Many people were turned away from the inn, as there was no vacancy.

In the biblical account of Jesus’ birth, travelers came from near and far to Bethlehem to complete a census which had been ordered by the Romans. In modern times, travelers also came from near and far to visit Hometown Independent Mission’s Bethlehem, a collection of permanent structures which serves as the church’s interpretation of the ancient town. Visitors could explore the torch-lit village in the evenings during seventh annual Walk Thru Bethlehem, which was held on December 11 through 13.