Thousands of pilgrims, tourists and local Christians have started the Christmas Eve celebrations in Bethlehem, the traditional birthplace of Jesus.
Visitors gathered around the 50ft Christmas tree at Manger Square today, taking pictures and enjoying the sunshine.
The main event will be midnight mass at the Church of the Nativity, where Jesus is believed to have been born.
Israel’s Tourism Ministry said it expects 90,000 visitors for the holiday. It said that number is high considering the turmoil in the Arab world and the global economic downturn.
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Today’s Bethlehem is surrounded on three sides by a barrier Israel built to stop Palestinian militant attacks. Palestinians say the wall has damaged their economy.
AP