Waldensian Presbyterian Church
The history of the Waldensian Presbyterian Church is so intertwined with the history of the town of Valdese that it is impossible to study one without embracing the other. In education and industry, as well as in the religious life of the community, the Church has been and continues to be the center of Waldensian life in Valdese.
The "Celebration of the Edict of Emancipation" is an annual event at the Waldensian Presbyterian Church in Valdese. Commemorating the granting of political and civil liberties to the Waldenses, this tradition began on the night of February 17, 1848 as the villages throughout the valleys of Italy lit fires to celebrate the rights they had finally been given. Today's celebration concludes with a bonfire. For the 2010 season, the Edict of Emancipation will be celebrated on February 20th and 21st. Click here for more information
Each Christmas, the Presbyterian Church stages an outdoor, living drama reenacting the story of Jesus' birth. Nightly in season from 6 - 7 pm on the front lawn of the Church. For the 2009 Christmas Season the Live Nativity will be performed on December 15th and 17th.