Nativity Christmas Story Trail Mix (Mason Jar Gift+ Free Printable Tag)
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: August 8, 2025
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’m so excited to share this with you! I’m not naturally crafty, so this simple DIY is a big deal for me—even if it’s not super fancy.
When I came up with the idea, I didn’t even check Pinterest (because usually, I think I’ve struck gold… only to find it’s already been done a million times). But my sister looked—and this one’s not out there. Win!
I was inspired by the popular “Thanksgiving Mix”—a symbolic trail mix in a jar. That got me thinking: why not do one for Christmas?
And that’s how the Nativity Christmas Story Trail Mix was born—telling the story of Jesus’s birth through meaningful (and tasty!) ingredients.
This year, I’m loving all things Christmas DIY gift ideas—especially mason jar gifts!
This one’s my own twist: a meaningful, budget-friendly gift that also shares the Gospel.
It’s perfect for teachers, coaches, bus drivers, friends, or as a hostess gift. You can easily make it in bulk to keep costs low.
Best of all, it keeps the focus on Christ—offering a simple way to share your faith.
It also works great as a festive snack for your family, cookie exchanges, or Christmas parties!
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.
Here are other great options for stars:
- 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 and download from a desktop or laptop. 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. They only sell large quantities online, but you can get a similar jute string from Target .
Burlap Ribbon (Original Version)
I put burlap ribbon on top of the jar. 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 bought a package of 6 gift tags from Target – they generally have 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’!
For best result, download and print from a desktop/laptops. Mobile devices have been known to occasionally omit graphic elements.
More Christ-Centered Christmas Inspiration
Free Printable Advent Calendars, Numbers, & 72 Filler Activity Cards
12 Days of Christmas, Day #4: Celebrating Advent
12 Days of Christmas, Day #5: Christ-Centered Christmas Ideas
25 Classy Christian Christmas Crafts for Adults
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!
I subscribed, but does it require a fee? I haven’t done this before and couldn’t find this information on your site.
I subscribed but haven’t received a download for the tags. Did I do something wrong? Help!!
Hi Robyn!
Make sure you sign up in the box specifically for the tags. There are generic auto-subscribe boxes through the post, but the one that will lead to the tag is at the very bottom. Or, once you receive your welcome email, you’ll get the password for the free subscriber library, and the tags are in there also!
Is there an editable version of this? We are making neighbor gifts but keep in mind of gluten free and nut free allergies and need to change a few of the items. I can just cross them out but thought it would look nicer if could edit and print.
Thank you for making these!
Hi Heather! I’m so sorry – I don’t have an editable version of this, just the PDF! Maybe attach a cute note with your swaps? OR maybe block out the center text with white paper and photocopy and then edit by hand? I’m sorry I’m not able to get you what you need!
How much would you sell a quart size jar for at a Christmas Bazaar?
How much would you sell a quart size jar for at a Christmas Bazaar?
Hi Julie!
Thanks for reaching out! To be honest, I’ve always gifted mine so I have no idea of what the sweet spot would be to sell it. If it were me, I’d probably see if I could find something similar (mason jar food gift) on Etsy or Amazon and see what they go for? Or maybe see what other craft fair sellers are selling similar items for? Of course, in a mathematical sense… cover your materials and tack on whatever percentage you’d like to make for profit on top of that. I hope that helps!
I would like to make this but can’t seem to find the box to fill in for the download
Hi Tanya!
If you scroll to almost the very end of the post, you’ll see a heading that says, ‘Grab Your Nativity Trail Mix Free Printable Tags Here!’. Scroll just past that, and you’ll se the pox that says ‘Nativity Trail Mix Gift Tags’…Just fill it out and you’ll be immediately redirected to the download!
Not sure how to get the tag upload. Please help
Hi Tanya!
If you scroll to almost the very end of the post, you’ll see a heading that says, ‘Grab Your Nativity Trail Mix Free Printable Tags Here!’. Scroll just past that, and you’ll se the pox that says ‘Nativity Trail Mix Gift Tags’…Just fill it out and you’ll be immediately redirected to the download!
Is there another way to get the mix tags?
Hi Tanya, You can get the tags for free by filling out the box at the end of the post! Be sure it’s the box specifically for the tags, hold on a few seconds, and you’ll be immediately redirected to the PDF!
Love this idea for giving to others that includes the story of Jesus!!!
I’m so glad you enjoy it, Vicki! Thank you for letting me know! Have fun with it!
Love this, but there is no box to fill out to get the download. There isn’t anywhere that says “Nativity Trail Mix Gift Tags” with a box to fill out. I’ll just retype it myself but others may need your “box” fixed to enjoy this wonderful idea.
Hi Liz! It’s at the very bottom of the post! If you see ‘More Christ-Centered Christmas Ideas’ with links, just scroll right above it! In bold, it says: Grab Your Nativity Trail Mix Free Printable Tags Here! Please let me know if you’re still having trouble locating it!
I see the bold line “Grab Your Nativity Trail Mix Free Printable Tags Here!” but there’s no box around it. I tried clicking on the text, thinking it might be a hyperlink, but nothing happened. I’ll do what Liz said—retype it myself. As many have already said, this is a cute and fun idea! I love the spiritual focus when sharing treats with friends and neighbors.
Hi Janice. If you’re on a phone, it doesn’t look like a box. You’ll see the title, a picture – look for 2 bright red spots below it to enter your name & email. I’m sorry you’re having trouble. I can see it fine on both my iphone & laptop. Let me know if you still have trouble!
Please send me the Nativity Trail Mix cards download. Thank you!
Hi Donna! The box is at the very bottom of the post! If you see ‘More Christ-Centered Christmas Ideas’ with links, just scroll right above it! In bold, it says: Grab Your Nativity Trail Mix Free Printable Tags Here! Please let me know if you’re still having trouble locating it! If you’re on a phone, it doesn’t look like a box. You’ll see the title, a picture – look for 2 bright red spots below it to enter your name & email!
Can I get a copy of trail mix card please
Hi! The box is at the very bottom of the post! If you see ‘More Christ-Centered Christmas Ideas’ with links, just scroll right above it! In bold, it says: Grab Your Nativity Trail Mix Free Printable Tags Here! Please let me know if you’re still having trouble locating it! If you’re on a phone, it doesn’t look like a box. You’ll see the title, a picture – look for 2 bright red spots below it to enter your name & email!
I plan to use this idea for a workshop I do at church called “Busy Bees” for children 3-8. I like to have a snack they can assemble on their own to take home. This goes along with my December theme!
Oh, I love that, Beth! That sounds so fun! Thank you for letting me know – hope y’all have a great time with it! 🙂
Lovin these ideas, THANK YOU
Thank you for letting me know, Marie! Enjoy!
Very cute idea!
I appreciate that so much! Thank you, Carol!
I read your answer to “Anonymous” on November 29, 2025. Following your instructions, the box for the printable label does not seem to be in that location. Any ideas why?
Hi! I checked on both my desktop and phone, and the box is visible right where it says ‘Grab Free Printable Tags Here’. If you still cant find it, you can fill out the subscriber box on the home page, which will send you a welcome email with the link and password to the Free Subscriber Library. The tags are also in there under ‘Christmas Downloads’!
This is a great idea, Kate! Thank you so much for sharing it. You blessed me and all those I gifted with Nativity Christmas Story trail mixes this Christmas!
I am SO happy to hear this, Janice! Thank you SO much for letting me know! Means the world to see Jesus lifted up!