Bethlehem is preparing to unveil its newest landmark with a celebration that coincides with the city’s transformation into the Christmas City.
Walnut Week, running Nov. 17-21, marks the grand opening of the Walnut Street Garage with five days of community events.
The Bethlehem Parking Authority, City of Bethlehem, and the Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce are jointly hosting the week-long celebration centered around the new garage, which officials describe as “a project years in the making that enhances accessibility, walkability, and connection throughout our business districts.”
The festivities begin Monday, Nov. 17, with a 3:30 p.m. kickoff press conference at the garage. City and parking officials will unveil new holiday initiatives and showcase lighting projects illuminating downtown this season.
Tuesday’s event features the Coalition for Appropriate Transportation (CAT) distributing 100 refurbished bikes to local families from 4-7 p.m. on the sidewalk outside the garage.
On Wednesday, the garage’s rooftop transforms into a wellness space from noon to 1:30 p.m. for the Oasis Preview Event, featuring a yoga and strength fusion class, pop-up tea bar, chair massages, and giveaways. Local partners include The Yoga Loft, BoomFit Strength Club, SimpliciTea & Co., and Sightless Therapeutic Massage.
The official ribbon cutting takes place Thursday at 4 p.m., hosted by the Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce alongside the parking authority and city.
Walnut Week concludes Friday with “Walking on Walnut” from 5-7 p.m., celebrating area businesses with food, drinks, and special promotions at participating merchants including Steak & Steel Hibachi, McCarthy’s Red Stag Pub & Whiskey Bar, and The Tavern at the Sun Inn. The event coincides with opening night of the Christmas City Village in the Sun Inn Courtyard.
The celebration comes as Bethlehem prepares for its Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and other holiday festivities.
Bethlehem City Council adopted the Bethlehem Historical and Architectural Review Board’s recommendation to demolish the 1976 parking garage structure on the site in 2023.
Construction of the new garage started in September 2024.
Generative AI was used to organize information for this story, based on data provided by the City of Bethlehem. It was reviewed and edited by lehighvalleylive.com staff.
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