I feel safe to say that the annual Journey to Bethlehem public event hosted by Walnut Creek area businesses is probably the most exciting event of year. It all culminates at the Farm at Walnut Creek.

Thousands attend the event. And, of course, when there’s snow on the ground it makes it all the more authentic and gets everyone into the spirit.

This year’s event is set for December 1 and 2, 2017.

Attendees will experience a reenactment of the drama, sights and sounds of first century Israel. There are eight stops in the Walnut Creek ares representing the search for the Christ Child.

It really serves as a fun family oriented event that launched locals and out-of-towners into the season. It’s perfect for families and school groups. Children love it. It’s a free event and there are even free treats at the final destination: The Farm at Walnut Creek. Including, fresh-made-while-you-watch kettle corn over the fire at the barn. And fresh-made cinnamon rolls and coffee at the house. (These are kinda secrets, because I don’t see anyone else talking about it. But I know. I’ve been there every year.)

It’s a self-guided tour approximately 3 miles long. (It includes driving and walking.)

It’s a free event and no tickets required.

It starts at Walnut Creek Mennonite Church. (A map will be provided for the rest of the tour.)

HOURS: December 1, 2017 · 4 pm to 8 pm.

December 2, 2017 · 4 pm to 8 pm.

Here’s the Agenda of the Stops:

1. Walnut Creek Mennonite Register for the Census as Joseph and Mary did.
2. Yoder’s Home and Hardware King Herod. This encounter is not for the faint of heart. He may be angry. Beware.
3. Carlisle Gifts (Grassy area) Shepherds herding real sheep and cozying up to the fire.
4. P. Graham Dunn Hear Angels caroling from the second floor porch at P Graham Dunn.
5. Carlisle Inn Here you will likely find a very pregnant Mary but sadly no room for her in the inn.
6. Coblentz Chocolates Experience the salesy Jerusalem Street Vendors on a tight and busy first century street.
7. The Farm at Walnut Creek A Live Nativity. Amish carolers. Narrated horse-drawn wagon rides to the barn. (Don’t miss this. It’s the icing on the cake!)
8. The Farm at Walnut Creek On the horse-drawn Wagon Ride you will stop to visit the gilded Wise Men at their tent, fireside. Here’s your chance to ask them anything you want to know about the mysteries surrounding the birth.

It’s simply the kind of family fun night that locals don’t want to miss.

Come, enjoy some old-fashioned fun with an old-fashioned taste. What’s more… it’s free! It’s one of the best Walnut Creek secrets. But the secret is getting out. 🙂