Okay, lockdown may have restricted our hopes of festive performances in the schools of South Tyneside this year.
But at least we have a huge catalogue of Shields Gazette archive photos to fall back on from Nativities in years gone by.
So take a look at these oh so festive reminders from 2013 and 2014 and see if you can spot someone you know.
5. Throston Primary School
Pupils from Throston Primary School pictured at their Nativity play. Remember this? Photo: FRANK REID
6. A lovely line-up at Jesmond Gardens
Cast members from the Jesmond Gardens Primary School Nativity play eight years ago. Photo: FRANK REID
7. All smiles at Stranton Primary
Happy times at Stranton Primary School in 2012. Photo: FRANK REID
8. The St Joseph's Nativity
Alfie Baines, Lilly Noble, Demi-Leigh Flounders, Joshua Adams, Stacey Murararkate, Rosie Cooke, Achalie Angus and Harley Crate-Lionel were pictured at the St Joseph's Primary School Nativity. Photo: TY