New in 2024 ... This year we will be featuring the Historic Cathedral Nativity Scene from St. Mary's Cathedral in Peoria
We are very grateful to Most Reverend Bishop Louis Tylka for loaning this magnificent nativity scene to be displayed at the Community Festival of Nativities for the second year. Created by Sebastian Osterrieder in 1930, this 50-piece nativity was obtained by Bishop Joseph Schlarman of the Catholic Diocese of Peoria when he traveled to Munich in 1931. This nativity scene has been displayed at St. Mary’s Cathedral every year since then.
We are thrilled to have this very beautiful creation on display at the festival this year.
​
​
​
​
Additional Displays
We are pleased to display the handwork of Pekin artisan, Vic McDonald. Well known in the Central Illinois Woodworker’s Club, Vic has made beautiful nativity scenes out of various kinds of wood. For his hand painted ceramic sets, he has created lighted stables. He is also pleased to display a hand-carved Olive wood nativity that he carried on his lap on the trip home from the Holy Land.
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
We are happy to share the international nativity collection of Father Ronald Margherio from St. Bede Academy in Peru, Illinois. Many of his precious scenes were obtained on his travels and many were gifts from dear friends.
​
​
Diana Lage's Fontanini Collection will be back again to delight everyone. Her display of over 3,000 pieces will include scenes that focus on the women of the gospels in addition to the nativity and life of Jesus Christ.
​
