Published December 16. 2025 12:29PM
A small but happy crowd gathered in South Bethlehem to see the Christmas tree Lighting on the Greenway. The tree is positioned across New Street from the lighted arch, between the New Street Garage and the 306 Gateway building.
Music was enthusiastically provided by The Beautiful Distortion. The band’s new Christmas album was just released. Visit thebeautifuldistortion.com
There were cookies and hot cocoa provided by the Southside Arts District, which sponsored the tree lighting.
More entertainment was offered by Kyle Mertz of Mertz Entertainment. mertzjuggling.com. He juggled festive lights, to the delight of the audience.
Kyle is a part of Bedco’s Southside Ambassador Team. bedco-pa.org/ambassadors
You can see the beautiful tree throughout the Christmas season. Stop by the Southside Arts office at 324 S. New St., or visit southsideartsdistrict.com for more information about holiday events on the Southside.
The Southside Christmas tree is positioned between the New Street Garage (left) and the 306 Gateway building (right), a festive garland is visible on the multilevel bridge connecting the two buildings.
Press photos by Lani GoinsThe audience was bundled up as the night was clear and very cold. This did not deter the crowd or the performers. More photos on page A2.
Above: The Beautiful Distortion performed holiday tunes from their new Christmas album.
Left: Kyle Mertz of Mertz Entertainment juggles colored lights to the delight of the crowd. Kyle is also a member of Bedco’s Southside Ambassador Team.
