The quaint city of Bethlehem in Pennsylvania is so serious about channeling the spirit of Christmas that it has been recognised as ‘Christmas City USA’ since 1937.
Bethlehem was settled in 1741 and was the first successful community established by German Moravians in North America. Funnily enough, the town received its name ‘Bethlehem’ on Christmas Eve when a group of Moravians were singing a hymn, forever etching the holiday spirit into its identity.
Bethlehem was also the location of the first Christmas Tree documented in America in 1747. It was a far cry from modern Christmas trees with decorations of apples, candles and bible verses.
Rooted in so much charm, visiting the city is like stepping into a Hallmark movie and nowhere more so than the Moravian Bethlehem Historic District.
The district is a National Historic Landmark and here you will find the oldest surviving buildings and the Moravian Museum of Bethlehem. Throughout November and December, Christmas City Village comes alive with sparkling white lights and decorations adorn the trees. You’ll find holiday-themed wooden huts lining the streets, each selling unique gifts for the holiday season.
There are tours a plenty, such as the Christmas City Stroll where you can learn about Christmas traditions and explore Bethlehem’s historic architecture and the Bethlehem By Night bus tour which takes visitors past the Bethlehem star, a 27 metre tall and 12 metre wide star that stands at the city’s highest point.
Or why not take a horse-drawn carriage ride instead. Take in Bethlehem’s Christmas lights and sights while discovering its rich history and architecture as you ride in an elegant and cozy carriage. For the hard core Christmas fans you can even ride on Santa’s Red Sleigh and have Santa accompany you!
What are holidays without a cocktail or two? The annual Holiday Cocktail Trails gets you into the Christmas spirit starting in November. Visit stores and restaurants throughout Historic Downtown Bethlehem where you can enjoy delicious holiday cocktail samples.
Christmas in Christmas City wouldn’t be complete without a photo with Santa Claus. On Saturdays you will find Santa at the 1750 Smithy which is conveniently located next door to the Historic Hotel Bethlehem so you can duck in for some liquid Christmas spirit while the family waits in line.
One of the most popular events in Bethlehem is Christkindlmarkt at the SteelStacks. These German style markets feature artisan crafts, as well as live music and special events. You can also have a crack at ice skating at the rink adjacent to the market.
A stop at the Moravian Book Shop is a must. Recognised as the oldest continually operating bookstore in the country, you’ll be sure to not only find your holiday read but also an impressive selection of Moravian stars and other holiday decor to help complete your tree.
For accommodation you can’t beat Hotel Bethlehem, a wonderland of its own with 35,000 Christmas lights, 36 wreaths, life-size toy soldiers, and a gingerbread house of the hotel.
Still not in the Christmas spirit? Check out the ‘live’ advent calendar event at the Goundie House on Main Street. Every evening at 5.30pm a downtown merchant emerges from behind the door to surprise all who are waiting. Nightly surprises could include musical performances, a story, or even a tasty treat.
If you miss out on the treat, there is an impressive array of restaurants that are sure to please any palate. Try Tapas on Main for a twist on modern Spanish fare or The Bayou which is famous for its mac and cheese. Or step back into the prohibition era for an unforgettable experience at the Bookstore Speakeasy.
Bethlehem fully embraces its Christmas City moniker, and the historic architecture adds a unique backdrop to celebrations, transforming it into a winter wonderland and a jolly good place to visit.
