BETHLEHEM, CT (WFSB) – The Bethlehem Post Office said it is expecting to mail thousands of letters and cards this holiday season from people hoping to send their loved ones something extra special: a postmark from Bethlehem.<\/p>\n
The Christmas tradition has been drawing visitors since the 1940s, with folks from across the country coming to mark their mail and send letters from the Connecticut town.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ve been writing and mailing Christmas cards now for many many years,\u201d said Sandy Booth, a Bethlehem native.<\/p>\n
Free holiday ink stamps available through New Year<\/p>\n
Visitors can sign their name in a guest book at the entrance and choose from 91 Christmas-themed ink stamps set out on tables. The stamps can be dipped in green ink and pressed onto mail for free from now until Jan. 1.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt puts a little extra on the card kind of like the icing on the cake, or the cherry on top considering the story of Jesus being born in Bethlehem,\u201d said Lisa Deford, a Woodbury resident.<\/p>\n
One visitor said they brought 41 cards to be stamped at the post office.<\/p>\n
USPS urges early shipping<\/p>\n
USPS officials are encouraging people to ship early to ensure holiday delivery. Amy Gibbs, a USPS spokesperson, said first class mail and ground advantage should be sent by Dec. 17, priority mail by Dec. 18, and priority express by Dec. 20 for last-minute shipments.<\/p>\n
An Ellington couple said they traveled about an hour just to mail their stack of cards at the Bethlehem location.<\/p>\n
Bethlehem natives continue to return to their \u201cChristmas Town\u201d decades later, not only to send something special but to experience the holiday spirit the post office brings.<\/p>\n
\u201cI love bringing smiles to faces. I still believe in Santa and I\u2019m not going to grow up,\u201d said Warner Voelpert, a Bethlehem native.<\/p>\n
Extended holiday hours<\/p>\n
The post office said it is offering extended hours from now until Christmas Day.<\/p>\n
During the week, doors will open as early as 6 a.m. and stay open with no midday closures. On Saturdays, the post office will remain open until 3 p.m. to help get holiday mail delivered.<\/p>\n
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