As you have already heard from us, Nativity sets are a decor item that helps remind all who enter your home the real reason for the season. If you already have a set, you may wonder how to set up a Nativity scene If you are purchasing your first one, you might be curious what you need. Read on for the basic components of a Nativity set and the ways in which you can choose to arrange it.

When deciding the best way to set up your Nativity scene, the first step is to determine where you will display your Nativity set. Maybe the space is long and narrow or short and wide - these things will affect how the figures come together into a scene. The most common choice for placement are a mantle or a designated table. If you have children, consider if you want it to be out of reach (good idea if it is breakable and your kids are small!) or if it needs to be at eye-level so they can see and enjoy it along with the taller members of the family.

Keep in mind that a Nativity set really only needs a Nativity stable, manger, Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus. If you are a minimalist, this can be your Nativity set. Keeping your Nativity set simple helps you stay on budget as well. Simplicity is perfect for small spaces, too, and you will never have to remember how to set up a Nativity scene, as the process will be easy from year to year.

The Nativity stable should be at the center of any scene. Mary and Joseph should be the closest figures to Jesus - and Mary should be closer, if possible. Some people choose to place the baby Jesus figure in the Nativity stable and manger right away, as they set it up. Others choose to wait until late on Christmas Eve. Either is fine.

If you want a larger, more involved Nativity set, you have ample choice available! Most variations on the Nativity scene include the following figures and placement:

• The three wise men should be grouped together and can be placed just about anywhere.
• Shepherds should also be grouped together
• The Angel Gabriel can go with the shepherds or alone (he can be placed in or outside the Nativity stable).
• Sheep should be placed with the shepherds and camels with the wise men; all other barn animals can be scattered in various ways

If you are interested in how to set up your Nativity scene with a little more flair, you could consider some unique additions. Lighted stars, the Little Drummer Boy, and additional angels (like the Gloria angel) are all good choices. You can choose to add figures over time or buy several at once to enjoy a “full” Nativity scene from the get-go.

Choosing how to set up a Nativity scene may also involve traditions and practices. For example, your family might choose to gather and say a few prayers as you set it up together each year. Families with children often read the Christmas story and place the figures in their places as the story unfolds. Indeed, the most important arrangement of any Nativity scene should be grounded in respect and devotion.