After a two-year hiatus, Bethlehem celebrated its first Christmas tree lighting since 2022, bringing a rare moment of joy to the city’s residents amid ongoing hardships. Palestinians hope that the event will signal the return of tourists and help revive the city’s struggling economy.

---

First Public Christmas Celebration in Two Years

The ceremony took place in Manger Square, outside the Church of the Nativity, drawing crowds of families, dignitaries, and visitors from across the occupied West Bank and Palestinian citizens of Israel.

Al Jazeera reporter Nour Odeh noted:
“I haven’t seen the square filled in quite a long time, and it was filled to the brim. Families were here, dignitaries, people who came from across the occupied West Bank and even Palestinian citizens of Israel.”

While Bethlehem’s tree lighting ceremonies are usually festive with music, dancing, and songs, this year’s event was subdued due to ongoing tensions. The two-hour program featured hymns and prayers for peace, reflecting the somber reality of the past two years.

---

Economic Crisis in Bethlehem

Bethlehem’s economy has been severely affected by ongoing Israeli restrictions and the decline of tourism:

• Hotels and businesses have struggled, with some forced to close
• Unemployment in the city has reached 34 percent
• Over 40 percent of residents are living in poverty

Local business owners expressed their challenges:
“Members of the family have moved to other countries just to keep living and support the others here. Of course, you can’t cover high expenses, high rent,” said Jack Gaccaman, a long-time local business owner.

Hotel owners report minimal guests over the past two years. Fares Banak, owner of Manger Hotel, stated:
“Some of them are just scraping by thanks to the occasional customer. Otherwise, here, it will be a disaster.”

---

Tourism Decline and Financial Losses

Bethlehem’s tourism has plummeted in recent years:

• The city experienced a 90 percent drop in visitors compared with two years ago
• Daily financial losses have averaged $1.5 million per day

The Christmas season in Bethlehem spans December 25 for Western Christians and January 6–7 for Armenian and Eastern Orthodox Christians, culminating with the tree coming down on January 20.

Despite the challenges, residents see the Christmas tree lighting as a symbol of hope and resilience.

---

A Glimmer of Hope Amid Hardship

Al Jazeera’s Odeh observed that the ceremony served a dual purpose:

• To bring joy to children and local families
• To signal to the world that Bethlehem is open for tourism, helping breathe life into the city’s struggling economy

With the city enduring near-daily attacks, restricted movement, and economic strain, even a subdued celebration provides a moment of unity and optimism for the residents.