BETHLEHEM, Pa. — Looking to better connect its downtown businesses and the patron experience, the city on Tuesday announced a weeklong celebration in which the community can take part.
Walnut Week, from Nov. 17-21, also will include the grand opening of the new Walnut Street Parking Garage — all ahead of Bethlehem’s transformation into Christmas City USA.
Walnut Week from Nov. 17-21 is "dedicated to small businesses, sustainability, smart growth — and more than anything else, getting people together.”
Bethlehem Mayor J. William Reynolds
Mayor J. William Reynolds said it’s “a week dedicated to small businesses, sustainability, smart growth — and more than anything else, getting people together.”
"This special week marks the official opening of the Walnut Street Garage, a project years in the making that enhances accessibility, walkability and connection throughout our business districts," the city said in a news release.
"From press conferences to special events, we’re lighting up the season and shining a spotlight on all that makes downtown Bethlehem so extraordinary."
Here’s the schedule:
- Monday, Nov. 17: Kick off the week with a news conference at the garage at 3:30 p.m. at which the city and Bethlehem Parking Authority "will unveil new holiday initiatives and showcase the transformative lighting projects illuminating our downtown this season."
- Tuesday, Nov. 18: Incoming garage tenant Coalition for Appropriate Transportation from 4-7 p.m. will give away 100 bikes to local families as part of its Holiday Bikes initiative.
- Wednesday, Nov. 19: A free community wellness event from noon to 1:30 p.m., including a 45-minute yoga-strength fusion class and tea bar, to take place on top of the garage (also celebrating incoming garage tenant, Oasis: Community Wellbeing Hub)
- Thursday, Nov. 20: Grand opening for new Walnut Street Garage at 4 p.m.
- Friday, Nov. 21: “Walking on Walnut” from 5 to 7 p.m. celebrates businesses of the corridor, including Steak & Steel Hibachi, McCarthy’s Red Stag Pub & Whiskey Bar, and The Tavern at the Sun Inn (also first night of Christmas City Village in the Sun Inn Courtyard)
“It’s been a long two years, and we’re excited that we’re on budget and on time to deliver this project for the downtown,” Bethlehem Parking Authority Executive Director Steven Fernstrom said of the new garage.