Pop in to see Heathfield’s Crib Festival
This year, St Richard's Church is hoping to break its previous record and display 100 cribs.
Running from 21st to 23rd November, the festival promises a joyful celebration as the church fills with nativity scenes of every shape and size, welcoming visitors of all ages to discover the wonder and warmth of the Christmas story.
Now in its second year and hoping to display 100 unique cribs— from a Lego nativity in a shoebox to a grand traditional set from France—St Richard’s Crib Festival offers a creative feast for the eyes and a peaceful space for reflection at a special time of year.
Festival times:
- Friday 21st November, 2pm to 5pm
- Saturday 22nd November, 10am to 5pm
- Sunday 23rd November, after the morning service: 12 noon–4pm
The tradition of displaying nativity scenes was brought to life by Saint Francis of Assisi in 1223, who staged the very first crib scene in Greccio, Italy so that everyone could experience the story of Christ’s birth. St Richard’s festival picks up that spirit in the heart of East Sussex, inviting families and friends to share in the continuing tradition.
Each crib on display will have a card with information about it, why it is so special to the owner and perhaps how old it is. There will also be some homemade ones 'a crib in a shoebox' that pupils from the local primary schools have made.
Revd Ann Pollington, a retired vicar helping at St Richard’s Church said it is a quiet way of evangelism, telling the story of the birth of Jesus and inviting people to come into church without any pressure to come to a service. She said “We often forget how difficult it is to make that first step into a church building.
“Each crib on display is special to their owners, perhaps it's an old family gift or a modern recent purchase to remember a holiday in the Holy Land, you will just love reading all about them. There will also be stalls and refreshments, including a tombola and guess the weight of the Christmas cake - and enjoy a mince pie or cake afterwards in the hall.”
The Archdeacon designate Russell Dewhurst, Hastings said: “Saint Francis of Assisi’s act of creating the first crib scene reminds us that the heart of Christmas is found in simple acts of storytelling, beauty, and hospitality. This festival gives our community a chance to gather, celebrate, and carry the light of hope into the season.”
Whether you are searching for family-friendly events, a bit of festive cheer, or a new Christmas tradition, Heathfield’s Crib Festival warmly welcomes everyone to join in, pause, and delight in the story at the centre of Christmas.
For more details, contact St Richard’s Church, Upper Station Road, Heathfield.
A Church Near You is a great place to find out what your local church is hosting as the build up to Advent begins.