The traditional Helsinki Nativity Scenes event invites you to stop to admire nativity scenes again this Christmas. Nativity scenes will be displayed around Aleksanterinkatu, primarily in the windows of stores such as Stockmann (Mannerheimintie entrance), Aseman kello, Fazer, Nordea and Cafe Engel. You can also admire nativity scenes in the Helsinki Cathedral, Old Church, Kamppi Chapel, and Kirkon talo (Eteläranta 8). You could even make a short pilgrimage from one nativity scene to another.

This year’s theme is Close to the Child.

The child in the manger, the Christmas miracle, shifts our focus to children near and far.

– The infant Jesus invites us to nurture all children near and far and protect their future. Every child is a gift and a miracle. Children living in war zones make our hearts ache. We can help them in numerous ways, and we can always pray for them, reminds Sini Ikävalko, pastor of education. She has reflected on the theme of this year's Nativity Scenes event together with Satu Laakso, an expert in early childhood education.

– The theme Close to the Child reminds us how important it is to listen and pay attention to a child, even in the midst of everyday life. Close to the child, with every question, every wondering, every play; with every look searching for contact, we are always close to Heaven on Earth.

Nativity scenes are also on display elsewhere in the city, at least in Kannelmäki, Munkkiniemi and Paavali parishes, and in the window of Caritas in Töölö (Kuusitie 6).

The nativity scenes are suitable for the whole family. Together you may discuss what the different characters, especially the little baby, might think, feel, hear or see about everything.

Nativity scenes are significant in both Lutheran and Catholic Christmas traditions. The Helsinki Christmas Nativities is an ecumenical event organised by the Evangelical Lutheran parishes of Helsinki in cooperation with Orthodox and Catholic parishes and local businesses. The nativity scenes will be displayed until Epiphany on 6 January 2025.

For more information, visit www.jouluseimet.fi