Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Bethlehem is located in southeast Pennsylvania, a few miles east of Allentown and 69 miles (111 kilometers) north of Philadelphia. The city straddles the border between Northampton County and Lehigh County, and is home to 71,329 people.

The community was founded by a group of Moravians on Christmas Eve, 1741, and named after the birthplace of Jesus Christ. Heavy industry and trade played a huge part in the city's history and economy. The Bethlehem Steel Corporation was a major employer from 1904 to 1995, and supplied the nation with its first "I-beam," as well as armor plates during both World Wars. Today, Bethlehem is the second largest community in the Lehigh Valley, and offers many attractions for visitors and residents alike.

Historic sites include the Moravian Museum of Bethlehem, which is the oldest building in the city, and tells the story of its founders and the community's early days. Also visit Burnside Plantation to learn about agricultural life in the 1700s and 1800s, and the Colonial Industrial Quarter to see 18th century smithies, water pumps, and other relics from America's first industrial park. Other attractions include the historic Goundie House and the Kemerer Museum of Decorative Arts.

Bethlehem's music scene features the Bach Choir of Bethlehem (the oldest Bach choir in America), the Concord Chamber Singers, and the Bethlehem Opera Theatre. Other performing arts groups include the Ballet Guild of the Lehigh Valley, Touchstone Theatre, the Pennsylvania Youth Theatre, and Pennsylvania Playhouse, as well as performing and fine art departments in each of the city's universities and colleges.

For some outdoor fun, tee off at a local golf course or go fly fishing in one of the area's many creeks and lakes. In the summer, head to Dutch Springs for scuba diving, boating, and a welcome escape from the heat. In the winter, drive to nearby Bear Creek Mountain Resort or Blue Mountain Ski Area for skiing and snowboarding adventures.

Each August, more than 300 performers arrive in Bethlehem for Musikfest, a celebration of American music in all its forms. In addition to fantastic concerts, the event also features food vendors, children's activities, and a closing night fireworks display. Christmas is a truly special time in Bethlehem, "Christmas City, USA." Events include the Nazareth to Bethlehem Peace Pilgrimage, historic walking tours, and the lighting of the 81-foot-high (25-meter-high) electric "Star of Bethlehem" on South Mountain.

Historic and charming, Bethlehem is a city unlike any other!

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