Nativity and Christmas Expo opening in Tabor City

TABOR CITY, NC (WWAY) — With the countdown to Christmas underway, one Tabor City man is stocking the shelves with more than just holiday spirit.

Florist, Rodney Gore is taking his favorite decorations from home and creating what he calls a Nativity and Christmas Expo for the community to enjoy.

“Anywhere that I can find a nativity my heart goes,” Gore said.

It is a passion that started decades ago while decorating his flower shop for the holidays.

“I would buy one, two or three of the nativities. I’d take two to the shop and sell them and take one home. And it’s just amazing how the collection has grown,” Gore said.

The collection has more than 1,500 sets and 20,000 pieces in various shapes, sizes, and colors. Gore’s obsession started by going to gift shows, now he goes just about anywhere to find unique and valuable nativity sets.

“I branched out and I’ve gone to flea markets, yard sells, Goodwill,” Gore said.

Each set has it’s own story and meaning, a meaning Gore wants to share with the public.

“I just want people to know that there’s love in the world. And love is through what I’m showing here,” Gore said.

The Nativity and Christmas Expo is free and will open to the public Friday December 9th. To visit the expo you are asked to call 910-653-2653 to make an appointment.

Hours of operation are still undecided.