With a name like Bethlehem, PA, it’s no wonder that our fair city is known for how we celebrate the holidays. From beautiful decorations throughout the town to special performances, we do Christmas right. Find out why Bethlehem is called Christmas City by locals and visitors alike!
Are you looking for the ultimate guide to Christmas City? Download our free Vacation Guide! It’s full of great recommendations for restaurants, museums, and art galleries. You’ll also find a list of fantastic annual events and festivals in Lehigh Valley. Planning your trip is easy when you use our free Vacation Guide!
About the Christmas City
So how did Bethlehem earn the name as the Christmas City? The campaign to nickname the town began in 1937. In the 1960s, the Citizens of Christmas City Committee formed as a part of the Chamber of Commerce to “dignify the look of Christmas in the City of Bethlehem.” They raised funds for the more than 800 lit trees and other decorations that still adorn the city during the season. Their effort more than paid off! It created a holiday wonderland in the picturesque streets of our wonderful city. In addition to the beautiful setting, there are special events and performances, carriage rides, and shopping to enjoy during the winter holiday season.
Holiday Events in Bethlehem
There is so much to do during Christmas in Bethlehem and each event and activity will put you in a jolly mood! Special events include the SteelStacks Gingerbread House Competition & Exhibit, Breakfast with St. Nicholas, and the Christkindlmarkt. Holiday performances offer a wide variety of entertainment including concerts, Christmas City Follies, and traditional Christmas Pageants.
Christkindlmarkt
Be sure to stop by Christkindlmarkt, the traditional Christmas market at the SteelStacks campus where you can peruse rows upon rows of holiday treats, Christmas decorations, and handcrafted gifts. You’ll witness beautiful glass Christmas ornaments being made at the glass-blowing booth. You can even try your hand at making your own ornament! As you walk through the market you’ll enjoy the sounds of live Christmas music. Be sure to stop off for a delicious snack from one of the great vendors at the fair.
Accommodations During Christmas in Bethlehem
If you want to have the ultimate holiday in the Christmas City, then a stay at the Sayre Mansion is absolutely essential. Our beautiful boutique hotel is housed in a historic mansion that has been a part of the fabric of Bethlehem since 1858. The amenities available to guests are far from antique, though. We have an incredible complimentary breakfast every morning, a Tesla charging station that is free to use for guests, and fantastic specials to enhance your stay. Plus, we’re close to all of the holiday festivities you’ll want to attend, and our beautiful rooms are the perfect holiday homestead while you’re in town. At the Sayre Mansion, we love life in Bethlehem and we want to make sure you enjoy your time in town as much as possible!
So why wait? Check our availability and choose your room today! We look forward to having you.