The Christmas season is a magical time of year, and there's no better place to experience it than in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Known as the "Christmas City," Bethlehem is a hub of holiday cheer, with a wide range of activities and events that are sure to get you in the spirit. Here are 7 ways to celebrate Christmas in Bethlehem, PA.
Christkindlmarkt: A Traditional German Market
One of the most popular Christmas events in Bethlehem is the Christkindlmarkt, a traditional German market that takes place in the city's downtown area. For several weeks in November and December, the market comes alive with vendors selling handmade crafts, ornaments, and decorations, as well as traditional German food and drink.
Visitors can browse the stalls, sample local delicacies like lebkuchen and glühwein, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The market is a great place to find unique gifts, decorations, and souvenirs, and it's a wonderful way to experience the city's rich German heritage.
Special Events and Activities
Throughout the holiday season, the Christkindlmarkt hosts a range of special events and activities, including visits with Santa Claus, live music performances, and demonstrations by local artisans. Visitors can also take part in traditional German activities like glassblowing and ornament-making.
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Another highlight of the holiday season in Bethlehem is the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, which takes place in early December. The event features the lighting of a large Christmas tree in the city's downtown area, as well as live music, food and drink, and visits with Santa Claus.
The ceremony is a beloved tradition in Bethlehem, and it's a great way to kick off the holiday season. Visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere, take part in holiday activities, and get a glimpse of the city's famous Christmas lights.
Live Music and Entertainment
Throughout the holiday season, Bethlehem hosts a range of live music and entertainment events, including concerts, plays, and dance performances. Visitors can enjoy a variety of festive shows and productions, from traditional holiday classics to modern musicals.
Historic District Holiday Tours
Bethlehem's Historic District is a beautiful and charming area, with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and picturesque homes. During the holiday season, visitors can take part in special holiday tours of the district, which feature decorated homes, historic sites, and festive events.
The tours are a great way to experience the city's rich history and culture, and to see the Historic District in all its holiday finery. Visitors can take a self-guided tour or join a guided tour, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the season.
Special Holiday Events
Throughout the holiday season, the Historic District hosts a range of special events and activities, including holiday markets, craft fairs, and historic reenactments. Visitors can enjoy a variety of festive activities, from wreath-making to ornament-decorating, and learn about the city's rich history and culture.
New Year's Eve Celebration
Finally, Bethlehem hosts a special New Year's Eve celebration, which features live music, food and drink, and a countdown to midnight. The event takes place in the city's downtown area, and it's a great way to ring in the new year.
Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from live music performances to champagne toasts, and take part in the city's festive atmosphere. The event is a great way to cap off the holiday season, and to start the new year in style.
Special Events and Activities
Throughout the evening, visitors can take part in a range of special events and activities, including a ball drop, a fireworks display, and live music performances. The event is a fun and festive way to ring in the new year, and it's a great way to experience the city's vibrant atmosphere.
We hope you've enjoyed this guide to celebrating Christmas in Bethlehem, PA. Whether you're interested in traditional German markets, historic district tours, or live music and entertainment, there's something for everyone in this charming city. So come and experience the magic of the holiday season in Bethlehem – we're sure you'll have a wonderful time!
What is the Christkindlmarkt in Bethlehem, PA?
+The Christkindlmarkt is a traditional German market that takes place in Bethlehem's downtown area during the holiday season. It features vendors selling handmade crafts, ornaments, and decorations, as well as traditional German food and drink.
What is the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in Bethlehem, PA?
+The Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is an annual event that takes place in early December in Bethlehem's downtown area. It features the lighting of a large Christmas tree, live music, food and drink, and visits with Santa Claus.
What are the Historic District Holiday Tours in Bethlehem, PA?
+The Historic District Holiday Tours are special tours of Bethlehem's Historic District that take place during the holiday season. They feature decorated homes, historic sites, and festive events, and offer a glimpse into the city's rich history and culture.