An older couple is bundled up with their scarves double wrapped around their necks. It's chilly and brisk as they look at the fanciful knitted animal hats at Girlfriend's Boutique's hut. They try them on and laugh for a second before moseying down past more huts, each time stopping to see what's inside, to say hello, to enjoy their day.
The couple, like many others on this early December morning, are probably Christmas shopping. However, they are doing so at local vendors, at their own pace, and in one of the most beautiful locales possible.
The Christmas City Village in downtown Bethlehem isn't your ordinary Christmas shopping destination, nor is it your ordinary "craft fair" type event, either. More than 30 huts dot the area adjacent to The Sun Inn and behind it, in The Sun Inn Courtyard. Made in the image of a German Weihnachtsmarkt, the quaint, strolling feel to the event is in direct contrast to the hustle and bustle in some other more "commercialized" stores during the holiday season.
There is no rush. You're encouraged to stop and smell the Scentsy.
There will be a collection of different unique vendors each weekend. Each weekend will bring in a different variety, so be sure to visit the Village to see what is being offered each weekend.
From wood carvings to soap, from wreaths to pottery, from decorations to linens, each hut has it's own personality. The Christmas City Village is nearly everything that is "right" about shopping during the holidays during a time where people are becoming more and more estranged from big box stores.
So, stop down this holiday season and enjoy the local wares, demonstrations and hot mulled wine.
We forgot to mention the hot mulled wine. (See a full list of vendors below the gallery)
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