Bethlehem, known as the Christmas City, is a destination that brings together festive magic, rich history, and cozy vibes.
Here's a recap of our adventure, perfect for planning your own getaway.
First Stop: Steel Stacks & Christkindl Market
Steel Stacks, the towering remnants of Bethlehem Steel’s industrial heyday, set the stage for the city's modern-day magic. These iconic structures loom gracefully over Christkindlmarkt, a bustling indoor/outdoor market that’s a one-stop shop for holiday cheer.
Tip: You don't need to pay for parking, but keep in mind there’s an entrance fee of $12-$15 per person to enter market.
The market brims with seasonal delights:
- Ice carving demonstrations that wow the crowd.
- Unique food vendors with a German twist—we couldn’t get enough of the warm strudel, handmade pretzels, and creamy fudge.
- Local artisans offering handcrafted gifts perfect for anyone on your list.
The outdoor areas were equally charming, featuring cozy fire pits and enchanting snow globes. Tip: Grab some food & drinks and zip into a snow globe for a whimsical (and warm!) winter escape.
The Star of Bethlehem - A Moravian Star **
As evening falls, don’t miss the Star of Bethlehem perched atop South Mountain. Visible from nearly everywhere in the city, it’s a glowing reminder of Bethlehem’s heritage and a perfect way to transition from daylight sightseeing to nighttime splendor.
Hotel Bethlehem: A Colonial Christmas Gem
For a taste of history and holiday elegance, Hotel Bethlehem is unmatched. This colonial-era treasure is a bustling hub of Christmas cheer, decked out with ornate decorations that transport you back in time.
Whether you stop by for lunch or dinner, the food and ambiance deliver a festive treat. And if you’re up for a nighttime adventure, hop aboard their motorcoach holiday lights tour. Departing at 5, 6, and 7 PM, this cozy ride lets you soak in Bethlehem’s sparkling streets without braving the chilly evening air.
Daylight to Dazzling Nights
Bethlehem’s charm truly transforms from day to night. Seeing the historic buildings bathed in natural light is beautiful, but when the sun sets and the lights twinkle to life, it’s pure magic. One word of advice: as the temperatures drop, layers are your best friend—especially when the wind decides to join the party!
Bethlehem, PA, is a perfect holiday road trip destination filled with history, festive markets, and heartwarming sights.
So grab a coffee, hit the road, and prepare to be dazzled by the Christmas City!
Additional nods:The Steel Capital of America,
a serious piece of architecture + infrastructure
Bethlehem was once home to Bethlehem Steel, one of the largest steel producers in the world. The company supplied steel for iconic structures like the Golden Gate Bridge and the Chrysler Building. The towering Steel Stacks, now repurposed as a cultural and arts venue, serve as a striking reminder of the city’s industrial past.
The Moravian star is a traditional Christmas decoration that originated in the Moravian Church, also known as the Evangelical Church of the Unitas Fratrum. Here's some information about it:
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Creation: The Moravian star was first crafted in the 1830s in the German town of Niesky, then part of Prussia, now in Saxony, Germany. It was made by students at a Moravian school.
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Purpose: Initially, it served as a geometry lesson for students, but it quickly became a symbol of Advent and Christmas due to its association with the star that guided the Magi to Bethlehem
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Design: Structure: The classic Moravian star has 25 or 26 points, constructed from paper or other materials. The 25-point star has 17 points on one side and 8 on the other. The 26-point star has 13 points on each side.
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Material: Traditionally made of colored paper or foil, modern versions can be found in various materials like plastic, glass, or even metal for outdoor use.
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Colors: Often seen in red, blue, gold, or silver, though they can be found in many colors. The traditional color scheme includes red points with white tips