City of Bethlehem announces World Heritage Community Celebration
Free September 6 block party will celebrate historic designation with music, food, and community activities
BETHLEHEM, PA, July 24, 2025 — Today, the City of Bethlehem, along with its Lehigh Valley partners, has announced the Moravian Church Settlements — Bethlehem World Heritage Community Celebration, a vibrant block party and neighborhood festival honoring our World Heritage designation.
The family-friendly event will take place on Saturday, September 6, 2025, from noon to 7 p.m. around Central Moravian Church (Church Green), Bethlehem City Hall (Payrow Plaza), Church Street, and Main Street.
Opening ceremony and World Heritage recognition
The celebration will kick off with an opening ceremony at Central Moravian Church (73 West Church Street), featuring the presentation of the World Heritage recognition plaque — officially marking this historic milestone for the community.
Throughout the day, visitors can explore the World Heritage Site and tour the nine locations that helped earn this prestigious international recognition.
Music and Community Lovefeast
Live music will be featured on multiple stages throughout the day, incorporating performances by local groups and performers, the Johnston Music Festival, Moravian Trombone Choir, Central Moravian Church Choir, and more.
The day will conclude with a Community Lovefeast at 5 p.m., hosted by the six Bethlehem Area Moravian Churches on the lower Church Green near Main Street. This traditional service is open to all and offers an opportunity to share a simple treat together with music, conversation, and community connection.
A free ice cream social will follow the Lovefeast, sponsored by the Bethlehem Area Moravian Churches. All are welcome to join this gathering that continues our community’s tradition of fellowship.
Historic demonstrations and activities
Historic demonstrations will transport visitors back in time with live displays of traditional Moravian crafts and industries. Interactive heritage talks and hands-on workshops will provide guests with opportunities to learn about Bethlehem’s rich history.
Food and festivities
Food trucks will serve local favorites alongside a special Moravian Sugar Cake Baking Contest, celebrating the community’s culinary traditions.
The block party atmosphere will feature street performers, children’s activities, and Lehigh Valley vendors, creating a festive marketplace experience. All day, Downtown Bethlehem merchants will be offering delicious food and drink specials along with exclusive celebration-themed offers to enjoy as part of the celebration.
A highlight of the program will be the unveiling of a commemorative mural at the walkway tunnel near the corner of Main and Church Streets. The community will also participate in a time capsule ceremony, preserving memories of this historic designation for future generations.
Volunteer opportunities
As we prepare for this special occasion, we are seeking dedicated volunteers to assist with event setup and teardown.
Your helping hands will ensure a smooth, festive day honoring our city’s remarkable history and its global recognition. Whether you can give an hour or a few, your support will make a meaningful difference.
To join the volunteer team, please contact Silagh White at swhite@bethlehem-pa.gov
Community partnership
This inclusive celebration represents a partnership between the City of Bethlehem, local faith communities, cultural organizations, and community partners committed to honoring and sharing Bethlehem’s unique place in world history to have a World Heritage Site.
About the Moravian Church Settlements World Heritage Site
Moravian Church Settlements was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in July 2024, and represents a remarkable example of urban planning guided by religious principles. The transnational property includes Bethlehem; Christiansfeld, Denmark; Herrnhut, Germany; and Gracehill, Northern Ireland, UK.
These communities feature distinctive architectural styles, communal buildings, and urban layouts that reflect the Moravian Church’s vision of creating communities dedicated to faith, education, and craftsmanship.
This site showcases exceptionally well-preserved examples of Moravian architecture and urban planning, including the 1741 Gemeinhaus (community house), the 1748 Single Sisters’ House, the 1762 Waterworks, America’s first municipal pumped water system, and the Second Single Brethren’s House.
WORLD HERITAGE COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
• When: Saturday, September 6, 2025, from noon to 7 p.m.
• Where: Central Moravian Church (Church Green), Bethlehem City Hall (Payrow Plaza), and Church and Main streets area
• How much: Free to attend and open to the public
• Volunteer opportunities: Silagh White swhite@bethlehem-pa.gov
• More information: moravianchurchsettlements.org