The 39th reenactment of the Bethlehem Marketplace will be held on December 9 and 10, 2023 from noon to 5pm both days.

 

Marketplace is a FREE walk-through drama re-enacting how the village of Bethlehem might have appeared the morning after the birth of Jesus. Its atmosphere and surroundings are those of 2000 years ago. It features characters in historical costumes such as Roman soldiers, prisoners, tent makers, weavers, merchants in shops, census-takers, and more. Live camels and other animals lend authenticity to the re-enactment, and twenty-first century items do not appear.

While you are waiting your turn in the sanctuary, you will be entertained with Christmas music from local school choirs, groups, individuals and videos.

Attendance has averaged about 6,000 in recent years with visitors from Kentucky, Alabama, Illinois, Missouri, Georgia, North Carolina, and throughout Tennessee. Many people who trod the sawdust-lined streets of the village are repeat visitors.

There is no admission as we want this to be a gift to the community. Nothing is actually for sale. No reservations are required. Tour time averages about one hour, even at times of peak crowds.