LEHIGH VALLEY, Pa — As the Lehigh Valley slips into its holiday glow, the region’s three largest cities are rolling out the traditions that make this time of year feel unmistakably ours. Only here does the season officially begin with a 400-pound Peep and end with a parade to America’s first Christmas tree. Here are the celebrations worth bundling up for.
Bethlehem
PEEPSFEST® – New Year’s Peep Drop – Located at the SteelStacks, the two-day family festival celebrates New Year’s Eve with Peeps candy. The highlight is a 400-pound, 4’9″ Peeps chick dropped from the SteelStacks chimney at 5:35 p.m. on Dec. 30 and Dec. 31, followed by fireworks. The indoor/outdoor party (3:00–6:00 p.m. each day) also features live music, Peep-themed games and crafts and holiday treats.
Dates: Tuesday–Wednesday, Dec 30–31, 2025.
2025 Bethlehem Christmas Tree Lighting – Come see the festive ceremony on Bethlehem’s SouthSide at Payrow Plaza (10 E. Church St.) with carols, musicians, free hot chocolate and cookies and a chance to meet Santa…