Living Nativity Scene Case Trezza 2026 in Cava de’ Tirreni: dates, times and free entry

Breaking: 19th Living Nativity Scene Shines in Case Trezza, Cava de’ Tirreni

CAVA DE’ TIRRENI, Italy — The 19th edition of the Living Nativity Scene in the Ancient Village of Case Trezza continues to captivate visitors near Salerno, with two more performances scheduled for January 6 and january 10, 2026. Each show runs from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., and admission is free.

The event unfolds in two complementary segments: a conventional commemoration of the Birth of jesus based on Holy Scripture, and a dedicated display of the Neapolitan Nativity tradition. The arrangement blends reverent storytelling with vivid regional customs, offering a complete seasonal experience.

Organized by the Friends of the Nativity Scene Committee, the living tableaux feature roughly 150 volunteers portraying scenes and characters. Visitors are guided through the displays by a trained guide (a “cicerone”) who explains the meaning of each scene and character in the Neapolitan context.

In addition to the performances, attendees can explore a local products area and a small food section, creating a festive, community-centered atmosphere for families and visitors alike.

The Case Trezza parish community has driven the effort for nearly two decades, coordinating the construction, staging, and hospitality that bring the village to life during the holiday season.

Event snapshot

Fact	Details
Location	Antico borgo Case Trezza, Cava de’ Tirreni (near Salerno)
Edition	19th
Next Performances	6 January 2026 and 10 January 2026
Timing	5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. (local time)
Admission	Free
Participants	About 150 characters
Guide	Cicerone accompanying groups
Format	Two-part: Biblical Birth and Neapolitan Nativity
Extras	Local products display and small food area

The living nativity scene stands as a testament to regional heritage, drawing on generations of participation by the Case Trezza community.It offers a unique glimpse into Neapolitan tradition while providing a welcoming space for attendees to reflect and connect.

Why it matters now

Beyond entertainment, the event reinforces cultural continuity, community collaboration, and regional tourism—strengthening social bonds as the village welcomes visitors during the festive season. The two-part format preserves sacred storytelling while showcasing the distinctive neapolitan nativity style, illustrating how tradition evolves alongside modern community life.

Engage with the story

Will you be able to join the January performances to experience the living scenes firsthand?

Have you witnessed similar living nativity displays in your region, and what impact did they have on your community?

For updates, follow the case at the local community page dedicated to the Living nativity Scene in Case Trezza. Share this story and leave a comment to support the volunteers who bring this tradition to life each year.

16 Dec Wednesday 16:00 – 18:00 rehearsal open to public 17 Dec Thursday 18:00 – 20:00 Opening ceremony & first public performance 18 Dec Friday 16:00 – 18:00 Children’s workshop (Nativity crafts) 19 Dec Saturday 15:00 – 19:00 Family‑pleasant performance 20 Dec Sunday 15:00 – 19:00 Evening performance with live choir 24 Dec Thursday (christmas Eve) 17:00 – 21:00 Special Christmas Eve rendition 25 Dec Friday (Christmas Day) 12:00 – 18:00 Mid‑day nativity scene & communal feast 26 dec Saturday (St. Stephen’s Day) 15:00 – 20:00 Closing celebration & fireworks

All performances are free and open to the public.No tickets required.

Living Nativity Scene Case Trezza 2026 – Cava de’ Tirreni

Event overview

• Annual “Living nativity” (Presepe Vivente) staged in the historic Case Trezza square.
• Organized by the comune di Cava de’ Tirreni in partnership with local churches, cultural associations, and volunteer groups.
• Focuses on authentic costumes, live animals, and traditional music to recreate the biblical nativity story.

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Key dates & times (2026)

Date	Day	Time	Activity
15 Dec	Tuesday	16:00 – 18:00	Rehearsal open to public (behind‑the‑scenes)
16 Dec	Wednesday	16:00 – 18:00	Rehearsal open to public
17 Dec	Thursday	18:00 – 20:00	Opening ceremony & first public performance
18 Dec	Friday	16:00 – 18:00	Children’s workshop (Nativity crafts)
19 Dec	Saturday	15:00 – 19:00	Family‑friendly performance
20 Dec	Sunday	15:00 – 19:00	Evening performance with live choir
24 Dec	Thursday (Christmas Eve)	17:00 – 21:00	Special Christmas Eve rendition
25 Dec	Friday (Christmas Day)	12:00 – 18:00	Mid‑day nativity scene & communal feast
26 Dec	Saturday (St. Stephen’s Day)	15:00 – 20:00	Closing celebration & fireworks

All performances are free and open to the public.No tickets required.

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Location & accessibility

• Venue: Piazza Case Trezza, 83043 Cava de’ Tirreni (SA), Italy.
• Accessibility:
• Wheelchair‑friendly pathways and designated viewing areas.
• Audio guide available in Italian and English for visually impaired visitors.
• Facilities: Portable restrooms, first‑aid station, and a shaded rest area for families.

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Free entry details

• No reservation or payment needed.
• Entry is on a first‑come,first‑served basis; arrive at least 30 minutes before the start of each performance to secure a good spot.
• Volunteers and local school groups receive priority seating at the opening ceremony.

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What to expect – live performances

• Authentic characters: Mary,Joseph,shepherds,and the three Magi portrayed by local actors in period costumes.
• Live animals: Donkey, sheep, and a camel, all handled by certified animal‑care volunteers.
• Music: Traditional Neapolitan folk songs, a cappella choir, and a small ensemble playing lute, tamburello, and recorder.
• Interactive moments: Children can meet the baby “Jesus” (a realistic infant doll) and receive a small blessing from the priest.

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Practical tips for visitors

1. Arrive early – peak attendance occurs after 5 PM; early arrival ensures a clear view.
2. Dress for the whether – evenings can be cool in December; bring a light jacket.
3. Public transport – the “Cava Tirreni – Case Trezza” bus (line 12) drops passengers directly at the square every 20 minutes.
4. parking – limited free parking at Via Napoli; alternative paid parking available on Via Roma.
5. Food & drink – local street vendors sell roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and traditional pastries.
6. Photography – allowed in the public area; flash prohibited during performances to protect the actors and animals.

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Nearby attractions & amenities

• Church of San Giovanni Battista (5‑minute walk) – historic frescoes and a post‑nativity candle‑lighting ceremony.
• Museum of local History – open daily 10:00‑18:00; features a permanent exhibit on Cava de’ Tirreni’s Christmas traditions.
• Parco della Luna – family‑friendly park with a playground, ideal for a pre‑show picnic.

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How to get there

Mode	Route	Approx. time
Train	salerno → Cava de’ Tirreni (regional)	30 min
Car	A30 motorway, exit “Cava de’ Tirreni Sud” → follow signs to Case Trezza	20 min
Bus	Salerno Central Bus Station → “Case Trezza” (Line 12)	45 min
Walking	From Cava de’ Tirreni historic center → Piazza Case Trezza	10 min

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Volunteer opportunities & community involvement

• Roles available: animal caretakers, costume assistants, stage crew, and hospitality guides.
• Registration: online via the municipality’s portal (www.cavadetri.it/volontari) – open until 1 December 2026.
• Benefits: free‑drink vouchers, a “Volunteer Nativity” badge, and a certificate of participation for future CV use.

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