Historic Hotel Bethlehem Decorated for the Holidays (Photo courtesy of Discover Lehigh Valley, PA/Flickr)
Bethlehem is a small city with a rich history in Eastern Pennsylvania. Its proximity to New York, New Jersey, and major cities like Philadelphia and Baltimore make it an excellent destination for convenient group travel. If your group is seeking a relaxing getaway away from the hustle and bustle of the major metro areas, Bethlehem is an excellent choice. This is especially true for holiday group travel.
Group Travel in the Christmas City
The city of Bethlehem is truly a city of celebrations and art, but the holiday season is what gives it its nickname, "the Christmas City." It is a wonderful destination for your holiday group travel because of its many seasonal attractions. Starting a week before Thanksgiving and leading up until Christmas, the seasonal festivities begin taking place.
Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem Exterior (Photo courtesy of Discover Lehigh Valley, PA/Flickr)
Christkindlmarkt
Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem is a one-of-a-kind seasonal event that is fun for the whole family. Inspired by the German Christmas markets that share its name, Christkindlmarkt in Bethlehem offers the most authentic seasonal market experience in the United States. As well, this is a holiday market recognized more than once by Travel + Leisure as one of the best Christmas markets in the US. This celebration is a great way for your group to get into the holiday spirit and celebrate everything there is to love about the season.
At this holiday market, you can expect handmade gifts made by the best artisans in the country, traditional foods and flavors exclusive to the season, live music, and more festive fun. Visitors can expect holiday decors like extravagant trees, ornaments, authentic German nutcrackers, and more.
Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem Interior (Photo courtesy of Discover Lehigh Valley, PA/Flickr)
Tickets start at only $10. For large groups of 20+ members, a group discount offering of $8 admission applies. Groups of a smaller size looking for a deal on admission can consider taking advantage of a bundle option. This offers two-holiday activities - the Chritkindlmarkt admission and admission to the Trees of Historic Bethlehem for the best price.
Trees of Historic Bethlehem
Groups interested in traditional holiday displays will enjoy Trees of Historic Bethlehem. This annual event is a tradition in the Christmas city where-in the local Garden Club extravagantly decorates trees at historical sites throughout the town. Exploring the historic area and enjoying the holiday displays makes for a delightful group afternoon.
Bethlehem City Hall at Christmas (Photo courtesy of Discover Lehigh Valley, PA/Flickr)
Beyond its holiday spirit, Bethlehem is known for its art community and rich historical background. The city dates back to the 1700s and is steeped in colonial history.
Holiday and History Tours
The Historic Bethlehem Museum is a great place to learn about its past. It sits in the Moravian Bethlehem Landmark District, an awe-inspiring historical area, where groups can freely explore or even take a guided tour. The colonial architecture is exquisite and feels especially magical when it is lit up during the holiday season. For the full effect of lighted, holiday grandeur, your group can book a Bethlehem by Night guided tour.
Central Moravian Church in Bethlehem, PA (Photo courtesy of Discover Lehigh Valley, PA/Flickr)
Groups can take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historical streets or learn about Bethlehem Steel’s history, an abandoned steel mill transformed into an arts district. Groups can also learn about old apothecaries and the Moravian medicine practices, tour the historical churches, and even tour the Hotel Bethlehem, where the founding fathers have stayed.
Carriage Ride in Bethlehem, PA (Photo courtesy of Discover Lehigh Valley, PA/Flickr)
A visit to Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, is perfect for history lovers and colonial-era fanatics. There is so much to explore, learn, and see, as the city has been well-preserved. Consider a custom tour to make the most of your group trip to this charming city.
More for Groups to Enjoy
Other attractions in the area include the Wind Creek Casino Resort Bethlehem, a great option for lodging and play. There is live music, local theatre, craft shows, visits and storytime with Santa, and even orchestra performances throughout the city.
Shopping on Main Street in Bethlehem, PA (Photo courtesy of Discover Lehigh Valley, PA/Flickr)
The town's main street offers a variety of delicious dining options mixed in with great boutique shops and businesses making for a perfect section to explore and enjoy. Furthermore, this area will be dotted with Christmas huts, lavish window displays, and decorated gingerbread friends to add even more holiday charm to Main street's appeal.
Main Street in Bethlehem, PA (Photo courtesy of Discover Lehigh Valley, PA/Flickr)
During the holiday season, Bethlehem is an affordable and engaging option for a group trip. No matter what destination you choose for your holiday group travel, GroupTools is here to help make your planning process safe and stress-free. Visit GroupTools to learn more or jump right into your planning today.
