One in five children believe Jesus Christ is a footballer who plays for Chelsea. Others think he's an astronaut or an X Factor contestant.
A survey of five to 12-year-olds also found that 35 per cent believe Jesus was born at the South Pole and 27 per cent think Mary gave birth in a church.
Oh, and 10 per cent believe Rudolph the reindeer was in the stable when Christ was born.
The study of 1,000 kids, by Brent Cross shopping centre, found that the true meaning of Christmas is being lost with most children believing the festive period is just about Santa and receiving gifts.
The survey also found that 25 per cent think the shepherds found Jesus using Google Maps and 15 per cent claim the Three Kings gave Jesus a wand, tiara and wings as gifts to celebrate his birth.
Brent Cross shopping centre will be putting nativity knowledge to the test outside its grotto this December.
Before seeing Santa, visitors will be quizzed on a series of festive issues to demonstrate the day is about more than mince pies and presents.
Katie Tucker, Marketing Manager at Brent Cross, said: "With children looking forward to the festive season the whole year round, we wanted to ensure the true meaning of celebration was understood.
"Hopefully, by proving to the kids at Brent Cross that Jesus Christ isn't a footballer they will fully appreciate the season of celebration and enjoy it even more."