On the evening of December 20, neighbors and other residents of Basking Ridge were treated to a very unexpected and special Christian holiday experience— a drive-by live Nativity, celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.

Eileen and Christian Pinsonault and their children, residents of Basking Ridge near the center of town, had put together on display in their backyard several scenes of the Nativity. With the help of close friends and other families in town, they created an experience where visitors could witness the beautiful site and sounds of a live Nativity. Upon driving up to their yard on Hillside Terrace, to the right, you noticed there was a field with four people dressed as shepherds, tending sheep, real sheep. To the left, you saw three Kings dressed in their lavish robes standing near a tree, who have journeyed to bring gifts and meet the baby Jesus. In the center was the Manger with the Baby Jesus, Mary and Joseph, all surrounded by live animals - a donkey, horse, goats, ducks, chickens, and a llama, a scene one could have found two thousand years ago in Bethlehem.

Shirley Lee, Basking Ridge resident commented “It was truly amazing. I felt transported in time.” As you observed the scene, music was playing with a choir singing and dressed in white robes representing angels. Another resident, Erica Layman Amato, described the experience and said “It was beyond special. It was a little piece of magic to see a neighborhood family put Jesus’ birth with the wise men, shepherds and the beautiful choir in their yard for the people to wander up and witness. Honestly, it’s been my favorite thing of the season so far.” When asked about what inspired them to create a live Nativity on their yard, Eileen Pinsonault replied “I wanted people to be reminded of the truth and for the little ones to know the real truth. Jesus Christ is the reason for this season”.

Some people estimate between 300-500 people came by to see it that evening. Many of the residents appreciated the beautiful experience and agreed that it represents the true meaning of Christmas-- peace, joy and hope, especially meaningful during these challenging times.