Christmas in the Shenandoah Valley ... the Bethlehem Village at Afton

Discover the true meaning of Christmas ... the birth of Christ ... when you enter the Bethlehem Project presented by Hebron Baptist Church in the Blue Ridge foothills of Nelson County.

A recreated village of Bethlehem, you are absorbed into the time and place in a way that is unique and presents a moving experience for young and old alike. Watch out for the Roman soldiers! They may stop you to inquire as to why you are there ... they are suspicious of strangers. Check out the animals and the houses ... talk with the shop keepers and village dwellers ... sit by the fire and warm up.

This is the last weekend ... tonight, Saturday, and Sunday (Dec. 21-23) from 6-9:00 p.m. It is cold ... wear appropriate clothing. It is dark ... follow the torches and bonfires. It is reverent ... appropriate behavior should be observed.

It is well worth the trip which is about 30 minutes east of the SWAC area. There is no cost but they take donations. The members of the church have done this for a number of years.

From the Bethlehem Project webside:

There are just three nights left to experience Bethlehem for 2007. We will be open Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights thru December 23rd from 6 to 9 PM. Be aware that there is the possibility of rain on Sunday in our area.

What to expect when you visit....

Imagine a little village that existed long before colored lights, reindeer, or Santa Claus. Roman Soldiers walk the streets, Wise Men appear with their camels, shop keepers are going about their everyday lives yet this village is on the brink of something immense, the birth of one who would forever change the course of human history. Experience this village as it really was. Come to Bethlehem and see for yourself the magic and wonder of the first Christmas.

Step back in time as you enter the gates of Bethlehem of Judea. The Roman emperor has issued an order that a census be taken throughout the Empire and every citizen must register. On a cold winter’s night you are traveling streets illuminated by torchlight, wandering deeper into the heart of a village where cautious Roman soldiers patrol the crowd, Wise men, shepherds, livestock are among the many passersby, shops and shopkeepers inhabit a bustling marketplace, and welcoming cheer abounds. Now, far away from the tinseled trees and crowded malls that most commonly usher in the Christmas holiday season, this is an event no one should miss.

Directions: Hebron Baptist Church is located minutes from I-64 and I-81. Click here for a map.

Hebron Baptist Church
66 Tanbark Drive
Afton, Va. 22920
(540) 456-6868

Merry Christmas!