Nothing quite signals the start of the festive period than going to watch your little one perform in their nativity performance. Whether they are at the top of the school and you have watched them every year since reception, or if this is their first time, this special performance never fails to tug on your heartstrings. It is a really proud moment for all parents and grandparents and once your child starts school it becomes a Christmas tradition. But then you remember that first you have to provide, or make, the nativity costumes for your little Wise King or Angel. So where to start?
It might not just be school age children who want to dress up. Perhaps your toddler wants to be like his or her older sibling, or you think it would be cute to dress up the baby too, and there are lots of Christmas baby outfits for them to wear while they watch their older sibling. Even adults might want to browse nativity costumes so it becomes a real family occasion. Pre schools are increasingly choosing to stage a Christmas performance, often with some of the best Christmas songs performed for parents, and so you might also need nativity costumes, or even Christmas jumpers, for preschoolers.
Christmas is an expensive time of the year, especially with all the Christmas presents for your toddlers and bigger kids and adding the cost of one, or more, nativity costumes onto the list might just be too much. Don't feel you have to go out and buy a brand new nativity costume, often schools have ones left over from the previous years, or if your school has a Facebook page, posting a message requesting the costume you need is a great idea. If you already have a costume at home, it might be that you can swap with another parent as nativity roles tend to be assigned by year group. If you have no luck at school, or on social media, then how about making a nativity costume. The video below has some simple ideas. Alternatively, cotton wool on a t-shirt makes a great sheep, or a cardboard crown painted gold is a simple idea for the wise men, as well as tinsel and pipe cleaners for an Angel's halo.
However, if you do want to buy a new costume, especially if there are younger siblings who can use it in subsequent years, we have listed some of the best ideas to keep it simple and fun and suitable for all budgets and ages.
Best nativity costumes at a glance:
• Best Mary nativity costume: Kids Mary nativity Christmas fancy dress costume
• Best Shepherd nativity costume: Bristol Novelty Shepherd Costume
• Best Angel nativity costume: Amscan girls Christmas nativity angel
• Best King nativity costume: DKINY 2 Piece Kids King Costume
So if you are feeling festive and looking forward to seeing your little one strut their stuff on the nativity stage, take a look at our round up of nativity costumes to ensure you can capture perfect Christmas photos of your little Mary or Joseph to treasure for years.
Best wise men nativity costume
Amazon If your little one is playing the role of one of the wise men, then this costume will really stand out. The costume kit includes, a gold tunic, a long green jacket, a white rope belt, a golden headpiece and a gold crown hat. With such great attention to detail your little wise man will really shine. One buyer who purchased this for their grandson said: "This Wise Man (Three Kings) outfit is good quality, looks good. Bought it for my 7 year old grandson, he likes it. Can't wait to see him in his Nativity."
Pros
- Available in a wide range of sizes
- Robe is separate from the tunic
Cons
- Comes up a bit small
| Washing instructions | Hand wash only |
| Size range | 4 - 14 years |
- Kit includes gold tunic, a long green jacket, a white rope belt, a golden headpiece and a gold crown hat.
- Reduced packaging for sustainability
- Stretchy fabric is more comfortable
Best star nativity costume
Amazon The Gold Star Christmas Nativity Fancy Dress Costume Tabard is an absolute blast for your little ones navitity pla. Imagine this: they are dressed as a shining, golden star, stepping into the spotlight of any nativity play or festive gathering, spreading cheer with every sparkle. The tabard style makes it easy to slip on, comfortable, and fuss-free, so you can jump right into the holiday spirit—no complicated costumes here! Perfect for kids and adults alike, this costume lets you literally be the star of the show, bringing smiles, laughter, and a touch of glittery magic wherever you go. It’s a fun and festive way to celebrate the season, with one mum saying: "Great little outfit for the class nativity. My son is 5 and the hat only just fit so bear that in mind when ordering."
Pros
- Great for younger children
- Lovely glitter star design
Cons
- The hat is very small
| Age range | 3 - 8 years |
| Length across shoulders | 77cm |
- Includes hat
- Starry pattern
- Velcro fastenings
Best Mary nativity costume
Amazaon If your little one is playing Mary in their school nativity, then this costume will have them dressed for the part. The kit includes a blue and white dress and a headdress. Your little Mary won't have to worry about what she's wearing, just getting to the stable in time. This charming costume brings the classic Nativity story to life, allowing little ones to step into the role of Mary, complete with a graceful blue and white robe and a matching headpiece. Comfortable, easy to wear, and crafted with attention to detail, this costume is sure to bring smiles and holiday magic to any Christmas event. Let your child shine in the heartwarming story of the season. One grandparent buyer who got this for her granddaughter said: "Bought this for my granddaughter as she’s Mary in the Nativity. She loves it. I bought the 5 to 7 size because my granddaughter is 6. I’m sure she’ll look the part on the day."
Pros
- Traditional look costume
- Lightweight
Cons
- Very long so may be too long for shorter children
| Age range | 3 - 13 years |
| Washing instructions | Hand wash only |
- Includes dress and headdress
- Wide range of sizes
Best angel fancy dress costume
Amazon This beautiful angel dress is perfect for the Christmas nativity play and will definitely bring out the angelic side in your little one. The package includes, a dress with fine gold detailing, velcro release wings and a white halo headband.
Laura, writer at Mother and Baby and mum of two said: "My daughter was so excited to be an angel in the nativity play and wanted a 'real' angel costume, not something too glittery. This was perfect, it is simple and includes an easy to wear halo and wings. My daughter was proud to wear it and also enjoyed parading round the house in it over Christmas granting wishes to all the family."
Pros
- Simple costume
- Good fit
Cons
- The velcro on the wings isn't very strong
| Age range | 3 - 12 years |
| Washing instructions | Hand wash only |
- Includes headdress and wings
- Good range of sizes
Best Joseph nativity costume
Amazon If your little one is in the starring role as Joseph, then this costume is ideal. With a great detailed robe, along with attached waistcoat, belt and headpiece, your little Jospeh will be proud to accompany Mary on her journey to Bethlehem. Designed with soft, easy-to-wear fabric and classic details like Joseph’s earthy-toned robe and headpiece, this costume makes it easy for young actors to embrace their role in the Nativity story. Comfortable enough for rehearsals and durable enough for multiple performances, it’s ideal for kids who want to bring Joseph's kind and humble spirit to life. Let your child shine on stage in a costume that helps tell the heartwarming story of Christmas. Impressed with the quality, one buyer said: "The quality of this costume is great. It looks exactly like the picture and value for money. My grandson who is 5 wanted to try it on immediately and was very excited."
Pros
- Brightly coloured design
- Includes headpiece
Cons
- Comes up quite big
| Age range | 3 - 13 |
| Washing instructions | Hand wash only |
- Includes belt and headpiece
- Good range of sizes
Best donkey nativity costume
Amazon One of the cutest nativity costumes, this donkey outfit is also a great addition to any fancy dress box. It features a sweet hat with eyes, nose and ears, as well as a long-sleeved grey top with attached tail and matching trousers. It's comfy too for your little one on chilly Christmas evenings. Bought for their son, one reviewer said: "Fitted well for my 4 year old son. My son was happy in this for his nativity and great that the donkey's head is a hat."
Pros
- Comfortable costume
- Good value
Cons
- Donkey's features obscured unless bending forward
| Age range | 3 - 12 years |
| Washing instructions | Hand wash only |
- Separate hat with donkey's features
- Includes long-sleeved top and trousers
- Good range of sizes
Best camel nativity costume
Amazon This brilliant all in one suit features an attached camel head and detachable tail. Your little one will be perfectly dressed to wow in their school play. The Smiffys Camel Costume is a showstopper for any Nativity play! This fun, plush outfit lets kids or adults transform into the beloved camel that traveled alongside the wise men, adding a bit of humor and charm to the classic story. With its comfy fit, adorable camel face, and easy-to-wear design, this costume is perfect for anyone wanting to make the audience smile while staying true to the Nativity theme. It's the ultimate way to bring a unique character to life and add a memorable twist to the traditional Christmas tale. In awe with its design, one buyer said: "Excellent costume. Bought for school Christmas performance. Tail is Velcro so I worried that it could come loose so I just sewed it on! Very pleased."
Pros
- A good fit and comfortable
- All in one suit
Cons
- Detachable tail falls off easily
| Age range | 4 - 14 years |
| Washing instructions | Hand wash only |
| Material | 100 per cent polyester |
- Attached camel head
- All in one suit
- Detachable tail
Best shepherd costume
Amazon If your little one is playing a shepherd in their school nativity play, then this costume has everything they need, even a sheep. Including a tunic, coordinating head piece, hook and toy sheep they can focus on playing their part without any costume dramas. This easy-to-wear costume features a classic robe and headpiece, making it both comfortable and authentic for kids who want to portray these key characters. Whether it's for a school play or holiday festivities, this costume allows children to step into the story with ease, offering the perfect blend of simplicity and charm. Bought for their daughter, one buyer said: "My daughter really loved the costume! She looked really nice in it and felt like the best dressed shepherd in her school’s nativity."
Pros
- Incudes sheep and hook
- Machine washable
Cons
- Hook is quite small
| Age range | 3 - 10 years |
| Washing instructions | Machine washable |
| Material | 100 per cent polyester |
- Includes sheep and hook
- Machine washable
- Good range of sizes
Best sheep nativity costume
Amazon What is cuter than a fluffy sheep? Your little one will steal the show in this adorable costume. This sheep outfit has an extremely soft woolly coat as well as a plush sheep’s face attached to the hood. It also features an elasticated waist and fully lined hood. To complete the look there is a detachable tail. These delightful costumes let kids transform into their favorite farm animals, from cheeky chickens and playful pigs to bouncy lambs and more. Perfect for imaginative play, school events, or themed parties, these costumes are crafted for comfort and durability, allowing kids to jump, run, and moo to their heart's content. With Pretend to Bee, kids can immerse themselves in the fun of farm life, learning and laughing as they dress up and let their imaginations roam free "Exactly like the picture, more practical than a full costume as it can be easily wear above normal cloth with a great effect. Recommended.", said one happy buyer.
Pros
- Durable velour fabric
- Elasticated waist
Cons
- Sheds fibres
| Age range | 3 - 7 years |
| Washing instructions | Hand wash only |
| Material | Textured velour |
- Elasticated waist
- Lined hood
- Detachable tail
Best King nativity costume
Amazon This majestic outfit lets kids step confidently into the role of a wise king, complete with a regal robe and a crown fit for a star-bringing traveler. Comfortable and easy to wear, the costume allows young actors to focus on their lines (or just looking royal!) without fuss. It’s ideal for adding a touch of grandeur and sparkle to the classic Christmas story, making any Nativity play feel special.
Pros
- Great for a variety of costumes
- Full size crook
Cons
- Headpiece quite big
| Contents | Headpiece, crook, waistcoat |
| Washing instructions | Hand wash only |
| Size | One size |
- Includes 3 items
- Full size crook - arrives in 4 pieces to screw together
- Can be used for more than one costume
Best nativity angel wings
Amazon If your little one has a white dress (or you can fashion one from a sheet) but you need wings, these are a great addition to any angel costume. Plus we are sure your little one will love using them for dressing up long after the stage curtain falls. hese sparkling, ethereal wings bring a heavenly glow to your little one’s role as an angel, whether they're announcing the good news or lighting up the stage with their angelic presence. Soft, lightweight, and easy to wear, these wings are perfect for flapping into action during the most magical moments of the Christmas story. One buyer who purchased these for halloween said: "Well made and managed 2 kids Halloween parties with minimal fall out. Still good for next year."
Pros
- Great addition to the fancy dress box
- Suitable for all ages
Cons
- Feathers fall off
| Dimensions | 40 x 55 x 2.4 cm |
| Age range | 14 years + |
| Material | Feathers |
- Made with feathers
- Suitable for children and adults
Best adult nativity costume
Amazon If you want to join in the festive fun, or your little one wants a little bit of encouragement, why not dress up in this adult wise man costume, after all children often love dressing as a mini-meand looking the same as their parents. It includes a green robe with attached waistcoat, a belt and headpiece as well as a brown elasticated beard so you will definitely look the part alongside your little one. Impressed with its price and the materials used, one buyer said: "Good quality not see through. Fit well and good for purpose. Good value for money."
Pros
- Encourages the whole family get involved
- Includes all the accessories you need
Cons
- Only available in two sizes
| Size range | One size and plus size |
| Measurements | One size: chest 44”, waist 36-41"<br>Plus size: chest 48”, waist 41-46” |
| Washing instructions | Hand wash only |
- Available in two sizes
- Includes, robe with attached waistcoat, belt, headpiece and crown
What to look for in a nativity costume?
There are lots of fancy nativity costumes on the market, but sometimes simple is best. If you choose a costume with lots of intricate accessories it might be a distraction for your little one. Remember they might be a little bit nervous, especially if it is their debut nativity, and they won't need a costume that gives them lots to fiddle with, or has bits which are likely to slip or fall off. Also consider if the costume has a mask, if it does ensure your little one can see where they are going.
In a school hall with a large audience, your little star might feel quite hot in their costume so consider this when choosing what they should wear. Onesies are great, especially for animal characters, but they will get warm, although this is handy for a chilly walk home after the show. Also take into account that many costumes can be sized quite large and often, especially robes and dresses, can be quite long, so make sure there are no trip hazards.
It is such a lovely experience for your little one to dress up and perform in front of family friends, we bet they can't wait to deliver those hilarious Christmas jokes they have rehearsed over and over on stage, so don't choose a costume which might hinder them because it is bulky, or doesn't stay fastened, or even has a headpiece which constantly falls off. We all know how easily little ones get distracted, and they will probably already be busy waving at family instead of remembering lines, so don't over complicate their costume.
Do you have to buy a nativity costume?
Of course not! The most special part of any nativity is the children and really what they wear is secondary to their actual, very cute, performance. You will be a proud parent whatever costume, or role, they are in. However, listen to what your child wants. Some may want an elaborate costume and want to strut their stuff on the stage, while others may be more shy and prefer a costume that is less flamboyant. Budget is also a consideration too, after all school uniforms are expensive enough, without the addition of costumes. If finances are tight at Christmas, why not have a fun Sunday afternoon with your little one making their costume with old clothes, pillow cases, or craft bits around the house. Easy craft ideas are always popular with kids and they will be so proud wearing something they have made themselves. If you do buy a costume, get something that can be added to your fancy dress box for fun all year and one you can definitely add to your child's Christmas outfits.
Will school provide nativity costumes?
Probably not, but that doesn't mean there won't be parents who want to swap costumes from previous years or even share costumes if their children's performance is on a different night. Charity shops might also be another good place to look and can really help you create a minimal waste Christmas for your family. Also check community pages on social media. At this time of the year, there's sure to be lots of parents looking to buy, swap, share, or sell nativity costumes so always be on the lookout.
If your little one hasn't started school yet, but you still want to enjoy some festive theatre there are lots of toddler theatre shows for them to enjoy, it doesn't have to be a nativity play to spend time together watching a show. Alternatively, you can just cuddle up and enjoy some kids Christmas films together. Your little school goer might even like watching a festive film while wearing their nativity costume after their big performance.
Laura Healy is a Commercial Content Writer for Mother&Baby. She is a mum-of-two girls and loves writing about all things parenting. She has a PhD in Creative Writing and enjoys reading and attending literary festivals, as well as writing fiction.