LEHIGH VALLEY, Pa — As the Lehigh Valley slips into its holiday glow, the region’s three largest cities are rolling out the traditions that make this time of year feel unmistakably ours. Only here does the season officially begin with a 400-pound Peep and end with a parade to America’s first Christmas tree. Here are the celebrations worth bundling up for.
Bethlehem
PEEPSFEST® – New Year’s Peep Drop – Located at the SteelStacks, the two-day family festival celebrates New Year’s Eve with Peeps candy. The highlight is a 400-pound, 4’9″ Peeps chick dropped from the SteelStacks chimney at 5:35 p.m. on Dec. 30 and Dec. 31, followed by fireworks. The indoor/outdoor party (3:00–6:00 p.m. each day) also features live music, Peep-themed games and crafts and holiday treats.
Dates: Tuesday–Wednesday, Dec 30–31, 2025.
2025 Bethlehem Christmas Tree Lighting – Come see the festive ceremony on Bethlehem’s SouthSide at Payrow Plaza (10 E. Church St.) with carols, musicians, free hot chocolate and cookies and a chance to meet Santa.
Date/Time: Thursday, Nov. 28, 4:30–5:30 p.m.
Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem – At the PNC Plaza at SteelStacks (645 E. First St., Bethlehem), Bethlehem’s famous Christmas market features dozens of wooden vendors selling handmade gifts, ornaments and holiday treats, plus appearances by St. Nicholas and holiday entertainment.
Dates/Hours: Thursday–Sunday, Nov. 14–Dec. 21; hours vary (e.g. Fridays/Sundays 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sat 10 p.m.–8 p.m.)
Live Advent Calendar – A unique Bethlehem tradition (the only “live” Advent calendar in the US) held nightly in December. At the Goundie House (501 Main St.) each evening from Dec. 1-23 at 5:30 p.m. a new visitor knocks on the house door to receive a surprise gift or performance from local businesses.
Dates/Time: Daily Dec. 1–23 at 5:30 p.m.
Christmas City Village – An outdoor holiday shopping market along historic Main Street. Dozens of local vendors in festive booths offer handcrafted crafts and gifts, bringing a German Weihnachtsmarkt feel to the “Christmas City”
Dates/Hours: Friday–Sunday, Nov. 14–Dec 21. (varied hours)
Allentown
Allentown Holiday Tree Lighting – A free evening festival in Allentown Arts Park featuring live holiday music, fire pits with s’mores, children’s activities and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. As night falls, the city’s official tree will be illuminated with festive lights.
Date/Time: Saturday, Dec. 6, 4:00-6:00 p.m.
Lights in the Parkway – At the Lehigh Parkway, a long-running drive-through light display will transform the space into a winter wonderland. Enjoy tens of thousands of twinkling lights and animated holiday scenes from the warmth of your vehicle.
Dates/Times: Runs nightly from Friday, Nov. 28 – Tuesday, Jan. 6, 5:30-10:00 p.m.; closed on Christmas Eve/Day and New Year’s Eve/Day
Easton
Easton Peace Candle Lighting – In Centre Square, come see the famous Easton tradition of lighting the 75-foot Peace Candle, symbolizing hope and unity. This culminates a full day of festivities (including an artisan market and live music) in downtown Easton
Date/Time: Saturday, Nov. 29; Peace Candle lit at 6:30 p.m. (activities run 12:00–8:00 p.m.)
Easton Winter Village – Also located in Centre Square, this is a free, open-air holiday market in downtown Easton. More than 30 local artisans set up booths around the Winter Garden, with festive decorations and a holiday lounge with fire pits. Come by to see live music, Santa visits and holiday movie screenings.
Dates/Hours: Fri.–Sun., Nov. 28–Dec 21. (Fridays 4:00–8:00 p.m., Saturdays 12:00–8:00 p.m., Sundays 12:00–5:00 p.m.)
Parade to America’s First Christmas Tree – This family-friendly parade takes its guests from Centre Square to Scott Park, ending with the lighting of America’s first Christmas tree (an annual Easton tradition). Bands and performers lead the procession through Center City.
Date/Time: Thursday, Nov. 28, 6:00–7:00 p.m.