If you have ever wanted to visit Bethlehem during Christmas, no need to book tickets. You can visit Bethlehem here in Orange County.
Located on the recreation field behind Crossline Community Church in Laguna Hills, Journey to Bethlehem is a walk-through, outdoor immersive experience that provides visitors with a family-friendly way to celebrate the spirit of Christmas and give visitors a glimpse of what life may have been like at the birthplace of Jesus.
“People are amazed at the time we take to create such an immersive and powerful experience to share the greatest gift ever given, the birth of Jesus, the savior of the world,” said Greg Munck, executive pastor at Crossline.
Journey to Bethlehem started in 2012 in Ladera Ranch with three experiences, the nativity, hospitality and a craft village.
“In 2014 we decided to move to our large field on our own church campus to house the event. Every year we have added new experiences, so the whole 200-yard field is being used,” said Munck.
The production, which takes over a month to build, features 16 different buildings and experiences, camel rides, a petting zoo with sheep and donkeys for the kids, a live nativity scene and an army of 12 Roman guards that make their presence known. Munck, who is also a former Marine, is one of the Roman guards.
“Being the commander of the guards, as a USMC combat veteran, I tap into those experiences,” said Munck. “The looks on faces from children to adults are the same. They are amazed how immersive the experience is.”
Upon arrival, visitors are given a bag of Roman coins which they can use to make small purchases and a map to the city. Guards with torches then escort you to the city’s gate. Music suddenly fills the air and at the top of the hill angels spread their wings and illuminate the night sky.
Journey to Bethlehem receives roughly 12,000 visitors over three nights.
You can see Journey to Bethlehem at Crossline Community Church, 23331 Moulton Pkwy.,…
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