Visit ‘Little Town Of Bethlehem’ For Christmas — In Pennsylvania

You may not be able to travel to Bethlehem in Israel this holiday season, but consider the one closer to home, in Pennsylvania. The Christmas City sidewalks will be busy sidewalks as beloved traditions such as holiday markets return this year.

Many holiday activities in Bethlehem are outdoors, and it’s an easy drive from New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington, D.C., among many cities, to Bethlehem. Stops along the way (like the ones we mention from NYC, at the end of the post), can extend a perfect family trip.

Since the start of the pandemic, small businesses in Bethlehem and the region have struggled, and they are hoping the jingle bells and community kindness will give them a boost.

“It’s been a rough two years for our local business community and they are thrilled to be regaining some sense of normalcy this holiday season,” said Tammy Wendling, Director of the Downtown Bethlehem Association (DBA). “We’re especially excited to bring back the Live Advent Calendar after the pandemic forced us to make it virtual last year.” 

From sparkling displays to interactive games to tasty treats, to Christmas markets, and mansions decorated for the holidays, Bethlehem is set to fulfill all kinds of Christmas wishes this year.

“This is a great time to show Christmas spirit by helping your neighbors’ livelihoods survive, and you will have a great time doing it,” said Wendling. 

Check out the following list of downtown Bethlehem’s Christmas activities. Full details on all of them are available at getdowntownbethlehem.com.

The Christmas City Window Decorating Competition Now through December 18 

Bethlehem’s business owners deck their windows with fanciful displays in this friendly competition. Visitors can vote for their favorites by scanning QR codes in the windows. 

Santa Haus December 11, 18/ 1pm – 5pm

Take free photos with Santa or drop a letter to the North Pole in his giant mailbox at Santa Haus outside of 77 W. Broad Street.

The Live Advent Calendar Now through December 23/5:30 pm nightly

After a pandemic pause, the Live Advent calendar is back for its 13th year. It’s believed to be the only live advent event in the country. During the free, family-friendly event, guests will enjoy a surprise each night. A musical performance or Christmas treat may await you behind the door of the Goundie House.

12 Days of Giveaways Now through December 12 

The Downtown Bethlehem Association is giving away presents from local businesses and organizations. Winners are chosen at random daily. 

The Gingerbread Games Now through December 21

Participants decorate a two-foot tall Gingerbread Friend, the Downtown Bethlehem Association displays the crafts near the Colonial Industrial Quarter, and the public votes on their favorites. (You can post your pics on your “Instagraham” too.) You can order your Gingerbread friend to decorate from GetDowntownBethlehem.com.  

The Christmas City Village Now through December 26

Charming wood huts filled with unique holiday gifts will line downtown Bethlehem’s streets through December 26. You’ll find gifts from local artisans, gourmet foods, pet treats, local wine and much more as you browse.

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Coming from New York City? Check out these two holiday stops. There are many more, depending on your time constraints. Just Google along your route.

Just north of the George Washington Bridge is Bergen County’s Winter Wonderland at Van Saun Park. Then follow Route 80 into the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania to visit Stroudsburg.

Stroudsburg, PA

Stroudsburg is much more than just a map dot along Interstate 80. Nestled in the Pocono Mountains, the bustling and eclectic downtown district, filled with historic buildings, offers boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, cafés, wineries, live music and entertainment, and world-class events. Visit the weekly farmer’s market, and enjoy seasonal attractions such as the 39 life-size Snowmen of Stroudsburg.