Palestinians in Jerusalem marched through the streets of Bethlehem Monday celebrating the Eve of Christmas, the day before the traditional birth of Jesus Christ. Robert Berger is in Bethlehem and filed this on-scene report.

Palestinian Christian children wear festive costumes as they gather behind a barrier outside the Church of the Nativity, 24 Dec 2007

Palestinian boy and girl scouts are marched through Manger Square in Bethlehem, kicking off Christmas Eve celebrations. They marched past the Church of the Nativity, the traditional birthplace of Jesus, playing drums and bagpipes.

It was a festive atmosphere. Manger Square is decked out with Christmas Trees that light and colorful balloons.

On a cool, sunny day a big crowd is looking on, including some pilgrims, but mostly local Palestinians. Christmas Eve celebrations will culminate with midnight mass at the Church of the Nativity.