A Christmas pageant or Christmas nativity play is a popular event among Christian groups in the lead up to Christmas. It tells the story of the birth of Christ in the town of Bethlehem, which is commemorated every Christmas. The main stage setting is almost always a humble stable where the family was compelled to stay because of crowding in the town during a census. This nativity scene telling about the origins of Christ is the dominant symbol of Christmas among Christians.

While a nativity play takes varying forms in different Christian communities around the world, it invariably features Mary and Joseph with their new baby in the straw of a manger, or feeding trough, in place of a crib. The scene usually features the animals of the stable, and shepherds. The story may feature the surrounding events of the Roman census and the inn keeper who found the family a place to sleep in the stable.

Angels usually appear, but the favorite moment for the audience is often the arrival of the richly dressed Three Wise Men bearing gifts, who find the stable by following the Star of Bethlehem.

There is a great deal of symbolism in the story, as Christian messages are conveyed in the play. It serves as a reminder of the traditional religious meanings of Christmas to Christians.

However the singing of popular carols and audience participation are also looked forward to as seasonal Christmas entertainment, especially among children.

Many churches and religious schools include the production of a nativity play at Christmas time as an important feature of their annual calendar of events.