For two years during the Gaza war, all public celebrations for Christmas were cancelled in Bethlehem in the occupied West Bank – where Christians believe Jesus was born.
But after the recent ceasefire, the holy city decided that this year the festivities would return as symbolised by the lighting of its traditional, giant Christmas tree in front of the historic Nativity Church.
It's been a bad two years of silence; no Christmas, no jobs, no work, says Bethlehem Mayor Maher Canawati. We're all living here from tourism and tourism was down to zero.
The mayor acknowledges that resuming celebrations comes with controversy, especially as suffering continues in Gaza – including among its tiny Christian community, many of whom have relatives in Bethlehem.
Some may say it's not appropriate and others say it's appropriate, Mr Canawati tells me. But deep inside my heart, I felt that this was the right thing to do because Christmas should never be stopped or cancelled. This is the light of hope for us.
Locals – both Christians and Muslims - take selfies in front of the tree adorned with red and gold baubles in Manger Square, which also attracts a handful of foreign tourists.
Brightly colored lights now decorate the streets alongside signs advertising Christmas bazaars and children's parties.
We're very happy to have the tree, first thing, and to see foreigners in Bethlehem and to be able to celebrate Christmas in its true spirit, says local jewellery designer Nadya Hazboun.
As the holiday season begins, neighboring towns are also planning celebrations, with hotels experiencing a surge in bookings. However, the local economy continues to struggle, and many families face an austere Christmas despite the return to public festivities.
While Bethlehem reclaims its holiday cheer, the overarching hope remains for peace and a return to normalcy for this historic city.
