Christkindlmarkt set an attendance record once again this year, ArtsQuest announced Monday.
The organization said in a news release that the annual Christmas market held in South Side Bethlehem saw a record number of shoppers — 128,384 — during the six weekends between Nov. 15 and Dec. 22.
The market, which had 180 vendors, drew shoppers from 40 states, Canada, Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C., according to a news release. This season was the market’s 32nd year.
Free Fridays, which allowed shoppers into the market for free 5-8 p.m. Fridays, accounted for 17,501 guests.
Last year, the 2023 version of the market also set a record , drawing just over 117,500 people, organizers said.
ArtsQuest noted there were 15 new vendors this year. Experiences such as the Sip N’ Shop, the Glass Blowing Experience and Breakfast with St. Nick also were big hits with guests this year, according to organizers.
“This unique holiday shopping experience … supports so many small businesses, area restaurants and hotels throughout Christmas City and the entire Lehigh Valley,” Kassie Hilgert, ArtsQuest President and CEO, said in the release. “ … We look forward to this festive event each year and welcoming families to all of the holiday programming and events taking place throughout the campus.”