The show must go on! One of Richmond’s favorite holiday events, The Miracle of Christmas – Live at the Zoo, is back for its 21st season. This year, the nativity will feature new lights and a reconstructed stage and set.
In June, the zoo suffered a serious fire that destroyed multiple buildings including a storage room with all the production lights, backdrops, and stage for the Miracle of Christmas. This nativity holds a special place in our hearts, so seeing the sets among the rubble was devastating.
We have worked tirelessly to rebuild what was lost to bring this event back to life for the community. Over 100 feet of period-appropriate backdrops had to be reconstructed and painted. The new stage and sets are exact replicas of the original versions, and the new lighting system is more technical and offers an improved experience compared to our previous equipment.
The Miracle of Christmas is on December 20, 21, and 22 with 3 shows each evening at 7:00, 7:45, and 8:30 PM. Zoo gates open at 6:15 PM. Admission and parking are FREE.
The twenty-minute pageant offers a reenactment of the Christmas story presented with live animals and cast members recreating events from more than 2,000 years ago. Zoo animals — including Bactrian camels, goats, sheep, and a donkey — are featured in the program and add to the authentic experience. The cutest baby goats and lambs were born earlier this month and are ready to debut in the nativity this week.
Local churches and community groups provide live musical performances before each show. The nativity takes place outdoors at the Metro Richmond Zoo (8300 Beaver Bridge Road, Moseley, VA 23120). Visitors should dress appropriately for the weather.
Doughnuts and hot chocolate are on sale to raise funds for local charities. A canned food drive for Chesterfield Food Bank is held to support local families in need. If you’d like to participate, drop off non-perishable food in boxes at the zoo entrance.
We are grateful to the hundreds of people who have volunteered their time and talents to restore this pageant after the fire’s devastating setback. We hope many can join us this year to feel the spirit of Christmas.
More information about the event.
