 A nativity scene or crèche ( / <unk> / or / <unk> / ; also known as a manger scene , or crib , in Italian presepio or presepe ) is the special exhibition , particularly during the Christmas season , of art objects representing the scene of the birth of Jesus . While the term " nativity scene " may be used of any representation of the very common subject of the Nativity of Jesus in art , it has a more specialized sense referring to seasonal displays , either using model figures in a setting or enactments called " living nativity scenes " in which real humans and animals participate . Nativity scenes exhibit figures representing the infant Jesus , his mother Mary , and Joseph . Other characters from the nativity story such as shepherds and sheep , and angels may be displayed near the manger in a barn ( or cave ) intended to accommodate farm animals , as described in the gospels of Luke . A donkey and an ox are typically depicted in the scene , as well as the Magi and camels belonging to the Magi described in the Matthew . Several cultures add other characters and objects that may be Biblical or not . 
