In modern times, some traditions are slowly beginning to fade. One of these is the assembling of nativity scenes and the custom of touring neighbourhood displays, a practice that can still be experienced in different parts of Paraguay during the Christmas season. In the past, families would prepare clericó, sopa paraguaya, or other traditional dishes to welcome neighbours visiting their nativity scenes. These gatherings created moments of community connection, as people came together to celebrate their faith, culture, and traditions. Although some of these practices are no longer as widespread, nativity scenes remain deeply rooted in Paraguayan identity.
In an effort to revitalise this tradition, the National Secretariat of Tourism (SENATUR) and the Touring and Automobile Club of Paraguay (TACPy) have organised Pesebre Rape (route of the nativity scene, in Guaraní), a cultural tour that invites the public to rediscover Christmas traditions through visits to some of the most representative nativity scenes in Asunción and Areguá.
This initiative strengthens the visibility of customs that unite Paraguayan history, faith, and community. For more information or reservations, contact TACPy at +595 972 439887.
Other nativity scenes to visit
There are other efforts to keep the nativity scene tradition alive. For example:
– The Heralds of the Gospel present an interactive nativity scene that allows visitors to immerse themselves fully in Paraguayan Christmas traditions. From Thursday to Saturday, between 17:00 and 20:00. People can attend this exhibition for free until 4 January, 2026. The display is hosted at the Virgen de Fátima Foundation, located on Mariscal López Avenue 1941, near Brasilia, in Asunción.
– The Cabildo Cultural Centre of the Republic, in collaboration with the Paraguayan Institute of Handicrafts (IPA), hosts the exhibition Traditional Handcrafted Nativity Scenes from Paraguay, open Monday to Friday from 7:30 to 18:00 and on weekends from 9:00 to 17:00.
– The hydraulic nativity scene of the Sabaté family, located in the city of Luque. Featuring over one hundred moving figures, has been displayed for nearly seventy years. Each year, a new figure is added, this year’s addition being the capybara. Visitors can attend from 22 to 30 December 22, from 18:30 to 23:00, and on 25 December from noon until 23:00.
Bringing communities together
Together, these initiatives show that nativity scenes remain a living tradition in Paraguay, rather than a forgotten custom. Whether through organised cultural routes or long-standing family displays, these spaces continue to bring people together each December. Visiting them offers not only a glimpse into religious symbolism, but also into the community spirit that has long shaped Paraguayan Christmas celebrations.
