One of the loveliest traditions of the Christmas season is setting out the nativity scene under the tree.

Each piece was carefully lifted from the box, released from its protective layers of white tissue paper and gently arranged into that oh-so familiar formation at the foot of the tree.

Mary was placed, kneeling, behind the manger, Joseph beside her, hovering protectively.

The shepherds and Kings were arranged on opposite side, creating a semicircle that faced towards the still-empty cradle. The animals were then grouped around the front, where they could see, but not obscure the view.

The manger was always left without its occupant until after the children had retired on Christmas Eve.

When they arose the following morning though, there was little Baby Jesus, beaming from his cradle in the straw, arms outstretched in loving welcome.

My sister was given a beautiful, Hummel nativity.

Each Christmas her in-laws would send her a new figurine for the creche until she had a complete set.

It was one of the most beautiful nativity sets I have ever seen - each numbered piece beautifully crafted, hand-painted, and glazed.

The expressions on each face was so life-like it might have been placed there by one of the Renaissance master painters.

These little ornaments are of the same high quality as my sister's creche.

Beautifully colored and exquisitely detailed in hand-painted porcelain, they would make a wonderful addition to anyone;s collection.

The two little skaters are adorable, captured at the moment of their fall. Their beautifully painted faces are so expressive.

The little boy on the sleigh looks so determined to arrive at the bottom of the hill with his lantern intact.

Some years ago we started started collecting Willow Tree nativity figurines for a nephew and his wife.

We send them a new piece each Christmas.

Like many other makers of nativities, Willow Tree also has a number of lovely pieces in the same style as the set we are sending our nephew and niece, so we are able to add co-ordinating pieces on other special, significant occasions.

Their fourteen-piece starter set includes the Holy Family, Mary Joseph and the Baby, as well as the Magi, Balthazar, Caspar, and Melchior.

Two shepherds and a pair of sheep from their flock, have come down from the hills to join the cow and little donkey, and a camel to welcome the new-born king beneath the lovely, standing metal stars.

This finely detailed stone-resin miniature set comes in a photo gift box, ready for giving.

The set includes Mary, Joseph, and the Baby Jesus as well as the Three Wise Men, a shepherd with two sheep, and the creche.

Thomas Kinkade, reknown "painter of light" has turned his hand to the Christmas nativity.

These collectible figures, part of the "Hawthorne Village Collection", are handcrafted and hand-painted in stunning detail.

This stunningly beautiful gilded nativity is beautifully crafted in exquisite detail.

The classically posed figures echo sculpture from the great cathedrals of Europe. The finely detailed painting depicts delicate ivy climbing the pillar that supports an archway graced by a pair of golden cherubs.

This musical snowdome features the Holy Family posed on a base that depicts the city of Bethlehem.

When switched on, the base and the windows of the houses light up. The base revolves to the tune of "Joy To The World", making this a uniquely beautiful piece.

This porcelain and fabric boxed set comes with the Holy Family, the Three wise Men.

Also included is the little donkey that carried Mary on his back all the way to Bethlehem.

These modern figurines, with their matte, watercolor traditional finish, are just as beautiful as their more expensive cousins.

A full twelve inches tall. they will make a lovely centerpiece or mantel display.

The second set stands on a mirrored base. It features delicately painted gold embellishments, and an embossed motif - a sentiment that reads "O Holy Night".

Each of these beautiful figures is a wonderful piece in its own right.

Each one adds its own part to story of the first Christmas, lending its unique luster to the nativity grouping.

Each figure has been lovingly created by master craftsmen in bisque and porcelain, and hand-painted with rich color and gilded detailing.

The lustrous color gleams softly on lifelike detailing. Gaspar, also often called Caspar is also available.

The herald angel with a golden trumpet completes this lovely grouping.

Her delicate robes swirl about her as she raises her trumpet to herald the coming of the newborn king, Her wings, belt and girdle are highlighted with rich gold detailing.

Hand-carved from Bethlehem Olive wood, this popular traditional design includes a latrge collapsible stable.

With its beautifully detailed garments and faces, this lovely set is sure to become a family favorite. It includes Joseph, Mary, Baby Jesus in the manger, Three Kings, three Shepherds, a cow, a donkey and two sheep.

these lovely nativity play sets will help teach your little ones the Christmas story. Crafted from sturdy materials, each set conforms to the high standards of other high-quality play sets by these well-known makers.

Intended for age 1 year and up, these lovely sets by Fisher Price, Learning Journey, and Kurt Adler will last through many Christmases, bringing joy for years to come.