Living Nativity / Lebende Krippe (Heimatbühne Neumarkt)

A living nativity in the heart of the Egna arcades

During the Advent season, the village of Egna/Neumarkt, in the Autonomous Province of Bolzano (South Tyrol), transforms into a charming Christmas village. Beneath the famous medieval arcades, among the elegant Venetian-style houses that define the historic center, the local theater company Heimatbühne Neumarkt stages the Living Nativity (known in German as Lebende Krippe), one of the most anticipated events of the season.

The Nativity scene in the Meister Konrad Passage

The setting is the picturesque Meister Konrad Passage, a nook within the arcades that perfectly captures the spirit of the Christmas story. Here, for several afternoons in December, the actors of the Heimatbühne bring the Holy Family and the Nativity scenes to life, surrounded by live animals—an ox, a donkey, and several sheep—alongside artisans demonstrating ancient crafts. A highlight is the blacksmith's forge, which warms the air and completes this nostalgic tableau.

A deep-rooted South Tyrolean tradition

The living nativity is a deeply felt tradition throughout South Tyrol, and the Heimatbühne Neumarkt, a local amateur theater association, has cultivated it for many years with great dedication. The company, also active with plays and fairy tales throughout the year, devotes special effort to the Lebende Krippe, involving many volunteers from the municipality of Egna in the creation of costumes, sets, and the care of the animals.

Part of the Christmas market under the arcades

The Living Nativity is part of the "Weihnacht in den Lauben" (Christmas under the arcades) program, the Egna Christmas market that enlivens two weekends of Advent. Visitors to the village will find stalls selling quality Tyrolean products—Egna is also known as the "biscuit village"—as well as horse-drawn carriage rides, workshops for all ages, and the magic of the illuminated arcades. The performance by the Heimatbühne remains independently managed by the theater company, which oversees the direction and staging.

Why visit

• A living nativity with live animals in the heart of a medieval village.
• Unique setting under the historic arcades of Egna/Neumarkt.
• Free admission in an intimate, family-friendly setting.
• Perfect to combine with a visit to the Christmas market and local South Tyrolean specialties.