Holy Walk through Bethlehem – December 5 & 6, 2025

Guests are invited to visit from 6 PM- 9 PM each night. Registration starts in late October.

Step Back in Time for the Holy Walk

The Holy Walk is one of Hamilton County’s most cherished holiday traditions, drawing visitors from near and far. For two special nights each December, St. Mark’s transforms into the bustling streets of Bethlehem, inviting you to slow down, take a breath, and reconnect with the true meaning of Christmas.

Experience the Journey to Bethlehem

You and your “family group” will step into the time of Caesar Augustus’ decree, traveling to Bethlehem to be counted and pay your taxes. Along the way, you’ll encounter:

• God’s holy angels bringing messages of hope
• Shepherds tending their flocks under the starry night
• Roman soldiers keeping a watchful eye and warning against talk of a “new king”
• Prophets guiding you toward a humble stable

Your journey will end at the manger, where you’ll witness the miraculous birth of Jesus—a moving and unforgettable conclusion to your walk.

More Than Just a Walk—An Experience for All

For many, the Holy Walk is a highlight of the season. It’s a chance to pause amid the hustle and bustle, reflect on the Christmas story, and share the experience with family and friends. For volunteers, it’s equally meaningful—bringing the story to life for hundreds of guests each night.

Be Part of the Story

It takes more than 200 volunteers to bring Bethlehem to life each year, and you don’t have to be a member of St. Mark’s to join the cast. Whether you’ve always dreamed of acting, enjoy working behind the scenes, or are looking for a way to serve your community, there’s a place for you. Students can even earn community service hours while having fun and meeting new people.

Children ages 5+ are encouraged to participate at the manger scene as angels and shepherds! Students ages 16+ can volunteer to be Mary or Joseph. Children/teens will rotate in shifts standing at the manger and enjoy snacks & activities in a supervised room in-between rotations. Children who can’t stay all night will be put into earlier rotations so they can still participate. Holy Walk is a great way for families to serve together!

Questions? Please feel free to email holywalk@stmarkscarmel.org.

Volunteer Positions

Not sure how you will serve? Here is a list of all the areas and ways that you can help! 

Construction

Build the Village
Build the Angel Booth
Tarps and Tents
Electricity
Fires
Tear Down