From watching “A Christmas Story” on television to walking five miles in the snow to find “the perfect tree,” many families look forward to taking part in the same holiday traditions every year.

One tradition many families in Central Iowa partake in is attending “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” at the Des Moines Playhouse, 831 42nd St., Des Moines.

The play, written by Barbara Robinson, returns to Des Moines for its 13th consecutive year. Director Melissa Keller says the show goes along well with the spirit of the holidays.

“‘The Best Christmas Pageant Ever’ is a tradition for many families,” Keller says. “It is a great kick-off to the Christmas season.”

The play revolves around the six Herdman children, who are the naughty kids in school. One of the children hears about a church Christmas pageant and all of them decide to try out for parts. Unexpectedly, every Herdman child is cast in the pageant.

“Seeing the children realize what Christmas is all about is touching to everyone,” Keller says. “It reminds people of when they were kids.”

The show consists of 54 members, 40 of whom are children ranging from ages six to 16. Keller has directed before but hasn’t had much experience with children. She says it was intimidating at first.

One way Keller helped the children develop their characters was by having them write exercises about their characters.

“At times, rehearsals were a little crazy, but the cast is a good group to work with,” Keller says.

The last 12 performances of “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” have been pretty similar, Keller says. Having seen the show 10 times herself, she is very informed about the script, but she did add some of her own style to this performance.

Even though audience members have seen the show countless times, Keller says they still return every year.

“Everyone gets caught up in the commercial trappings of Christmas, Keller says. “We all have a Herdman in us and need a little reminder [of what is important] at times.”

What: “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever”

Where: Des Moines Playhouse, 831 42nd St., Des Moines

When: 7 p.m. Friday, 2 p.m. Saturday, 1 p.m. & 4 p.m. Sunday

Cost: $12 students, $14 public