Journey to Bethlehem

Last year, we attempted to get out to Journey to Bethlehem put on by a local Baptist church. They improved the logistics this year, advertising groups leaving ever 5 minutes instead of every 15.

So, when it returned this year, we decided to make one more attempt. After all, how often do you get to see a Christmas themed haunted house? (yes, that is the best way I can describe it)

I was under the impression it started at 5PM. And, I was not alone in that impression. There was a small line that arrived at 5, or shortly after, surprised the doors were still closed.

Talia describes our feeling when we found out opening was 6.

From JTB

Unfortunately, this pic also illustrates my issues with the camera, as somehow, somewhere, it had gotten set to ISO 1000, and everything was going to be grainy. I didn’t notice until after, and am still wondering how the setting got changed as I never go over 400…

Anyhow.

We went in, got our passports, and new names, and were to be in the first group. I was pleased to see the groups also increased in size this year. This should allow them to pump roughly 5x the numbers this year.

Journey to Bethlehem uses a guided tour format. This is a lesser used format during the October season due to lower numbers, but allows much better story telling and interaction with patrons.

Our guides did a marvelous job.

From JTB

From JTB

Soon enough the ‘evil romans’ come in hootin’ and hollerin’ about your taxes.

From JTB

“The scary’s” as Talia calls them. She was impressed by the one on a horse, however.

From JTB

Along your route, you meat your normal cast of characters from the Nativity.

The Wise men (sorry only one turned out):

From JTB

The shepherds:

From JTB

Some fellow countrymen

From JTB

The Inn…

From JTB

The highlight, however, is of course the angel that appears.

From JTB

Each have a story to tell as you pass.
(Alec’s reaction at the moment the Angel appears)

From JTB

Kyle listening to the Shepherds.

From JTB

Of course it all culminates at the stable.

From JTB

All in all, it was a very fun activity I would encourage anyone capable of to attend. The production is enjoyable in and of itself. Churches around the country put on this same show. So, go get out to your local Christmas themed haunted house.