Bethlehem Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Bethlehem and surrounding areas
The festive season transforms Bethlehem into a magical destination with historic lights and engaging holiday activities around Main Street and the Colonial Industrial Quarter, where Christmas markets and family events thrive. Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem, The Nutcracker, and Trees of Historic Bethlehem deliver authentic seasonal charm, offering many things to do—from festive shopping and concerts to tree lightings and neighborhood gatherings.
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Christmas Markets
24 eventsNationally recognized holiday market with German artisans
Christmas Lights
21 eventsAnnual Grand Illumination Ceremony with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Christmas Shows
17 eventsLive orchestra accompanying The Nutcracker ballet.
Other Christmas Activities
34 eventsFestive train ride with Santa and Mrs. Claus
Editor's Picks (6)
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Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem
Nationally recognized holiday market with German artisans
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Jim Thorpe's Olde Time Christmas
(Jim Thorpe)
Victorian-style Christmas celebration in historic downtown Jim Thorpe.
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Peddler's Village Grand Illumination Celebration
(New Hope)
Annual Grand Illumination Ceremony with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
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The Nutcracker
Live orchestra accompanying The Nutcracker ballet.
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BYOB Holiday Trolley Tour of Princeton
(Princeton)
Festive BYOB trolley tour with historical insights
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The Nutcracker
(Princeton)
Sixty-year tradition, longest-running Nutcracker production in the nation.
This Week / Coming Up (6)
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Bethlehem Christmas FAQ
Bethlehem’s biggest annual events include the Christmas City Village market, the Historic Downtown Window Decorating Competition, and the Holiday Cocktail Trail, all drawing crowds to the city’s festive downtown.
Bethlehem is known as the Christmas City, with traditions like the lighting of the city’s iconic star, Moravian candlelight services, and the annual Christkindlmarkt, which reflects the city’s German heritage.
The Historic Moravian District and Main Street are the heart of Bethlehem’s holiday light displays, with beautifully lit trees and festive decorations throughout downtown.
The Christmas City Village in downtown Bethlehem is the main hub for holiday markets and local artisans, with additional craft fairs and vendor stalls popping up in neighborhoods across the city.
Strolling Main Street to see the holiday lights, visiting the Christmas City Village, and attending free community events like visits with Santa are all budget-friendly ways to enjoy the season in Bethlehem.
Families will enjoy the Christmas City Village’s festive atmosphere, visits with Santa, holiday crafts, and the chance to explore the city’s beautifully decorated downtown and historic sites.