Bethlehem Revives Christmas Spirit Amid Ongoing Strife

Sat Dec 20 2025 15:41:24 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

For the first time since the onset of the Gaza war, Bethlehem lights its iconic Christmas tree, signaling a return to festive celebrations amidst ongoing regional challenges.

In a poignant moment for both locals and visitors, Bethlehem illuminated its traditional Christmas tree for the first time since the Gaza war. Mayor Maher Canawati emphasized the importance of resuming holiday celebrations despite the ongoing suffering in Gaza, highlighting a profound desire for hope and tourism revival. While locals embrace the festivities, economic challenges still loom large in the West Bank, underscoring the bittersweet nature of this year's celebrations.

For two years during the Gaza war, all public Christmas celebrations were cancelled in Bethlehem, the site revered as the birthplace of Jesus Christ. However, following a recent ceasefire, the city chose to revive its festivities, commencing with the lighting of the symbolic giant Christmas tree in front of the Nativity Church.

Mayor Maher Canawati articulated the significance of restarting the celebrations: It's been a bad two years of silence; no Christmas, no jobs, no work. We’re all living here from tourism, and tourism was down to zero. Despite the joy of the festivities, the mayor acknowledged the mixed feelings surrounding the decision, given the ongoing suffering particularly affecting the Christian community in Gaza, many of whom have relatives in Bethlehem.

Some may say it's not appropriate and others say it's appropriate, he remarked, yet he felt compelled to bring back the celebration as Christmas should never be stopped or cancelled. This is the light of hope for us. The giant tree, adorned with red and gold decorations, drew locals and tourists alike, eager to capture the moment.

Brightly colored lights now brighten the streets of Bethlehem, with advertisements for Christmas bazaars and children's parties filling the air with festive cheer. Locals like jewellery designer Nadya Hazboun expressed joy over the resumption of celebrations, noting, This is where it all started, so this is where we can send the message to the world of what really Christmas should be about. Nearby towns like Beit Jala and Beit Sahour are also set to light their Christmas trees, hoping for a return of festive tourism.

However, significant economic challenges persist. With soaring unemployment rates in Bethlehem, many families face an austere holiday season, struggling even to afford traditional treats like falafel. Local business owners, including Alaa Salameh of Afteem restaurant, hope that the return of tourism will breathe life back into the struggling city.

As Bethlehem celebrates, its residents remain hopeful for peace and welcome the return of tourists to the place that symbolizes the true spirit of Christmas.