BETHLEHEM, Pa. — As the Christmas City begins to sparkle for the holidays, Bethlehem will celebrate the grand opening of its new Walnut Street Parking Garage.
From Nov. 17–21, the City of Bethlehem, the Bethlehem Parking Authority and the Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce will host Walnut Week, a five-day celebration filled with community events, local business specials and the spirit of togetherness.
Mayor J. William Reynolds said the week will spotlight everything that makes Bethlehem special.
“Walnut Week is a week dedicated to small businesses, sustainability, smart growth, and more than anything else, getting people together here in the city of Bethlehem,” Reynolds said. “We will see you Monday, Nov. 17, as we start the next great thing for the city of Bethlehem.”
The festivities begin at 3:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 17, at the Walnut Street Garage, where city leaders will share details about the project’s impact on downtown parking and accessibility.
Tuesday, Nov. 18, features a collaboration with the Coalition for Appropriate Transportation (CAT) from 4 to 7 p.m. CAT will highlight its sustainable transportation efforts and showcase how the new facility enhances mobility options for residents and visitors.
“We are giving out 100 holiday bikes to families that are refurbished by our volunteers and staff at the CAT Bicycle Cooperative,” said Scott Slingerland with CAT. “We’re getting ready for our move to the new Walnut Street Garage.”
On Wednesday, Nov. 19, community members can head to the rooftop for “Oasis: Community Wellbeing,” a midday preview event celebrating wellness and community connection.
“We’re going to be having a rooftop gathering right up on the roof of the Walnut Street Parking Garage,” said Rachel Abbott of The Yoga Loft. “It’s going to be a really awesome community gathering.”
There will also be a hot tea tasting to keep attendees warm during the November weather.
The official “Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony” will take place at 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, featuring remarks from city officials, the Bethlehem Parking Authority and community partners.
“We’re excited to cut the ribbon on this exciting event,” said Steve Fernstrom with the Bethlehem Parking Authority. “It’s been a long two years, and we’re proud to have delivered this project on budget and on time for downtown.”
The week concludes at 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, with “Walkin’ on Walnut,” a celebration of local businesses along Walnut Street featuring specials and activities hosted by Steak and Steel Hibachi, Tavern at the Sun Inn and McCarthy’s Red Stag Pub and Whiskey Bar.
Tammy Wendling with the Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce said the timing couldn’t be better.
“The holidays are almost here, and we are so excited to kick off one of the best weeks here in the Christmas City with Walnut Week,” she said. “This entire street is going to be packed with people who are going to tell you what’s happening throughout the week and this season of joy in the historic district.”
For a full schedule of events, visit www.bethlehempa.org/walnut-week.
