Bethlehem, West Bank
Thousands of people gathered in Bethlehem’s historic Manger Square on Christmas Eve, reviving the city’s traditional holiday celebrations after years of subdued observances. Families, religious leaders, and scout groups filled the square, bringing music, decorations, and a sense of hope back to the birthplace of Jesus Christ.
This year’s celebrations marked the first full public Christmas in Bethlehem since the outbreak of war in Gaza in 2023, which had forced the city to cancel or limit festive events. During the conflict, the giant Christmas tree that normally dominates the square was absent, replaced with a nativity display symbolizing the hardships faced by people in Gaza.
Leading the festivities, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, arrived from Jerusalem in a traditional procession. In his address, he called for hope and resilience, urging the community to embrace a “Christmas full of light” after years of hardship. Hundreds of scout marchers paraded through the city streets, their uniforms and instruments adding to the festive atmosphere as local residents and a small number of foreign visitors joined the celebration.
Bethlehem’s economy, heavily dependent on tourism and pilgrimage, has been deeply affected by regional conflicts. Many businesses struggled during the war, and unemployment in the city rose sharply. Local officials and residents expressed cautious optimism that this year’s gathering could mark the beginning of recovery, both socially and economically, even as political tensions continue to influence life in the region.
While the city rejoices, the impact of ongoing regional instability is still visible. Reduced tourism, heightened security concerns, and political friction continue to affect daily life. Yet, the Christmas Eve gathering demonstrated the resilience of Bethlehem’s community, as residents came together to celebrate faith, tradition, and the enduring spirit of the holiday season.
The event serves as a reminder of the city’s historical and spiritual significance, drawing attention worldwide to the efforts of its people to preserve their traditions and maintain a sense of normalcy amid ongoing challenges.
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