Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem, the Christmas marketplace modeled after the traditional European markets, is quickly becoming one of the premier holiday festivals in the United States. In 2004, the event doubled its revenue support of the Banana Factory arts center and gallery, while attracting tens of thousands to Bethlehem for the holiday season.

Visitors to Christkindlmarkt came out in droves, thanks to the gentle late fall weather. When all was said and done, the event had its second best attendance ever. In keeping with its traditions of celebrating both the holidays and fine arts and crafts, the holiday market featured some of the finest artisans in the country – more than 125 in all – as well as a wealth of live holiday music, great ethnic foods, an array of holiday decorations and gifts and jolly, old St. Nicholas.

Kathe Wohlfahrt, which annually showcases its amazing array of authentic German holiday ornaments, was once again a big hit with shoppers attending the 18-day event. By increasing the number of specialty retailers who have national brands, Christkindlmarkt has further enhanced Bethlehem’s Christmas City experience.

ArtsQuest also presented the second year of “Christmas with the von Trapp Children” concerts in Allentown, extending the benefits of holiday tourism to Bethlehem’s next door neighbor, while bringing more than 8,000 people, including more than 150 motor coaches, to the Queen City.