And many Sheffield youngsters will have had their first taste of that great tradition this year.
Today we have looked through our archives to find 20 beautiful pictures of some great nativity plays which have been performed by schools and nurseries across the city over the years.
Many of the angelic faces pictured here will be grown up now – but there are Christmas memories galore in here.
Schools – if you have pictures of your productions you would like us to feature in a gallery, email us.
17. Owler Brook Nursery
Shepherds in the Nativity play at Owler Brook Nursery School, Fir Vale. 15 December 2005 Photo: Roger Nadal
18. Arbourthorne Primary
Pictured at the Arbourthorne Primary School Xmas show are some of the Y1 pupils getting ready for their nativity . Photo: Barry Richardson
19. St Gabriel's playgroup
Twins Helena and Jayne Furniss aged 3 practise a little singing,,before the St Gabriel's playgroup Nativity play, Dobbin Hill, Sheffield December 16, 1980 Photo: Stuart Hastings
20. Stradbroke Primary
Pupils from the Stradbroke Primary School in their nativity play that they performed for pensioners at the school, December 2003 Photo: Barry Richardson