Bethlehem Celebrates Christmas Tree Lighting with Optimism for Economic Recovery

The holiday season in Bethlehem, a city steeped in religious significance for Christians, is taking on new meaning this year as the community celebrated the lighting of its Christmas tree for the first time in three years. After enduring significant challenges due to ongoing conflict and economic hardship, this event marks a hopeful revival, not only for the local population but also potentially for tourism in the region. As Bethlehem opens its arms once again to visitors, it symbolizes resilience and renewed spirit amid adversity.

In a year marked by immense challenges for Palestinians in Bethlehem, the lighting of the Christmas tree in Manger Square offered a moment of joy and hope. After two years of cancellation of public Christmas celebrations due to ongoing conflict and economic constraints, this year’s event on Saturday drew an eager crowd eager to embrace the spirit of the season.

The ceremony, which took place outside the Church of the Nativity, drew families, dignitaries, and visitors from across the occupied territories and within Palestinian communities in Israel. Al Jazeera journalist Nour Odeh, reporting from the square, noted the vibrant atmosphere that had been absent for many years. She remarked how refreshing it was to see the square filled with people, signifying a revival of community spirit. However, even as this year’s celebration offered a welcomed reprieve, it was noted that the festivities were more subdued than usual, featuring mainly hymns and prayers for peace, reflecting the somber backdrop against which the holiday is being celebrated.

Bethlehem, a historically significant city believed to be the birthplace of Jesus, has been grappling with a debilitating economic crisis exacerbated by strict Israeli restrictions that hinder its connectivity to the global economy. Local businesses, many of which have existed for generations, are struggling to survive. Palestinian shopkeeper Jack Gaccaman explained how families have been forced to migrate in search of better opportunities, an issue that echoes throughout the community as many attempt to manage rising costs, including high rents.

Hotels in the area, like the Manger Hotel located a stone’s throw from the Church, have seen a dramatic drop in visitors. Owner Fares Banak expressed concern over the diminished tourist flow, noting that without travelers, businesses face impending disaster. Samir Hazboun, a representative from the Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce, revealed stark statistics: unemployment has surged to 34 percent, while over 40 percent of residents live below the poverty line.

The city’s tourism numbers paint a bleak picture, with a staggering 90 percent drop in visitor levels compared to pre-conflict times. The economic losses have amounted to approximately .5 million per day.

Despite the subdued nature of this year’s Christmas tree lighting, it also presents an opportunity for Bethlehem to showcase its resilience. The extended Christmas season, which commemorates significant dates on December 25 and in early January for Eastern Orthodox Christians, allows Bethlehem to convey a message of hope and hospitality. For the local community, the event symbolizes a chance to offer joy to children and signal to the world that Bethlehem is ready to welcome back tourists, keen on reviving its economy.

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