UNION SPRING - The biblical walk through Bethlehem that Joseph and Mary took all those years ago has been recreated in many ways throughout history.

Yet, of the various events that the Garlock family has attended each year, none has included a live baby in the cast.

“I was surprised that they used a live baby,” Jeremy Garlock, of Syracuse, said during the annual Walk Through Bethlehem held at the Union Springs Academy Friday evening. “That took me by surprise. Most all events that we have been to have used a doll.”

Garlock's daughter, Rilla, 8, agreed and said that she also liked the part when the lights shone from above, revealing angels upon the roof.

This year marks the fifth annual Christmas season for the event which is turning out to be a community tradition.

“It takes teachers and students about two weeks to put the event together,” said Susie Boyd, while handing out a choice of hot or cold cider with Christmas cookies to guests. “It has become a tradition.”

The walk takes guests through a recreation of the biblical night of the birth of Jesus Christ, complete with paying taxes and getting turned away from the inn.

“It is very creative,” said Joya Garlock. “I just loved how it pulls you in.”

The weather seemed to cooperate better than past years, when it had been so cold that many people did not complete the full walk.

“It is a beautiful evening for it,” said Dave Putman, of Ithaca. “My family and I have attended this event for about three years now. It is interactive and a nice time for the family.”

Putman said that the creativeness of the displays and costumes shows just how much the school cares about its students and the season.

“I will probably be bringing my kids and even my grandchildren to the walk for as long as they continue it,” he said. “It just helps to feel that Christmas spirit. You just don't get much of that anymore. Not like when I was a kid and Christmas was just so magical.”

Putman said that the cider and cookies afterward was just a nice touch, too.