The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. In honor of the organization’s faithful service and evangelism efforts, we have been looking at the various aspects of the ministry that proclaim the Gospel, and today we turn our attention towards Christmas at the Library.

A Season Filled with Meaning

It’s that time of year when the sound of carols rings out across the grounds of the Billy Graham Library. The scents of warm hot chocolate and spicy-sweet gingerbread cookies waft through the air, as our guests join us to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.

Now in its 19th year, Christmas at the Library has become an annual favorite for families to celebrate the real reason for the season—Jesus Christ. Each year, the Billy Graham Library’s 20-acre campus is decorated with thousands of sparkling lights, and guests enjoy a live nativity depicting the story of the first Christmas.

Sounds of Christmas

While visually beautiful, Christmas at the Library is also music to the ears. Carolers roam the Library grounds, serenading visitors with carols of the season, and the tinkle of bells from horse-drawn carriage rides fill the air. Children enjoy hearing Gospel-centered Christmas tales during story time readings from books offered in the Ruth’s Attic bookstore. And the bleating of animals in the live nativity creates a chorus of sound each evening.

Step Into the Manger Scene

The animals featured in the live nativity each evening also provide a unique way to experience the season through touch. Each Thursday through Saturday, a selection of animals are available for a petting zoo from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. (weather permitting). These animals are a wonderful reminder of the humble place of Christ’s birth—in a barn with a manger as his first cradle.

Taste the Flavors of Christmas

The Billy Graham Library invites guests to enjoy the tastes of the season, too. From Christmas Dinners—with seatings Thursday through Saturday in December—to specialty holiday treats, including gingerbread, caramel corn, hot chocolate, and apple cider in the Graham Brothers Dairy Bar café, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Plan Your Visit

Christmas at the Library runs December 1-23 (closed on Sundays). While at the Library, make time for The Journey of Faith tour, a self-guided, immersive tour experience which tells the story of Billy Graham’s life and ministry. Find out more about the Library’s biggest event of the year and plan your visit today!