BETHLEHEM PODCAST: In the latest episode of the America250PA podcast, “Timeless Tales with Bruce Haines: Unveiling Bethlehem’s Legacy and the Hotel Bethlehem,” listeners are invited on a captivating and historic journey through the picturesque town of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. This next installment of the “Start Here, America Did” series is hosted by Sydney Harris, a next generation Pennsylvanian. The episode delves into the deep-rooted heritage of the town and its iconic Hotel Bethlehem, a beacon of Pennsylvanian culture and history.

Joining the narrative is special guest Bruce Haines, the long-standing managing partner of the Hotel Bethlehem, who brings over two decades of Bethlehem Heritage tourism to the table. Bruce offers a treasure trove of insights, delving into the town’s Moravian origins and the transformative journey of the Hotel Bethlehem.

Listen to the America250PA Podcast at, https://america250pa.org/Podcasts.

LONGEST NIGHT SERVICE: The Longest Night Service will be offered on Wednesday, Dec. 20, at 6 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Bethlehem, 2344 Center St. All who have experienced any kind of loss – job, relationship, health, financial, or a death – are welcome to attend this special service of reflection, music and word.

This is a communion service; viewers can participate from home, by preparing these elements: bread or bread-like item (cracker, pita, bagel, etc.) and grape juice, wine, or water. The service is offered in person in Fellowship Hall, and will also be available via livestream on Facebook and the church’s website, fpc-bethlehem.org.

HOLIDAY BIKE DRIVE: Coalition for Appropriate Transportation (CAT) is continuing is annual tradition of Holiday Bikes. CAT’s goal is to rebuild and distribute 200 kids’ bicycles for the December holidays. Bikes are available to families with financial hardship who reside in Lehigh or Northampton counties. To reserve a bike, parents should email cat@lvcat.org with the age, height and (optional) gender of their child. Families will receive a CAT-renewed bicycle, a new helmet, a CAT bike smart certificate, and an invitation to CAT youth bike education events in 2024. Bikes are fully rebuilt by volunteer mechanics overseen by an experienced CAT team.

If you are interested in joining the build team, please send an email to cat@lvcat.org. No experience or tools are needed. CAT will provide everything – including cookies and community! Anyone who would like to donate to this program will be recognized on a special blog post after the holidays and can send a personalized message to a bike recipient. More at lvcat.org

Thursday, Dec. 21

Lehigh Valley Pops Orchestra, 9 a.m. Conductor Ron DeGrandis. 9 to 10:30 a.m. 1633 W. Elm St., Allentown. Information: call 610-437-3700 or visit https://lvactivelife.org/

Current Events Informal Discussion Group: Moderator: David M. Bell. World, national, state and local topics. Free. 2 p.m. Lehigh Valley Active Life, 1633 W. Elm St., Allentown, 18102. Information: call 610-437-3700 or visit https://lvactivelife.org/

Saturday, Dec. 23

Saturday Night Dance. 7 to 10 p.m. “Johnny K.” Cost per person includes light refreshments. Singles and couples welcome. Lehigh Valley Active Life, 1633 W Elm St. Allentown. Call 610-437-3700.

Tuesday, Dec. 26

NO SESSION TODAY: Good Vibrations Chorus led by Nancy Shumaker. All singers welcome. 9:30 a.m. Lehigh Valley Active Life, 1633 W. Elm St.

Saturday, December 30, Sunday, Dec. 31

Peeps Fest, presented by Just Born Quality Confections, 101 Founders Way. Ring in the New Year with the 400 pound, 4 feet and 9 inches tall, Peeps Chick countdown to the New Year at 5:35 p.m. Family-friendly inside and outside activities and fireworks on both nights from 3 to 6 p.m.

Tickets, which are limited, required for all in attendance. The cost includes, for all kids under 12, Just Born Quality Confections goody bags, one coupon to redeem a free s’mores kit PEEPS® sampling stations and live musical performances. Sign up for the Fun Run & Walk and try two new marshmallow flavors that will debut this upcoming Easter season. Bethlehem

Visit www.steelstacks.org/festivals/peepsfest/ for information and tickets.

The Bethlehem Press calendar listings are, to the best of our knowledge, correct at the time of printing. We are not responsible for the accuracy or reliability of information submitted by external parties.