Nativity scene is 70-year tradition in Eureka Springs

The Christmas nativity scene in Eureka Springs’ Basin Spring Park is a tradition that was started by the local chapter of Beta Sigma Phi International sorority in 1950.

Submitted photo

Every year since 1950, the Eureka Springs chapter of Beta Sigma Phi International sorority has placed life-sized figures of the Christmas nativity scene in the band shell of Basic Spring Park. After 70 years the tradition continues and folks make the trip from all over the area every year to take in the beautiful display as a part of their holiday experience in historic Eureka Springs.

Members of the sorority are Shirley Bird, Mary Muller, Bonnie Willard, Mary Beckley, Jeannette Haynes, Jo Hall, Irma Mathis and Carol Klarr-Hill.

“Xi Alpha Nu chapter sorority sisters are grateful to local businessman Ben Sharum for providing year round storage for all the figures and for transporting them to and from the park each year,” the chapter said in a news release. “And to family and friends who help arrange the display that brings joy to so many every year.