Bethlehem, PA, known as "Christmas City," takes its holiday traditions very seriously. The city was founded with deep holiday roots, offering a unique festive experience.
Bethlehem News & Updates
Stay informed about the latest events and activities in Bethlehem
Tuesday, January 13, 2026
Saturday, January 10, 2026
A Christmas celebration is being held to support local children and families. As part of the event, a bus trip to Wind Creek Casino in Bethlehem, PA is sponsored by St.
Friday, January 2, 2026
A look back at news stories from Bethlehem in 2025 highlights various events. The recap specifically mentions the Bethlehem Christmas Tree, indicating its presence in the city's year-end review.
The obituary for Erma L. Chuck notes her bubbly personality and sense of fun that made holidays memorable. Christmas and Easter were highlighted as particularly special occasions.
Wednesday, December 31, 2025
The mystery of the "Star" of Bethlehem continues to captivate. It reminds us that sometimes, the greatest wonders are those we still seek.
Monday, December 29, 2025
Christmas celebrations have returned to Bethlehem, marked by a blend of joy and sorrow due to ongoing hardships. Palestinians are uniting in their celebration and resilience during this holiday season.
Sunday, December 28, 2025
For over two decades, a Christmas tree tossing event has been held in Bethlehem to support survivors of abuse. This unique charity event takes place in a local parking lot.
Friday, December 26, 2025
Bethlehem brought back its annual Christmas celebrations following a ceasefire brokered in October. Thousands flocked to Manger Square on Christmas Eve, marking the first festive season since the war in Gaza began.
Thousands of people gathered in Bethlehem's Manger Square on Christmas Eve to revive the Christmas spirit. This marks the first major celebration after two years of conflict.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, is celebrating Christmas in its own unique way. The city is known for its festive holiday atmosphere.
A Nativity scene is illuminated by a Christmas tree on Payrow Plaza in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The city is recognized for its role in global Christmas traditions.
The Missy Rupp Team hosted a Christmas Photo Shoot for past clients in New Bethlehem, PA. This event marks the beginning of a new holiday tradition.
Wind Creek Event Center in Bethlehem, PA, is offering a Christmas ticket sale, extending the holiday spirit. This sale provides an opportunity for last-minute gift purchases.
Thousands of people attended Bethlehem's annual Christmas Eve tree lighting ceremony, which had been canceled in previous years. This event signifies the return of holiday traditions.
After a two-year hiatus, Bethlehem has brought back its Christmas celebrations. This marks a significant return to festive activities for the city.
Cardinal Pizzaballa observed a renewed sense of life and joy in Bethlehem during Christmas celebrations, with the midnight mass placing Gaza at the center of reflections. The event highlighted the spiritual significance of the season.
After a two-year pause, Bethlehem has resumed its Christmas celebrations. This return to festivity is a welcome sign for the community.
Thousands of people have returned to Bethlehem to celebrate Christmas, with many attending Christmas Eve services. The weather is expected to be cloudy with a chance of an early flurry.
Thousands of people flocked to Bethlehem's Manger Square on Christmas Eve, reviving the Christmas spirit after two years of war. Families gathered at various sites across the region.
Thursday, December 25, 2025
Thousands flocked to Bethlehem's Manger Square to revive the Christmas spirit after two years of subdued celebrations due to war. Clergy offered calls for action and solidarity on Christmas Eve.
A Christmas tree on Payrow Plaza in Bethlehem, PA, known as βChristmas City, USA,β was featured in a photo from December 1, 2024. This highlights the city's long-standing holiday traditions.
About three dozen people gathered on Christmas Eve morning with a Christmas nativity scene and a 43-foot holiday tree. Ten Bethlehem clergy offered a call for action and solidarity.
Bethlehem celebrated Christmas for the first time since the implementation of the Israel-Hamas peace deal, with thousands gathering at Manger Square. The event marked a return of the Christmas spirit after years of conflict.
Bethlehem celebrated its first festive Christmas since the Gaza war, with thousands flocking to the city to revive the holiday spirit. The event marked a significant return to normalcy for the region's celebrations.
The PA Liquor Control Board (PLCB) announced special operating hours for wine and liquor stores on Christmas Eve. This information was provided alongside news about Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem.
A Palestinian Authority Vice President was allowed into Bethlehem for Christmas celebrations only after US intervention. This event occurred as the city prepared for its Christmas Eve festivities.
Fox News discussed the longstanding Christmas traditions of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, on 'America's Newsroom.' The segment highlighted the city's unique role in Christmas celebrations.
Thousands of people flocked to Bethlehem's Manger Square on Christmas Eve, with crowds of families enjoying music and festivities. This marked a significant return of celebrations after two years of subdued events due to war.
Israeli authorities prevented the PA Vice President from attending Bethlehem's Christmas Eve mass, according to the Palestinian Authority-run WAFA news agency. This incident occurred as the city prepared for its Christmas Eve services.
New Bethany's Southside drop-in center in Bethlehem, PA, is hosting a Christmas Day brunch for families. The center regularly provides meals at its location on Fourth and Wyandotte streets.
A Nativity scene is illuminated by a Christmas tree on Payrow Plaza in Bethlehem, PA, a city known as "Christmas City, USA." The photo was taken on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2024.
Thousands of people flocked to Bethlehem's Manger Square on Christmas Eve, seeking light and celebrating the holiday after two years of war. The Associated Press reported on the significant return of festive activities.
A Nativity scene is illuminated by a Christmas tree on Payrow Plaza in Bethlehem, PA. This image is associated with the city's reputation as "Christmas City, USA."
A Nativity scene is illuminated by a Christmas tree on Payrow Plaza in Bethlehem, PA. This scene is part of the city's identity as "Christmas City, USA."
Wednesday, December 24, 2025
A man near Berwick has created a massive Nativity display, setting up cities like Bethlehem, Nazareth, and Ein Karem. This display tells the true story of Christmas through his detailed work.
Two local confectioners in the New Bethlehem, PA area are highlighted for their Christmas candy offerings. Brookville-based Dan Smith's Candies is among those featured.
The article touches on Pennsylvania's Christmas tree history, noting that Moravians in Bethlehem, Pa., decorated similar wooden structures around 1747. Indoor evergreens were introduced to the U.S. by Pennsylvania.
A Nativity scene is illuminated by a Christmas tree on Payrow Plaza in Bethlehem, Pa., known as "Christmas City, USA." The article reflects on the reason for the season.
Historic Hotel Bethlehem is continuing its Christmas Eve tradition of shining brightly. The hotel will turn off part of its sign on Christmas Eve, a beacon in the night for the community.
The Hotel Bethlehem will partially darken its rooftop sign on Christmas Eve as part of a tradition. This action serves as a beacon for the community of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.
Forecasters are monitoring a potential post-Christmas storm as an unsettled weather pattern develops. This could bring snow, potentially fulfilling wishes for a white Christmas.
A holiday playlist features songs with Pennsylvania connections, including "Long Ago in Bethlehem." This hymn is noted as an overt reference to Bethlehem, Pennsylvania's "Christmas City."
Tuesday, December 23, 2025
The Historic Hotel Bethlehem will continue its tradition of switching off part of its iconic rooftop sign on Christmas Eve. This beloved holiday event encourages the public to focus on community and togetherness.
Saint Nick of Bethlehem, a film shot partially in Central PA, is now available to watch online after its theatrical release last year. The movie follows a local man's story with a Christmas theme.
Bethlehem, PA, known as "Christmas City, USA," features a Nativity scene illuminated by a Christmas tree on Payrow Plaza. The city celebrates unique Christmas traditions.
A Pennsylvania-themed playlist offers holiday sounds, including a nod to the Bach Choir of Bethlehem. The playlist ensures no one forgets about "Christmas City."
A beloved holiday tradition is returning to Bethlehem, the Christmas City, as the Hotel Bethlehem will switch off part of its iconic rooftop sign on Christmas Eve. This event marks a special moment for the city.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, is featured for its unique Christmas traditions in a report from Fox News. The segment highlights what makes the "Christmas City" special during the holidays.
An opinion piece reflects on the meaning of Christmas, referencing Jesus' birth in Bethlehem and his status as homeless and a refugee. The article encourages keeping Christ in Christmas.
A Kwanzaa celebration is scheduled for the day after Christmas in Doylestown, PA. The event will be held at the Mercer Museum. The article also mentions experiencing the first Christmas Eve in Bethlehem at a local church.
The Mercer Museum in Doylestown, PA, will host a Kwanzaa celebration on Friday afternoon. The article also mentions Bethlehem at Living Hope Community Church in Dublin, PA.
The St. Demetrios Sunday School in Upper Darby, PA, presented its annual Christmas Pageant on December 21. The event featured a festive performance by the students.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania is highlighted as one of the magical towns to visit to find holiday spirit. The article mentions the Christkindlmarkt area at dusk, decorated with Christmas lights.
Monday, December 22, 2025
A holiday playlist highlights songs with Pennsylvania connections, including "Long Ago in Bethlehem" by The Bach Choir of Bethlehem. This song is noted as an essential part of any Pennsylvania holiday music collection.
German traditions blended with Latin beats at SteelStacks on the eve of Christkindlmarkt. This event brought a unique fusion of cultural influences to Bethlehem's holiday scene.
Sunday, December 21, 2025
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, known as "Christmas City USA," has been recognized as one of America's most magical Christmas towns. The city's rich history and festive atmosphere contribute to its renowned holiday appeal.
Historic Bethlehem, known as "Christmas City USA," is showcasing its fan-favorite Christmas trees in what is described as its most spectacular lineup yet. Visitors can expect to see impressive holiday spruce displays throughout the city.
A Nativity scene is illuminated by a Christmas tree on Payrow Plaza in Bethlehem, PA, highlighting the city's "Christmas City, USA" moniker. The article also touches on the global evolution of Christmas traditions.
Christmas Eve will feature the hymn βThe Night of Christmasβ ringing out in Bethlehem's Church of the Nativity, built on a significant religious site. This event signifies the return of Christmas spirit to the city.
Saturday, December 20, 2025
The Peter Kearns Memorial Christmas Tree Toss is back in Bethlehem, PA, allowing participants to throw a Christmas tree. Proceeds from the event will support domestic abuse survivors.
A Pennsylvania holiday playlist includes songs with local connections, referencing the state's own Christmas City. One song specifically mentions Bethlehem of the Middle Ages.
A Moravian pastor shares insights into the magic of Christmas in Bethlehem, PA. This is mentioned in the context of public safety concerns leading to New Year's Eve event cancellations elsewhere.
A Pennsylvania holiday playlist highlights local connections, including a reference to the Bach Choir of Bethlehem and their song 'Long Ago in Bethlehem.' The playlist acknowledges the state's Christmas City.
Friday, December 19, 2025
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, continues its tradition as "Christmas City USA." This recognition enhances its festive atmosphere, drawing visitors to its holiday charm.
Pennsylvania State Police Troop M in Bethlehem will be conducting targeted enforcement for drivers during the Christmas and New Year's holidays. This initiative aims to increase safety on the roads during the busy festive season.
Several Christmas Eve services have been scheduled at various locations throughout the Redbank Valley, including in New Bethlehem, PA. These services offer community members opportunities to celebrate the holiday.
A variety of local events are scheduled to celebrate the Christmas season in the New Bethlehem, PA area. These festivities provide opportunities for community engagement and holiday cheer.
First Fellowship in New Bethlehem, PA, will be holding a Christmas Eve service today. The weather is expected to be a mix of clouds and sun early, followed by cloudy skies.
Historic Bethlehem, PA, recognized as America's newest UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also celebrated as a Christmas Wonderland. The city embraces its "Christmas City, USA" moniker, offering visitors a festive experience.
Thursday, December 18, 2025
Experience a special Christmas event at the Hotel Bethlehem featuring Corinne. The event is scheduled for December 18th from 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM.
Living Hope Community Church in Dublin, Pa., is hosting a unique live nativity walkthrough event. This free experience, depicting the first Christmas Eve in Bethlehem, runs from December 18th to 21st.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, known as "Christmas City," is recognized for its colonial architecture and Moravian traditions. The city has been rooted in holiday spirit since its formation on Christmas Eve in 1741.
Wednesday, December 17, 2025
The Pennsylvania Youth Theatre is presenting "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," a stage musical based on the animated television special. This holiday show is part of the festive offerings in Bethlehem.
Pennsylvania's Christmas City, Bethlehem, has been recognized by HGTV as one of the top Christmas destinations in the United States. The city's name itself evokes the spirit of the holiday season.
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Bethlehem, PA, is recognized as a top festive holiday destination in the U.S. The town is famously known as "The Christmas City" during the holiday season.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, is highlighted as a place that belongs in Hallmark Christmas movies. The city attracts many visitors during the Christmas season for its holiday charm.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, draws numerous tour buses each Christmas season, with visitors coming for its holiday lights. The city is renowned for its festive Christmas atmosphere.
Monday, December 15, 2025
A performance and display titled 'A Journey to Bethlehem' is being held in Lebanon County. This event offers a local way to experience the spirit of Christmas.
Sunday, December 14, 2025
A popular Bethlehem restaurant owner has opened a new neighboring grocery market offering fresh produce and snacks. The article also mentions that the restaurant brings some Christmas magic to the Lehigh Valley.
Saturday, December 13, 2025
The acclaimed Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts (Charter Arts) Music department is presenting its Winter Concert Series. This event features elegant musical performances.
Friday, December 12, 2025
A unique shop called 'Dear Santa' on Main Street in Bethlehem is delighting visitors with handcrafted holiday gifts. This store is devoted to everything holly and jolly for the Christmas season.
The 'O Joyful Celebration' Christmas Cantata will feature a choir performing beloved carols like 'O Little Town of Bethlehem.' Additional performances are scheduled, including pieces by various composers.
Organist Dave Wickerham will present the Joyous Wurlitzer Christmas show in Foxburg. This event is part of planned Brass and Wurlitzer Christmas shows for the season.
Thursday, December 11, 2025
The holiday spirit is taking center stage in Bethlehem with the musical "Miracle on 34th Street." This festive show is set to bring Christmas magic to the Lehigh Valley.
Singer-songwriters Alex Radus and George Hrab, hailing from Bethlehem, PA, are performing live as 'The Christmas Sweaters.' This event celebrates the holiday season with local talent.
A Christmas market in Savannah, Georgia, has been ranked sixth in the country by USA Today. The list also mentions other notable holiday markets like "Bethlehem in Bethlehem, PA" and the "Savannah Christmas Market."
The holiday season has officially arrived in Bethlehem, PA, known as the Christmas City. This includes the return of the Bach Choir of Bethlehem's "Christmas in Leipzig" concerts.
Wednesday, December 10, 2025
Bethlehem police officers and the Hispanic Center have launched their first 'Shop with a Cop' holiday event. Ten children from local families participated in this initiative to receive Christmas toys.
The Blue Army Shrine in Easton is hosting a free Christmas Festival of Lights, inviting visitors to step into the glory of the season. This event is located near Bethlehem, PA.
Local events include Christmas caroling scheduled for Wednesday evening. The Five Rivers Public Library is also hosting a "Miracle in Bethlehem, PA" movie night.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, known as "The Christmas City," is highlighted for its renowned Christkindlmarkt. This European-style market is recognized as one of the best in the U.S. and is open on weekends.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, lives up to its name as "The Christmas City" with its renowned Christkindlmarkt. This European-style market is featured among the best in the U.S. and operates on weekends.
A charming Pennsylvania Airbnb is described as being straight out of a Hallmark movie, evoking the spirit of the season. The article mentions local Christmas baked goods and the German Christmas market in Bethlehem.
Bethlehem Mayor J. William Reynolds was seen signing bookmarks at a tree decorating event held on November 21, 2025. This event highlights local holiday activities in Pennsylvania's 'Christmas City'.
Pastor Janel Rice of Central Moravian Church in Bethlehem shares the unique ways the "Christmas City USA" celebrates the season. Traditions include Moravian stars and beeswax candles.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, is recognized as one of the top American Christmas towns that go all out for the holidays. The city's festive atmosphere makes it a notable Christmas destination.
Tuesday, December 9, 2025
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, a town of 75,000 near Allentown, has lit its Christmas tree. This event occurs while conflict echoes nearby, highlighting a return to tradition.
Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem is highlighted as a festive destination along the PA Turnpike. This popular holiday market runs from mid-November to the weekend before Christmas.
A Christmas tree lighting ceremony has taken place in Bethlehem for the first time since the Gaza war began. This event marks a significant moment for the city.
Christmas celebrations are returning to Bethlehem after a two-year period of war in Gaza. This signifies a return to normalcy and festive traditions for the city.
Monday, December 8, 2025
The historic city of Bethlehem has illuminated its traditional Christmas tree in Nativity Square for the first time in two years. This marks the return of Christmas celebrations to the city where it began, aiming to reconstruct its tourism industry.
A famed a capella group is performing at the State Theatre in Bethlehem as part of their 'Holiday Road' tour. Their performance includes a popular Christmas mashup that went viral online.
Bethlehem, PA, named on Christmas Eve in 1741, is highlighted as one of the top U.S. towns that truly come alive during the holidays. The city's festive atmosphere is a significant draw for visitors seeking Christmas cheer.
Sunday, December 7, 2025
Christmas cheer has returned to Bethlehem in the occupied West Bank with the lighting of a Christmas tree. This event marks a return to tradition after a period of conflict.
Christmas celebrations are making a comeback in Bethlehem in the occupied West Bank after a two-year period marked by war in Gaza. A fragile ceasefire is currently holding, allowing for the return of holiday festivities.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania's 'Christmas City,' is being discussed by its mayor, who highlights the community and family aspects of the city. The mayor also touches upon the industrial history intertwined with the holiday spirit.
The mayor of Bethlehem is promoting the city's holiday charm and the unique aspects that make it a Christmas destination. Discussions highlight the community and family-oriented atmosphere of Pennsylvania's 'Christmas City'.
The mayor of Pennsylvania's 'Christmas City,' Bethlehem, describes the city as embodying community, family, and opportunity. The interview touches on the city's unique holiday appeal and its connection to industrial history.
Bethlehem's mayor discusses the "secret gifts" of Pennsylvania's 'Christmas City,' emphasizing community, family, and opportunity. A photo shows the mayor signing bookmarks at a tree decorating event held on November 21, 2025.
Saturday, December 6, 2025
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, is recognized as "Christmas City USA" for its festive atmosphere and ability to attract both international and domestic tourists. The city is highlighted for its picture-perfect Christmas experience.
The Christkindlmarkt in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, is recognized as one of the top Christmas markets in the United States. This event is a highlight for those seeking a magical holiday shopping experience.
The Historic Bethlehem Christmas tree tour is making its return, continuing a tradition that has delighted visitors for 20 years. This event is a cherished part of the city's holiday celebrations.
Bethlehem bakeries are preparing for the holiday season with traditional Moravian sugar cake, a popular yeasted coffee cake. This highlights the unique culinary traditions of Pennsylvania during Christmas.
Bethlehem Mayor J. William Reynolds highlights the year-round wonders of the Lehigh Valley city, emphasizing its appeal as "Christmas City." He was recently seen signing bookmarks at a tree decorating event.
The Pennsylvania Playhouse in Bethlehem is presenting "Little Women" from December 5th to December 21st. This theatrical production is part of the holiday entertainment offerings in the area.
The Bethlehem Municipal Band will present a Christmas concert featuring holiday highlights and soloists, including Chelsea Reed. This concert marks the final performance for former Director Don Kemmerer before his retirement.
Friday, December 5, 2025
Dogs dressed in holiday attire took over the Illumination event at Coca-Cola Park in Allentown. The festive occasion allowed pets to join in the holiday spirit alongside the dazzling Christmas light displays.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, known as 'The Christmas City,' offers a unique blend of industrial history and holiday charm. It is highlighted as a top destination for families seeking a Christmas break getaway.
New Bethlehem is preparing for its annual Christmas Parade along Broad Street, starting at 6 p.m. Various other Christmas events are also scheduled across local communities.
Thursday, December 4, 2025
The popular "Trees of Historic Bethlehem" exhibition is back for the 2025 holiday season, showcasing a spectacular lineup of festive displays. Visitors can enjoy this cherished tradition in the heart of the Christmas City.
Saint Vincent College Planetarium is hosting "The Star of Bethlehem" show on December 10th and 13th. This special presentation invites attendees to explore the mystery surrounding the Christmas star.
The "Trees of Historic Bethlehem" exhibition has returned for the 2025 holiday season, featuring a curated selection of fan-favorite designs from the past 20 years. This beloved event celebrates the festive spirit of Bethlehem.