A longtime Christmas tradition in Winkler returns this weekend, as ‘From Everywhere to Bethlehem’ once again invites families to step into a quiet, simple retelling of the birth of Jesus through a living nativity.
Hosted by Winkler EMM Church with support from several community churches, the outdoor walkthrough runs Friday, November 28 from 6 to 9 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, November 29–30 from 5 to 9 p.m.
Cindy Toews, who has been involved since the first year, says the experience continues to resonate with visitors who come looking for a meaningful way to begin the Christmas season.
A quiet walk through the Christmas story
The path winds from scene to scene, offering a simple, reflective look at Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem. Volunteers bring each moment to life through dialogue, costumes and traditional settings.
“It brings you through what may have happened during that time when Mary and Joseph made that long trek… and it just maybe opens up your eyes to what could have been,” Toews said.
Live animals, an element many families look forward to, will return again this year.
A tradition that brings the community together
Even with the uncertainty of late-November weather, Toews says people continue to bundle up and make their way through the gates each year. There is a wait, so dress warmly, and be prepared to stand in line. However, the volunteers do their best to make sure everyone is taken care of. According to Toews, the visitors really “make” the event.
“The excitement. The amazement, especially from the younger crowd — well, even some of the older crowd,” she said. “It doesn’t matter what language they speak… through the drama, you can kind of open up their eyes.”
For those who do not speak English, she says the experience still communicates the story through its visuals and gentle pace.
Supporting neighbours through the Winkler & District Food Cupboard
This year’s event once again includes “Tin for the Bin,” supporting the Winkler & District Food Cupboard. Representative Milt Olfert says the connection between the Christmas story and today’s needs feels natural.
“When you look at this live drama and what’s happening, it happens in real life now, right? They’re collecting taxes just like we do now. And the government is helping those in need back then and now,” he said. “We have a social responsibility to take care of people…and so that is what’s happening with collecting these “taxes” at the tin for the bin.”
Olfert says the need is steady throughout the year, and the Christmas season can be especially difficult for many families.
“December is when often depression kicks in,” he said. “If you’re not eating properly… it just gets worse.”
Holiday donations help the Food Cupboard offer items that go beyond basic staples.
He added that many first-time visitors are deeply grateful.
“We’re making a difference here. We’ve brightened up their Christmas a little bit. And that’s a community doing that… That’s what’s cool about this whole event.”
Take a look at photos from previous years, below.