BETHLEHEM, Pa. — With Hanukkah falling on Christmas Day this year for the first time in almost two decades, maybe it was written in the stars for the 2024 Lighting of Unity and Hanukkah celebration to be something quite special in Bethlehem.
On Thursday, about 70 people crowded the upper area of Payrow Plaza near City Hall for a festive menorah lighting — complemented by some fellowship, a bit of holiday spirit, a huge firetruck and even gold foil-covered chocolate coins raining from the sky.
It’s a tranquil, breezy evening in Center City Bethlehem for the 2024 Lighting of Unity and Hanukkah celebration. Story to come! @LVNewsdotcompic.twitter.com/TeVxt286Nj
— LVN Will Oliver (@LVN_WillOliver) December 27, 2024
A delighted Rabbi Michael Singer, of Congregation Brith Sholom in Bethlehem, beckoned a crowd of people over to refreshments nearby. The spread included latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly-filled donuts)…