The Biblical History is preparing for Christmas with its Follow the Shepherd Walks and a visit with Mary and Joseph, which will start next week. The Follow the Shepherd Walk has visitors in a guided tour learn about the nativity story from when Elizabeth learns that Mary is pregnant to when Mary, Joseph and Jesus flee to Egypt.

“I think it’s really important because it’s a way to share with visitors the history and culture behind the Christmas story that most people are so familiar with,” said Holly Winner, the center’s director of development and marketing.

“I think it’s a continuation of our mission to help people experience this culture and history of the ancient biblical world. So, I think that these events are a way for us to continue the mission but also celebrate this holiday season.”

The walks are a tour through the center’s garden, and take about 45 minutes, according to Winner.

The visit with Mary and Joseph is new this year, and Winner said visitors will meet the characters and hear about their experiences.

“Visitors can move at their leisure and spend as much time as they want with the characters,” Winner said. “I think it’s going to be a really great way for visitors to have a new experience in our garden. I’m excited about the opportunity for visitors go at their leisure and spend time out in the gardens and really get to hear from our Christmas story characters, and be able to spend time from them and learn about different viewpoints of the Christmas story.”

Follow the Shepherd Walks are held Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. starting Dec. 6. A visit with Mary and Joseph is held Fridays from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and starts Dec. 7.

The cost is $20 per adult and $15 per child for either activity. Reservations are required for the Follow the Shepherd Walks.

For more information, call the Biblical History Center at (706) 885-0363.