Bethlehem resumed Christmas celebrations on Dec. 6 after a two-year halt caused by unrest, Catholic News Agency reported. The city lit its giant Christmas tree in front of the Church of the Nativity, marking the first major public festivities since the conflict escalated. Crowds filled Manger Square as music, prayers and performances renewed the energy of the region long associated with the birth of Christ.
Residents expressed relief at seeing Bethlehem regain its festive atmosphere after seasons of cancellations. For many families, the tree-lighting signalled the return of cherished traditions and the first glimpse of normalcy in years. Shop owners said the events brought early signs of revived foot traffic, raising hopes that the holiday season might stabilise incomes after months of financial loss.
Local leaders noted that the pause in celebrations had severely affected the local livelihood, which relies heavily on Christian pilgrimages and global tourism. Mayor Maher Canawati told the BBC the city had endured “two years of silence” with no Christmas activities or visitors. Restarting festivities, he said, “felt like the right thing to do” because Christmas symbolises unity and hope.
Neighbouring Beit Jala and Beit Sahour prepared their own tree lightings as hotel bookings increased, signalling cautious optimism for the season.