On Christmas Eve, 1741, Count Nicholas von Zizendorf, leading a small group of Moravian missionaries who had founded a small settlement on banks of the Monocacy creek, gave Bethlehem it’s name.
Fast-forward to 1937. The Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce, mindful of Bethlehem’s first Christmas in 1741, declared – “Why not make Bethlehem, named at Christmas, the Christmas City for the entire country?”
Thus, since 1937, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania has been known throughout the world as the Christmas City.
To learn more about the city of Bethlehem, visit bethlehem-pa.gov
FAQs
The Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce, mindful of Bethlehem's first Christmas in 1741, declared – “Why not make Bethlehem, named at Christmas, the Christmas City for the entire country?” Thus, since 1937, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania has been known throughout the world as the Christmas City.
Where is the Christmas Village in Bethlehem, PA? ›
The huts are located in Historic Downtown Bethlehem, and will be open Thursdays through Sundays starting November 9th through December 24th.
What is there to do in Bethlehem PA for Christmas? ›
Throughout the Christmas season, Historic Bethlehem hosts a variety of festive family activities including holiday tree tours, lights displays downtown, carriage rides, seasonal music, or pictures with Santa, there's something for everyone!
What is the Christmas city in PA? ›
Bethlehem as “Christmas City USA”
In 1937, The Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce started a nationwide letter writing effort to 2,500 Chambers of Commerce asking each of them to notify their local newspapers of the campaign to make Bethlehem, Pennsylvania “the Christmas City”.
What Hallmark movie was filmed in Bethlehem PA? ›
Watch a preview for "Miracle in Bethlehem, PA" starring Laura Vandervoort and Benjamin Ayres. Check out photos from the movie. Learn more about the cast.
What is the best Christmas town in PA? ›
Named Bethlehem on Christmas Eve in 1741, this quaint city of Bethlehem, PA in eastern Pennsylvania is rooted in holiday charm. And since 1937, the city has appropriately been recognized as Christmas City USA.
What is the most expensive neighborhood in Bethlehem PA? ›
Explore Bethlehem, PA
There are 4 neighborhoods in Bethlehem. Northeast Bethlehem has a median listing home price of $333.5K, making it the most expensive neighborhood. South Bethlehem is the most affordable neighborhood, with a median listing home price of $239.9K.
What is special about Bethlehem PA? ›
Bethlehem's Colonial Industrial Quarter had the largest concentration of pre-industrial revolution crafts, trades and industries in America and can be considered America's earliest industrial park. Some of the early industrial buildings remain.
What food is Bethlehem PA known for? ›
The typical delicious food of the city of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.
- Bethlehem-style hot dogs: These are a local favorite and are known for their unique toppings, which include spicy brown mustard, diced onions, and a special meat sauce. ...
- Shoofly pie: This is a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dessert popular in the city.
You can see fantastic examples of Bethlehem's historic roots throughout town, which includes a landmark historic district and several beautifully preserved buildings. It's hard to ignore Bethlehem's historic past as the epicenter for steel manufacturing, which first came to town in 1899.
Located in the heart of the Lehigh Valley, in eastern Pennsylvania, Bethlehem is a truly dynamic city filled with creativity, world-class events and festivals, a rich history and – of course – some of the best Christmas celebrations in the world.
What is the nickname of Bethlehem PA? ›
#1 Bethlehem is Known as “Christmas City”
It's simple! Bethlehem was given its name on Christmas Eve. Since then, the city has always been synonymous with Christmas!
What is the most magical Christmas town in the United States? ›
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, known as "Christmas City USA," embodies a unique holiday spirit, blending rich history with festive traditions. During the Christmas season, this historic town, founded by Moravians, sparkles with thousands of lights, enhancing its colonial architecture and charming streets.
What town is known as Christmas Town USA? ›
Known as "Christmas Town," the quiet little town of McAdenville, which lies along the South Fork River in Gaston County, NC, comes alive each year as the holiday season draws near.
