BETHLEHEM, West Bank – Bethlehem, revered as the birthplace of Jesus, lit up a giant Christmas tree on Saturday for the first time since 2022. The 20-metre tree, adorned with red and gold baubles, was illuminated at the edge of Manger Square in a ceremony attended by thousands of Palestinians from across the West Bank and Israel.
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The public celebration comes as a precarious ceasefire in Gaza enters its second month, allowing the city to cautiously resume holiday traditions. “We came to celebrate, watch and enjoy, because for several years we haven’t had the chance,” said Randa Bsoul, a 67-year-old visitor from Haifa, Israel.
Bethlehem lights its Christmas tree in Nativity Square for the first time since the Gaza war, as residents pray for peace and hope the city can once again welcome pilgrims and tourists during the holiday season.#Bethlehem #Christmas pic.twitter.com/2gSpCJ2VCB
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Bethlehem has suffered economically and emotionally from the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Tourism, a major source of income, has dwindled, while Israeli military checkpoints and restrictions have hampered daily life. “The past two years have been like hell,” a local shopkeeper said, describing worsening conditions and economic hardship.
Mayor Maher Canawati acknowledged the pain endured by Gazans during the celebrations. “The wound of Gaza is our wound, and the people of Gaza are our people,” he said, stressing that the lights of Christmas are meaningful only when shared with those suffering.
Despite the challenges, residents expressed hope that the holiday season could signal a path toward peace. Some noted the ceremony was more subdued than pre-war celebrations, with no fireworks, reflecting both caution and longing for stability. “We are looking for hope… that peace will prevail,” said Diana Babush, a Bethlehem resident.
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The lighting of the tree brought a rare moment of joy amid lingering uncertainty, symbolizing resilience and the community’s desire for peace and renewal in a region deeply scarred by conflict.