Bethlehem Celebrates Christmas After 2-Year Hiatus, Igniting Hope for Peace

As of November 16, 2025, the historic city of Bethlehem in the West Bank is preparing to welcome back Christmas celebrations after a two-year pause due to the war in Gaza. Bethlehem Mayor Maher Canawati has announced that the festivities will return, starting with a Christmas tree lighting in the famous Manger Square on December 6.

"From the heart of Bethlehem, the birthplace of Christ, the city of peace -- once again, we ignite the flame of hope and raise our prayers for peace," said the mayor in a video posted to Instagram. He added, "Let us celebrate together the message of Christmas. Glory to God in the highest -- on earth, peace, goodwill to all. Bethlehem keeps the light alive."

Robert Jeffress, senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas, told Fox News Digital that it is encouraging to see the "little town of Bethlehem" once again celebrating the birth of "the most important person in history." However, he cautioned that such peace is only temporary, as the Bible teaches that there will be no lasting peace in the Middle East until the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ, returns to earth to establish his kingdom.

In 2019, the mayor at the time, Anton Salman, had expected 1.4 million visitors for the Christmas festivities. The Church of the Nativity, built over the grotto traditionally identified as the birthplace of Jesus Christ, was also recently renovated in 2019.