on February 2.

Is it all right to set it up before Christmas?

Yes. A common custom is to set out the stable and figures during Advent and add the Christ Child on Christmas Eve.

What size should I buy?

Measure the space first. Figures around 4 to 6 inches suit a shelf or mantel; larger figures need a table of their own.

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