NATIVITY SCENES

Twelve Life Size Scenes

The nativity scenes displayed on the historic Euclid Avenue median have been a long-standing Christmas tradition in Ontario, California. They made their debut in 1958. Community leaders and service organizations funded the twelve life size scenes. Rudolph Vargas, a well-known Los Angeles artist and sculptor, was hired to create the Biblical figures. The final scene was added in 1976. Click here to download a self-guided tour or to learn more about the individual Nativity Scenes.

The nativity scenes depict the life of Jesus Christ. They are on display from Thanksgiving thru New Years Day on the Euclid Avenue median in downtown Ontario. From "C" Street to "F" Street you can stroll the grassy area as you view each scene. Start just north of the Gazebo on "C" Street and head north, than return as you enjoy each scene. It is free to view the scenes and parking is first come first serve along Euclid Avenue and the surrounding business district.

Photos and Scriptures

1 of 12

CRÈCHE 1 (NATIVITY): THE ANNUNCIATION

Luke 2:11 – For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.

CRÈCHE 2 (NATIVITY): NO ROOM AT THE INN

Luke 2:7 – And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

CRÈCHE 3 (NATIVITY): SHEPHERD’S VISION

Luke 2:14 – Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

CRÈCHE 4 (NATIVITY): SHEPHERD’S ADORATION

Luke 2:18 – And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

CRÈCHE 5 (NATIVITY): THE NATIVITY

Luke 2:16 – And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

CRÈCHE 6 (NATIVITY): ARRIVAL OF THE WISE MEN

Matthew 2:1, 11 – Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, . . . And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.

CRÈCHE 7 (LIFE OF JESUS): THE PRESENTATION

Luke 2:22, 28, 29 – And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord; . . . Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, . . . Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word.

CRÈCHE 8 (LIFE OF JESUS): FLIGHT INTO EGYPT

Matthew 2:14 – When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt.

CRÈCHE 9 (LIFE OF JESUS): THE HOLY FAMILY

Luke 2:52 – And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.

CRÈCHE 10 (LIFE OF JESUS): JESUS IN THE TEMPLE

Luke 2:49 – And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?

CRÈCHE 11 (LIFE OF JESUS): COME UNTO ME

Matthew 19:14 – But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven

CRÈCHE 12 (LIFE OF JESUS): LIGHT OF THE WORLD

John 14:12: Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.

Nativity Scene Tour

This video can be viewed as you stroll along Euclid Avenue in historic downtown Ontario, California. There is also a self guided tour you can download, print and carry with you. In addition the scripture that inspired the artist is found at each scene.

To download and print a self guided tour click here