Caption: Jonathan, Katelyn and Klare Dunas reach for a chicken at the "Shepherd's Corral" Hi-Res Image (right click to download)

Caption: Kei Matsuo catches a ride on friendly llama at "David's Llama Farm" Hi-Res Image (right click to download)

Caption: Shepherds come to witness the birth of Jesus Hi-Res Image (right click to download)

Caption: Hundreds gather to watch the reenactment of the Nativity Hi-Res Image (right click to download)

Caption: Joseph, played by Alex Printy and Mary, played by Katie Tullsen, try to escape the wrath of King Herod Hi-Res Image (right click to download)

Caption: Mary, played by Katie Tullsen, is surprised to hear from the angel Gabriel Hi-Res Image (right click to download)

Caption: Puppets entertain lots of children at Bethlehem Village Hi-Res Image (right click to download)

Caption: Connor Hong pets a friendly pig at the "Shepherd's Corral" Hi-Res Image (right click to download)

Caption: Sarah Krager works at makes some crafts for her mom at "Nazareth Crafts" Hi-Res Image (right click to download)

Caption: Elissa Stelzner catches a ride on a pony Hi-Res Image (right click to download)

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ARTICLE (top):

Historic Bethlehem Village Comes Alive in Poway
Tenth year expected to draw thousands

For the past 10 years, hundreds of families have made it their annual Christmas tradition. Nearly every member of a small church in Poway comes together each year to create Bethlehem Village-a recreation of first-century Bethlehem during the birth of Jesus.

"I couldn't imagine celebrating Christmas without Bethlehem Village," said Sonni Cappellari, mother of two, "it's one of the few options in San Diego for folks wanting to show their kids the true meaning of Christmas." This year's event takes place on December 12 and 13 (Friday & Saturday) from 6:00 - 9:00 pm.

From the moment families arrive at Bethlehem Village, they are ushered by Roman guards to the census tables decreed by emperor Caesar Augustus. Once registered, they are granted access to the village where they experience the sights and sounds of Bethlehem.

Goats, chickens and rabbits run free at the Shepherd's Corral. Children can ride a donkey, just as Mary did as she entered Bethlehem-or catch a ride on a llama. Adults warm themselves by the fire or grab free snacks and coffee at the East Star Café, while listening to instrumentalists. Carolers roam Bethlehem, adding cheer as crafts makers pawn their wares.

Children can enter King Herod's Fair for fun and games, watch a puppet show or create more than a dozen free crafts at Nazareth Crafts. And of course the main event, theatrical performances of the Nativity, takes place multiple times each night.

More than 120 volunteers work tirelessly for months to make this annual event a reality. All aspects of Bethlehem Village are free to the public. Bethlehem Village will be at North City Presbyterian Church, located at 11717 Poway Road in Poway. Call 858-748-4642 for more information or visit www.northcitychurch.com/bv/.


PRESS CONTACT: Mike Stelzner, 858-748-7800 x201, mike@stelzner.com.