As Bethlehem celebrates the return of vibrant Christmas festivities, the city exudes a unique blend of joy and resilience, reflecting both its cultural heritage and its steadfast spirit amidst ongoing challenges. This year, the rekindling of traditional celebrations takes on deeper meaning, serving as a poignant reminder of unity and hope among Palestinians during a time of adversity. The events unfolding in Manger Square invite not only locals but global visitors to join in a shared message of peace and perseverance.
Bethlehem, occupied West Bank – Manger Square and its surrounding alleyways resonated with the harmonious sounds of drums and brass as local scout troupes paraded in their immaculate uniforms, celebrating the Christmas season. Participants sang Christmas carols and showcased traditional Palestinian music, intertwining the celebration of this festive occasion with a strong expression of national identity.
The event, held on Christmas Eve, carried a particular significance, marking the first return to such vibrant festivities in two years. Among the attendees was Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, the highest-ranking Catholic official in Palestine and the broader region. “Here in Bethlehem, from where I send the Christmas message not only to Bethlehem but to the entire world, I have noticed the presence of light,” Pizzaballa stated. His message emphasized the hope and resilience depicted within the faces of those gathered.
In a show of solidarity, the Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem were previously suspended in 2023 and 2024 to support fellow Palestinians in Gaza, where devastating losses have been incurred. While a ceasefire that started in October has provided some respite, the harsh realities of ongoing military actions loom over the celebrations. Nonetheless, the festive atmosphere in Manger Square brought moments of joy, even as Israeli military raids continued, hampering freedom of movement for Palestinians.
Approximately 1,500 people, including both Palestinian residents and international visitors, participated in the Christmas festivities, which have come to symbolize Christian life in the region, despite the declining numbers of Christians in the West Bank due in part to various obstacles imposed by the occupation. George Zalloum, a Palestinian Christian, expressed a bittersweet sentiment about the celebrations. “Today’s atmosphere is half joy and half sadness, because we have brothers who are still dying in Gaza,” he remarked, adding a hopeful desire for peace.
Yet, the journey to Bethlehem for many was fraught with challenges. Palestinian attendees faced long and arduous waits at military checkpoints, underscoring the difficulties imposed by regulations in the region. Hussam Zraiqat, who traveled from Birzeit, recounted the cumbersome experience before finally reaching Manger Square. Conversely, for many, the experience of arriving was imbued with a rejuvenated spirit, evoking nostalgia and pride for their cultural heritage.
Mayor Maher Canawati highlighted the significance of the Manger Square celebrations beyond Bethlehem, asserting, “Bethlehem’s message today is one of steadfastness and hope for the people of the city, for Gaza, and for all of Palestine.” He illustrated the beginnings of economic recovery in the city, with hospitality sectors reopening after prolonged stagnation.
Elias al-Arja, of the Palestinian Hotel Association, reported a significant uptick in hotel occupancy, which had dropped to 25% earlier in the year, with the recent festive season bringing occupancy rates up to 80% thanks to around 8,000 visitors. The renewed Christmas celebrations were a boost to the local economy, and foreign tourists also expressed their appreciation for the vibrant atmosphere.
Tourist Dwayne Jefferson from North Carolina remarked, “It is a positive experience and opens the door to the possibility that this entire region can return to a state of normal life,” while Italian tourist Jean Charles echoed sentiments of collective joy.
In this complex landscape of celebration and resilience, local businesses expressed cautious optimism after experiencing a slow economic rebound. George Ejha, a restaurant owner who recently reopened, reflected on the challenge of sustaining operations during tumultuous times. Similarly, shop owners described a desire for increased foot traffic that would reflect the city’s readiness to welcome visitors and pilgrims once more.
As Bethlehem revels in the warmth of the holiday spirit, it remains a symbol of hope and endurance, radiating a message that reverberates beyond its borders.
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