Bethlehem Journey: A Unique Christmas Experience in Ohio Amish Country
Bethlehem Journey in Ohio Amish Country
Ohio Amish Country is a wonderful place to visit in December during the holidays. When visiting Northeastern, Ohio we had the privilege to participate in a unique holiday interactive experience. The Bethlehem Journey is truly a one-of-a-kind winter event in Ohio Amish Country. We guarantee this family-friendly Christmas activity will be a memorable Christmas tradition with your family. It’s one of the best Midwest Christmas activities. Read about our Magical Winter Getaway to Ohio Amish Country.
For only two days this free event, Journey to Bethlehem, is sponsored by 7 businesses in Walnut Creek. Come with us as we share a glimpse into this immersive experience walking in the sandals of Joseph and Mary as they journey to Bethlehem. With live characters and reenactments, you'll hear and see firsthand as you register for taxation, travel through the bustling marketplace and meet King Herod. The adventure commences with a live Nativity scene at Walnut Creek Farm. The entire family friendly Christmas activity took about two hours to complete.
Cost: Admission is free for the event, occurring each year on the first Friday and Saturday in December.
Dates: Dec 1-2, 2023 (This yearly event generally occurs the first weekend in December)
Time: 4:00-8:00pm
Journey of Mary and Joseph
Experience the Christmas story in seven dramatic stops at numerous businesses in Walnut Creek Township and ending at The Farm at Walnut Creek. Here is a brief overview of each stop.
1. Register (Walnut Creek Mennonite Church)
The first stop is the Walnut Creek Mennonite Church, where you will register for taxation. This is a quick stop where you will receive your map to the next location. You will then drive to downtown Walnut Creek where you will begin your walking journey. Grab a map here for the rest of the stops on the journey.
Walnut Creek Mennonite Church is a large church that offers worship services at 10:00am on Sundays. They also have a youth group program that meets on Wednesday nights. All are welcome to attend!
2. Busy Marketplace (Coblentz Chocolates)
Enter through the back of the store amidst the jarring noise of the merchants. Coblentz has been transformed into the busy market place that Mary and Joseph, weary travelers, would have experienced on their way.
While visiting, stop and grab something delicious from Coblentz Chocolate Company. Decadent chocolates, rich fudge, and sweet old-fashioned candy can all be found at Coblentz Chocolate Company. During Christmas it's especially lovely, all decorated with lights and beautiful holiday displays. Situated in downtown Walnut Creek, Coblentz is reminiscent of an old-fashioned candy store. From fudge and caramel corn to ground coffees, you won't leave empty handed. There is also an adorable play area for kids. Make sure to customize your own little brown box of chocolates.
3. No Room at the Inn (Carlisle Inn)
Bare witness as Mary and Joseph visit the Inn and plead with the innkeeper to please give them a place to stay. Yet once again they are turned away, but their journey is not over, for we will see them again at the stables.
The Carlisle Inn sits atop a sloping ridge in Walnut Creek and offers guests a prime location for walking around the village. With a beautiful porch and friendly staff welcoming you into this beautiful and historic Inn, you won't be disappointed.
4. Shepherds & Angels (Carlisle Gifts)
As you approach Carlisle Gifts, a beautiful choir of angels can be heard from across the way. Follow the lit path to see the herd of sheep and shepherds huddled around the fire.
Make sure to step inside Carlisle Gifts. A sweeping staircase leads to a host of beautifully decorated displays, especially festive during the Christmas season. Situated in the downtown area of Walnut Creek, this Victorian style store is a lovely shopping experience. This specialty store has three floors filled with unique items including bedding, home decor, apparel, lotions, and candles.
5. King’s Herod’s Palace (Yoder’s Hardware)
Yoder’s has been transformed into the throne room of King Herod. Roman centurions stood guard as we approached. Hear from King Herod on the throne as he searches for the Baby, King Jesus.
Yoder’s is a general hardware store filled with yard supplies, work wear, power tools, pet supplies and children's toys. Head here for items needed to finish up that home improvement project or find the perfect Christmas gift for your handy man or woman.
Live Nativity at The Farm at Walnut Creek
6. Wise Men (The Farm at Walnut Creek)
A horse-drawn wagon will pick you up after you park. Ride along a lit path and where you will first stop to hear the Magi speak about the star they are following.
7. Live nativity (The Farm at Walnut Creek)
The journey culminates at the barn at The Farm at Walnut Creek, which has been transformed into a live nativity scene. Be ushered in sit on one of the many benches while viewing the beautiful picture of Mary, Joseph, and Baby Jesus. Donkeys, sheep and shepherds gather round while a choir sings in the background. This is the perfect ending to the Journey to Bethlehem.
Although the journey is over, the activities still continue. In the lower part of the barn, we had the opportunity to view camels, horses, cows, sheep, and goats, all of which make their home at The Farm at Walnut Creek. Next stop is where you will be welcomed into a large Amish home.
Tour an Amish Home
Afterwards, we had the opportunity to tour an Amish home. Enjoy watching kettle corn being prepared. The sweet smell fills the air as an Amish man stirs the copper kettle over a crackling fire with a long cast iron rod. Special treats of home-made cinnamon rolls, cookies, hot chocolate, cheese and apples are shared and prepared by the Amish families and workers. This working farm brings in over 220 employees for this 2 day special Christmas event. Although the farm is closed in the winter, during open hours, April- October, you can come tour the farm and hand feed the animals while viewing the bustling property.
Tips for the Experience
Wear boots or athletic sneakers You will be walking quite a distance outside, so wear comfortable shoes. The Farm at Walnut Creek can be quite muddy, I was thankful to have worn my Chelsea boots for the adventure.
Wear layers and warm clothing During the journey you will outside the majority of the time. Although while touring the Amish home, I did warm up quite a bit so layers are helpful.
The event goes from 4-8pm It took us about 2 hours to go through the entire exhibit and hit every stop. If you plan to shop at the local businesses, it make take longer
Come with an appetite At the Amish farm they serve you variety of foods including kettle corn, apples, cheese, cookies, cinnamon rolls and hot chocolate.
Bring spending money During the journey, you will have the opportunity to shop for a holiday gift or delicious treat.
Read the Biblical story before going found in Luke 2:1-20, Matthew 2:1-12,
Where to Stay
If you’re visiting the area, extend your stay in Amish Country at the Berlin Resort, a luxury hotel that creates the perfect place to relax with a spa, swimming pool, large suites, and sprawling trails throughout the property. Our Club Suite was huge and we appreciated the comfy bed, soft linen, private jet tub, reclining couch and large TV in our room. There are tons of family- friendly activities on the property including an indoor swimming pool, sauna, hot tub, gazebo, putt putt golf, movie theater, conference rooms, and outdoor patio. During our stay we utilized the fitness center, which was quite impressive and open 24hours a day. Plus, breakfast is included in your stay.
After strolling along the paved walkways at the Berlin Resort, we knew our children would be delighted with the replica store fronts in the Children's Village, a modern playground and windy trails. When visiting Ohio Amish Country, make sure to stay at the Berlin Resort, which is conveniently located near the shops, restaurants and area attractions. They have everything you need for an amazing vacation.
Closing Thoughts
Add this fun family event to your Christmas activity list. It’s a memorable way to celebrate Christmas in Ohio Amish Country. No matter what you decide to do during your Christmas holiday with your kids, you’re bound to have an unforgettable experience in this beautiful area of Ohio. From our family to yours, Merry Christmas!
We’d love to know what are your favorite things to do in Northeastern, Ohio with children for the holidays. Follow Discovering Anew for more Midwest travel destinations. Make sure to pin and save for later and share with a friend.
