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City Guides, Travel Planning and Dream Vacations
Updated for 2022 – Christmas City is as festive as ever, full of Holiday magic. This has become a tradition for our family, and puts us in the spirit of the season like no place else. Merry Christmas to you and yours!
‘Tis the Season for a visit to Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, a.k.a. ‘Christmas City’, and a wonderful way to banish any and all ‘Humbugs’!
Founded in 1741 and named on Christmas Eve by Moravian missionaries, it received it’s name from the beloved Christmas carol we all grew up with. And the citizens of this charming town are committed to preserving their rich heritage and providing a most welcoming and magical experience to all who visit.
Here are the top things we enjoy at the most wonderful time of the year…
Christkindlemarkt – under the heated tents is a shopper’s paradise full of arts and crafts, ornaments, nutcrackers, hand-knit scarves, sweaters and gloves…it goes on and on. Food and entertainment, wine tasting, beer, and more to savor and explore.
There are artisans throughout, carving, painting and ice sculpting. Set at the SteelStacks, the oddly beautiful and incredibly interesting remains of the Bethlehem Steel Mill and entertainment complex, this mega-Holiday experience is not to be missed. We loved the warm spiced wines from Vynecrest Wineries and the discovery of hand-made ‘Stroopies’…Dutch cinnamon waffle cookies, best enjoyed when warmed over your favorite hot beverage.
The world’s only ‘Living Advent Calendar’ – A knock at the door of the historic Goundie House on Main Street opens to a participating local business who hands out treats to the gathered crowd. We were delighted with cookies and mulled wine from Franklin Hill Vinyards, plus the Christmas sing-along!
The Hotel Bethlehem – This historic and elegant landmark was bustling with activity, and amazed us with a truly spectacular display of over 35,000 Christmas lights, a multitude of uniquely decorated trees, 36 wreaths, 7 ft toys soldiers, life-size nutcrackers and a gingerbread house. We made our way to the Tap Room for a hot toddy and took in the festive atmosphere.
New for 2022: This year the Hotel was limiting with admitting non-guests into the bar and lobby. We were turned away more than once, so try to time your visit at an off-hour, or make a reservation well in advance of your arrival.
The Trees of Bethlehem – throughout the town, uniquely decorated trees light up the night sky. Enjoy them by a historic walking tour or horse-drawn carriage ride.
Main Street – is a hub of activity…unique shops, pop-up stalls with crafts and treats, restaurants, pubs and the like. We shopped at many, including the Moravian Bookstore (don’t leave without an authentic star for your tree), and the Vintage Market at the Visitor Center and Museum.
The Sun Tavern – with so many dining options it was difficult to choose. We decided on a remarkable piece of history with our meal and dined at the Sun Inn. Built in 1758, the Inn features several dining rooms, two pubs, and a self-guided tour of the preserved main rooms. During the Revolutionary war, Bethlehem was twice the site of the Continental Hospital, and an impressive list of our county’s Founding Fathers stayed at the Inn, including George Washington, John Adams and many more.
New for 2022: The Distillery has added ‘Cherry Blossom’ …a lighter version of their famous ‘Cherry Bounce’ flavor whiskey, but equally tasty!
Also, the tiny but charming lower level bar is back open. We love the historic artifacts and ambiance here, like drinking and dining in a museum!
The Social Still – we finally made it here after enjoying the spirits at their Main Street outpost for years.
Set in a prohibition era bank building, this bar/restaurant/distillery is a fantastic experience for amazing cocktails and great food. The awesome view of the distillery behind the bar is the centerpiece attraction. Try a flight of Pennsylvania’s finest spirits…I particularly liked the Tomboy and Sasquatch Bourbons.
Come try the revolution in American Spirits!
The name ‘Christmas City’ is a lofty title, and there are places we all love to visit during this special time of year. Bethlehem, PA has taken a place in our hearts to experience the magic of Christmas.
Tell us some of your favorite Holiday places to visit!
