When the holiday season hits, some places simply do Christmas better than others. And one Pennsylvania town has earned a reputation for turning the entire month of December into a full-blown festive experience. Welcome to Bethlehem, PA, affectionately known as “Christmas City, USA,” where twinkling lights, historic charm, and old-world traditions make it one of the most magical winter getaways near Philadelphia.
🎄 Bethlehem is Christmas City, USA
Located just over an hour from Philly, Bethlehem is downright magical.
Visitors can marvel at lantern-lit streets, colonial-era buildings glowing with candlelight, and cozy shops filled with ornaments, gifts, and seasonal treats.
But Bethlehem’s connection to Christmas runs deeper than decorations alone.
The town was named on Christmas Eve in 1741 by Moravian settlers after an emotional hymn referencing Bethlehem itself. That moment set the tone for generations to come.
A few years later in 1747, Bethlehem made history again as the site of the first documented Christmas tree in history!
Fast forward to 1937, a glowing 90-foot star was erected atop South Mountain, shining over the town each holiday season.
🎁 Things to do in Christmas City during the Holidays
One of the biggest reasons Bethlehem draws visitors each winter is its festive holiday markets, which channel classic European Christmas vibes.
In fact, Bethlehem is home to two of the best Christmas Markets in the country. Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem takes place at the SteelStacks, set against the dramatic backdrop of the former Bethlehem Steel blast furnaces. The market features artisan vendors, handmade ornaments, seasonal foods, and cozy heated tents that makes browsing enjoyable even on chilly days.
While Christmas City Village offers a more intimate experience in the Historic Moravian District. Wooden huts line the streets, filled with local crafts, gifts, and warm drinks, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll.
✨ Other festive things to do in Bethlehem include:
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Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic district
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Visit the Moravian Book Shop, the oldest bookstore in America
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Join a Christmas City Stroll or lantern-lit walking tour
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Stop by the Historic Hotel Bethlehem to see its elaborate holiday decor
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Attend the Live Advent Calendar, a nightly December tradition
Beyond the markets, Bethlehem delivers nonstop holiday cheer with tours, performances, and special events throughout December.
🗺️ How to get there from Philadelphia
Luckily, Bethlehem is an easy holiday escape from Philly, just about a 1 to 1.5 hour drive depending on traffic. Take I-476 North (the Northeast Extension of the PA Turnpike) straight forward toward the Lehigh Valley for a smooth, direct route.