The Home News

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By KERI LINDENMUTH
While Black Friday may get all the ads and attention, Small Business Saturday (traditionally the Saturday following Thanksgiving and Black Friday) has grown into one of the busiest shopping days of the year for local businesses. As we celebrate the 15th anniversary of Small Business Saturday this Nov. 29, take some time to explore all the Lehigh Valley and surrounding areas have to offer.
The Lehigh Valley Bethlehem
From “Most Charming” to “Best Main Street” to, most recently, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bethlehem has constantly been recognized as a must-visit destination for tourists worldwide. The Christmas City’s North Side boasts a postcard-worthy Main
Street lined with fine restaurants, boutiques and galleries, and historic sites.
You can start your Small Business Saturday by visiting one of the several brunch spots that line Main or Broad streets, before browsing a series of local specialty stores selling everything from imported Irish and French goods to jewelry, spices and even silly socks. Those with a sweet tooth won’t have to walk too far to find a tasty treat, with their choice of ice cream, popcorn and pastry shops to choose from.
The Christmas City Village is also open on weekends in the Sun Inn Courtyard. At the Historic Bethlehem Museum & Sites, you can also shop for more local gifts and sign up for seasonal tours.
Easton
The City of Easton may not share Bethlehem’s Christmas City nickname, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t share its Hallmark-movie charm. The Easton Winter Village, featuring local artisans and food vendors, will kick off in the city’s circle on Nov. 28. Explore the cozy Christmas village before venturing along Northampton Street or Third Street, where you’ll find no shortage of art shops, galleries and antique stores.
Hungry for lunch? The Easton Public Market is one of the Lehigh Valley’s only indoor downtown dining halls. There’s something for every taste bud, from pizza and BBQ to ramen and crepes.
Nazareth



Finally, if you were charmed by Bethlehem and the city’s Moravian history, Nazareth should be another stop on your Small Business Saturday spree. The small town has plenty to offer shoppers, starting with a Small Business Saturday kick-off at a special edition of the Nazareth Farmers Market.
The market, which is held in the town’s scenic
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Outside the Lehigh Valley
If you’re looking for more history, shopping, arts and culture, the following nearby towns will give you plenty of holiday cheer, and are all within a 1- to 2-hour drive!

circle, will feature fresh produce and baked goods, along with other special wares from local businesses and vendors. After the market, visitors can explore the borough’s downtown shopping along Main, Broad and Belvidere streets. And like Bethlehem, Nazareth’s Moravian Historical Society also offers educational tours and a museum gift shop where you can learn more about the Moravians and their holiday
• Jim Thorpe may be known for its fall foliage, but the historic town still has plenty of charm to offer during the holiday season. And winter is a great time to visit if you want to avoid the fall crowds!
• Stroudsburg is the perfect spot if you find yourself exploring the winter wonderland of the Poconos. Warm up in one of the town’s many shops, restaurants or theaters.
• Lititz in Lancaster County features a unique blend of fine dining, local galleries and whimsical gift shops. For those with a sweet tooth, it’s also the home of Wilbur Chocolate.
• New Hope’s history as an art colony still shines through today, with its unique galleries and gift shops. Nearby Peddler’s Village also features more small businesses and boutiques.
Remember, while Small Business Saturday is just one day, it shouldn’t be the only day you shop small. Throughout the holiday season and beyond, take time to explore the unique treasures and tastes your own backyard has to offer.








By KERI LINDENMUTH
This holiday season, as you adorn your windows with candles, set out your Nativity scene, or hang your illuminated pointed star from your front porch, have you ever wondered where these holiday traditions came from? As we celebrate the Christmas season here in the Lehigh Valley, it’s very likely that several of the holiday traditions you have come to love were brought here by the Moravians.
The Moravians arrived in Nazareth in 1740 and, later, Bethlehem in 1741, where the city was given its name on Christmas Eve of that year. Over the next several hundred years, the Moravians shaped the history and traditions of the Lehigh Valley, giving us many of the sites, names and institutions we see across the area today.
On Saturday, Dec. 13 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., you can explore some of these traditions yourself at Christmas in Nazareth, hosted by the Moravian Historical Society and the Nazareth Area Chamber of Commerce.

Breakfast with Santa & Mrs. Claus



The Christmas Putz
As told by Susan Ellis, executive director of the Moravian Historical Society in Nazareth, the Moravian Christmas putz is a miniature landscape display telling the story of the Nativity, prior to, during, and following the birth of Jesus. The term "putz" was derived from the German verb putzen, which means "to clean" or "to decorate."

Traditionally, an entire family joined together to decorate their putz with wintergreens, moss, bark and other natural trimmings, before placing their miniature scenes. Then, families would go putzing and view their neighbor’s displays.
This was a very popular tradition in Nazareth! In fact, one Nazareth resident, Jennie Trein, became a “local legend” for her putz displays, said Ellis.
Starting in 1908, Trein began her first putz in her






home on Center Street and continued the tradition for the next 60 years. Every year, her putz changed and grew more elaborate, with over 500 handmade pieces, along with lights, sound and even narration. It took visitors about 40 minutes to view the entire putz. Over the years, Trein created 63 putzes and welcomed 50,000 visitors to her home!
The Moravian Star
“The Moravian Star originated in Germany in the 1830s. As the story goes, a teacher developed a craft project to help demonstrate geometry lessons to young boys attending a Moravian school,” explained Ellis. “Using paper, they created beautiful star shapes, which the students used as lanterns for Christmas decorations.”
A tradition was born, as the stars became a staple in Moravian boarding schools, homes and churches during the Advent and Christmas season.
Mass production of the star began in the 1900s in Germany, which is how its familiarity grew around the world, especially in areas where the Moravian Church had settled. Today, as Ellis explains, the star’s display is not limited by religious or seasonal associa-

tions, which is why you may see the star adorning historic Bethlehem or Nazareth homes year-round.
Moravian Holiday Traditions
With hundreds of years of history here in the Lehigh Valley, the Moravians have shaped how many of us celebrate the holiday season. To learn more about the Lehigh Valley’s Moravian history, Christmas in Nazareth will offer the chance to experience the Moravian holiday heritage firsthand.
The townwide celebration of Christmas in Nazareth will be held Saturday, Dec. 13 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. At the historical society, 214 E. Center St., visitors can see a Moravian Putz display in the 1740 Gray Cottage, (for young visitors) make a handdipped candle, and even shop a variety of Moravian stars, including the original Herrnhutter Moravian star imported from Germany. Historic downtown Nazareth will also be filled with holiday cheer, featuring live reindeer, roaming holiday characters, local vendors, food trucks, business specials and more. The very popular Elf Trail will also be featured, where you can visit participating stops, get your passport stamped and be entered to win prizes.
Last, don’t forget to visit Vendor Alley in the Nazareth YMCA lot, along with the farmers market and other festive stops throughout town.



By HOME NEWS STAFF
To make the holiday shopping season a little easier and a little less stressful this year, consider staying organized with a go-to gift guide for each person on your list.
Shopping by personality/interest
For the Host/Hostess: Gifts like a high-quality olive oil, an artisanal cheese board or a unique bar cart accessory.
For the True Crime Lover: Consider books, puzzle games or unique decor inspired by their favorite mysteries.
For the Movie Lover: A subscription to a streaming service, a luxury popcorn set or a high-quality blanket for cozy nights in.
For the Beauty Enthusiast: Look for advent calendars, high-end skincare sets or a popular makeup product.
For the Tech Enthusiast: New gadgets, smart home devices or useful tech accessories like charging stations or noise-canceling headphones.
For the Person Who Has Everything: Think about unique or personalized items, a luxury version of something they use daily or a curated experience.
Shopping by recipient
For Her: Gifts like jewelry, beauty products, cozy sweaters or stylish accessories.
For Him: Options include high-quality grooming products, tech gadgets, barware or a stylish sweater.
For Kids: This can include creative kits, popular toys, books or advent calendars tailored to their interests.
For Grandparents: Consider cozy items like a cashmere wrap, comfortable slippers or a photo album filled with family pictures.
For the Host: Think about gifts they can use for their home, such as a nice bottle of wine, a gourmet food basket or a decorative item.
The Five Gift Rule

As an alternative for coming up with gift ideas, select five gifts that fall into these categories: something they want, something they need, something to wear, something to read and something for an experience.
Stocking Stuffers
Small, thoughtful gifts are perfect for filling stockings. This could include a gourmet chocolate, a unique pair of socks or a fun beauty product.
By SAVANNAH BROWN
As the holiday season arrives, shoppers across the Lehigh Valley are also choosing the kind of meaningful gifts that just can’t fit under the tree this year. Experiences such as cooking classes, winery tastings, escape rooms, museum memberships and local attraction passes are now among the most sought-after presents. They offer shared memories, support local businesses and encourage recipients to explore their community in a memorable way.
For anyone looking to find something special to gift their loved ones, the Valley’s offerings go far beyond the big-city staples, with options spanning Bethlehem, Easton, Allentown and the region’s smaller towns and townships.
Cooking classes and hands-on workshops remain popular. Northampton Community College’s culinary program in Bethlehem offers certificates for classes ranging from artisan bread-making to international cuisine. The Banana Factory in Bethlehem provides pottery, glassblowing, jewelry-making and painting experiences. In Nazareth, The Art Den offers open

studio nights and workshops to draw families and friend groups for seasonal art nights, movies and more.
For adults who enjoy wine, cider or craft beer, the Lehigh Valley’s tasting rooms offer unique, giftable experiences. Blue Mountain Vineyards in New Tripoli and Clover Hill Vineyards in Breinigsville offer tasting flights and scenic views, while Birthright Brewing and Nazareth Brew Co. in Nazareth offer beer brewed on-site and facility tours. Eight Oaks Farm Distillery in New Tripoli provides tours, hand-crafted cocktails, flights and more. In smaller municipalities, local vineyards and farm breweries often host seasonal tastings and holiday-themed events, providing cozy, intimate outings for couples or small groups.
Families and thrill-seekers have plenty of options as well. Escape rooms such as Captured LV in Bethlehem make great outings for teens, coworkers, friends or extended family members. Memberships to local attractions like the Da Vinci Science Center in Allentown, America On Wheels Museum in Allentown, the National Museum of Industrial History and Kemerer Museum of Decorative Arts in Bethlehem, the Sigal Museum in Easton and the Lehigh Valley Zoo in Schnecksville offer year-round educational and entertaining fun. Even small township recreation centers and local mini-golf or trampoline parks in

the area sell gift certificates that make thoughtful, budget-friendly stocking stuffers.
Wellness and self-care experiences are also popular gifts. Local spas, including Hand & Stone (locations near Bethlehem, Nazareth and Allen Township) and Herbs to Your Success in Nazareth offer massage and other spa services, while Kula Heart Yoga and Wellness, LLC in Bath offers yoga classes every day of the week besides Sunday, many different types of massage, reiki and reflexology. These gifts allow recipients to enjoy a relaxing break during the busy holiday season.
Holiday festivities across the Valley make excellent experience gifts for children, families and couples. Bethlehem’s Christkindlmarkt and Christmas City Village feature wooden market huts, live music, artisan crafts and hot cocoa—a festive outing for all ages.
In Nazareth, the annual Christmas in Nazareth celebration includes carriage rides, children’s crafts, live music, visits with Santa and the town’s historic Moravian putz display. Smaller municipalities host their own cozy holiday gatherings, like Bath’s Christmas on Chestnut Street on Dec. 13, Northampton’s Cinnamon & Spice Christmas Market at St. John’s UCC Howertown from Nov. 26- Nov. 29, and the
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and more! 610.759.7509
515 Mauch Chunk St., Nazareth


tree-lighting ceremonies and festivities with Santa spread all throughout the Valley.
Couples can find romance and holiday charm in intimate Lehigh Valley experiences. Candlelight Christmas tours in Bethlehem and Bath, wine-andcheese nights at local vineyards, cozy brewery tours or evening walks through lit-up town squares create memorable outings. Smaller municipalities often host seasonal concerts, craft nights, or holiday-themed performances at local schools, churches and community centers—perfect for quiet, festive date nights.
Gifts that provide experiences have a lasting appeal because they create memories, foster connections and encourage exploration. Even as material items can be forgotten, these outings become stories, photos and traditions—moments remembered for years. Whether it’s a carriage ride in Bethlehem, a winter festival in Nazareth, strolling Historic Chestnut Street in Bath while eating roasted chestnuts and listening to Christmas carolers, or a museum membership in Easton, experience-based gifts capture the spirit of the season and the heart of the Lehigh Valley.

By SAVANNAH BROWN
The holidays are a time of celebration, reflection and connection—and for many, the heart of it all is the kitchen. Holiday cooking is more than just preparing meals; it’s an opportunity to create memories, share traditions and infuse everyday moments with warmth and flavor.
Every holiday comes with its own culinary rituals. From roasting a golden turkey for Thanksgiving to baking gingerbread cookies at Christmas, these recipes often carry stories from generation to generation. For many families, certain dishes symbolize more than just food—they represent heritage, memories and the love of those who came before.
Holidays are the perfect excuse to get creative in the kitchen. Classic recipes can be reinvented with new flavors, like adding citrus zest to a traditional cake or experimenting with exotic spices in a stew. Baking and cooking also offer a sensory experience as the scent of cinnamon and cloves, the sound of crackling ovens and the sight of beautifully decorated cookies all contribute to the magic of the season.
Holiday cooking often brings people together. Families gather to chop, stir and taste, sharing laughter and conversation as dishes come to life. Friends may host potlucks, cookie swaps or collaborative baking sessions, turning food preparation into a social event.
Cooking also provides a way to include everyone in the festivities. Children can help with decorating cookies, stirring batter or setting the table. Friends and extended family can contribute their favorite dishes, creating a diverse and abundant holiday spread.
Cooking for charity or community events also turns holiday meals into acts of generosity, bringing joy to others while sharing one of life’s simplest Continued from Page 9
One of the most heartwarming aspects of holiday cooking is the act of giving. Homemade treats, whether cookies, jams, breads, or preserves, can be packaged and gifted to neighbors, coworkers and friends. These edible gifts carry a personal touch and convey care and thoughtfulness in a way that storebought items rarely can.
pleasures: a good meal.
The essence of holiday cooking
At its core, holiday cooking is about more than ingredients or recipes—it’s about connection, tradition, creativity and generosity. Whether it’s a lavish feast or a simple batch of cookies, the time spent preparing food for others creates memories that linger long after the last bite.
The holidays remind us that the most meaningful moments often happen around the table, where shared meals nourish both body and soul. Cooking for the holidays isn’t just about food—it’s about love, celebration and the joy of coming together.
Submitted by CAROL BEAR-HECKMAN
Fresh evergreens, roasted chestnuts and Christmas carols are all hallmarks of the quintessential Currier & Ives Christmas scene. All that and more will be part of Christmas on Chestnut in Historic Bath, Pennsylvania. For more than 15 years, this event has spotlighted the businesses and architecture of the

earliest block in Bath, founded in 1737. Recognizing that fact, Preservation Pennsylvania awarded the 1813 Joseph House at 101 S. Chestnut St. the “Grassroots Advocacy Award” and the National Park Service designated a 12-block area in Bath the “Bath Crossroads National Historic District.” Wander up and down this narrow street, where every building dates between 1799 and 1899, including log houses and tall brick buildings.
On Saturday, Dec. 13, the merchants of Chestnut Street invite you inside to hear, smell and taste the magic of Christmas. There will be handcrafted candles, unique antiques, handwrought jewelry, fresh bread and cheese, demonstrations, gift certificates, scrumptious food and specialty drinks like “Yule Tide Mule” and “Crème Brulé Martini.”
Participating businesses, restaurants and churches are: Blend + Roll-With-It Catering, Vargo Gifts, Kula Heart Yoga & Wellness, S Seem Antiques, Steckel House Antiques, Weekend Antiques, Primitive Sister Antiques, Red Wolf Bar & Grill, Villa Grande Restaurant, The Bath Exchange, Angel’s Attic and Christ Church UCC of Bath.
Avoid the crowds and the uncertainty of gift delivery – shop local! Support your local community and enjoy the holidays by shopping in Historic Bath.
Christmas on Chestnut Street Saturday, Dec. 13 from 10am to 5pm


Visit Historic Chestnut Street in Bath this holiday season!
Roasted chestnuts, Christmas carolers, organ recital, discounts, demonstrations, signature drinks, dining specials and more
Blend + Roll-With-It Catering
Vargo Gifts
Kula Heart Yoga & Wellness
S Seem Antiques
Steckel House Antiques
Weekend Antiques
Primitive Sister Antiques
Red Wolf Bar & Grill
Villa Grande Restaurant
The Bath Exchange
Angel’s Attic
Christ Church UCC of Bath
Yields around 3 dozen cookies
Ingredients
1 cup butter softened
1 cup sugar
2/3 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 1/4 cups all purpose flour

4 packages hot cocoa mix or 3/4 cup hot cocoa mix (not sugar-free versions)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup Mallow Bits
(mini marshmallows are not recommended)
Instructions
Beat butter and sugars in a large bowl with a standing mixer until light and fluffy.
Add eggs and vanilla; mix well. In a separate bowl combine dry ingredients. Gradually beat dry ingredients into butter mixture until blended. Stir in chocolate chips and Mallow Bits. Cover and chill

Meet author
Cynthia Jean DeLuca
Cynthia is a retired special education teacher and the author of 4 children’s books. She resides in Nazareth with her husband.
A Christmas Journey is a collection of short stories that will warm your heart, make you smile, and maybe shed a tear or two.
A Christmas Journey includes mostly true stories, some fictional adventures, winter poems, and family Christmas traditions.

UPCOMING BOOK SIGNINGS
In Nazareth from 10 am to 2 pm Saturday, Nov. 29 at the Classic Victorian Inn Saturday, Dec. 16 at Mycalyn Florals
for at least 30 minutes and up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350. Drop 2 tablespoons of dough, 2 inches apart, onto baking sheets lined with silicone baking mats or parchment paper. Bake 9 to 11 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Cool on baking sheets 5 minutes; remove to wire racks and cool.
Yields one 9-inch cake
Ingredients
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup white sugar
1 large egg
1 cup molasses (not blackstrap)
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
½ teaspoon ground cloves
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup hot water
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350. Grease and line a 9-inch



square baking pan with parchment.
Beat butter in a large bowl with an electric mixer until creamy.
Add sugar and beat until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Mix in egg, then mix in molasses until smooth.
Sift flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves and salt into a large bowl.
Gradually add dry ingredients to the molasses mixture, mixing after each addition until incorporated.
Mix in water until smooth.
Pour cake batter into the prepared pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; it should come out clean. If it does, remove cake from the oven; if not, bake 15 to 30 more minutes, c hecking often for doneness.
Allow gingerbread to cool in the pan before serving.
Yields 6 half-pints
Ingredients
3 cups cranberries
1 orange, peeled and seeded
2 teaspoons orange zest (from above orange)
1 (10 ounce) package frozen sliced strawberries, slightly thawed
1⁄4 teaspoon ground cloves
1⁄4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
4 cups sugar
1⁄2 cup water
1 (3 ounce) packet liquid fruit pectin
Instructions
Combine cranberries and sections of seeded orange in a food processor.
Pulse until coarsely chopped.
Add strawberries, zest, cloves and cinnamon. Continue processing until finely chopped, but not pureed.
Stir together fruit mixture, sugar and water in a very large saucepan or dutch oven until well blended.
Cook for 2 minutes over low heat, stirring constantly. Increase heat to high and bring mixture to a full, rolling boil.
Stir in liquid pectin.
Stirring constantly, bring to a rolling boil again and boil for one minute.
Remove from heat and skim off foam.
Immediately pour into six hot, sterilized half-pint jars. Carefully wipe clean rims of jars with a damp cloth.
Place lids on jars and screw on bands just until snug. Process in boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
Remove from water bath and cool away from drafts until jars seal.




Ingredients
1 1/2 cups turkey, shredded
3/4 cup cranberry sauce
2 cups mashed potatoes
1 cup corn
1 cup turkey gravy
2 tablespoons milk
2 cups stuffing
Chicken broth, or melted butter to taste
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400. Combine turkey and cranberry sauce and spread evenly on the bottom of an 8x8 glass baking dish. (Or double and use a 9x13inch pan.)
Evenly press on leftover mashed potatoes and sprinkle corn over the top.
Mix together milk and leftover gravy and spread evenly over potatoes and corn.
Sprinkle on leftover stuffing and lightly drizzle chicken broth or butter over the top (this will keep the stuffing from drying out).
Cover with tin foil and bake at 400 for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.


Small pine cones
Wooden
Wool or tinsel
Lace or ribbons
Pens for details
Scissors
Hot glue gun
Bakers twine or ribbon for hanging

FRIDAY,
$8/PERSON
Instructions
Add features with pens onto the wooden bead.
Glue onto the bottom of your pine cone (the pine cone should be upside down) to form your head.
To make lace angel wings, take your lace and make a bow that suits the size of your pine cone.
Cut some bakers twine and knot it around the bow (for hanging later).
Glue to the back of your pine cone with a hot glue gun.
Then get some tinsel or wool and glue on top of the head.








Call for availability on our upcoming Studio Nights
Nov. 27: Open Studio Night
Dec. 5: Kids Night Out!
Painting, “Grinch” movie & pizza
Dec. 12: Gem Christmas trees and Paint & Sip
Dec 13: Christmas in Nazareth
Paint an Ugly Sweater Ornament
Dec 29: Snowman painting class for all ages
610-340-0314
37 E. Belvidere St., Nazareth
2022 Main St., Northampton • 610-440-0245
Hours | Closed Sunday, Mon-Fri 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
AfFORDable Pet Center is a family owned and operated pet store in Northampton.
No matter who you’re shopping for, we’ve got you covered
Best kept secret in Northampton!


Saturday, Dec. 6 • 9 am-1 pm
Christ UCC Church (Little Moore) 913 S. Mink Rd., Danielsville
Local honey; quilted items; Resin pens; beaded keychains; Homemade cut-out cookies; Kiffles; Candy; Rada knives; Tastefully Simple, Pampered Chef & more
Small raffle including vendor items

Kitchen open for breakfast & lunch
Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Bushkill Township Volunteer Fire Co.



Thank you for your continued support in 2025!

Wednesday Night Bingo Every Wednesday Night
Doors open: 4pm • Starts: 6:30pm
$750 Jackpot, Pull-Tabs, Piggy Number, Kitchen Open
Upcoming events:
Annual Carnival: April 29th - May 3rd 2026
Ladies Auxiliary Circus Days: June 5th & 6th 2026


MICHAEL CHE - WED., DEC 10
SISTER’S CHRISTMAS CATECHISM - FRI., DEC 12
CHRISTMAS IN THE AIR - SAT., DEC 13
WIZARDS OF WINTER - SUN., DEC 21
SWAN LAKE - WED., FEB 18, 2026
POPOVICH COMEDY PET THEATER - SUN., FEB 22, 2026
RED HOT CHILLI PIPERS - THU., MAR 12, 2026
THE FOLSOM PRISON
- FRI., APR 17, 2026 THE TEN TENORS - FRI., MAR 27, 2026 MANDY PATINKIN IN CONCERT: JUKEBOX - THU., APR 23, 2026











