Christmastime transforms PA into a magical wonderland of shimmering lights, spectacular decorations, and a hearty dose of holiday cheer. One city, however, stands out as the twinkliest town in Pennsylvania, and for good reason. In fact, it has consistently been named one of the top Christmas towns in the United States, most recently coming in at #23 out of the 55 top Christmas towns named by Country Living. Bethlehem, also known as the Christmas City, is the place to go to wrap yourself in the holiday spirit.
Embrace the holiday spirit with a Christmastime visit to Bethlehem. The enchanting town earned its name and the title of The Christmas City when it was founded on Christmas Eve in 1741.
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Christmastime in Bethlehem means the annual Christkindlmarkt, an authentic German market that attracts shoppers and holiday revelers from all over. The popular celebration runs each year from late October through the beginning of December.
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Even if you miss Christkindlmarkt, you have until the end of December to stroll along Main Street, which hosts the charming Christmas Huts on Main.
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There, do a little before or after Christmas shopping, admire the decorated shop windows, and maybe even join in as Christmas carols ring out in the winter air.
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If you’ve never been to Bethlehem, meet the historic town with a ride on a horse-drawn carriage. The 20-minute carriage ride, which you can pick up at Central Moravian Church on Main Street, will give you a beautiful look at the twinkliest town.
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Don’t forget to add a stop at Christmas in the Quarter, at the Colonial Industrial Corner, where you’ll find a flurry of activities – from live music and food trucks to shopping at pop-up shops.
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A day really isn’t enough to drink in all of the sights and sounds that Bethlehem has to offer, especially during Christmastime. The Historic Hotel Bethlehem promises a cozy and magical place to stay the night.
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Exquisitely decorated for the holiday season, the historic hotel also offers tours (by reservation only) for those who aren’t staying at the hotel.
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Plan your visit to the Christmas City with a visit to the website of Historic Bethlehem. Or, go here for Facebook.
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Do you agree that Bethlehem is the twinkliest town in Pennsylvania? If not, which town is it? Join the conversation in the comments! For more holiday magic, drive through the two-mile Hershey’s Sweet Lights, which boasts more than one million lights.
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Address: Bethlehem, PA, USA
