Pennsylvania’s ‘Christmas City’ Is a Must-See Attraction During the Holidays

'Christmas City' in Pennsylvania looks like it is right out of a Hallmark Christmas movie. Take some time out of your busy holiday schedule to check out the charming elements this city has to offer.

Maria Aldrich | Nov 15, 2024

Holiday decorations on a lamp post / Unsplash

Tucked into the eastern side of Pennsylvania sits a charming city filled with holiday cheer. Soon, the streets will be lined with stunning Christmas lights, snow will gently fall on the roads, and holiday festivities will begin. To experience the real-life Hallmark Christmas, visit Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

From November 15 through December 22, holiday-themed huts will be open to visitors free of charge. While exploring the decorated huts, visitors are welcome to walk around and take in all this city has to offer, including various stores to shop, massage centers, and excellent dining options.

On November 16, the Red and Green Holiday Cocktail Trail event will occur while the Silver and Gold Holiday Cocktail Trails will happen on November 23. To participate in these events, each individual must be 21 and older.

With the Historic Bethlehem Museum and Sites organization, visitors can participate in historic walking tours, motorcoach tours of Bethlehem at night, and horse-drawn carriage rides. Learn about Bethlehem's captivating history as you take a Christmas Stroll with a dedicated historian.

In addition to these festivities, families with young children are encouraged to come and enjoy Storytime with Santa on Saturday, December 7. Snacks will be provided, and children will have the opportunity to read books with Santa and complete a fun craft with elves.

While in the area, spend a day visiting the Lehigh Valley Zoo on December 16 for their Winter Light Spectacular. At this event, you will have the chance to look at over 1.2 million lights and stunning displays. There will be hot chocolate and s'mores, live performances, and photos with Santa. Lehigh Valley Zoo is approximately 40 minutes from Bethlehem, but the experience is worth the drive.

To help you find your way around the city, a Visitor Map has been provided which showcases the local museums, hotels, restaurants, and stores.

Published Nov 15, 2024

MARIA ALDRICH

Maria Aldrich graduated from SUNY Potsdam with a degree in Exercise Science and a minor in Wilderness Education. While earning her degrees, she learned the fundamentals of climbing, wilderness travel, and leadership in the backcountry. These skills built upon Maria's lifelong passion for the outdoors. Following graduation, she began working in the outdoor recreation field, serving individuals with disabilities to help them access outdoor pursuits including hiking, paddling, horseback riding, and snowshoeing. The following year, Maria moved to the Adirondack Mountains in New York State to continue working towards a life of adventure and writing. She has continued rock and ice climbing, hiking in the High Peaks of the Adirondacks, and paddling through various rivers while documenting her experiences through writing. When Maria isn’t adventuring in the mountains, she can be found reading a book, fishing on a shoreline, or spending time with family.