Are you looking for an inexpensive gift that helps you share the true meaning of Christmas? This Nativity Christmas Story Trail Mix is perfect as a mason jar gift or a treat to bring to your next Christmas get-together! Don’t forget to grab the free printable tag at the end of the post!
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Updated: September 27, 2024
The Nativity Christmas Story…Through Food
(I wrote this post my very 1st year of blogging, back in November 2017. Below is the original intro.)
I am super-excited to share this post with you today! First, I am not by any stretch the crafty, creative DIYer. I really wish I were, and to be honest, I am really working on it – but it’s not intuitive for me.
So, this is my first sort-of DIY project I’m sharing. You might be underwhelmed – it’s pretty easy and not really that crafty at all, but I’m excited just actually to be doing it.
And second, when I came up with the idea, I didn’t even want to look at Pinterest. Usually, the way it goes is that I come up with this ‘million dollar idea” and then, I look on Pinterest, and a million other people have done it.
This happens All. The. Time.
But guess what? My sister looked for me – and this is not anywhere else on Pinterest! A win for the little guy, right?!?
To be fair, I was ‘inspired’ by something I saw on Pinterest, but what I’m sharing today is not on Pinterest.
A few weeks ago, I happened upon a “Thanksgiving Mix.‘ I have no idea who the original creator is, but there are bunches of versions on Pinterest.
Basically, it’s a whole bunch of symbolic Thanksgiving treats that you put together in a jar as sort of a yummy trail mix.
I thought, ‘I’d really love to do that for Christmas!’ So, after a bit of thinking, I came up with The Nativity Christmas Story Trail Mix. How great would it be to tell the Christmas story through food, right?!?
I’ve been all about mason jar gifts (all things Christmas DIY – like farmhouse decor, Christmas card holders, free printables, and advent calendars) this year – and this is my own take on the mason jar gift – in addition to sharing the Gospel!
It’s perfect for teachers, coaches, bus drivers, hostess gifts, friends – and you can make this in bulk and keep the costs down!
My favorite thing about this is that it keeps the focus on Christ and why we are celebrating Christmas. Sometimes, we don’t always get to share the Gospel with others, but this clearly identifies us as believers. Love that!
This is also perfect just to have in a big bowl for your family, cookie exchanges or Christmas parties. It’s a simple, easy snack you can bring that is festive and delicious!
Nativity Christmas Story Trail Mix
Below are the food ingredients and decoration materials, with links for your convenience.
Basically, you want about 2 cups of each item. That will fill 8 pint-sized (16 oz.) jars or 4 quart-sized (32 oz.) jars.
Measurements are approximate – you may need to add a little more – or you may have a little left over!
Food Materials
- Hershey’s Holiday Hugs (10 0z. bag – about 2 cups)
- Mini Marshmallows (2 cups)
- Almonds *(2 cups)
- Mini pretzels (the ones that are the traditional shape) (2 cups)
- Popcorn – I just made my own with popcorn I already had, but you can buy it as well! (2 cups)
- Mini 3 Musketeers – (9 oz. bag – 2 cups) -Make sure you get the mini-sized, not the fun-sized! (Guess how I figured that one out?!?)
- Chocolate Stars – Brach’s seems to have discontinued the chocolate stars I originally used, but you can use any chocolate star. In the note below**, I’ll offer a few more suggestions!
- Hershey Kisses with Almonds Gold Chocolates – (10 oz. bag – 2 cups). You can use any chocolate or candy wrapped in gold – chocolate balls, chocolate coins. I even found knock-off peanut butter cups wrapped in gold at Dollar Tree. Any gold foil-wrapped candy will work.
Updates:
*The original version included dates. I have since omitted that item from the tags to keep things simple!
**See note below about chocolate stars.
As I mentioned, I’m not sure what’s going on with Brach’s Milk Chocolate Stars. I’ve looked online but they are always out of stock everywhere. So I’m not sure if that means they are discontinued? Regardless, there are other great options!
- Brach’s Peppermint Star Bursts
- Starburst Candies – I just pulled out the red ones to color-coordinate or you can buy a bag of just red Starburst!
- Trader Joe’s usually have chocolate star cookies during the holidays.
- Aldi’s White Chocolate Peppermint Star Pretzels (which is what I used in my updated photos).
- You can always make your own chocolate stars with candy melts and silicon star molds!
Symbolism of Each Food Item and Nativity Bible Verse
Here is what each item represents:
HUGS (LUKE 2:7) Mary embraced Jesus and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes.
MINI MARSHMALLOWS (LUKE 2:7) Jesus was laid in a manger and had no pillow for His head.
ALMONDS (LUKE 2:4-5) Almonds are native to Israel – food for weary Mary & Joseph as they traveled to Bethlehem.
PRETZELS (LUKE 2:9-14) Angel wings – Angels declare the birth of Jesus to the shepherds.
POPCORN (LUKE 2:15) The shepherds traveled to Bethlehem; corn is food for sheep.
3 MUSKETEERS (MATT. 2:2) Wise men from the East (traditionally 3) came to worship Jesus.
STARS (MATT. 2: 2) Wise men followed the star to find Jesus and worship Him.
GOLD CHOCOLATES (MATT 2:11) The Wise Men brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
How to Assemble Your Jar: 2 Ways!
Layers
To put your jar together using layers, layer each item, starting with the last item, the gold chocolates, and work your way up.
You will have just one layer of each item and do not make them too thick. Otherwise, you won’t have enough room to fit in all of the ingredients.
Mix It Up
Although I originally layered when I first created the jars, I’ve since just thrown all the ingredients in one big bowl and then filled the jars.
This is very efficient if you have many jars to make.
Leftovers
Chances are, you’ll have some leftovers.
You can just take what you have left and put it in a bowl for a snack mix! You might need to add in a few extra items to balance it out, but it’s great to munch on!
It’s also great to just mix in a big bowl and bring to a party!
Decoration Materials
You can totally customize how you dress up these jars to your personal taste! The washi tape, the gift tags, the ribbons – you really can create in a way that suits your style! Or not at all!
The original version had a very farmhouse look, circa 2017. Feel free to dress it up how you like!
If you aren’t into the buffalo patterns, you can cut that off the gift tag printable and just glue the Trail Mix Story on a different background or use the updated version.
Here’s what you need and how I put mine together:
Quart Sized Mason Jars – or Pint-Sized Mason Jars
(If following the above recipe exactly, you’ll need 4 quart-sized jars or 8 pint-sized jars.)
Nativity Trail Mix Tags
The original tags had the red buffalo check background. I updated the cards to omit the dates as well as changed the font and graphics just a little.
I created a second set of cards that are a little more minimalistic and have a clean look to it. This card also prints in white, so it’s a good choice if you want to save on printer ink!
The original cards measure 5 x 4″, with 4 to a page. Those are fine if you’re using a larger jar, but they can be a little bulky for a smaller jar. To that end, I also added both sets of cards in a smaller size – 2.75 x 3.75″ as well as the larger size.
You’ll get both versions of the cards, in both sizes by filling out the box below! Print it out on cardstock for best results. It prints out 4 to a sheet.
Washi Tape (Original Version)
I found the buffalo print tape and the “Merry and Bright” originally from Target.
This link is another really pretty Martha Stewart selection from Amazon for holiday washi tape. Michael’s or Walmart also have a nice selection.
I wrapped the rim of the lid in one pattern of washi tape, and I used the other pattern to create a band around the jar.
Wooden Stars (Original Version)
I also got the little wooden star ornaments at the dollar section at Target. I took the stars off of the twine that they came with and tied them on the ends of the jute string.
You can use any small decorative items for the end of the strings, or they look great all by themselves!
Jute String (Original Version)
This gets wrapped around the top to hold the Trail Mix tags and the gift tags, to give it that rustic look. You can also use baker’s twine, raffia, or ribbon!
I got my string at Walmart for about $2. They don’t sell it for that price online (larger quantity only online), but you can get a similar jute string from Target for $3.00 if you wanted to order online.
Burlap Ribbon (Original Version)
I put burlap ribbon on top of the jar. which I got at Dollar Tree. That is also hit or miss. You can buy the burlap ribbon here, or you can use Christmas scrapbook paper, a Christmas cupcake liner, or other burlap ribbon. Your choice!
Gift Tag (Original Version)
I also bought a package of 6 gift tags from the dollar section at Target. Target has some other really beautiful gift tags to choose from!
Updated Version
In the updated version, I kept it very simple: the printable tag and a big rustic jingle bell attached with raffia.
What I love about this project is that it is easy enough for anyone. And my favorite part is that while it is yummy and fun, it points back to the real reason for Christmas.
This gift will let anyone know what you believe, and that is always the best thing, especially this time of year!
Grab Your Nativity Trail Mix Free Printable Tags Here!
Don’t forget to grab your tags! Fill out the box below and you’ll be redirected to the download. Be sure to hang on for a few seconds after you hit ‘submit’!
More Christmas Inspiration
Have little ones you need to shop for? Check out this Holiday Shopping Guide for Mobile Babies – 9 -22+ Months and Holiday Shopping Guide for Toddler Boys, Ages 2 & 3
Want some inspiration for decorating? Try 30 Rustic Farmhouse Christmas Decorating Ideas and 30 Rustic Farmhouse DIY Christmas Projects
Looking for some healthy Christmas yummies? Here’s 30 HEALTHY Christmas Cookie Recipes and 35 Healthy and Delicious Holiday Desserts
Want to save money by making gifts instead? See these 29 DIY Mason Jar Gift Ideas
Yearning for some meaningful time with family? We have 40 Unique Advent Calendars with Free Printable with over 70 Advent Activities for you to do with your family!
Need some help organizing your Christmas shopping? Download a FREE Christmas Shopping Planning Sheet. Head here to grab it!
If you create this, please let me know! I’d love to hear how it went!
Other thoughts? I’d love to hear them – leave a comment below!
And if you enjoyed this post, I’d be so grateful if you pinned or shared!
I love this! So clever! And I had to chuckle when I read how you didn’t even want to look for it on Pinterest, only to be let down that it’s already been done. I run into that so much 🤦🏼♀️😖 so way to go!!
I know, right!?! I always feel like I am so original and clever – and there are ZILLIONS of the same idea. Nothing new under the sun! Thank you for coming by and commenting, Molly! 🙂
I love clever ideas like this! Not only it is clever, but it sounds really yummy, too! Thanks for sharing this great idea!
Thanks so much, April! I hope it will be a fun addition to your usual treats! 🙂
I can’t even stand how adorable this is!! I love it. This is right up my alley—sharing the true Christmas story with symbolic treats. LOVE. Pinning.
Thanks so much, Jennifer! Whatever way you use it, I hope it will be a hit and bring people just a small reminder of the ‘why’ behind all the festivities! Thank you so much for coming by! 🙂
This is adorable! I love this idea.
Thank you, Jen! Totally appreciate you coming by and checking it out! 🙂
This is so cute and would be great for explaining the nativity in simple terms. Thanks for sharing!
Kristina- yes, I think so too. Easy to understand for little ones and even for those who aren’t too familiar with the Bible story of Christmas! Thanks so much for dropping in! 🙂
What a cute idea! I’m totally sharing these at our family dinner this year!
Fantastic! I hope it ends up being a big hit! Thank you for coming by! 🙂
this looks so yummy! I love this idea. I downloaded the free printable! 🙂
I’m so glad, Heidi! I hope it will be useful to you and something that you and whoever you give it to will love! 🙂
What a great idea, Kate! You are so right on Pinterest. Happens all the time. I love this one though, and love that it is something that you came up with!
These would make great gift ideas or a really fun way to help teach kids about the Christmas story since they can help put it all together!
I’ve pinned this so I’ll remember it! Hope you have a great Thanksgiving and Christmas season!
Thanks so much, Mary Leigh! I’m hoping this will really appeal to those who want to focus more on Jesus for Christmas than Santa! Yes, I think the littles would have a blast doing this too! Hope you had a great Thanksgiving and that God truly blesses you over the holidays! 🙂
What a great gift idea! I love this, how creative are you?! I’m in the same boat, yearning for that creativity bug but not really having it. Long as we’re having fun right? Pinned!
You are very generous with your compliments! lol I’m working hard and I’m hoping that the more I do it, the more creative I’ll be?!? Sort of like babies and sleeps…sleep begets sleep. Maybe creativity begets creativity?!? One can hope! Thanks so much for coming by, Kimberly! 🙂
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This is such a cute idea! Thanks for sharing!
Thank you! I’m so glad you liked it! 🙂 Thank you for coming by, Amanda!
I just came upon this post on – of all places- Pinterest. I LOVE IT! Thank you so much! Barb “BB”, Freedom, NY. 11/2/2021.
This made my day! It’s all about HIM! I’m also a former NYer (now Tennessean), standing for freedom as well! 🙂 Thanks for coming by, Barbara! Means the world!
I love this for favors at our Sr Adult party.
Oh, that’s amazing! I’d love to see pictures when you’re done! I hope they (and you) are blessed, Rhenda! 🙂
I’m making these for friend gifts and wondered how far in advance I could make them?
Hmm, that’s a good question! I’m usually a last-minute Lucy, lol. I would think the marshmallows, popcorn, and pretzels would be the only thing in danger of going stale? As long as it’s sealed in an air-tight jar, I’d assume you’d be safe for a few days? I probably wouldn’t make it any sooner than that! I hope that helps! Thanks, Susan!
I am excited to use your ideas for the Nativity snack mix. Thank you for sharing
Thank you so much, Faith! I so appreciate you letting me know! I hope they will love it!
Hi this won’t let me send the printable card. Any suggestions? I put in my name & email. Can you forward it to me? Debsaware@yahoo.com
Hi Debbie,
Thanks for reaching out.
I just tested it and it opened up as it should. Do you maybe have pop-up blockers on? It might prevent the new window from opening. Once you enter your email address, it should immediately direct you to the page where you can download.
I’m not at my computer now, where the file is. Give it a try. Or, if you signed up for the email, a welcome email should have been sent to you. In that email is the link and password to the Free Subscriber Library. The printable you’re looking for is in the library as well.
If any of that doesn’t work, let me know and I’ll email it to you once I get home and access the file. Sorry for any trouble!
We will be using this with our classes while we watch The Star tomorrow 🙂 It’s super cute! I do wish I could edit the printable as we have some changes due to allergies. Thank you for the cute idea!
I hope it is a hit! Thanks for letting me know, Melissa! I never thought of the allergy part. Hmmm, I may be able to create an editable version for my Etsy shop next year. I’ll comment here if I end up doing that! Merry Christmas!
This looks like a wonderful, unique idea for presents for my friends, family, and neighbors! Thank you for thinking outside the box!!! I have 2 questions… Did you use wide mouth jars? Also it looks like you used kisses as the top layer and hugs as the bottom layer. Is that correct?
Hi Darcy! Thanks for reaching out! I’ve used both kinds of mason jars – the standard and wide mouth. Whatever you have on hand should work as long as it’s 16 oz. I typically was pretty informal in how I added the trail mix ingredients. It all gets mixed up, so whatever order you like will be fine!
Thank you so much! I just wanted to confirm it’s a quart size jar, right?
Yes! The larger one – quart size!
Nice article
I appreciate that very much! Thank you! 🙂
This would make a clever way to explain the Nativity during kids time at church and to make enough for the congregation as well!
Love that idea! So many ways you can use this! Thanks so much for sharing, Vicki! 🙂
I love this idea and want to make some for our staff for Christmas this year. About how many jars will the ingredients listed make?
Thank you,
Trisa
Oh gosh, Trisa, that is a great question. I definitely should have put that info when I first created it (about 6 years ago, when I was juggling life with twin 2 year olds, lol!). I’m actually in the process of updating the tags and I’ll be making a new batch when I do. If you’re able to wait a few weeks, I’ll update the post with that info as well as the updated tags! Once you see new tags, you’ll know I’ve added that info!
Hi Trisa – using 2 cups of each ingredient, it yields approximately 4 quart sized jars or 4 pint-sized jars! You’ll have plenty of everything but candy left over, so if you buys 2 of each bag of candy, you should be able to get twice as much!
Just a question:
How many quart jars did this darling idea make?
That is a great question. I definitely should have put that info when I first created it (about 6 years ago, when I was juggling life with twin 2 year olds, lol!). I’m actually in the process of updating the tags and I’ll be making a new batch when I do. If you’re able to wait a few weeks, I’ll update the post with that info as well as the updated tags! Once you see new tags, you’ll know I’ve added that info!
Hi Melody – using 2 cups of each ingredient, it yields approximately 4 quart sized jars or 4 pint-sized jars! You’ll have plenty of everything but candy left over, so if you buys 2 of each bag of candy, you should be able to get twice as much!
Could not find download link. bctoteach@aol.com
Hi Barbara! There’s a box you need to fill out and you’ll immediately be redirected to the download (just wait a few seconds for it to load!). It’s near the bottom of the post, right above ‘More Christmas Inspiration’ in red!
This sounds like a worthwhile gift with the most important message! We are thinking of making them for our whole street… do you have an idea how many jars this makes and an approximate cost? Thank you for sharing!
Hi Melissa! Thanks for reaching out! That’s a great question! This was one of the first posts I ever created, so I didn’t even calculate any of that! It’s my plan to update the post with new pictures and tags shortly, and provide that info, if you’re able to wait another week or so! The cost would just be a total of the supplies + the jars. But let me see if I can’t figure that out shortly!
Melissa, using 2 cups of each item, this will yield about 8 pint-sized jars or 4 quart-sized jars, more or less!
I will make these Nativity Christmas Story gift jars for my fellow grandmothers that want fun ways to share the true meaning of Christmas.
Will you please send the link for the printable gift tags, thank you.
Hi Betsy, IF you scroll to the end of the post, you’ll see a sign up box specifically for these tags (not the generic subscribe box). Once you fill it out, wait a few seconds and you’ll immediately be redirected to the download!
I hope you love putting these together!
I made this for my church!
One for each family. Very easy and I love the chocolate bits!
Thank you for sharing
I’m so glad you enjoyed it, Stephanie! Thanks for letting me know!
I love this way to celebrate Christmas and share the story. I’d like to give to secret sister, but she can’t do nuts.
What do you suggest as a substitute?
Thank you so much ❤️❤️
Hi Roxanna!
I’d probably just skip it and use the dates or just some dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, etc.) instead!
Hi! If you scroll to the bottom of the post, you’ll the specific box you need to fill out in order to get the download! Fill it out and hold on a few seconds and you’ll be immediately redirected to the files!