The Christmas tree was lit up on Saturday evening in Bethlehem’s Manger Square in the presence of thousands of Palestinians and foreign visitors who flocked to the city to celebrate the occasion.
According to local sources thousands of Palestinian citizens came from all occupied territories to attend the tree lighting ceremony and celebrate Christmas Eve.
This annual event officially kicked off the Christmas celebrations in the city which is believed to be the birthplace of Jesus.
The ceremony was attended by Palestinian premier Rami Hamdallah and mayor of Bethlehem Anton Salman as well as Palestinian and foreign dignitaries.
