Christkindlemarkt in Bethlehem PA

Beginning with this post, I’m starting a series about Lehigh Valley, PA. This is the first installment of this series. To see others in this series (once they’re published), click on the label “Lehigh Valley” below this post.

Celebrating 25 years this year, Christkindlmarkt in Bethlehem is a great way to spend a fun afternoon as you get a head-start on your holiday season shopping. And in doing so, you’re carrying on a centuries’ long tradition!

Christkindlemarkts are street markets associated with the celebration of Christmas during the four weeks of Advent. These markets originated in Germany, but are now being held in many other countries.

The history of Christmas markets goes back to the Late Middle Ages in the German-speaking part of Europe. In Austria, Vienna’s “December market” can be considered a forerunner of Christmas markets and dates back to 1298.

You can enjoy demonstrations of glass blowing, and purchase tree ornaments there that you watched being made! There is also ice-sculpture demonstrations, as well as other demonstrations.

While you’re there, head to the food tent for a bite to eat from a variety of vendors, from pizza to pretzels to chicken paprikash! While you enjoy a break, there’s live music and entertainment.

Getting there: PNC Plaza at the Steelstacks at 645 E. First Street, Bethlehem, PA 18015; free parking is available.

Hours: Runs through 23 December. Thursday & Sunday 11 am – 6 pm; Friday & Saturday 11 am – 8 pm; Saturday, Dec. 23 11 am – 6 pm.

Website and coupons: http://www.christmascity.org/christkindlmarkt/

For other day trip destinations in Lehigh Valley, go to the Blog’s Find a Great Place to Day Trip or click on the Lehigh Valley label below.

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