Nativity at Cathedral Square (fka State Auto Christmas Corner)

Since 1932, State Auto Insurance downtown has set up the State Auto Christmas Corner and Life-Sized Nativity.

Over the summer, State Auto gifted the storied display to the Museum of Catholic Art and History. In addition to a new owner, the nativity will also have a new name, Nativity at Cathedral Square, and a new downtown location at St. Joseph Cathedral.

The nativity scene is recognized around the world for its beauty and attention to artistic and historic detail. This story of Christmas is a tradition that is loved by many.

State Auto Christmas Corner

Nativity at Cathedral Square

The Nativity at Cathedral Square is on display at St. Joseph Cathedral (212 East Broad Street) starting Friday, November 24, 2023, following a formal dedication ceremony.

In keeping with its rich tradition, the nativity scene will be available for all to view and enjoy nightly during the holiday season.

State Auto Christmas Corner

Check out the website for details and opening date, and the Facebook page for updates throughout the season.

On Fridays and Saturdays the museum is open in the evening from 6-9 pm for guests to see nearly 300 Nativities from all over the world representing different cultures. There are also photos with Santa Clause during the weekend hours. Museum admission required to see nativities and Santa. The outdoor nativity is free to visit; donations accepted.

Nativity at Cathedral Square Lighting times

November 24, 2023 – early January 2024

Daily from 6 a.m. – 8 a.m.; 5:00 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.; until 12:30 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays
Christmas Eve: 3:00 p.m. until 8 a.m. Christmas Day.

Choir schedule

11/25 6:00 Gospel Vocal Ensemble of CSCC
12/1 7:00 Ohio Dominican University Treble Chorus
12/2 7:30 Signs of Christmas
12/2 8:00 The Entertainers
12/8 6:30 Matt Munhall
12/8 7:00 Urban Strings
12/9 6:00 Brass Band of Columbus
12/9 7:00 Maennerchor/Damenchor
12/9 8:00 Indianola Presbyterian Church
12/10 3:00 Lessons and Carols St. Josephs Cathedral Choir
12/15 7:00 J London
12/15 8:00 Our Lady of Perpetual Help
12/16 6:00 Bishop Watterson Choir
12/16 7:00 Bishop Watterson Woodwind ensemble
12/16 7:30 Bishop Watterson Brass ensemble
12/16 8:00 Combined Choirs of St. Dominic and the community of St. John Holy Rosary & St John Catholic Churches
12/22 6:00 St Mathews Choir
12/23 7:00 Grove City Chamber Singers
12/30 7:30 J London
1/5 7:00 Una Voce
1/5 8:00 Early Interval. Tickets need to be purchased for this event

Nativities from Around the World

November 24, 2023 – January 8, 2024

Interested in more nativities? Check out the Museum of Catholic Art and History across the street to view almost 500 nativities, including a 4000 piece Fontanini collection.

The museum is open Tuesdays-Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is required. Other holiday hours to be added. More details here, or on Facebook.