Greetings Blog friends! It’s been a while since my last post. But, since I find it difficult to not share my adventures with you, let’s time travel back to December 2024.

My holiday trip this year was to Bethlehem, PA. Though you may remember the town as an industrial one, perhaps the largest America ship building and steel producing cities in the 20^th century, it’s morphed into something quite different. Following Bethlehem Steel’s closing in 2003, the town has worked hard to cleverly reinvent itself as the Christmas City. And the four of us (Yes, my travel buddy Tammy is back, this time with Dave!) found more than enough to see, and do, over the 48-hours we spent there.

One of the coolest things about Bethlehem is its Moravian history. I’m not going into great detail here because I’d really urge you to visit yourself. Let’s just say I knew absolutely nothing about Moravians when I arrived there so it was well worth the price of a Christmas Stroll ticket. Led by a wonderful woman dressed in period costume with an extensive knowledge of the areas history we walked for an hour and a half. With plenty of stops for photos and questions, our small group got a good grasp of how the Moravian influence has shaped Bethlehem from past to present times.

Though we weren’t able to visit the Moravian Museum, we made a point of checking out the Christmas Putz, an elaborate German nativity scene dramatizing the story of Christ’s birth. It was free, interactive, and unexpectedly amusing as someone had planted some figurines that clearly did not belong in the original narrative. See if you can find one!

Another unique nightly activity sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce is the Live Advent Calendar. Held nightly, rain or shine, it features actors in period costumes, a performance of some sort, and a surprise gift from a local Chamber member. We got candy coated pretzels and kaleidoscopes!

Where to stay

We used Airbnb for this getaway. The Downtown Modern Loft, hosted by Jennifer, is perfectly positioned on a major thoroughfare. Once you’ve parked the car you can walk anywhere, a definite plus as parking in Bethlehem can be challenging. Clean spacious, with all the appliances and amenities you might need, the only thing that might be an issue is the 20 steps you need to walk up to get in. Pack light and it shouldn’t be a problem! Jen owns a business downstairs so she’s quite accessible should you need anything.

Eating and Drinking

Our favorite breakfast place was a somewhat off-the-beaten-path diner, Sibris. My husband was thrilled to find scrapple on the menu and I was quite content with my pancakes and generous fresh fruit cup. Food arrived quickly and our waitress was full of information about the area

For a truly authentic treat, sample a Moravian kiffle, a traditional pastry crafted by a prize-winning local baker. We all loved the raspberry ones but they come in several other flavors too. The Moravian sugar cake is another holiday delicacy that’s stood the test of time, having been around since the 1700’s. If you’re seeking something more familiar go to Hotel B.’s for a frozen treat made with Penn State’s iconic ice cream. It really was the best cone I’ve ever had!

In the mood for seasonal a cocktail? Try The Christmas Mule (a delicious variation of the Moscow Mule!) Or, if you prefer a taste of the high life, get a bottle of wine at the bar and drink it in the lobby of the elegant Hotel Bethlehem one afternoon. With classic holiday decorations and a piano player, the old-fashioned Christmas feeling can’t be beat.

If you’re not quite ready to turn in and are craving live music, there’s an Irish bar, McCarthy’s Red Stag Pub and Whiskey Bar, which has a fantastic drink selection and a friendly bartender.

Tip: Be sure to make dinner reservations before you go. Our first night there-a Tuesday mind you-many of the restaurants we’d wanted to try (like Apollo and Edge) were fully booked for the week.

Souvenirs

Schropp Dry Goods Shoppe was designed to recreate the original, old-time store on Main Street and has an eclectic and affordable inventory. You’ll find the popular Moravian star in all sorts of configurations, including tree ornaments, dishcloths, Moravian candles in all sizes and colors, and specialty foods and beverages. I got a star for my Christmas tree, some pretty dishcloths, and gorgeous candles.

Next up: Let’s take a look at a few things I’m planning for 2025!