Journey of the Wisemen 

Journey of the Wisemen is a 15-minute Christmas play that brings the story of the magi to life, perfect for church services, school programs, and family Christmas events. Designed for a cast of 12–18 actors, it gives older children substantial speaking parts while still allowing younger kids to participate as angels, shepherds, or choir members.

The script follows the wise men from the moment they see the star, through their meeting with King Herod and the chief priests, to their arrival at the manger where they worship Jesus with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Along the way, Old Testament prophecies are gently woven into the dialogue, helping children and audiences understand who the promised King truly is and why His birth matters.

With a traditional nativity set, simple robes, and minimal props, this play is easy to stage but rich in meaning. A children’s choir may sing an original or seasonal song to deepen the worshipful tone. Teachers and church members appreciate that it includes multiple nativity characters, clear Scripture themes, and a strong gospel focus—making Journey of the Wisemen an engaging way to explain the magi’s journey and the true meaning of Christmas to young audiences.

JOURNEY OF THE WISE MEN

A Children’s Christmas Play About the Magi

Length: ~15 minutes

Cast Size: 12–18 actors

Setting: Simple traditional nativity set with manger, star, and basic robes

You are free to use, print, and adapt this script.

CAST OF CHARACTERS

• Narrator 1 – Main storyteller

• Narrator 2 – Assists and reads short Scripture quotes (optional)

• Wise Man 1 – Thoughtful, scholarly leader

• Wise Man 2 – Curious and practical

• Wise Man 3 – Warm, enthusiastic, sometimes humorous

• King Herod – Serious, a bit troubled, but not scary (child-friendly)

• Chief Priest 1 – Knows the prophecies

• Chief Priest 2 / Scribe – Reads from scroll, supports Priest 1

• Star Bearer – Carries a star on a stick, leads Wise Men

• Mary – Gentle, calm

• Joseph – Protective, steady

• Messenger/Guard 1 – Serves King Herod

• Messenger/Guard 2 – Optional, supports Guard 1

• Shepherds (2–4) – Optional, may already be at stable

• Angels (2–6) – Optional, stand near manger

Children’s Choir – Can be any number of kids standing at the side