About Us
38 Years of Solvang Nativity History
- The Annual Solvang Nativity Spectacular is a cherished tradition of the Solvang Julefest Celebration. The production is an artistic representation of the Biblical Nativity Story featuring local actors, musicians, and live animals. Over 200 volunteers from the community join together to create this memorable nighttime spectacular.
- In 1984, the late Earl Peterson along with Bob and Donnie Rohrbaugh, staged the first live Nativity Christmas Pageant in the Peterson Inn Square. This nighttime spectacular was created through the combination of gospel accounts, Christmas carols, and animals from a traveling animal show. Through the hard work of Earl Peterson and countless producers, directors, visions, and volunteers, this event ushers in the spirit of the Christmas season. Through the leadership of several producers and directors, this production has grown from a small nativity pageant taking place at Peterson Inn Square to a nighttime spectacular at Solvang Festival Theater.
- Due to the impact of Covid-19. the last two years have been the most difficult for the production. The pandemic not only limited our resources but also took the life of our former producer, Devorah Sklar. In the year 2020 and 2021, the Solvang Nativity Spectacular did not receive any financial sponsorship from any organization due to the uncertainty of Covid-19. Financial Support came directly from producers and donations from attendees at the event. With the help of interim producers, directors, and volunteers, the tradition continued in 2020 and 2021 in the local park.
- The Solvang Nativity Spectacular now operates under the organization of Solvang Performing Arts and will make its return debut to the Solvang Festival Theater located at 420 2nd St, Solvang, California.
Solvang Performing Arts 501(c)3
Our mission is to showcase the unique gifts and talents of Solvang through the art of music and storytelling.
A Variety of Events
The goal of Solvang Performing Arts is to create and develop productions like Solvang Nativity Spectacular that enrich the culture of Solvang and give locals the opportunity to participate in the performing arts arena.