Christmas in the Holy Land!

Thinking about visiting Israel during the winter months but don't like the idea of missing Christmas? Don't worry, Christmas can be an amazing time to visit the Holy Land! While you might not see many Christmas trees or a lot of tinsel as you explore, you'll be able to take in historical, biblical wonders that will more than make up for the lack of decoration. 

If you're going to be in Israel during the Christmas season, or are thinking about planning a trip for next year, be sure to keep these destinations and activities in mind!

Could there be a more perfect place to visit in Israel during the Christmas season than the town of Bethlehem? Visiting such a historic and important location is bracing any time of the year, but it takes on a special significance and spirit during the holidays.

Obviously, the highlight of this trip would be the Church of the Nativity. This legendary church dates back to the year of 327 and has quite the complicated history surrounding it. Currently, the church is administered by members of the Greek Orthodox church, the Roman Catholics, the Armenian Apostolic, and the Syriac orthodox church, and while the history of how that has come to pass and the various momentous events that have occurred in the church are fascinating, they're hardly the reason for visiting during the Christmas season. 

No, the major draw of the church is the underground grotto that is believed to be the former location of the stable where Jesus was born! It is truly humbling to be in the presence of such an important location that has such a direct connection to Jesus and his life, an experience that will make for an unforgettable and deeply moving Christmas.

Bethlehem is also the site of several other Christmas celebrations. There is an annual public choir in Manger Square and a special midnight mass held in the nearby Church of St. Catherine. This is a Catholic church with a Latin mass, but regardless of your denomination, celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ with fellow Christians so close to the spot of his birth is a very special and faith affirming opportunity. 

While Bethlehem might be the number one Christmas location in Israel, Nazareth isn't far behind. Jesus's hometown is a fantastic place to explore during the holidays, filled with landmarks and festivities.

In keeping with the theme, you'll definitely want to visit the Basilica of Annunciation. The church is built where the angel Gabriel came to earth to give Mary the message of her divine pregnancy. This sacred territory has been the site of several churches over the years (destroyed and rebuilt throughout the ages) but remains one of the most important locations for Christians seeking to connect with the historical account of Jesus's birth. The current Basilica contains a large gallery containing images and texts devoted to the Virgin Mary, a great place to learn more about the Mother of Jesus. Also, if you're in town for Christmas day, don't miss the midnight mass at the Basilica!

Nazareth is also the location of the annual Christmas Eve parade. Don't let the name fool you though, this massive parade is an all-day event, so be sure to get there early! Nazareth happens to contain the largest population of Christians living in Israel, so there is no shortage of Christmas celebrations, souvenirs, and festivities. 

The Holiday of Holidays festival is a multicultural celebration of several major religions. You're comfort level might vary, but it is an excellent way to not only celebrate Christmas while in the Holy Land, but see how other cultures and religions in the area celebrate as well. 

Held annually in Haifa, the Holiday of Holidays brings together three major faiths - Judaism, Christianity and Islam. The idea is to celebrate the city's harmony and cooperation among its diverse population. The multi-day event includes live performances, family activities and games, an antique fair, and of course, an spectacular variety of food and treats. Don't miss out on the chance to try some delicious Hanukah donuts! You won't find candy canes nearly as satisfying when you get back home.

Maybe you're used to hitting the hills in a toboggan for Christmas, or playing a friendly game of pond or road hockey during the holidays. Well, the climate is a little different in Israel! December can be a fairly temperate month in the Holy Land and it's not unlikely that it may still be warm enough to go for a dip!

It might not be your traditional holiday pastime, but then again, you don't fly more than 9000 miles to just do the usual thing!