The beloved Nativity Open House, hosted by Toni Conway, will again open its doors to the community from Dec. 6-8 and Dec.13-15. Families are invited to explore a stunning display of over 950 Nativity sets from around the globe, all at the Bob and Toni Conway residence, at 3242 S. Carpenter Rd., Modesto.
With free admission and voluntary donations benefiting the Modesto Gospel Mission, this biennial event is not just a showcase of artistic talent but a heartfelt ministry for Conway, who is now 81.
“Each Nativity set represents a piece of my journey in faith and love,” Conway said. “I believe that sharing this collection brings our community together in celebration of the true meaning of Christmas.”
The open house will be held on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. Visitors will discover more than 30 new nativity sets added to the collection since the 2022 open house, including sets:
• Made from authentic coconut fibers from the Philippines;
• A hollowed-out gourd with tiny button Nativity figures inside;
• Crafted from newspaper pages.
• Made of and crafted in Mongolia;
• Made of beads and created by students with disabilities in India.
Also new for 2024, Arizona-based pastry chef Jordan Runnels will unveil a stunning 3-foot-tall gingerbread Nativity scene, designed, baked and decorated entirely by hand. The completely edible creation will feature intricate details, including a winding road leading through villages, with the Three Wise Men traveling toward the city to seek Jesus in the manger at the top. The elaborate scene will be crafted using gingerbread, white royal icing, and crystallized sugar. The gingerbread masterpiece will take an estimated 3-1/2 days to complete.
“Children are always welcome here, and I encourage families to come and experience this beautiful event together,” urged Conway. “My hope is that everyone who visits leaves with a renewed spirit of joy and faith during this holiday season.”
Conway’s collection is likely the largest privately owned collection in the western United States. She has been displaying her Nativity collection biennially since 1996.
Each evening beginning at 5:30 p.m. the event also features a captivating holiday light show, showcasing an outdoor light-up Nativity set synchronized with uplifting music.
Conway is more than a local Nativity enthusiast. She also shares her knowledge and love for nativities at the national level. Conway serves as the treasurer of the Friends of the Creche, a national society dedicated to the artistry, display and traditions of the Christmas Nativity.
The Conway home is located on Carpenter Road, between Whitmore and Service Roads at the intersection of Carpenter and Hackett. For the driveway entrance, look for the Valley Harvest Nut sign, or the American flagpole and Nativity Open House welcome sign.
Groups of 10 or more are requested to schedule their tour in advance to ensure an enjoyable experience. To schedule a group tour or to view the Nativity collection online, visit www.conwaynativities.com.
