Mesa Arizona Easter Pageant

Thursday night we attended the Mesa Arizona Easter Pageant, the largest outdoor Easter pageant in the world.

A very moving and impressive experience.

What began as an Easter sunrise service on top of a covered wagon in 1928, has grown to huge proportions.

With a 450 member cast, with an additional working crew of 400 (who are all volunteers), this production is sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

A large 4 story high, 9,600 foot stage is erected each year on the Mesa Temple grounds.

Tickets are free, with open seating on a first come first serve basis.

This year they expect 150,000 to attend.

"Jesus the Christ follows the story of the Savior’s birth, ministry, death, and Resurrection through speech, music, dance, and drama. The text is taken directly from the King James Version of the Bible and is written and presented for all religions, cultures, and ages."

With an attendance from 4,000-12,000 a night, we decided to arrive early.

The weather is perfect in Arizona this time of year, with temperatures in the low 80's and a slight breeze.

It was delightful to see families gathering round, many bringing their dinners, or chatting while waiting for the 8pm start.

The production only lasts a little over an hour, making it feasible to take children.

Cast members mingle among the crowds, available to answer questions or to have a picture taken.

The Easter Pageant runs through April 23rd. If you don't have a chance to attend this year, it's a great event to schedule on your future calendars.