Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem

Bethlehem, PA is known as the Christmas City.  Almost one million guests, over the past two decades, have visited Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem offering a mix of unique gift ideas, old-world charm and holiday cheer. The highlight of 2014 is the the 50th Anniversary of Kathe Wohlfahrt, the renowned German ornament and nutcracker maker. A handful of special collectibles and ornaments will be available to celebrate their 50th anniversary. New this year will be a limited edition Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem collectible from Rich Connolly, a local artist known for his hand-painted chalkware figurines created with century-old antique candy molds. You will also have the opportunity to work with glass artists to create your own Stamped Glass Bethlehem star at the Glassblowing Tent powered by Think Energy. It is the perfect souvenir for your visit to the Christmas City.

The festivities begin on Thursday, November  20 through December 2 and feature more than 100 vendors. Open each weekend Thursday and Sundays 11am-6pm; and Fridays and Saturdays 11am-8pm.  Visit www.christmascity.org for a complete list of crafters and retailers.

See the lights and sites of the Christmas City in a horse-drawn wagonette. On these guided tours, you'll discover Bethlehem's rich steel history and architecture as you and your family/friends ride through SouthSide Bethlehem and the Bethlehem Steel Corridor in an 8-passenger wagonette. Rides are 20 minutes long and reservations are required. Rides depart from Christkindlmarkt located at 101 Founders Way. 

Pass into history at the Moravian Museum of Bethlehem which introduces guests to the history of the community. Housed inside the 1741 Gemeinhaus, discover the remarkable stories behind Bethlehem's founders, including early Moravian medicinal practices, communal living, missionary work and a progressive educational system. Delight in Christmas trees dressed in Historic Bethlehem sites with antique and unique ornaments and decorations. Get the Pass into History and enjoy access to all of Historic Bethlehem's sites for one low price. Visit www.historicbethlehem.org for more information and other events.

Make it a long weekend with a stay at a nearby Bed & Breakfast. An extraordinary gift this holiday season is a stay at a B&B. You can purchase gift certificates online at PAInns.com