Follow the star to Main Street Bethlehem

Step through the simple stone gate of Main Street Bethlehem in the heart of Burnet, Texas, and enter a moment in history when everything changed with one very special birth. This very popular event captures the excitement of the night Jesus, Son of God, was born. 

This experience takes place from 6-9 p.m. the first two weekends in December. The 2024 dates are Dec. 6-8 and 13-15. 

The sights, sounds, smells, and anticipation swirl through the air, and visitors to the city can experience the special night as it might have been. People converge in Bethlehem for a census, and there is much activity on this busy night. Walk along the narrow streets lined with merchants, see and speak to the townspeople and Roman soldiers. Get a feel of what life at that time was like. Visit buildings and homes in the city and see craftspeople at work, children at play, and families in everyday life.

Visitors to the city can follow the star that leads to the main event. Upon exiting, all eyes rest on a simple stable in a cave and the young couple inside beaming over their precious, new arrival: Jesus.

Main Street Bethlehem, located at 108 S. Vandeveer St. in Burnet, is a gift to visitors from First Baptist Church of Burnet. No tickets, reservations, or money are needed to visit this city within a city. Guests may make a donation upon exiting should they desire. Visitors line up for the event well before 6 p.m. each evening. The line typically moves quickly, but guests may wait in line about an hour prior to entry. In case of severe weather, closure information will be published on the church website. The event has a clear bag policy.