Pull past the gates of the Billy Graham Library in December and you enter into wondrous new surroundings, despite just having exited a busy parkway.
Glowing luminaries and horse-drawn carriages, a live nativity and the sound of carolers are reminiscent of centuries-earlier celebrations of the birth of Jesus Christ.
If you long for a peaceful reprieve this Christmas season—away from chaotic stores, loud parties and big expectations—Christmas at the Library is one place to experience the season’s true meaning, now through Dec. 23.
For nine years, the Library has hosted thousands of families, groups and individuals at this purposeful celebration.
“Christmas is the time of the year when people from all walks of life, and all areas of the world, focus on the most meaningful gift of the season–the birth of Christ,” said Tom Phillips, vice president of the Billy Graham Library.
Our one constant in this ever-changing world is the hope found through a relationship with Jesus Christ,” he continued.
>> Find out how to start a personal relationship with Christ.
Every night, seated in a rocking chair on the back porch of the Library, a storyteller helps children envision the very first Christmas night with each turn of the page.
Nearby, inside the Library, a towering Christmas tree is adorned with wooden crosses and lanterns, poinsettia leaves and cranberry strands. Across the way, Ruth’s Attic bookstore offers an array of inspirational Christmas gifts.
Many guests also enjoy The Journey of Faith tour, which covers the life and ministry of evangelist Billy Graham.
During the month of December, the tour features a special display, Christmas with the Grahams—a glimpse at how Billy Graham and his family have celebrated the birth of Jesus Christ.
This display features never-before-seen memorabilia, rare photos and Christmas memories from the Graham children.
Outside the Library, a live nativity depicts the holy night of Christ’s birth—surrounded by camels, goats, sheep and other four-legged visitors.
Guests can pet these animals, plus miniature donkeys, a Zebu cow and a Scottish Highlander cow, from noon to 2 p.m. each day.
At certain points throughout each day, Gaby—a three-year-old capuchin monkey—will also join the nativity animals.
To start the evening, many guests come early to enjoy a delicious Christmas dinner.
>> Make reservations for Christmas dinner
Served Thursdays through Saturdays, the savory meal features turkey, carved ham with maple dijon glaze and cranberry cornbread stuffing, among other dishes, and an assortment of festive desserts.
Admission to Christmas at the Library and parking are free; horse-drawn carriage rides are $7.00 for adults and $3.00 for children under 12. The event runs Monday-Saturday, now through Dec. 23.
Get more details on Christmas at the Library.
