24th December — 3 PM & 4:30 PM (identical services)
The Nativity, A Christmas Eve Celebration for the Whole Community
Join us at St John’s, Upper Norwood, for storytelling, carol singing, and festive fun with our real donkey, Aubrey!
Free event — booking essential due to limited space:
The Nativity at St John’s, Upper Norwood, is a joyful, family-friendly Christmas Eve service for all ages.
Join us as we bring the story of the first Christmas to life through singing, storytelling, and festive carols with our friendly donkey, Aubrey. Lasting around 45 minutes, the Nativity is a joyful, interactive experience for families, children, and anyone who loves a seasonal sing-along. Come and enjoy the magic of Christmas Eve in a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere — whether this is your first Nativity or a beloved annual tradition, everyone is warmly invited to take part.
A sign language interpreter will be available at both services.
Join the Band. You’re Invited!
Do you play an instrument? Whether you’re a beginner, a seasoned player, or haven’t touched your instrument in years — come and play with us! Adults, children, families, beginners, and professionals are all welcome to join our community band to perform five classic Christmas carols.
Rehearsal: 1:30 PM on 24th December
Performances: 3 PM & 4:30 PM
Cost: Free! We’ll provide sheet music in advance
FAQs
-
Yes — it’s free, but please book tickets in advance for either 3 PM or 4:30 PM to help us manage numbers.
You or your child is welcome to come dressed up as your favourite Nativity character and join in the relevant parts, or join the band to play the Christmas carols, performing in our beautiful Victorian church.
-
Yes — band members rehearse at 1:30 PM and play at both services (ending around 5:30 PM).
-
Not at all! This is a fun event for the whole community on Christmas Eve: whatever your faith or belief, you are very welcome here.
-
Everyone is welcome. Please contact Mthr Rachael at mthrrachael@sjun.org if you’d like to discuss accessibility.
Find Our Church!
Location: St John’s, Upper Norwood,
Sylvan Road, London SE19 2RX
Free Parking
Available on Auckland Road, Sylvan Road, and the surrounding areas.
Public Transport
Bus Routes: 249, 410, SL6, N68, 196
Closest Train Station: Crystal Palace (approximately 0.6 miles away)
Contact Us
Any questions? Call us: 020 8771 6686 or email us at office@sjun.org.uk
Whether you come to watch, sing, or play, The Nativity is a joyful community celebration you won’t want to miss. Celebrate Christmas Eve at St John’s, Upper Norwood, with your family and friends as we share live music, storytelling, and festive cheer. Bring your instrument and join the band for a truly special experience, or simply come and enjoy the warmth of this inclusive, family-friendly service in our beautiful Victorian church.
Come & Celebrate Christmas Eve With Us!
Follow us on @stjohnsuppernorwood
