the best christmas towns to visit

The 30 Most Magical Christmas Towns in the U.S.

Head here for holiday cheer.

Seeking someplace where snow will almost be a guarantee? Book tickets to Park City, Utah or Leavenworth, Washington. More in the mood for a warm-weather holiday? Head to Delray Beach, Florida, which lights a 100-foot tall tree each year, or go with the small-town charm of Solvang, California, where Julefest takes place all December long. And we’d be remiss not to mention the year-round Christmas towns of Santa Claus, Indiana and North Pole, Alaska, which find ways to honor the holiday 365 days a year.

Ready to make all your Hallmark Christmas town dreams come true? Then alert the in-laws, bundle up the kids, and hit the road. These magical American Christmas towns are ready to embrace you with open arms, opportunities for new Christmas traditions , and, of course, a warm cup of hot chocolate or two. Happy Holidays, y'all!

Middleburg, VA

Settle in for an old-fashioned Christmas in the heart of Virginia’s horse and hunt country, where you can cheer on a parade of loyal hounds as they ride through the streets, sip on small-batch hard ciders at Mt. Defiance , and shop for old-world holiday decor, including Wilhelm Schweizer pewter ornaments, and Wendt & Kühn windup music boxes, at year-round holiday shop The Christmas Sleigh .

Gruene, Texas

A two-steppin' Texas Christmas awaits in this cotton town-turned-thriving historic district located within the community of New Braunfels. Pose for pics with Cowboy Kringle, Gruene's distinctive wrangler spin on Father Christmas, take in the annual Pony Express Ride, a beloved holiday tradition that sees a horseback cavalcade carry a message of yuletide cheer from the state governor straight through town, then head to Gruene Hall , Texas’s oldest continuously running dance hall, for a calendar jam-packed with holiday shows.

Plan Your Trip

Woodstock, VT

In the heart of the Green Mountains, a Christmas card-worthy village and its surrounding hamlets shine with New England charm. Go cross-country skiing, visit covered bridges, and bundle up for horse-drawn sleigh rides through snow-covered pastures at Billings Farm & Museum .

Plan your Trip

Stockbridge, MA

Stockbridge might look just like a Norman Rockwell painting—and that's because it is! Each year, the town re-creates the 1967 Rockwell painting, "Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas (Home for Christmas)" during their annual festival . Old-fashioned cars line the main street to re-create the painting, and the public can tour historic homes decorated for the holidays.

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Park City, UT

Why not escape to a literal winter wonderland for Christmas? Park City is a breathtaking place nestled in the mountains. There are tons of Christmas events throughout December such as holiday markets , sleigh rides , and a Christmas Eve torchlight parade , where skiers and snowboarders come down the mountain carrying torches to lead Santa into town.

Franklin, TN

Step back in time at the annual Dickens of a Christmas festival in historic downtown Franklin. The festival, which is in its 35th year, brings characters from A Christmas Carol and Oliver Twist to life throughout its weekend-long festivities. Roam the Victorian Village and try Victorian-era Christmas treats like sugar plums while listening to carolers. Stop for a chat with Jacob Marley or Ebenezer Scrooge before visiting Father Christmas.

There are plenty of reasons to visit Essex at Christmastime. Ride the North Pole Express , then keep things locomotive-themed at the annual Holiday Train Show , or do some Christmas shopping at the holiday village where you can also catch a stunning light show. Have dinner or even stay at the historic Griswold Inn for the perfect New England holiday.

Cape Cod, MA

Looking for boatloads of Christmas cheer with a New England twist? Head to Cape Cod ! There are few things more picturesque than lighthouses decked to their nines in Christmas garlands, wreaths, and lights. What's more, the quaint seaside destination hosts dozens of craft fairs, parades, theater productions, and even a Train to Christmas Town .

Ann Arbor, MI

There's so much to love about a Christmas in Ann Arbor, from the dozens of holiday events offered (think: free outdoor markets, German food fairs, lantern parades, s'mores roasting, and live music, just to name a few). The annual "Sing Along with Santa" event, presented by the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra , is a can't-miss spectacle. It's just what is sounds like: A carol sing-along featuring Santa himself, plus plenty of cookies and cider.

North Pole, AK

Bet you never thought you could make a trip to the North Pole ! This town may not be the real thing, but it's got the name—and it boasts year-round Christmas spirit. There's also a "Santa Claus house" with live reindeer, a mayor who goes by the name of Santa, and candy cane street lamps. How's that for a winter wonderland?

New York, NY

It may not be a tiny town, but it's still got all the charm—and it'd be impossible to make a list of the best Christmas towns in America without including the Big Apple ! There's simply no place quite like New York City at Christmastime. With its countless attractions, skating rinks, and shopping opportunities galore, it's an obvious choice for at least one of your family's Christmas trips.

Bethlehem, PA

Spend Christmas in Bethlehem without shelling out a fortune on airfare or traveling back in time! This Pennsylvania town boasts horse-drawn carriage rides and a "Christmas City Stroll" that'll have your entire family smiling and laughing.

Greenville, SC

Want to feel like you're walking around on the set of a Hallmark Christmas movie? Then you'll want to head to Greenville, South Carolina, where the sidewalks twinkle with lights as Santa’s electric sleigh drives by with an elf in tow. There's even a miniature outdoor skating rink on Main Street, a "Festival of Trees" competition, tree lighting ceremonies, and more. It's downright magical!

Solvang, CA

Take a trip to gorgeous wine country this holiday season and visit Solvang , located in the Santa Ynez Valley . The town hosts Julefest , which lasts all December long. Guests can go on go on a Holiday Lights Tour, take part in the Santa Sprint, listen to live holiday music, and much more.

Andalusia, AL

It doesn't get too cold in Andalusia , but that doesn't stop the town from turning into a winter wonderland. Every weekend in December, residents flock to Candyland, a kid-friendly event where children of all ages can ice-skate, visit the different holiday cottages, and meet Santa. The best part? Admission is free!

Bardstown, KY

This Kentucky town kicks off the holiday season the day after Thanksgiving—that's November 23 this year—with the Light Up Bardstown celebration . Kids will have a blast at the Fun Christmas Corner, where they can enjoy sweet treats and face painting. Everyone in the family will love the annual Christmas tree lighting and an appearance by Santa Claus himself.

Leavenworth, WA

On any day of the year, this Bavarian village gives off an Alpine holiday air. But during snowy December, visitors are met with 21 miles of lights along the homes and fences, and can also anticipate handbell concerts, a lively Christkindlmarkt, harp music, and a weekly festival with carolers, Gluhwein, and sledding gathered 'round the town's tree.

Branson, MO

Each year, this Missouri city hosts the Ozark Mountain Christmas festival, a month-long extravaganza with festive music, light shows, and plenty of parades. You can even hop aboard the Branson Scenic Railway's Polar Express Train Ride and feel like you're in a scene from the classic movie. Don't forget the hot chocolate!

Asheville, NC

Not surprisingly, much of Asheville's holiday focus is on Biltmore , the historic Vanderbilt mansion, which dresses up lavishly with ribbons, garlands, and sparking lights. Elsewhere in this active mountain town, locals gather to watch Santa rappel down Chimney Rock as a warm-up exercise for his upcoming Christmas Eve activities . The well-established arts scene in town makes shopping for unique gifts easy at craft shows and studio visits in the River Arts District.

Frankenmuth, MI

Known as Michigan's Little Bavaria, Frankenmuth's European heritage is on full display during the Christmas season. Some of the town's charming holiday highlights include a traditional Christkindlmarkt, a holiday home tour hosted by the Frankenmuth Women's Club, whimsical light displays, and Bronner's Christmas Wonderland, the world's largest Christmas store.

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Step into your favorite Hallmark holiday movie.

After you've decked the halls , crafted a few fun holiday gifts and decorations , and planned your party , you may want to take a few days away to relax before Christmas actually arrives. We often forget what the holiday season is really about: enjoying time with friends and family and indulging in some down time to count our blessings. Many Christmas towns aren't traditional vacation destinations this time of year, so they're usually less crowded, which makes strolling through the shops and checking out new restaurants even more fun.

Whether you prefer the east or west coast, sun or snow, we've got ideas for quick getaways where you can recharge, do some Christmas shopping, or just hang out and chill. With gorgeous scenery, adorable inns, and one-of-a-kind small-town spirit at every one of these destinations, you'll find one that's right for your travel style. This year, make it a point to get away to one of the best Christmas towns in the USA for a long weekend of R&R. There's no better way to get into the spirit.

Greenville, South Carolina

Downtown Greenville is quaint enough to be the set of a Hallmark movie. There's even a miniature outdoor skating rink on Main Street and a Festival of Trees competition. Wander the park in search of coffee and crepes to warm up from the winter chill. If you're lucky, you could get a dusting of snow.

Franklin, Tennessee

You'll feel as if you've time traveled back to the age of Charles Dickens when you walk through Franklin's historic Christmas festival. Characters from A Christmas Carol and Oliver Twist come to life throughout the weekend-long festivities. Roam the Victorian Village and try Victorian-era Christmas treats like sugar plums while listening to carolers.

Book Now The Harpeth Franklin Downtown

Park City, Utah

A classic ski town, Park City offers Christmas markets, festive decorations, and a Christmas Eve parade lit by torches—plus spectacular views of the mountains are around every corner.

Book Now The Parkite on Main

Middleburg, Virginia

In the heart of Virginia horse country, you'll find one of the most festive Christmas parades here. Cheer on the town's hunting hounds while sipping hard cider and wander the streets in search of vintage Christmas ornaments.

Book Now Salamander Middleburg Resort & Spa

Saratoga Springs, New York

Saratoga Springs is a lovely family-friendly destination any time of year, but it's especially fun during the annual Victorian Street Walk . The Victorian-era town shuts down the streets to indulge in a Christmas celebration that includes carolers, live music, and late shopping hours for all those last-minute gifts.

BOOK NOW Saratoga Arms Hotel

Kennebunkport, Maine

During Kennebunkport's annual Christmas Prelude , the town offers a very New England celebration: You can watch Santa Claus arrive by lobster boat, go on seashore holiday trolley rides, and enjoy wine tastings and lobster bakes. Not to mention, the town is covered in Christmas lights and garland that make it the perfect festive photo backdrop.

BOOK NOW Cape Arundel Inn & Resort

Santa Fe, New Mexico

For a dreamy and unique experience, head to Santa Fe. One of the most anticipated celebrations is the Canyon Road Farolito Walk , which is when thousands of farolitos —luminaries made of paper bags, sand, and tea candles—cast a glow on the gardens and old buildings that line the road. You also can get your white Christmas fix by visiting Ski Santa Fe .

BOOK NOW Inn and Spa at Loretto

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

As one of the oldest towns in the country, Portsmouth is a charming New England destination that celebrates the holidays in style with a Vintage Christmas Celebration . Visit the historic village of Strawberry Banke Museum , or wander around the charming shopping districts in this historic town.

BOOK NOW The Hotel Portsmouth

Mystic, Connecticut

From an illuminated boat parade to a holiday carnival, Mystic offers everything you could want from a charming coastal village come Christmastime. Sing with carolers, participate in a SantaCon bar hop, or head to the aquarium to see a sea of lights.

BOOK NOW Steamboat Inn

Solvang, California

Get a Hallmark movie feel while experiencing a taste of Denmark in California's Solvang village, located in Santa Ynez Valley wine country. The destination hosts Julefest , a month-long holiday celebration with live entertainment, a parade, and a night market.

BOOK NOW Wine Valley Inn & Cottages

Jackson, Wyoming

After enjoying time on the slopes in Jackson Hole , experience all of the town's festivities, such as a tree-lighting ceremony, an annual Christmas parade, and more. Billed as the last of the Old West, you'll love this town's proximity to both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.

BOOK NOW Hotel Jackson

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Not only is Pigeon Forge home to Dollywood's famous Smoky Mountain Christmas event, but it hosts an annual Winterfest celebration with a winter village and more than 6 million holiday lights you can see on a walking trail or driving tour.

BOOK NOW Dollywood's DreamMore Resort and Spa

Bernville, Pennsylvania

Koziar's Christmas Village in Bernville is one of the top attractions in Pennsylvania. With more than a million lights adorning buildings, barns, and the landscape—and a reflective lake that doubles the beauty—it's hard to beat the town's display.

BOOK NOW Mill Stone Guest Lodging

Clifton, Ohio

If you're looking for a top-tier light display this Christmas, head to Clifton, Ohio. Clifton Mill shines with 4 million red and white lights. Along with the mill, you'll find a 100-foot "waterfall" of twinkling lights, miniature village, Santa Claus museum, and vintage toy collection—even Santa working at his workshop.

BOOK NOW Gaslight Bed & Breakfast

Leavenworth, Washington

This Bavarian-style village is charming any time of year! December festivities include a display of Santa costumes from all around the world, a gingerbread house competition, carolers, and photo ops galore.

BOOK NOW Leavenworth Village Inn

New York, New York

Of course, New York City isn't a small town, but it is extra magical at Christmas. From the massive tree at Rockefeller Center to the various Christmas markets in the city parks with ice skating, shops, and more, you can't beat the Big Apple's holiday spirit.

BOOK NOW The Plaza

Stockbridge, Massachusetts

Made famous by Norman Rockwell's Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas (Home for Christmas) painting , this Berkshires village won't disappoint. Established in 1773 as a stage coach stop, this is one town that's picture-perfect all winter long.

BOOK NOW The Red Lion Inn

Big Spring, Texas

Nicknamed the Lighted Poinsettia Capital of Texas, this town brings major holiday spirit every year. Visit during December when the lighted trail in Comanche Trail Park is aglow all month long. Check out Hotel Settles for its elegant Art Deco lodging.

BOOK NOW Hotel Settles

Asheville, North Carolina

The Biltmore , the historic Vanderbilt mansion in the Blue Ridge Mountains, goes all out for Christmas. The decorations, food, and festivities on property alone are worth a visit, but if you want to venture out, the artsy mountain town is lit by a million lights.

BOOK NOW The Biltmore

Williamsburg, Virginia

During the holiday season, each home in Historic Williamsburg lights one candle, a tradition that dates back to the Revolutionary War era. The cobblestone streets and colonial holiday traditions such as caroling by torchlight make this destination a must, especially for history buffs.

BOOK NOW Williamsburg Inn

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Add some of these charming towns on your holiday bucket list.

If you're looking to hit the slopes, consider lively and fun ski resorts , like Vail, Colorado. It's the Drummond family's favorite destination for a hard-earned vacation from the ranch. If a more refined type of Christmas charm is what you're after, the famous Gilded Age mansions in Newport, Rhode Island, offer grand holiday displays that will make you feel like you're living in the lap of luxury. In all of these locations, you'll also find sweet and cozy winter cabin rentals , Christmas inns and hotels to stay in. Some might even offer a Christmas train ride or the ability to visit a charming Christmas tree farm ! Scroll through these top Christmas towns in the U.S. and start planning.

Park City, Utah

The stunning scenery of this mountain town is only the beginning! Kick off the holiday season with Park City's Electric Light Parade , featuring cars and the town trolley decked out with lights. Then, visit Snowfest at Park City Resort for a variety of festive events. Gather to watch Santa come down the ski lift , then enjoy the annual Torchlight Parade , which lights up the mountain as resort staff ski down with giant flares.

Nantucket, Massachusetts

You won't want to miss Nantucket's annual Christmas Stroll . Held at the beginning of December, the holiday tradition dates back to the 1970s and includes live entertainment, craft shows, food and drink tastings, tours, Santa’s Village Marketplace, a visit from Santa himself, and decorations galore! You'll also want to stop by the Whaling Museum's annual Festival of Trees to see Christmas trees uniquely decorated by community members.

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Jackson, Wyoming

It's a real life winter wonderland! Settled at the base of the Teton mountain range, this quaint town offers plenty of fun seasonal activities, like skiing, horseback riding through the snow, and snowmobile tours . Another unique attraction is the monumental arches of elk antlers lining the square that are decked out in festive lights for the holiday.

Branson, Missouri

For a country Christmas done right, head to this lively town in the Ozarks! You'll get to experience the Ozark Mountain Christmas , a month-long festival with holiday music, lights, shows, parades, and more! While in the area, you can also head to Silver Dollar City theme park to enjoy An Old Time Christmas extravaganza or hop aboard the Branson Scenic Railway's Polar Express Train Ride .

Bozeman, Montana

Get your fill of majestic natural beauty and twinkling Christmas lights by visiting the city of Bozeman. Nestled between the Rocky Mountains, this city hosts one of Montana's largest Christmas markets, the Holiday Market Jubilee , where you can find local hand-made gifts for everyone on your list.

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is famous for its extravagant Mardi Gras parties and parades but this port city also knows its way around a Christmas celebration! Many of its gorgeous public spaces and attractions get spruced up during the holidays, like the historic Roosevelt hotel . Just look at that stunning lobby!

Sante Fe, New Mexico

Trade in your white Christmas this year for a unique holiday experience in the American West. The Canyon Road Farolito Walk is one of Santa Fe’s most beloved holiday traditions. You'll feel merry as you stroll the historic neighborhood streets lined with twinkling paper bags.

Solvang, California

Located in the heart of Santa Barbara County's wine country, this picturesque Danish village is brimming with holiday charm every Christmas. Attend the town's annual Nordic-inspired Julefest , a month-long celebration with food, entertainment, a parade, a night market, and plenty of string lights.

San Francisco Bay Area, California

There's so much to see in the Bay Area but during the holidays, The Great Dickens Christmas Fair is the place to be! Located in the historic Cow Palace Exhibition Hall, this immersive experience allows visitors to step back in time to Victorian London. Enjoy music halls, theater groups, pubs, and charming shops overflowing with artisan holiday treasures.

Pawhuska, Oklahoma

Ree Drummond's hometown of Pawhuska is pure magic at Christmas time. The downtown area is lit up with glittering Christmas lights and a big, beautiful tree. Don't forget to stop by The Merc—you'll know it when you see the Christmas-red Drummond Ranch truck parked out front!

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh kicks off its Christmas celebration early with Light Up The Night, a full-day event that happens the Saturday before Thanksgiving. The festivities include a tree lighting, holiday market, and a spectacular fireworks finale.

Franklin, Tennessee

Franklin transports you back in time with their annual Dickens of a Christmas festival! Victorian-era musicians create the ambiance while actors and dancers bring to life characters from classics like A Christmas Carol and Oliver Twist . While you stop by the warm whiskey lounge, kids can snack on old-fashioned sweets and treats.

Boothbay, Maine

Boothbay and its charming harbor town host the extensive "Boothbay Lights." Activities include Gardens Aglow community lighting contest (New England's biggest!), a lighted fire truck parade, and fireworks. The most exciting moment for the little ones is when Santa and Mrs. Clause arrive on lit-up tug boats for the boat parade!

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is a gorgeous destination all year round, but especially during Christmas. The city market comes alive with full-blown holiday spirit, and they have not one but two lit-up Christmas parades: An old-fashioned car parade and a boat parade!

PLAN A TRIP

Snowmass, Colorado

You may know Snowmass as part of the four ski areas rolled into Aspen, but it has its own village full of Christmas cheer (in addition to fantastic skiing). This winter wonderland village is nestled in the mountains and earns its name for the blankets of snow delivered throughout the cold months. There's ice skating, dog sledding, and a picturesque interactive light and art display.

Rhinebeck, New York

This small Hudson Valley town pays homage to its Dutch heritage with the yearly tradition of Sinterklaas, a celebration where children are honored for bringing light during the darkest months! It's an all-day non-denominational festival perfect for the whole family and features food, performances, and crafts.

Lahaska, Pennsylvania

Peddler's Village in Lahaska is home to a host of unique specialty shops that all light up for the holidays in a dazzling display. There are plenty of festive events throughout season, too, including Santa visits, parades, and an annual gingerbread house competition.

Burlington, Vermont

Church Street Marketplace in Burlington is ablaze with 250,000 glittering lights during the holiday season. Do some Christmas shopping as you stroll through the marketplace overlooked by a stunning 50-foot holiday tree.

Essex, Connecticut

There's no shortage of things to do in Essex during Christmastime. You can ride the North Pole Express , attend the annual Holiday Train Show , or catch a magical light display at the holiday village. If you're having too much fun to go home, book a stay at the historic Griswold Inn , where parts of the Hallmark Channel movie Christmas at Pemberley Manor were filmed!

New York, New York

It may not be a small town, but you'd be hard-pressed to find a more festive place to visit during the holidays than the Big Apple! Go see the famous Rockefeller Christmas tree , take a spin around the ice skating rink, or catch a Rockettes' Christmas Spectacular show.

Erin Cavoto is the Editorial Assistant at ThePioneerWoman.com, covering food, holidays, home decor, and more.

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25 best Christmas towns in the US for a winter getaway

It's (almost) the most wonderful time of the year!

With the holiday season fast approaching, you may be looking for extra magical places to travel to. From California to Connecticut and everywhere in between, TODAY has compiled a list of 25 Christmas towns to put on your travel list this holiday season.

Park City, Utah

Park City, located in the mountains of Utah, is bound to bring you a white Christmas this year. From sleigh rides in the picture-perfect town to holiday markets for your festive needs, Park City has everything you need to make a Hallmark holiday.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod puts a classic New England twist on the Christmas town concept, from lighthouses dressed up with garlands to lights lining the streets. The seaside town is perfect for a bit of Christmas and a bit of the ocean, complete with parades and theater productions.

Ann Arbor, Michigan

The home of the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor is a quaint town with tons of holiday-themed events, from German food markets to live music to a carol sing-along. Plus, the town has the potential to be a winter wonderland just in time for Christmas.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

If you want to ditch the cold weather and opt for a warmer, more coastal holiday, check out Carmel-by-the-Sea in sunny California. Trade out the chilly outdoor markets for dinner on the beach, complete with holiday lights.

Woodstock, Vermont

Woodstock is the picture-perfect Hallmark town, with plenty of charm to go around. From horses pulling buggies to carolers serenading the lighting of a Christmas tree, this town might look like it's fresh off a holiday postcard.

Annapolis, Maryland

This quaint capital city of Maryland, located on the Chesapeake Bay, puts a nautical twist on classic holiday traditions. From grand Victorian homes to a gorgeous holiday tree on the dock, Annapolis tops off its holiday celebrations with an annual lighted boat parade each December.

Duluth, Minnesota

Every year, the city of Duluth puts on Bentleyville, a massive light display that's free to the public. The city also sets up a Christmas village and has a scenic train ride along Lake Superior to tie the bow on top!

Newport, Rhode Island

A seaside town, Newport boasts a monthlong holiday celebration complete with an annual tree lighting, concerts, tours of its grand mansions and more.

St. Augustine, Florida

Festive doesn't mean it needs to be snowy and cold all the time! Head to St. Augustine for some holiday spirit in the sun with Christmas lights, quaint décor and other holiday activities. Plus, the beach is right there if you want a tropical holiday!

But coming off of the heels of hurricane season (and the damage from Hurricane Ian , in particular), be sure to check the status of the town before making your plans.

Sheridan, Wyoming

If you want that small-town, Hallmark holiday movie feel, check out Sheridan in the Equality State. The town hosts an annual "Christmas Stroll," coupled with snowy weather and the charm of a small town during Christmas.

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Nantucket also has an annual Christmas stroll, but this one has that classic New England charm to it. Plus, winter is the off-season for the Massachusetts town, so you likely won't be running into big crowds during the holidays.

Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg is home to colonial holiday traditions like caroling with torches, historical programs and other performances. The holiday season is topped off with a grand display of fireworks and a historic gun salute. For a quieter holiday celebration, you can also check out Busch Gardens' Christmas Town.

Greenville, South Carolina

Greenville is another one of those towns reminiscent of a Hallmark movie. With lights lining the streets, a miniature ice skating rink and tree-lighting ceremonies, Greenville will bring all of the Christmas magic (and maybe some warm weather, too!).

Blue Ridge, Georgia

If you're looking for some Southern charm this holiday season, add Blue Ridge to your holiday destination list. The town has a train ride with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and the gorgeous natural scenery of the northern Georgia destination is perfect for holiday pictures.

Taos, New Mexico

Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, honors its Indigenous culture by hosting a religious procession every Christmas Eve in the Indigenous community with bonfires, lights and a historic gun salute. Taos also hosts tree-lighting ceremonies, concerts and fairs.

Branson, Missouri

Head to the Midwest to experience Branson's Ozark Mountain Christmas festival, a monthlong celebration with music, shows and lights. The city also has a Polar Express Train Ride reminiscent of the classic holiday movie.

North Pole, Alaska

This town just might be the closest you'll ever get to the real North Pole — and it's festive all year round! There's a Santa Claus house, a mayor whose name is Santa and plenty of festive decorations to make it feel like the real thing.

Santa Claus, Indiana

For another year-round holiday treat, head to Indiana's Santa Claus, which calls itself "America's Christmas Hometown." In this town, Santa's elves send replies to children's letters, and holiday celebrations include parades, a light show and a candy castle.

Franklin, Tennessee

Franklin is perfect for any Charles Dickens fans. The town hosts an annual Dickens of a Christmas festival for a weekend full of Dickens-related festivities. Franklin also puts on a Victorian Village complete with Victorian-era treats.

Big Spring, Texas

Located in the heart of West Texas, this charming town was dubbed the "Lighted Poinsettia Capital of Texas." Big Spring goes big on holiday spirit, including Hotel Settles, which has a beautifully decorated lobby and massive Christmas tree (and some presents underneath!).

Asheville, North Carolina

The historic Biltmore mansion in Asheville gets dressed to the nines during the holiday season with garlands, lights, ribbons and more. The city also hosts festive craft shows in the River Arts District and boasts beautiful mountains to complete the picture.

Durango, Colorado

A historic mining town, Durango puts its local steam engine to festive use with wintery rides through the scenic mountains. In December, the train operates on a special "Polar Express"-inspired trip for children along with rides to find and cut down Christmas trees to bring back home.

Darby, Montana

Nestled in Montana's gorgeous Bitterroot Mountains, Darby brings some Western twang to the perfect holiday trip. The city hosts all sorts of festive events from horseback riding to ice fishing and more, with plenty of holiday décor to complete the experience.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

A modest Pennsylvania town, Bethlehem brings the small-town charm to Christmas without breaking the bank. Take part in the town's horse-drawn carriage rides to enjoy the lights or go on the Christmas City Stroll to get in the holiday spirit.

New York, New York

It's not a small town, but it's undeniable that there's no place like the Big Apple for the holidays. You can go ice skating and enjoy the iconic Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center , or walk through one of the many holiday markets, like the one at Bryant Park. In this winter wonderland, the opportunities are endless.

CORRECTION (Nov. 10, 2022, 9:40 p.m.): An earlier version of this article mentioned a scenic train ride along Lake Michigan in Duluth, Minnesota. It is along Lake Superior, not lake Michigan.

Laya Neelakandan is a reporter for CNBC.

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Welcome to Christmas Town, USA

Nov 28, 2023 • 5 min read

Simply having a wonderful Christmas time © Getty Images

What’s your holiday vibe: Gilded Age splendor, Hallmark-movie gazebos or Bavarian-style Christmas villages? Americans have always loved decking the halls. Case in point, we’ve sought out ten of the best places in the USA to visit during this magical season, no matter what your Yuletide style is.

New York, NY

Nobody does Christmas like New York City . The Big Apple’s flagship tree, at Rockefeller Center, shines bright with over 50,000 lights, topped with a Daniel Libeskind-designed Swarovski star. Bryant Park’s Winter Village features over 180 holiday shopping and dining kiosks and an ice skating rink – a companion to the famed one at 30 Rock near Radio City Music Hall, where the Rockettes put on their legendary Christmas Spectacular .

The Chelsea Market is home to GingerBread Lane , the world’s largest gingerbread village. In the Brooklyn neighborhood of Dyker Heights , residents go ham with festive decorations. The Brooklyn Botanic Garden puts on Lightscape , a nightly display curated by a range of artists, while the Bronx’s New York Botanical Garden offers its annual Holiday Train Show and a light show, NYBG GLOW.

Burlington, VT

  Vermont is a holiday wonderland, and the city of Burlington is a perfect example with its Church Street Marketplace , a holiday festival throughout the city’s main pedestrian thoroughfare. Shop windows are overflowing with flair, thousands of colored lights twinkle above, the Christmas tree lights up outside the church at the top of the street, and a nine-foot-tall menorah will be lit up on December 10. Santa is in residence for visits and requests, and carolers circulate throughout the stores and streets.

Asheville, NC

Bask in Gilded Age holiday splendor at the sprawling Biltmore Estate , the 250-room French Renaissance-style mansion and grounds built in the 1890s by George Washington Vanderbilt. Christmas at Biltmore is a longtime tradition in Asheville, and this year it’s also the setting for a new Hallmark Christmas movie: “ A Biltmore Christmas .” Dubbed America’s largest home, it features 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, 65 fireplaces, and ballrooms decorated in the Gilded  Age holiday style, including a 35-foot Christmas tree in the banquet hall.

Natchitoches, LA

When it comes to throwing festivals, the state of Louisiana is unrivaled. The city of Natchitoches, the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase, has consistently ranked on lists of the best holiday celebrations ; it’s also one of the oldest community holiday celebrations in the country. The six-week Natchitoches Christmas Festival takes place throughout the downtown district and along Cane River Lake, with thousands of holiday lights, a parade, live music, fireworks over the river on Saturday nights, a holiday-themed tour of historic homes, and a Christmas Gala hosted by Northwestern State University.

Branson, MO

When you want your holiday celebration supercharged, you go to Branson . This American mecca for family entertainment goes all in, starting with the dazzling “An Old Time Christmas” at the Silver Dollar City theme park, which includes an eight-story Christmas tree and performances of “A Christmas Carol” and a living Nativity. The city’s home to multiple drive-through light displays, a tour of over 100 of Branson’s most striking Christmas trees, a Polar Express train ride, Christmas on the Showboat Branson Belle. And don’t miss Christmas at Dolly Parton’s Stampede, which in addition to its usual horsemanship includes a live nativity with flying angels.

North Pole, AK

  If you’re really going for the full Christmas experience, is there any other destination but North Pole, Alaska? Located in the Fairbanks metropolitan area, the small town’s main attraction is Santa Claus House , which started in 1952 as a trading post and quickly expanded into a year-round attraction for Santa Claus fans of all ages. A 42-foot-tall Santa statue greets visitors, who can visit the “real” Santa inside and shop for gifts made by local artisans – as well as pay a visit to Santa’s reindeer next door, at the Antler Academy.

Leavenworth, WA

The small town of Leavenworth, a Bavarian-style village nestled in the Cascade mountains, is “Sound of Music” picturesque all year round. But Christmastime takes it to a whole new level, with live entertainment, visits with Santa, gingerbread exhibits, and more. For extra holiday charm, skip the drive on snowy mountain roads and enjoy a ride on the Amtrak Empire Builder , running from Seattle to Leavenworth every afternoon.

Another Hallmark Christmas location is Duluth, the setting for “ Rescuing Christmas. ” Marvel at the sweet architecture of the Pepperkakebyen, a giant gingerbread village at the Nordic Center, or hop aboard the North Shore Scenic Railroad's Christmas Tree Train. Live entertainment abounds: Catch “The Nutcracker: A Duluth Tale,” or if comedy (and personal space) is more your thing, try " A Don’t Hug Me Christmas Carol ."   And don’t miss a visit to Bentleyville, the largest display of Christmas lights in the US.

Myrtle Beach, SC

This famed South Carolina botanical garden wraps its towering, moss-draped trees in millions of lights for its magical Low Country holiday festival, Nights of a Thousand Candles , running from late November until December 31. More than 2,700 hand-lit candles adorn the paths along selected areas of the 9,000-acre gardens. Live music, hot cider, and art and artisan exhibitions add to the nightly enchantment.

Franklin, TN

The historic downtown district of this Middle Tennessee city is the setting for the annual  Dickens of a Christmas Festival , in which Charles Dickens characters stroll the streets interacting with the crowd. From “A Christmas Carol,” naturally, you’ll find Jacob Marley, Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim and his family, the Cratchits, as well as a Father and Mother Christmas. Musical performances, arts and crafts, a KidZone, and a Whiskey Lounge add to the fun.

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The 39 Best Christmas Towns in the United States

From whitefish, montana to pigeon forge, tennessee.

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .

The smell of fire-roasted chestnuts and mulled wine fills the air. You feel a chill, but the blanket of fresh white flakes makes the cold bit not just bearable but enjoyable. Ice skating ends with a mug of hot chocolate (with marshmallows and whipped cream, of course). Mr. and Mrs. Claus are waiting to greet you with candy canes. Twinkling lights adorn every house, tree and lamp post down the street; as much as this sounds like a scene from a Hallmark holiday movie, it could be your ideal winter break, particularly if you book a stay at one of these charming areas —aka the best Christmas towns in the U.S. 

It’s a bold claim, to be sure, but after scouring the country, we feel confident in saying these cities will fill you with holiday cheer.  

America’s Best Christmas Towns at a Glance:  

• Best Christmas Town Overall: Even Scrooge couldn’t resist the seasonal splendor of Leavenworth (number one on our list below), which certainly lives up to its title of “America’s ultimate holiday town.” 
• Best Christmas Village: Historic and brimming with holiday spirit 24/7/365, Santa Claus Museum & Village in Santa Claus, Indiana (number two, below) earns our vote. 
• The Real “Hallmark” Christmas Town: Stowe, Vermont, has played the part of the setting and film location for countless Christmas movies .  

30 ROMANTIC WINTER WEEKEND GETAWAYS IN THE U.S.  

1. Leavenworth, Washington  

• Things to Do: Nutcracker Museum , Leavenworth Reindeer Farm , Icicle Brewing Company     
• Where to Stay: Bavarian Gasthaus (from $122/night, sleeps 2); Haus Haflinger (from $175/night, sleeps 6); Storybrook Riverside Inn (from $499/night) 

A Bavarian-style village with heaps of holiday spirit, Leavenworth puts seasonal sights, smells and sounds on display all December. It doesn’t earn the appellation of the ultimate holiday town for nothing. Here, the intoxicating aroma of roasted chestnuts wafts through the air and carolers sing in the holiday light-laden streets. You’ll want to go sledding on one of the town’s many hills, visit the Nutcracker Museum and make friends with Santa’s transit workers at Leavenworth Reindeer Farm. The only thing missing is a Hallmark movie credit. We’re guessing that’s coming soon. 

2. Santa Claus, Indiana  

• Things to Do: Santa Claus Christmas Store , Land of Lights    
• Where to Stay: Christmas Cottage (from $260/night, sleeps 8); Christmas Homestead (from $249/night, sleeps 14); Comfort Inn (from $146/night) 

With a name like Santa Claus, you already know this spirited southern Indiana community isn’t going to cut corners in the holly or jolly department. Tourists can mail letters to Kris Kringle from the town’s first post office, snap a pic in front of the 22-foot-tall Santa statue, visit the original 1880 Santa Claus Church and ride themed roller coasters at Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari . Don’t leave town without a stop at the Santa Claus Christmas Store and a drive through the Land of Lights. 

3. Stowe, Vermont  

• Things to Do: Go maple sugaring, shop at Stowe Maple Products , dog sledding   
• Where to Stay: Mountain Meadow Home (from $219/night, sleeps 4); Black Bear’s Den (from $222/night, sleeps 6); Trapp Family Lodge (from $730/night) 

Snow-covered scenery, church spires, cozy cabins and historic downtown bedecked in festive flourishes. Stowe is totally picturesque, so it should come as no surprise that many holiday flicks were filmed in this quintessential New England town , like Always and Forever Christmas . Be sure to pop into Stowe Maple Products to stock up on syrup and take a dog sled ride.  

4. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee  

• Things to Do: Winterfest Tour of Lights , Smoky Mountain Christmas Festival    
• Where to Stay: Pigeon Forge Cabin (from $167/night, sleeps 9); Downtown Pigeon Forge Cabin (from $113/night, sleeps 4); Clarion Inn (from $225) 

Dolly Parton is basically the patron saint of everything. Seemingly the holidays are no exception. Her theme park, Dollywood (which, no disrespect to Disney World, might just be the happiest place on earth), hosts the Smoky Mountain Christmas Festival with millions of twinkling lights, fireworks and live performances. The town of Pigeon Forge itself throws Winterfest and illuminates the 200-foot-high observation wheel in a spectacularly festive fashion. 

5. Telluride, Colorado  

• Things to Do: Ski the San Juan Hut System , take a sleigh ride , ice climbing   
• Where to Stay: Modern Mountain Home (from $493/night, sleeps 8); Ski-In-Ski-Out Condo (from $206/night, sleeps 5); Hotel Telluride (from $504/night) 

Powder chasers flock to Telluride. There’s plenty of fun to be had off the slopes, too. The Polar Express train is a festive, family-friendly way to take in the beautiful scenery. Sleigh rides, holiday movie screenings, Santa’s workshop and the torchlight parade are always a hit. Don’t miss the famous Christmas “tree” constructed out of donated skis. 

6. Solvang, California  

• Things to Do: Julefest , Santa’s Village, gnome scavenger hunt   
• Where to Stay: Merkantile Loft (from $125/night, sleeps 2); Couples’ Cottage (from $208/night, sleeps 3); Wine Valley Inn (from $399/night) 

You don’t have to jet off to Europe for a Danish-style Christmas. Just head to Solvang. This storybook village in the Santa Ynez Mountains outside Santa Barbara marks the season with its annual Julefest celebration, a month of candlelit tours, caroling, extended shopping hours, authentic food, wine, beer and festive scavenger hunts. Santa's Village at Solvang Park even has real reindeer! 

7. North Pole, Alaska  

• Things to Do: Santa Claus House , see the northern lights   
• Where to Stay: Gnome Home (from $120/night, sleeps 4); N orth Pole Lakeside Cabin (from $99/night, sleeps 4); Alaska Log Cabins on the Pond (from $127/night) 

No, it’s not the *actual* North Pole. However, unless you somehow manage to nab a seat on Santa’s sleigh, this Alaska town is as close as you’re going to get to toy-making elves. If you visit the Christmas decoration store Santa Claus House, you'll see hand-written letters from children to jolly Saint Nick. Candy cane-striped streetlights, roads called Mistletoe Lane and Kris Kringle Drive and an enormous statue of St. Nicholas really do blur the line between Christmas fantasy and reality. But perhaps the most magical part of all is the very real northern lights . 

8. Woodstock, Vermont  

• Things to Do: skiing, sleigh riding , dine at Mountain Creamery , try Nordic snowshoeing   
• Where to Stay: Hidden Pines Cottage (from $179/night, sleeps 4); Dutch Cottage ($128/night, sleeps 2); Ogden’s Mill Farm (from $149/night, sleeps 4)  

Christmas in Woodstock means full-on Hallmark movie vibes (the Last Vermont Christmas was actually filmed in this Vermont idyll). Wassail Weekend brings candle dipping, gingerbread house demos, cider donuts and sleigh rides. Caroling and special performances at the Woodstock Opera House pack the holiday event calendar. While you’re in town, be sure to grab a meal at the farm-to-table establishment Mountain Creamery and try your hand (er, feet) at traditional Nordic snowshoeing.  

9. Williamsburg, Virginia  

• Things to Do: Busch Gardens , Colonial Williamsburg , Merchants Square  
• Where to Stay: Historic Williamsburg Condo (from $216/night, sleeps 4); Colonial Condo (from $85/night, sleeps 4); Courtyard by Marriott (from $269/night) 

Williamsburg blends the best of Christmas old and new. Caroling by torchlight and candles shining in historic houses that date back to the colonial era give visitors a peek into the past. Meanwhile, Busch Gardens does it up in a more modern way with the largest Christmas light exhibition in North America, a fantastical ice show and peppermint fudge hot chocolate. 

10. Branson, Missouri  

• Things to Do: Silver Dollar City , Dolly Parton’s Stampede , Christmas Tree Tour    
• Where to Stay: Modern Branson Condo (from $110/night, sleeps 8); Cozy Cedar Cabin (from $155/night, sleeps 8); Branson Towers Hotel (from $150/night) 

The family-fun capital of Missouri, Branson has something spirited to appeal to kids and young-at-heart adults. There are almost too many holiday highlights to hit them all on a weekend trip—we’re talking 6.5 million lights in Silver Dollar City alone. Prepare to pack your schedule with eye-catching trees, drive-through light installations, a nativity petting zoo and a ride on the Polar Express. 

11. Jackson, New Hampshire  

• Things to Do: Flossie’s General Store , Christmas Farm Inn , skiing  
• Where to Stay: White Mountain Valley Chalet (from $223/night, sleeps 9); Jackson Village Home (from $265/night, sleeps 4); The Inn at Thorn Hill and Spa (from $1,406/night)  

We’re always down for Christmas in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Jackson is the perfect spot to post up for some joyful alpine fun in the Granite State. It’s pretty much imperative to stay at the always-festive Christmas Farm Inn. Naturally, you’ll want to explore the snowy hills and cross-country ski trails and capture a family photo on the 150-year-old covered bridge. Did we just figure out next year's Christmas card? Before you leave town, visit Flossie’s General Store to pick up a few souvenirs (and snacks) for the road.  

12. Natchitoches, Louisiana  

• Things to Do: Christmas Festival , Holiday Trail of Lights   
• Where to Stay: Cane River Charmer (from $350/night, sleeps 10); Bird’s Nest on the Cane (from $141/night, sleeps 5); Opus House (from $196/night) 

The holiday season in Natchitoches glows for six weeks thanks to the annual Natchitoches Christmas Festival , which dates back to 1927. From the Saturday before Thanksgiving to early January, more than 300,000 lights glow every night. Add to that a fireworks display over the Cane River Lake, as well as a parade with themed floats and costumed characters, and you’ve got quite the party. 

13. Ligonier, Pennsylvania  

• Things to Do: Festival of Lights , Ligonier Country Market, check out the ice sculptures  
• Where to Stay: Loyalhanna Creek Cottage (from $150/night, sleeps 4); Ligonier Creekside Cabin (from $92/night, sleeps 4); Colonial House on Main (from $165/night) 

A place that we’d love to gift wrap and give to our friends and family on December 25, Ligonier really does feel like a Christmas card come to life with its enchanting town green that even has a Stars Hollow-esque gazebo. There are holiday markets and horse-drawn sleigh rides, plus ample opportunities to go skiing, snowboarding and tubing. 

14. Frankenmuth, Michigan  

• Things to Do: Bronner’s , musical tree show , write a letter to Santa  
• Where to Stay: Saginaw Cottage (from $121/night, sleeps 4); Mitten on Main (from $180/night, sleeps 6); Frankenmuth Motel (from $73/night) 

Frankenmuth sounds like frankincense and myrrh (aka two of the gifts that the wise men brought to the newborn king). And that’s just the start of the Christmas-y connection to this Michigan town. Also known as the state’s “Little Bavaria,” it’s home to Bronner’s, the world’s largest Christmas store, which is the size of nearly two football fields and sells legitimately all manner of lights, decorations, trimmings and trees. Be sure to catch the musical tree show at the visitor center and meander the streets to admire the Bavarian architecture.  

15. Taos, New Mexico  

• Things to Do: ski and snowshoe, shop Taos Folk store, see the lights and shops on Ledoux Street   
• Where to Stay: Rustic Adobe Retreat (from $145/night, sleeps 3); Taos Townhouse (from $144/night, sleeps 4); The Historic Taos Inn (from $227/night) 

To see Taos lit up for the holidays is to be wowed by the wonder of it all. This New Mexico town turns up the mirth with a mix of decorations and artisan-made gifts, plus gleeful events like the annual tree lighting ceremony and Twirl Aglow Party. Shop the Taos Folk holiday pop-up store and wander down Ledoux Street for sumptuous light displays and galleries. We’ll leave you with three final words: Christmas morning hike. 

16. Kingston, New York  

• Things to Do: Hudson River Maritime Museum , explore the Stockade District, see the frozen Kaaterskill Falls  
• Where to Stay: 1735 Stone Colonial (from $170/night, sleeps 3); D utch Touch Woodstock Cottage (from $128/night, sleeps 2); The Wiltwyck (from $127/night) 

Christmas in the Catskills resembles the cutesy title of a Hallmark movie, when in fact it could be the way you describe your December family vacation in Kingston. Holiday happenings include cookie bake-offs and The Sinterklaas Festivities , which celebrate the area’s Dutch heritage with some mirthful modern twists. Our fave festivity activity? Donning matching PJs and sipping hot cocoa aboard the Polar Express . 

17. McA denville, North Carolina  

• Things to Do: see the downtown Christmas lights display, McAdenville Baptist Church nativity scene  
• Where to Stay: Belmont Bungalow (from $113/night, sleeps 6); T he Belmont Cottage (from $155/night, sleeps 5); Home2 Suites by Hilton (from $169/night) 

Ever heard of McAdenville? Maybe you know it by another name...Christmas Town, USA. This tiny Charlotte suburb rivals towns twice its size when it comes to seasonal spirit and decorations. So much so, it’s been named one of the ten best Christmas light displays three years in a row by USA Today. Each year, the residents trim 250 evergreen trees in more than 500,000 red, white and green twinkling bulbs. The eye-catching house ornamentation is next level, too. If you time your visit well, you can catch the tree lighting ceremony (December 1) and yule log ceremony (December 14). 

18. Mystic, Connecticut  

• Things to Do: Olde Mystic Village , Stonington Borough , Mystic Seaport Museum  
• Where to Stay: Artist Loft (from $223/night, sleeps 2); Mystic Manor House (from $211/night, sleeps 4); Hyatt Place (from $179/night) 

Christmas in the Connecticut shore town of Mystic is really special. Walk around the historic waterfront district and marvel at old-school sea captain’s homes decorated with twinkling lights. Pick up nostalgic candy, whaling trinkets and other adorable stocking stuffers at the many shops. You’ll also want to indulge your sweet tooth with a cup of hot cocoa and a Mystic cream doughnut. 

19. Cape May, New Jersey  

• Things to Do: tree lighting ceremonies, West Cape May Christmas Parade, Congress Hall Winter Wonderland   
• Where to Stay: Saltbox Bungalow (from $298/night, sleeps 4); Beachfront Condo (from $306/night, sleeps 3); Cape Cottage Inn (from $147/night) 

Something about Victorian architecture just says Christmas to us. (Maybe it’s a Dickensian thing?) Lights, dazzling decorations and an outdoor shopping village at Congress Hall enhance Cape May’s festive appearance. This popular summer destination is also pleasantly uncrowded in the winter. That sense of solitude really adds to the peacefulness of the season. 

20. Galena, Illinois  

• Things to Do: Mistletoe Stroll , Holiday Fire in the Sky , Territory Holiday Market   
• Where to Stay: Romantic Cottage (from $160/night, sleeps 4); Sunrise Villa (from $175/night, sleeps 4); Irish Cottage Inn & Suites (from $144/night) 

Historic and picturesque with impressive architecture, warm hospitality and charm in spades, Galena already has all the making of a postcard-worthy destination. Throw in heaps of snow, twinkling lights, hot coco, horse-drawn wagon rides and some tinsel? You’ve got a picture-perfect Christmas vacation that will undoubtedly delight even the Scroogiest family members. A few can’t-miss attractions include the fireworks show (December 2), holiday market (December 2) and Mistletoe Stroll.  

21. St. Augustine, Florida  

• Things to Do: Nights of Lights , Lighthouse Illuminations , Christmas Parade     
• Where to Stay: Winter Hawk Hideout (from $49/night, sleeps 2); HGTV Home (from $238/night, sleeps 4); Southern Oaks Inn (from $75/night) 

‘Twas the night before Christmas and all the vacationers in St. Augustine were out and about in T-shirts and shorts, peeping the impressive displays of glowing white bulbs that illuminate the entire Historic District during the annual Nights of Lights festival. Admire the luminaries while walking around or consider a horse-drawn carriage ride. 

22. Jackson Hole, Wyoming  

• Things to Do: winter tour in a national park, dog sledding , ride the aerial tram   
• Where to Stay: Spirit Dance Outpost (from $210/night, sleeps 8); Downtown Jackson Condo (from $289/night, sleeps 3); Four Seasons Hotel (from $1,140/night) 

An epic outdoor playground with a wild western spirit, the mountain town of Jackson Hole shines (merry and) bright during the winter. Throughout the month of December, Santa frequently stops by the beautifully decorated Town Square to the delight of children of all ages. Kiddos can also ski with Saint Nick and go ice skating at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort . 

23. Newport, Rhode Island  

• Things to Do: tour the Newport mansions , Newport Harbor illuminated boat parade, Christmas in Newport festival  
• Where to Stay: Thames Guest House (from $300/night, sleeps 4); Gull’s Nest (from $316/night, sleeps 2); Armistead Cottage Bed & Breakfast (from $260/night) 

Impeccably decorated gilded mansions, larger-than-life Christmas trees, lavish parties with plenty of eggnog, cobblestone streets dusted in fresh flakes and ocean views is how Newport does the holidays. Weather permitting, the town puts on a dazzling harbor display of bedecked boats. The whole month of December is dedicated to the Christmas in Newport festival, whose program includes a tree lighting, concerts, craft fairs and candlelit house tours. What you really want to do is beeline it to The Breakers  to see all the opulent wreaths, poinsettias and ornaments before ordering a Winter Kiss cocktail at Jo’s American Bistro . 

24. Helen, Georgia  

• Things to Do: Annual Lighting of the Village , shopping at the Christkindlmarkt , eat breakfast with Santa  
• Where to Stay: Alpine Cabin (from $226/night, sleeps 4); Hawks Nest (from $92/night, sleeps 4); Holiday Inn Express (from $266/night) 

We have a feeling that if the Grinch visited Helen at Christmas, his heart would grow two sizes. This adorable town in the Blue Ridge Mountains is known for its glorious holiday celebrations with Bavarian flair. On the docket? Watch the annual Lighting of the Village in Edelweiss River Park, have breakfast with Santa, watch the parade and slog back Glühwein ( a traditional German spiced wine). 

25. Kennebunkport, Maine  

• Things to Do: cross-country skiing, see the decorations at Dock Square, walk Goose Rocks Beach  
• Where to Stay: Kennebunkport Farmhouse (from $361/night, sleeps 4); Boat Shop Cottage (from $250/night, sleeps 6); Kennebunkport Captains Collection (from $365/night) 

Most people think of Kennebunkport as a summer destination, but this enchanting Maine town is like stepping inside a snow globe in the winter. From snow-dusted streets and mom-and-pop shops perfect for purchasing any last-minute gifts to cozy restaurants that serve mulled wine and quaint inns, there’s no shortage of seasonal splendor. 

26. Alexandria, Virginia  

• Things to Do: walk historic King Street, Scottish Christmas Walk Parade , shop the holiday markets  
• Where to Stay: Old Town Home (from $536/night, sleeps 16); Old Town Townhouse (from $213/night, sleeps 4); The Alexandrian Old Town (from $379/night) 

A Victorian-inspired holiday full of singing carols, handbell choirs and crafts awaits in historic Alexandria. Colorful lights and art-adorned lampposts transform King Street into a winter wonderland, while the annual Scottish Christmas Walk Parade is a lively cavalcade of tartans and bagpipes. Swing by Market Square to see the shimmering tree, go ice skating and patronize the holiday markets. 

27. Whitefish, Montana

• Things to Do: stroll Central Avenue, Christmas Eve torchlight parade, Nordic skiing  
• Where to Stay: Downtown Whitefish Condo (from $232/night, sleeps 6); Luxury Whitefish Cabin (from $168/night, sleeps 4); Lodge at Whitefish Lake (from $360/night) 

Winter is the most wonderful time of the year in Whitefish. This vibrant mountain town in northwest Montana and gateway to Glacier National Park pulls out all the stops for Christmas. Visitors can look forward to colorful decorations, caroling, the torchlight parade on December 24, yuletide cocktails, sledding and cross-country skiing at Glacier Nordic Center . 

28. Park City, Utah  

• Things to Do: ride the North Pole Express , Christmas with the Celts at the Egyptian Theater , Snowfest   
• Where to Stay: Park City Treehouse (from $184/night, sleeps 2); Park City Hideaway (from $223/night, sleeps 4); The Chateaux Deer Valley (from $304/night) 

So, what exactly does Christmas in Park City entail? Obviously, you’re going to find world-class slopes and a white-hot après-ski scene. Don’t skip ice skating on the outdoor rink at the base of the atmospheric and impressively decorated Park City Mountain Resort. Afterward, warm up with a steamy cup of hot chocolate. Your itinerary is not complete without a ride on the North Pole Express, a day at Snowfest and a trip to the Egyptian Theater to see “Christmas with the Celts.”  

29. Wellsboro, Pennsylvania  

• Things to Do: Dickens of a Christmas festival , see A Christmas Carol    
• Where to Stay: Rustic Log Home (from $99/night, sleeps 6); The Rexford Cabin (from $150/night, sleeps 6); Penn Wells Lodge (from $115/night) 

Feeling nostalgic for ye olde holiday traditions? The annual Dickens of a Christmas festival turns back the clock on downtown Wellsboro with a Victorian marketplace featuring street entertainers, musicians, artists, craftsmen and food vendors—and, yes, everyone dresses in period garb. Streets close to cars and the gas lamps glow, giving the cobblestone lanes an even more old-timey feel. 

30. Stockholm, Wisconsin  

• Things to Do: Holiday Jul Market , Fire of Stockholm   
• Where to Stay: Maiden Rock Barn (from $155/night, sleeps 8); Historic Schoolhouse (from $150/night, sleeps 4); AmericInn (from $135/night) 

Stockholm may be in Wisconsin, but it draws seasonal inspiration from Sweden and observes Christmas for an entire month. Almost all the residents and local businesses get involved in the festivities, which include a winter solstice fire celebration, tin ornament making class, gingerbread bake-off and photo ops with Jultomte (the Swedish version of Santa Claus). 

31. Dahlonega, Georgia  

• Things to Do: Lighting of the Square, Christmas parade 
• Where to Stay: Dahlonega Estate (from $896/night, sleeps 10); Modern Glass Cabin (from $279/night, sleeps 4); Comfort Inn & Suites (from $112/night) 

Dahlonega—where the Hallmark movie Christmas in Homestead was filmed—is a picturesque former gold rush town in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains that spreads heaps of holiday cheer. Revel in the convivial spirit of the annual tree lighting, carolers, carriage rides, parades, live music, giving your wish list to Santa and Christmas markets. 

32. WaKeeney, Kansas  

• Things to Do: see the giant tree at Russell and Main Streets , shop the Christmas bazaar, see the holiday display at the Trego County Historical Society Museum   
• Where to Stay: WaKeeney Bungalow (from $115/night, sleeps 6); Garden Cottage (from $105/night, sleeps 8); Best Western Plus (from $99/night) 

No one would dare to utter the words “bah, humbug” when exposed to such pageantry as WaKeeney whips up for the festive season. The “Christmas City of the High Plains” (a title the town has proudly held since 1950) puts on the largest holiday extravaganza between Kansas City and Denver, complete with a 35-foot-tall evergreen tree that flaunts 6,800 colored lights and a crown of ivory stars. If you head into town November 25, you’ll catch the Christmas extravaganza kickoff, with a holiday market, carriage rides and live reindeer.  

33. Coeur d’Alene, Idaho  

• Things to Do: Festival of Trees , North Pole Cruise , downtown art and music walks    
• Where to Stay: 1940s Cottage (from $94/night, sleeps 4); The 611 Suite (from $114/night, sleeps 2); Greenbriar Inn (from $155/night) 

The name Coeur D’Alene calls to mind a twee French village. However, this Idaho community is all American in the way it celebrates Christmas. And while it's going to be cold outside (the monthly average hovers around the freezing mark), a festive lake cruise and 1.5 million twinkling lights strewn across downtown will give you all the warm, fuzzy feels. 

34. Kettle Falls, Washington  

• Things to Do: Christmas tree lighting , Lady Lion’s Craft Fair  
• Where to Stay: Oma’s Lake Cottage (from $134/night, sleeps 4); Lake Roosevelt Bungalow (from $140/night, sleeps 6); Garden Estate Bed and Breakfast (from $169/night)

A bonafide winter wonderland located just 30 miles south of the U.S.-Canada Border, Kettle Falls brings joy to the most curmudgeonly of visitors with its access to cold-weather recreation and festive celebrations like the annual Christmas tree lighting and a holiday craft fair that’s sure to put a dent in your shopping list. 

35. Stockbridge, Massachusetts  

• Things to Do: walk down Main Street, historic holiday property tour , nutcracker display at the Stockbridge Library  
• Where to Stay: The Granary at House on Golden Hill (from $131/night, sleeps 4); GreenHouse (from $141/night, sleeps 4); Seven Hills Inn (from $111/night) 

A cozy community in the Berkshires that gives off idyllic New England Christmas vibes, Stockbridge spreads merriment with lights, wreaths and joyous energy. No wonder it ended up in a Norman Rockwell painting. Locally owned shops, galleries and restaurants welcome patrons with a warm smile and festive offerings. Plus, you can take a tour of the historic properties, bedecked in holiday decorations. The original “Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas” painting at the Norman Rockwell Museum is a timeless reminder of the wonder of the season. 

36. Milton, Delaware   

• Things to Do: Winter WonderFEST  
• Where to Stay: Teeny’s Place (from $250/night, sleeps 6); The Book Nook (from $164/night, sleeps 4); Suds and Sand (from $228/night, sleeps 8) 

Even Buddy the Elf might learn a thing or two about getting in the Christmas spirit from Milton. This wondrous little town in Sussex County, Delaware just radiates joy. The centerpiece of the holiday season is Winter WonderFEST at Hudson Fields, which runs the entire month of December. The Light Spectacular , ice skating and the carnival are just some of the many can’t-miss attractions. 

37. Wyoming, Iowa   

• Things to Do: Wyoming Historical Museum , walk down main street  
• Where to Stay: Wapsi River Retreat (from $284/night, sleeps 8); D eer Camp Cabin (from $204/night, sleeps 9); Boho Chic Farmhouse (from $161/night, sleeps 9) 

Wyoming may have just 500 residents, but that doesn’t hamper the holiday cheer. Thousands of people visit this tiny town in Jones County, Iowa, each year to see the beautiful lights of The Christmas City and imbibe the convivial spirit. BTW, local vineyards mean you’re all but guaranteed to get some delicious mulled wine. 

38. Nantucket, Massachusetts  

• Things to Do: catch a beach sunrise, Brant Point Light , Nantucket Christmas Stroll   
• Where to Stay: Sconset Beach Cottage (from $223/night, sleeps 2); The Nantucket Farmhouse (from $563/night, sleeps 6); Greydon House (from $372/night) 

You probably associate Nantucket with summer, but this idyllic island is a peaceful and joyous slice of paradise during Christmas time. Heart-warming holiday traditions range from the annual Christmas Stroll that’s chock full of cookie decorating , caroling, ugly sweaters and ice sculptures to the Nantucket Whaling Museum getting the winter wonderland treatment. 

39. Snowmass Village, Colorado  

• Things to Do: Snowmass Luminescence, Breathtaker Alpine Coaster , New Year’s Eve fireworks   
• Where to Stay: Chez Valerie (from $264/night, sleeps 2); Summit’s Rest (from $338/night, sleeps 6); Limelight Hotel (from $399/night) 

Snowmass Village captures the true essence of the Christmas season with decorations, delicious food and downhill action. The coolest thing that goes down during the holidays? Snowmass Luminescence is a sensory-stimulating collection of large-scale interactive LED installations. Eggnog-fueled après ski roistering certainly exists, while the Viceroy Snowmass serves a more wholesome spread of fresh-baked cookies and hot chocolate. 

THE BEST MOUNTAIN TOWNS IN THE U.S.

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23 US Cities That Go All Out for Christmas

By Caitlin Morton

Think of the phrase “Christmas in America” and you’ll likely imagine the usual suspects: giant trees festooned in twinkling lights, people of all ages caroling and singing “Silent Night,” ubiquitous tributes to the jolly man in red named Santa Claus, and gingerbread. Lots of gingerbread. But take a closer look and you may be surprised: Christmas celebrations across the United States can look very different, depending on the environment, local history, and present-day cultures of the people who live there. Not everything is a winter wonderland—in fact, maybe a warm-weather destination for the holidays is exactly what you need. Regardless of temperature, these 23 destinations are some of the best places to spend Christmas this year.

These places below are known for the ways they come alive at Christmastime: from the glitzy and glam festivities of big cities like New York or Chicago to the Santa-hats-and-shorts vibes of Santa Fe and St. Augustine. Of course, your Christmas vacation ideas in the US are far from limited to just these places. Here's one idea: Head out on a multi-destination road trip to check out some fantastical drive-through Christmas lights displays . And while there are a great many places to celebrate Christmas around the world , experience one Christmas in America and you’ll be a person changed for the better.

Here are some of the best places to go for Christmas in the United States this year, ranging all types of atmosphere and styles: from Kennebunkport to Las Vegas , from Dallas to North Pole, Alaska (note the missing the ). No matter where you choose, there are plenty of activities to participate in, events to check out, and places to stay. Happy holidays, y’all.

This article has been updated since its original publish date. All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Alexandria, Virginia

Why we go: Located about 20 minutes south of Washington, DC, Alexandria is a picture-perfect place to spend the holiday season. The Old Town’s row houses and centuries-old brick streets look even more charming when adorned with snow and Christmas wreaths, and you can expect a ton of seasonal activities. The festivities kick off along the Potomac River shoreline with the Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights (December 2 at 5:30 p.m.) and the annual Scottish Christmas Walk Parade (December 3). Come Christmas Eve, try to spot Waterskiing Santa along the Potomac River.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Get a taste of the Christmases of yore at nearby Mount Vernon (George Washington’s former home), where you can take a candlelit guided tour, and enjoy some cider and cookies (with special events on November 24 and 25, December 1, 2, 8, 9, and 17).

Stay here: Book a stay at The Alexandrian, Autograph Collection , which is on King Street, in the heart of Alexandria’s shopping and entertainment area.

Asheville, North Carolina

Why we go: Asheville is easily one of the country’s best places to spend Christmas, offering all the light displays and holiday shopping—not to mention the perfect tucked-away location in the Blue Ridge Mountains —any vacationer could wish for. Some of the city’s seasonal offerings include a lit-up wonderland at the North Carolina Arboretum , and the 29th Annual National Gingerbread House Competition at The Omni Grove Park Inn (on display from November 27 to January 2).

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Christmas at Biltmore Estate is just as spectacular as it sounds, with 100 hand-decorated trees, 10,000 ornaments, and 100,000 holiday lights drawing visitors through the new year in January.

Stay here: Cozy up in The Foundry , a hotel that opened in 2018 with a James Beard-nominated chef running its in-house restaurant. It’s Asheville’s best boutique hotel, filled with authentic touches—from lots of exposed brick to the restaurant’s modern spins on comfort food.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Why we go: This Christmas, visit the little town of Bethlehem—in Pennsylvania, that is. The city’s German-inspired Christmas City Village and Christkindlmarkt (November 17 to December 17) feature rotating displays by artisans, live music, and glass-blowing demonstrations. After stocking up on handmade ornaments and nutcrackers, take a carriage ride through Downtown Bethlehem to take in all the Christmas lights.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The Winter Light Spectacular (through December 31) at the Lehigh Valley Zoo, about 30 minutes northwest of Bethlehem, features more than a million lights and illuminated scenes throughout the zoo.

Stay here: The Sayre Mansion Inn has warm and comfortable rooms, private six-course dinners, and beautiful Christmas decorations. If you want to venture out into the town, Lehigh University, St. Luke’s Hospital, the Steel Stacks Performing Arts Center, and the Wind Creek Casino are all nearby.

Bowling Green, Kentucky

Why we go: Normally, you wouldn’t expect an Arctic experience in southern Kentucky, but Bowling Green is shaking up the holiday game this year. The Christmas spirit is definitely alive at the city’s Reindeer Farm , where families can feed reindeer, watch holiday movies, and drink cocoa while writing letters to Santa. (There's even wine tasting for the grown-ups.)

The one thing to get you in the spirit: End your festive vacation at the SoKY Marketplace Ice Rink , an outdoor rink where you can skate with Santa and the Grinch.

Stay here: Opened in mid-2019, the Lodge at Olde Stone offers 12 cozy, Kentucky-inspired suites and a restaurant serving up Southern dishes. And if you’re a golfer, be sure to pack your clubs: the property boasts 9- and 18-hole courses onsite.

Branson, Missouri

Why we go: Sort of like a family-friendly little sister to Las Vegas, Branson pulls out all the stops every holiday season. The Ozark Mountain town transforms into a winter wonderland with 1,500 Christmas trees in and around town, ice skating under the Branson Ferris Wheel, and several drive-through light displays .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Head straight to the 1880s-themed amusement park Silver Dollar City for the annual An Old Time Christmas festival. The party lasts until December 30 and includes 6.5 million lights, 1,000 trees (including an eight-story one), outdoor shows, parades, and, of course, rides.

Stay here: Chateau on the Lake is one of the nicest hotels in town, with beautiful lake views, a full-service luxury spa, and the Chateau Marina, where activities include fishing, water skiing, and tubing (though you may want to wait for warmer weather—or not, if that’s your thing).

Charleston, South Carolina

Why we go: Charleston is the perfect destination for any fan of the holidays, but not of the frigid weather that often comes with the season. There are plenty of Christmas-oriented events and festivities in the city that are fit for every type of tourist. Check out the Festival of Trees at The Charleston Place , where 16 Christmas trees, each one decorated by a local Charleston business or organization, will be on display throughout the beautiful hotel’s second floor. For something that sounds (and is) magnificent, catch The Sound of Charleston , where you can hear the music that tells the city’s story: gospel spirituals, music by George Gershwin, Civil War songs, and jazz. For something pleasantly aquatic, head over to the South Carolina Aquarium, which presents the dazzling light show Aquarium Aglow after the sun goes down on select evenings this November and December (be sure to say hi to “Scuba Claus” in the Great Ocean Tank).

The one thing to get you in the spirit: As far as classically Christmassy merrymaking goes, it doesn’t get any more traditional (minus the freezing temperatures) than the Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park featuring a spectacular light show that features over two million tiny light bulbs.

Stay here: There are plenty of options in South Carolina’s beautiful port city: There’s the perennial favorite French Quarter Inn , which welcomes guests with a glass of Champagne and is just a few steps away from the famous Charleston City Market. Meanwhile, The Vendue , the city’s first art hotel concept, offers an ever-evolving experience—the hotel has a full-time docent and rotating exhibits. And for something classic, there’s Hotel Bennett , voted the very best hotel in Charleston by Traveler readers in the Readers’ Choice Awards 2023 ; its old-world grandeur and good ol’ Southern charm make this Marion Square hotel irresistible. (The place also hosts a holiday tea on Thursdays and Fridays until Christmas.)

Chicago, Illinois

Why we go: From its European-inspired Christkindlmarket (from November 17 to December 24) to light shows galore (there’s the Let It Shine drive-through Christmas lights display), Chicago knows a thing or two about embracing the Christmas spirit (and freezing temperatures). Can’t-miss activities include visiting the 51-foot Christmas tree in Millennium Park and cozying up in a heated igloo at The Godfrey Hotel .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Be dazzled by 2.5 million LEDs at ZooLights (from November 17 through January 7), an annual light festival held at Lincoln Park Zoo. Check out the event’s calendar for sensory-friendly visit times.

Stay here: As far as hotels go, travelers truly have their pick of the litter in the Windy City. One top choice is The Langham, Chicago , housed in a landmark Mies van der Rohe building along the Chicago River. It's just a Chicago hotdog’s throw away from Magnificent Mile, where you can get all your holiday shopping done. For the sportier among us, there’s the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel , which has a strong local following for its historic lobby, indoor bocce, foosball in its game room, and the gem-like Milk Room bar, among other things. On the rooftop, and mostly enclosed by an atrium, Cindy’s cranks it up with large format cocktails, shareable dishes, and some of the best views of Millennium Park.

Dallas, Texas

Why we go: Proving you don’t need cold temperatures to get in the Christmas spirit, the holiday celebrations in Dallas put most northern cities to shame. Most notable is Holiday at the Arboretum (now through January 5), a Christmas village with millions of lights, a 50-foot tree with lights animated to music, and visits with Santa Claus. Elsewhere in town, you can drive through the Dallas Zoo Lights route (from November 17 to January 2) and skate next to the country’s tallest indoor Christmas tree at the Galleria Dallas Ice Skating Center .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Throw a few back at Miracle , a Christmas-themed pop-up bar that returns to Dallas this year at the cocktail bar Royal 38 in Uptown Dallas.

Stay here: If you really want a festive experience, check in at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek , where the grounds are beautiful and the food is so tasty, you could dine on property every night.

Denver, Colorado 

Why we go: Unwrap the magic of the holidays in Denver this season with special events and millions of twinkling lights. Enjoy a family outing to the Denver Zoo Lights , or a fun day of shopping and ice skating downtown. Get a dose of culture with a viewing of A Christmas Carol or The Nutcracker (see the full calendar here ), then visit the Mile High Tree at the 16th Street Mall (it’s actually 110 feet tall, but that’s still pretty impressive).

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The Denver Christkindlmarket (one of the best German markets in the country) returns to Civic Center Park this winter, open daily now through December 23.

Stay here: The Crawford Hotel , a boutique property in LoDo’s Union Station, boasts Art Deco rooms, and the city’s most beautiful lobby. Soaring ceilings and sky-high chandeliers hang overhead, while oversized sofas and leather chairs create a casual and bustling “living room” frequented by travelers and locals alike.

Kennebunkport, Maine

Why we go: If you’re wondering where to go for Christmas celebrations unlike anywhere else, look no further. Every December, this tiny New England town bursts with holiday cheer during its annual Christmas Prelude ; check out the site and you’ll see a live countdown to the event’s start date—it’s that highly anticipated. It’s an 11-day bash that’s about as New England as it gets: one of the main attractions is a tree made of lobster traps. Speaking of, the legendary lobster rolls at hotspots like Scales , The Highroller Lobster Co. , and Miyake will make you forget about gingerbread and sugar plums altogether.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Santa Claus’s arrival at the Christmas Prelude on a lobster boat.

Stay here: According to this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards, Traveler readers love the 14-room Cape Arundel Inn & Resort for its oceanside location and restaurant serving up fresh seafood—and, unlike a lot of Maine resorts, it’s actually open during the winter months.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Why we go: If you thought Las Vegas was dazzling before, just wait until you see it decked out for Christmas. Basically, the entire Strip transforms into a winter wonderland full of festive events for the entire family. This year's activities include rooftop ice skating at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas (beginning December 2), colorful displays outside The LINQ promenade , a 6-foot-tall gingerbread man at ARIA , and a massive holiday display—complete with a 42-foot Christmas tree—at the Bellagio’s Conservatory and Botanical Gardens .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Catch an iconic show at the Fountains of Bellagio to see performances set to “Santa Baby,” “Carol of the Bells,” and other holiday classics.

Stay here: It’s hard to go wrong when it comes to the hotels on the Strip in Las Vegas , especially as each property tries to outdo each other—whether for the holidays or just around the year. That said, for a classic experience, stay at The Venetian . The whole place is so marvelously over-the-top that it doesn’t matter that it looks nothing like the real Venice . That’s not the point. This is Vegas, baby.

Nashville, Tennessee

Why we go: The Music City is all about the—wait for it—music during the holiday season. From November 10 through January 1, enjoy “Country Christmas” at Gaylord Opryland , with tons of Christmas shows, plus ice skating and acres of light displays. Or head to the Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway and take the two-mile drive through Jingle Beat , a light show set to remixed versions of classic Christmas carols. And when in doubt, you can always catch a yuletide show at the Grand Ole Opry .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Given the Christmas season, a hotel named Noelle seems as perfect a place as any to spend the season. Its Holiday Glow Package is a nice deal, but even cooler is its Ralphie’s Christmas experience, inspired by A Christmas Story, which features Oval-tinis and other seasonal bites (happening in the hotel’s Hidden Bar until January 8).

Stay here: Well, it’s obvious, isn’t it? Stay at the Noelle—officially Noelle, Nashville, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel. It’s in the center of the downtown Nashville action, and its emphasis on art, design, and local artists and designers will help you get to know the city all the more.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Why we go: It’s no surprise that New Orleans leans into the holiday season, but we still get all tingly thinking about Christmas in the city. NOLA lights up with events like LUNA Fête , where the Central Business District around Lafayette Square fills up with installations and animated graphics from December 7 to 10. City Park also becomes a wonderland for the entire month with Celebration in the Oaks (November 23 to December 30), a festival with vendors, food and drink stands, and decorations adorning the centuries-old oak trees.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The annual Christmas Eve lighting of the bonfires along the banks of the Mississippi River is a seasonal tradition that's as authentically “New Orleans” as they come.

Stay here: The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans has lots of holiday offerings this year, including gingerbread house building and a four-course dinner on Christmas Eve.

New York City

Why we go: There’s no shortage of ways to make your New York City Christmas magical, whether it’s ice skating at Central Park, window shopping along Fifth Avenue, visiting the tree at Rockefeller Center, seeing the Rockettes in the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall, or lurking around 34th Street hoping to witness a miracle.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Prepare to be incredibly and thoroughly overwhelmed (in a good way!) by the Christmas spirit in this Brooklyn neighborhood, which famously goes all out on the holiday decorations each year. Think candy cane lanes, giant snowmen, illuminated snowflakes, and too many glowing Santa Claus figures than the census can count. Lights go up after Thanksgiving and last through the New Year, so whether you’re driving through in a car or taking the pedestrian route, there’s plenty of time to take in the wall-to-wall displays of life-size nutcrackers, enormous twinkling trees, and lawn ornament reindeer. Big sleigh.

Stay here: Easy answer: The Plaza . If you've ever watched Home Alone 2 , you’ll recognize it as the hotel where young Kevin McCallister, while lost in New York, lived lavishly in a posh suite for the holidays. Fittingly, the hotel has a “Home Alone 2: Fun in New York” experience package, offered throughout the year, that lets guests mimic memorable moments from the movie. It includes a limousine ride all over the city to landmarks like Central Park and Radio City Music Hall, a large cheese pizza (to be eaten in the limo, naturally), and the Home Alone sundae, made to fit Kevin’s exacting taste (specifically: 16 scoops of assorted ice cream, whipped cream, maraschino cherries, M&M’s, brownie bits, chocolate, caramel, and raspberry sauce). If a more traditional Christmas is what you’re looking for, there’s also the “Suitest Season of All” package that comes with a seven-foot-tall decorated Balsam Hill tree placed directly in your suite.

Newport Beach, California

Why we go: The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is one of the longest-running holiday festivals in the entire country, celebrating its 115th anniversary this year from December 13 to 17. (To compare, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting has been running for 90 years.) The “parade” takes place in the harbor of Newport Beach, where yachts, boats, and kayaks have been known to show off up to $50,000 worth of decorations to millions of visitors.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: View the parade from Balboa Island , where the decorated houses threaten to upstage the passing boats.

Stay here: The nautical, all-American feel at Lido House, Autograph Collection fits in perfectly with the theme of the holiday events—especially with the addition of bright, colorful Christmas decorations in the cottages.

North Pole, Alaska

Why we go: Even though this North Pole is 1,700 miles south of the true North Pole, the quaint Alaskan town is 100 percent saturated with Christmas cheer. Most famous for the Santa Claus House (the self-proclaimed “official” home of St. Nick), the North Pole’s nominal spirit even extends to its street names: Snowman Lane, Saint Nicholas Drive, Holiday Road, and Santa Claus Lane, which has light poles shaped like candy canes. Just as adorable is the town’s post office, which gets flooded with tens of thousands of letters addressed to Santa Claus each year.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The annual tree-lighting ceremony has plenty of photo ops with Santa himself.

Stay here: The North Pole Cabins are comfortable and warm log cabin retreats, located just a mile from the Santa Claus House.

Park City, Utah

Why we go: As if the world-class skiing isn’t reason enough to visit Park City this winter, the town also happens to be a wonderful place to spend Christmas. The former Olympic city has ample opportunities for skiing, fly fishing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding—with no shortage of resorts to warm up in between runs.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Hop on a 90-minute train ride with the North Pole Express at Heber Valley Railroad, where you can sip hot cocoa and meet Mrs. Claus.

Stay here: The 12-room Washington School House is just a hop away from Park City’s lit-up Main Street, and its Christmas decorations are some of the prettiest ever seen. In nearby Deer Valley, there’s also the iconic Stein Eriksen Lodge , a luxurious chalet with easy ski-in/ski-out access. And just 25 minutes from downtown Park City Auberge Resorts’ The Lodge at Blue Sky is a perfect place to unwind in luxury.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Why we go: Santa Fe’s already-beautiful plaza becomes downright magical with the addition of Christmas lights—but the holiday spirit doesn’t start and stop there. The city also offers midnight mass at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis de Assisi , holiday exhibits at the New Mexico Museum of Art , holiday flamenco performances at El Flamenco Cabaret , and seasonal shopping at the Winter Indian Market. Even when Christmas is officially over, you can keep busy at Taos Ski Valley and Ski Santa Fe —both just an easy drive away.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Santa Fe’s annual Canyon Road Farolito Walk , a Christmas Eve event consisting of farolitos (paper bags filled with sand and topped with a votive candle) lining the streets and walls of adobe buildings, is sure to get you in a pleasant and festive mood for the occasion.

Stay here: Condé Nast Traveler ’s Readers’ Choice Award favorite Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi has a tangible warmth to it, with gaslit kiva fireplaces and hand-carved four-poster beds adorning the rooms.

Seattle, Washington

Why we go: Aside from the delightful sight of a Christmas tree atop the Space Needle, there are plenty of reasons to visit Seattle over the holidays. Your one-stop shop for holiday cheer is Winterfest at Seattle Center (November 24 to December 31), which has family-friendly activities like train rides and ice sculpting demonstrations. There’s also a huge celebration just eight miles east of Seattle in the town of Bellevue: Snowflake Lane (November 24 to December 24), a nightly light show with caroling and snow machines ensuring a white Christmas.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Sheraton Grand Seattle ’s annual Gingerbread Village is probably Seattle’s most beloved holiday tradition, in which the city’s top architecture firms and culinary teams get together to create next-level gingerbread houses. This year’s event runs from November 21 to New Year’s Day.

Stay here: With its mountain lodge interiors, The Edgewater Hotel is one of the best places to cozy up in the Pacific Northwest. If you like to fall asleep while staring out at gentle waves glistening in the moonlight, you won’t find a better spot in the city.

Seneca Falls, New York

Why we go: It’s a Wonderful Life may have been shot on an RKO soundstage in Los Angeles, but the fine folks of Seneca Falls , New York, swear that their five-square-mile upstate hamlet is the inspiration for the real Bedford Falls . Each December, they host an array of old-timey activities to prove it. This year, the event runs from December 7 to 10 and will include special film screenings, gingerbread house contests, and museum exhibits.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The “It's a Wonderful Bonfire” event on Friday, December 8, which includes caroling, a visit from Santa, and a tree-lighting ceremony.

Stay here: The Gould Hotel has elegant rooms and a restaurant serving hearty, local meals that will warm you from the inside out.

St. Augustine, Florida

Why we go: Christmas in St. Augustine is truly something to behold. The holiday season kicks off this year with the city’s annual Christmas Parade, then continues through January 28 with the famous Nights of Lights festival. During the celebration, St. Augustine glows with three million tiny white lights over the Bridge of Lions and through 20 city blocks in the historic district. Bonus: You can enjoy the whole show without wearing a coat and gloves, because, you know, Florida.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Climb aboard the Old Town Trolley’s Famous Nights of Lights Tour, which departs nightly from November 19 through January 28.

Stay here: The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens pairs all the charm of a bed and breakfast with all the amenities of a true luxury hotel. No little detail is overlooked, from interesting on-site activities (like watercolor painting in the courtyard) to immaculate turndown service. The hotel has an age minimum of 16, making this a great retreat for harried parents.

St. Louis, Missouri

Why we go: It’s been almost 80 years since Judy Garland first graced the world with “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” at the end of Meet Me in St Louis , and the Missouri city has embraced its role as one of America’s yuletide capitals ever since. Make sure you hit all the classics, like Wild Lights at the St. Louis Zoo, the poinsettia show at Jewel Box in Forest Park , and ice skating at Steinberg Rink . For the third year running, there's even a Polar Express -themed train ride at the Union Station development.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Walk among a million dazzling lights at the Missouri Botanical Garden’s annual Garden Glow , which runs from November 18 to January 6.

Stay here: You can’t beat the glittering, Gateway Arch-facing views at the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis .

Washington, D.C.

Why we go: There are few holiday displays in the nation that compare with Washington, DC’s National Christmas Tree, but other seasonal perks include private igloos at the Watergate Hotel, the Downtown Holiday Market (now through December 23), and a glorious absence of field trip groups in the Smithsonian museums.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Make it a priority to amble over to the Ford’s Theatre, which puts on an annual run of A Christmas Carol for the holidays.

Stay here: The InterContinental The Willard Washington D.C., an IHG Hotel , is just a few blocks away from the White House and National Christmas Tree, and offers a holiday afternoon tea and tons of gorgeous decorations. You’ve heard it a thousand times: “There's no place like home for the holidays.”

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The 15 Best Christmas Towns in the US

Courtesy of Hotel del Coronado

The country’s biggest cities may host some of the most iconic Christmas experiences, like ice skating at New York City’s Rockefeller Center or the festive holiday storefronts along the Magnificent Mile in Chicago. But don’t overlook the small towns, where holiday fun snowballs with charming festivals, made-for-Hallmark traditions, and, often, more Christmas lights than residents. Some of the best Christmas towns are wintery snow globes; others are warm-weather destinations with boat parades and twinkling palm trees. Ahead, 15 U.S. towns that may be small in size but are big on holiday cheer. 

Breckenridge, Colorado

Courtesy of Breckenridge Tourism Office

Holiday movie lovers might recognize Breckenridge from “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” with Clark Griswold’s greased-up sledding incident shot on the ski area’s Peak 8 and many more slapdash scenes filmed throughout this classic Colorado mountain town. Break from the Griswold’s haphazard script, and enjoy one of Breck’s many chill traditions leading up to Christmas. Pets trot through town dressed as reindeer, elves, and the like during a holiday dog parade and hundreds of jolly runners in red velour suits dash down Main Street for the “ Race of the Santas .” Beyond the obvious holiday celebrations, Breckenridge also hosts the Ullr Fest every December, where it’s tradition for eager skiers and snowboarders to wear Viking hats, drink from a “shot ski,” and praise the Norse god of snow in hopes of a powder-filled season.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Discover Lehigh Valley

Back in 1741, a religious group settled in the Lehigh Valley, and, on Christmas Eve, after a bishop visited a two-room log cabin housing both people and animals, the Pennsylvania city had a name: Bethlehem . Today, Bethlehem delivers on its reputation as “The Christmas City” with a German-style Christkindlmarkt, a Rude Elf Belgian-style beer brewed during the winter, and a large outdoor ice skating rink at the SteelStacks , which is a former steel manufacturing plant made over into an arts and culture gathering place. If you stay in town until New Year’s Eve, you’ll witness the Peeps Chick Drop , a tradition in which a 400-pound replica of the marshmallow candy is lowered from the sky by a crane. Bethlehem, by the way, is also the headquarters of Peeps-maker Just Born Confections.

Bardstown, Kentucky

Visit Bardstown

Leave it to a small town to get its residents and businesses on the same decorating schedule. Bardstown holds the annual Hanging of the Greens, which culminates with the whole town "flipping the switch" on Christmas to make Bardstown a dazzling display of lights and decor that visitors can take in on a special driving route . To drum up even more Christmas cheer, My Old Kentucky Dinner Train transforms into the North Pole Express , and an ice skating rink pops up at the Farmer's Market Pavillion. Plus, with a nip of bourbon, Bardstown's fruit cakes might even win over the staunchest critics of the divisive dessert.

Taos, New Mexico

Sarah Ponder

Enjoy a Southwestern-style Christmas in Taos, where adobe buildings in the historic plaza are lined with candle-lit farolitos for the holidays, and you can order your burrito with red and green chile (i.e., Christmas-style) year-round. December itineraries in this New Mexico destination could include hitting the slopes at the Taos Ski Valley Resort , spending the night in an adobe hacienda like the Inn at La Loma Plaza , where some rooms come with wood-burning kiva fireplaces, and indulging with hot sipping chocolates from award-winning chocolatier Chokola . Taos Pueblo —a Native American community with multi-story adobe buildings that have been continuously inhabited for more than 1,000 years—holds a Procession of the Virgin Mary, mass, and bonfire on Christmas Eve, as well as traditional dances on Christmas Day. The UNESCO World Heritage Site gatherings are open to the public, but no photography is allowed.

West Palm Beach, Florida

Van Richardson

In The Square neighborhood of West Palm Beach, a banyan tree is draped with 100,000 colorful LED lights, and nightly light shows give the illusion of falling snow. In addition to the Christmas festivities, the neighborhood also hosts a Hanukkah Celebration with live music, a candle lighting ceremony, and an Afrique Ngozi Dance & Drums Kwanzaa Performance . One of the most popular holiday events in the area is the Palm Beach Holiday Parade , which includes a floating fireworks display, 80 boats strung with lights and decorations, and a toy fleet of boats that pick up donations along the parade route.

Frankenmuth, Michigan

Known as Michigan’s “Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth stays on brand with its architecture, Christkindl market, and family-style chicken dinners at rival restaurants Zehnder’s and the Bavarian Inn . The town only has 5,000 residents, but it welcomes 1 million tourists every year, many of whom flock to Frankenmuth during the holiday season to shop at the sprawling 2.2-acre Bronner’s , which stakes its claim as the world’s largest Christmas store. During the holiday season, travelers can rock around the musical Christmas tree downtown, go ice skating, and visit a reindeer farm . 

Fredericksburg, Texas

Trish Rawls

Rich with German heritage, Fredericksburg goes all out during Weihnachtszeit (or the Christmas season). The Hill Country locale pops up an ice skating rink and lights up its Christmas Pyramid , a 26-foot tall, spinning carousel-like creation. These wooden German decorations date back to the 16th century, and some believe they inspired our modern-day Christmas tree traditions. During the holiday season, Fredericksburg visitors can stop by the Marktplatz at 6 p.m. to hear an audio presentation about the town’s history and holiday carols and participate in a countdown as the marketplace lights up for the night. Then, hit up Main Street, which has boutique shops, wine tasting rooms, and restaurants.

Santa Claus, Indiana

Courtesy of Santa Claus, Indiana

Consider Santa Claus, Indiana, the U.S. branch of the North Pole. The city is packed with holiday-themed businesses, including Santa’s Candy Castle ; Santa’s Toys , which is located on a street called N. Kringle and brings out reindeer during the holiday season; and Frosty’s Fun Center , a pizza shop with arcade games. Visitors can learn about the history of Old Saint Nick and write letters to him at the Santa Claus Museum and Village . Even if you don’t have a chance to visit Indiana during December, you can still route your holiday cards through Santa Claus to get a special postmark. 

Coronado, California

The Hotel del Coronado lit the first outdoor Christmas tree with electric lights in 1904 and has been hosting enchanting holiday celebrations ever since. Guests and locals can strap on ice skates and glide across a beachfront Frosted by The Sea ice rink. The hotel also puts on holiday movies on the beach, Victorian teas, and gingerbread house workshops, and Elves are available to deliver gifts to kids. Stroll around the peninsula after sunset; homeowners go all-out with their holiday light displays.

Branson, Missouri

Courtesy of Silver Dollar City

For Christmas overload, Branson's Silver Dollar City glows with 6.5 million lights during the holiday season, making parts of the theme park lighter at night than during the day. Park-goers can check out an eight-story musical Christmas tree, live entertainment shows, a holiday light parade led by Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and chow down on a holiday dinner with turkey, ham, and prime rib options polished off with cinnamon ice cream. The holiday cheer is palpable throughout the rest of Branson (population 13,000). The tourist destination is nicknamed "America's Christmas Tree City " because businesses put up more than 700 trees during the holiday season. Visitors will see plenty of evergreen trees strung with lights, but there are also holiday trees made with everything from Go-Kart tires to wine bottles. 

Newport Beach, California

Elaborately decorated yachts, sailboats, powerboats, and even kayaks take to the water for the multi-night Newport Beach Boat Parade in its 114th year. Beyond the boats sailing in the harbor, waterfront homes, yacht clubs, and businesses are encouraged to participate in the adjacent “Ring of Lights Competition.” Awards are given to the boats and houses, but the real winners are those who witness the spectacle. While in Newport Beach, shop small at Creative Communal open-air holiday market where local artisans sell gifts, or check out the Night of 1000 Lights at the Sherman Library and Gardens, which includes French cabaret singers and can-can dancers in the Tea Garden.

Leavenworth, Washington

With the Cascade Mountains as a backdrop and Bavarian buildings dripping with lights, Leavenworth is a winter wonderland. The holidays are such a big deal here that the city puts out its own Christmas song , performed live at the Festhalle. The community center also has a gingerbread house exhibition and is a place where kids can learn how to make Lebkuchenherzen necklaces that have gingerbread heart pendants. Meanwhile, the gazebo in the heart of town hosts live entertainment with choirs and carolers, and the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum is stocked with more than 9,000 nutcrackers from 50 different countries.

North Pole, Alaska

A development company in 1944 gave the small city its festive name because it was hoping to draw a toy manufacturer to the area that could advertise products being made at Alaska’s North Pole . While that never happened, North Pole is home to the Santa Claus House , which sells ornaments, decor, and toys. You know you’ve arrived when you see the 42-foot-tall Santa statue greeting you from the highway. Inside, the walls are covered with “Dear Santa” letters from children worldwide. North Pole (which boasts themed street names like Mistletoe Lane and Kris Kringle Drive) is just about 15 minutes from Fairbanks.

Elizabeth City, North Carolina

Courtesy of Elizabeth City

To live up to its nickname as the “ Hot Cocoa Capital of the World ,” Elizabeth City has a wintertime “Hot Cocoa Crawl.” The 30 stops include coffee shops, restaurants, and bars that sell gourmet hot chocolates and decadent cocoa desserts, but there are also boutiques with gourmet marshmallows and mini knit sweaters for mugs. Stores also compete in a holiday storefront decorating contest. Other holiday-centric events include a Lighted Boat Parade , where skiffs, sailboats, and pontoons with twinkling lights circle the waterfront to the soundtrack of Christmas carols. Elizabeth City also holds a “Christmas Around the World” parade.

Sevierville, Tennessee

Courtesy of Shadrack's

The Great Smoky Mountains is a gracious holiday host, with Sevierville and its neighboring cities, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, dressed to the nines in Christmas lights. More than 15 million lights illuminate a 25-mile stretch of the Foothills Parkway, plus Shadrack's Christmas Wonderland is a drive-thru attraction with lights that dance in sync with Christmas music that you can tune into on your radio. Of course, it'd be a shame to visit the Smokies without stopping at Dollywood , where kids can see Santa in his workshop. The theme park, outfitted with 6 million lights, also has train rides, fireworks, holiday shows, and festive treats like gingerbread funnel cake.

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Two words: Storybook. Magic.

Have you always dreamt of hopping aboard the Polar Express? How about having breakfast with Santa Claus? All of your Christmas wishes can be made a reality within the shops, parades, events, and gatherings held in the below Christmas towns. From snow-powdered mountains and towering pines to themed gift shops and fresh-baked pies, you can plan a trip to one (or two, or three) of these destinations to see, smell, and taste it all. There are even some unconventionally warm spots on this list if you’re not one for a white Christmas.

Unlike Santa’s naughty and nice list, this one is full of good eggs—but you’ll still want to check it twice to ensure you have all the info you need. The events started in November and go all the way past Christmas, so it’s best to start planning, booking, and ticket-buying as soon as possible. There’s no doubt the trip will bring you experiences better than any wrap-able family gift .

So grab a cup of hot cocoa , a cozy blanket , and check out the best Christmas towns and villages in the U.S.

North Pole, Alaska

The spirit of Christmas—and Santa—live year-round in North Pole, Alaska . But over the holidays, visitors can meet the jolly man in red himself at Santa Claus House , get personalized letters from him, and take photos with the largest Santa statue in the world, which towers at 50 feet.

Williamsburg, Virginia

You’ll step back in time in Colonial Williamsburg, where the history and holiday celebration are rich. Enjoy any of the town’s 18th century-themed Christmas events , including concerts, caroling, dinners, and more.

Vail, Colorado

Vail is a quintessential winter-kissed village . Its mountain location gives it an enamoring snow halo, and its quaint, low-lit shops and restaurants complete the storybook dream. If you’re the outdoorsy type, enjoy the slopes at the local ski resort or try a snowmobile tour.

Santa Claus, Indiana

Santa Claus lives up to its namesake. Visiting the Santa Claus Museum & Village , hunting down the over 15 Santa statues on its grounds, and delighting in a homemade confection from Santa’s Candy Castle are just a few of the many activities to indulge there. Drive through the Santa Claus Land of Lights for some warm festive fun.

McAdenville, North Carolina

Also referred to as Christmas Town, USA , McAdenville holds traditional tree lighting and yule log ceremonies, and the entire town is decorated in festive, over-the-top decor. It’s well worth a visit, especially if you live nearby.

Durango, Colorado

Like Vail, the city of Durango has winter wonderland charm, but its main attraction is its scenic railroad tours . Families with kids will love the Polar Express -themed ride, during which staff reenact the beloved tale. If you’re traveling without kids you might prefer the Cascade Canyon winter train route, best enjoyed while sipping hot chocolate.

Frankenmuth, Michigan

This Bavarian-inspired gem celebrates Christmas year-round, which explains why it’s home to the world’s largest holiday store: Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland . It’s the size of one and a half football fields! While you’re there, enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride and visit Christkindlmarkt, where local artisans sell all kinds of treasures.

St. Augustine, Florida

If you’re looking to celebrate the holidays without the icy temps, check out St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights . Every year, the tropical city illuminates in an award-winning light display to be marveled by all who come and go.

Bernville, Pennsylvania

People flock to Bernville to visit Koziar’s Christmas Village , an eight-acre family property that’s annually adorned with more than 1 million lights that reflect on its central lake, making for an overwhelming visual experience in the best way.

Leavenworth, Washington

The Bavarian village of Leavenworth offers every opportunity for Christmas revelry that you could possibly want, all lit by over half a million Christmas lights: Caroling, chestnut-roasting, gingerbread house crafting, festive photo ops, and appearances by Santa & Mrs. Claus themselves.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach’s Brookgreen Gardens displays over 2,700 hand-lit candles every year as part of its popular Nights of a Thousand Candles .

Branson, Missouri

Billing itself as America’s Christmas Tree City, Branson is stacked with things to see and do during the holidays. Check out the town’s event lineup (featuring concerts, a Christmas cruise, and more) and book a trip on the Branson Scenic Railway’s Polar Express Train Ride, where you can take in the views and watch the classic film.

Whitefish, Montana

A picturesque Christmas town (think wreathed lampposts, festive storefronts, and a steady sprinkle of snow) with world-class ski slopes, Whitefish is where to go for a classic holiday celebration. The town’s annual Christmas Stroll offers wagon rides, ornament decorating, and carols.

Woodstock, Vermont

Each December, Woodstock hosts Wassail Weekend , its annual holiday festival. With ticketed admission, you can participate in all the festivities, including historic farmhouse tours, shopping for locally made foods and antiques, breakfast with Santa, and more.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

The historic Strawbery Banke Museum’s “Candlelight Stroll Under the Stars” features costumed historical re-enactments, in which visitors (meaning, the tour’s participants) "call on" families in beautifully-decorated buildings who recreate traditions of times past, such as a Victorian Christmas and a 1919 Hanukkah Celebration.

Stockbridge, Massachusetts

Known for being the backdrop of Norman Rockwell’s famous painting , “Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas (Home for Christmas),” the city lives up to the hype. Its 2023 list of events includes dance performances and special exhibitions at the Norman Rockwell Museum.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Bethlehem’s historic SteelStacks host the area’s ultimate holiday destination, the Bethlehem Christkindlmarkt , where more than 50 of the nation’s finest artisans’ work is featured, along with live music and a historic Bethlehem tour. It’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance.

Solvang, California

This Danish-settled town is marked by a giant windmill and dozens of quaint storefronts that are decked out for its annual Julefest (Yule Fest) , where activities include a nightly light and music show, candlelight tours, photos with Santa, and the Julefest Parade.

Blue Ridge, Georgia

If you’re looking for small-town, Southern holiday cheer, Blue Ridge is where it’s at. During the months of November and December, plenty of heartwarming events will take place—a Christmas parade, tree lighting, and Blue Ridge train rides with Santa are on the list.

Newport, Rhode Island

Christmas in Newport is a two-week long festival that celebrates the “non-commercial” elements of the holiday season, and 2022 would mark its 52nd year. Activities include historic walking tours, live music, and local art displays.

Kayla Blanton is a freelance writer-editor who covers health, nutrition, and lifestyle topics for various publications including Prevention , Everyday Health , SELF, People , and more. She’s always open to conversations about fueling up with flavorful dishes, busting beauty standards, and finding new, gentle ways to care for our bodies. She earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Ohio University with specializations in women, gender, and sexuality studies and public health, and is a born-and-raised midwesterner living in Cincinnati, Ohio with her husband and two spoiled kitties.

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It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas – especially in these 29 incredible small towns that look like they were ripped straight from a Hallmark Christmas movie. From picturesque Northeast hamlets covered in a blanket of snow to twinkling wonderlands in the American Southwest, these charming Christmas towns in the U.S. are the perfect place to celebrate the holiday season, whether you’re planning a cross-country getaway to enjoy Christmas lights with long-distance family or want to enjoy a close-to-home wintry day trip to visit Santa Claus.

Featuring everything from Christmas markets to holiday light displays, these small towns across America transform during the holiday season to become magical winter wonderlands full of holiday cheer.

Best Christmas Towns In The Northeast

1. bethlehem, pennsylvania.

• Nearest City: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Where To Stay: The Sayre Mansion Inn is a delightful historic property within walking distance of Bethlehem’s top attractions.

2. Woodstock, Vermont

• Nearest City: Boston, Massachusetts
• Where To Stay: The Shire is a riverfront property surrounded by natural beauty.

3. Lewisburg, West Virginia

• Nearest City: Roanoke, Virginia
• Where To Stay: The Thomas Rose Inn is one of the most charming places to rest your head in Lewisburg.

4. Stockbridge, Massachusetts

• Nearest City: Albany, New York
• Where To Stay: The Stockbridge Country Inn is the closest B&B to the Norman Rockwell Museum.

5. Annapolis, Maryland

• Nearest City: Baltimore, Maryland
• Where To Stay: Step back in time when you stay at the Historic Inns Of Annapolis, a group of stunning properties in the heart of Annapolis.

6. Newport, Rhode Island

• Nearest City: Providence, Rhode Island
• Where To Stay: The Hotel Viking is one of the most unique properties we’ve ever seen.

Best Christmas Towns In The Midwest

7. galena, illinois.

• Nearest City: Chicago, Illinois
• Where To Stay: The Irish Cottage Inn & Suites is a phenomenal spot for a getaway.

8. Branson, Missouri

• Nearest City: Springfield, Missouri
• Where To Stay: Enjoy an upscale, lakeside retreat at Chateau On The Lake Resort Spa

9. Frankenmuth, Michigan

• Nearest City: Detroit, Michigan
• Where To Stay: This historic home in Frankenmuth is as charming as they come.

10. Santa Claus, Indiana

• Nearest City: Louisville, Kentucky
• Where To Stay: Santas Lodge & Resort is full of holiday cheer.

11. Clifton, Ohio

• Nearest City: Columbus, Ohio
• Where To Stay: The Mills Park Hotel has its own on-site restaurant.

12. Red Wing, Minnesota

• Nearest City: Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota
• Where To Stay: The St. James Hotel is a historic wonder.

Best Christmas Towns In The Northwest

13. leavenworth, washington.

• Nearest City: Seattle, Washington
• Where To Stay: The Bavarian Lodge will transport you to another world.

14. North Pole, Alaska

• Nearest City: Fairbanks, Alaska
• Where To Stay: North Pole is home to countless cozy cabin rentals like this one .

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15. bozeman, montana.

• Nearest City: Billings, Montana
• Where To Stay: The Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman is a luxe escape.

16. Carmel by the Sea, Northern California

• Nearest City: San Francisco, California
• Where To Stay: Stay by the beach at the Hotel Carmel .

17. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

• Nearest City: Idaho Falls, Idaho
• Where To Stay: The Mountain Modern Motel is a picturesque escape.

Best Christmas Towns In The Southwest

18. vail, colorado.

• Nearest City: Denver, Colorado
• Where To Stay: The Sebastian is a truly stunning place to stay.

19. Pawhuska, Oklahoma

• Nearest City: Tulsa, Oklahoma
• Where To Stay: The Frontier Hotel is close to shopping and lots of holiday festivities.

20. Park City, Utah

• Nearest City: Salt Lake City, Utah
• Where To Stay: The Park City Peaks Hotel has a free shuttle to the slopes.

21. Solvang, California

• Nearest City: Los Angeles, California
• Where To Stay: Get away from it all at the Vinland Hotel and Lounge.

22. Grapevine, Texas

• Nearest City: Dallas, Texas
• Where To Stay: The entire family will love your stay at the Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine.

23. Santa Fe, New Mexico

• Nearest City: Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Where To Stay: The La Posada de Santa Fe is within walking distance of all of our Santa Fe favorites.

Best Christmas Towns In The South

24. greenville, south carolina.

• Nearest City: Charlotte, North Carolina
• Where To Stay: Stay be the Greenville Haywood Mall at this Marriott property.

25. Williamsburg, Virginia

• Nearest City: Norfolk, Virginia
• Where To Stay: The Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel is a storybook escape.

26. Franklin, Tennessee

• Nearest City: Nashville, Tennessee
• Where To Stay: This cozy cottage is all decked out for Christmas.

27. Bardstown, Kentucky

• Where To Stay: The Bardstown Motor Lodge is a nostalgic, renovated gem.

28. Natchitoches, Louisiana

• Nearest City: Shreveport, Louisiana
• Where To Stay: This lakefront cabin is the ultimate retreat.

29. St. Augustine, Florida

• Nearest City: Jacksonville, Florida
• Where To Stay: The 44 Spanish Street Inn is an adults-only paradise.

Tell us, which of these U.S.A. towns will you be visiting this holiday season? Are there any other places you visit to put you into the holiday spirit?

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Protect Your Trip »

9 small towns that go all out for christmas.

You don't have to travel to a big city to experience nonstop Christmas fun.

(Getty Images) |

Have yourself a very merry Christmas in these nine charming locales across America.

Natchitoches, Louisiana

North Pole, Alaska

(Courtesy of Branson Convention and Visitors Bureau) |

Branson, Missouri

Woodstock, Vermont

(Courtesy of Visit Durango Colorado) |

Durango, Colorado

Leavenworth, Washington

Santa Claus, Indiana

Williamsburg, Virginia

Newport Beach, California

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

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The 20 best places to go for Christmas

From classic festive getaways to Scrooge-friendly destinations to escape, these are the world’s greatest places to spend Christmas

Photograph: Shutterstock

The most magical time of the year has a habit of transforming destinations around the world: cities get decked out in dazzling decorations, streets teem with local traditions and squares are taken over by pop-up festive markets.

That said, some destinations are great to visit at Christmas for precisely the opposite reason: because you might not even realise it’s Christmas at all. Who hasn’t sometimes wanted to hibernate in the sun until the madness is over? 

And so, when considering the best destinations to visit at Christmas, we haven’t just included places with quirky traditions or an unmissable festive atmosphere - there's plenty of Scrooge-appropriate destinations on here too. Dive into our festive travel list below and you’re guaranteed to find somewhere great to spend the season. 

RECOMMENDED: 💝The best Christmas markets to visit in Europe and worldwide ❄️ The best places to travel in December 🎄The 50 best Christmas movies of all time 🎊The 65 best Christmas songs of all time

At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines . This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

The best places to go for Christmas

1.  new york city, usa.

Best for:  shopaholics 

From the dreamy romance of ice skating at the Rockefeller to Broadway’s dazzling festive shows, there are plenty of reasons why the Big Apple has such a rep at Christmastime. NYC is a classic festive choice and, with its selection of department stores, markets and bazaars, there remains nowhere quite like it when it comes to shopping, either.

Read more: The best Christmas things to do in NYC

2.  Lapland, Finland

Best for: wannabe Santa elves 

There are few destinations as legendarily Christmassy as Rovaniemi, which, as the capital of Lapland, is also the official hometown of Santa Claus. But Rovaniemi isn’t all about Santa. Once you’re done exploring Santa Claus Village and getting reindeer rides about town, be sure to sweat out your worries with a festive sauna – a Finnish Christmas tradition.

3.  Edinburgh, Scotland

Best for: Christmas markets

Sure, each city centre twinkles with lights and exudes wafts of mulled wine throughout December, but few do it as well as Edinburgh. East Princes Street Gardens dazzles every year with a whole host of market stalls, festive food and fairground rides, plus plenty of whisky stands for a warming Christmassy bev. Sticking around for New Year's? The city's Hogmanay celebrations are a world-renowned way to launch 2024. 

4.  New Orleans, USA

Best for: an unconventional Christmas

New Orleans is packed full of alternative Christmas traditions, from its bonfires on the banks of the Mississippi and charmingly redecorated streetcars to its lively carol concerts and glam AF hotel lobby decorations. With daytime temperatures hitting about 17C, it’s also that bit warmer than much of the rest of the continental US at this time of year.

5.  Reykjavik, Iceland

Best for: the lads!

No, not those kinds of lads. We’re talking about the ‘Yule Lads’, 13 folkloric dudes who traditionally leave gifts in boots for Iceland ’s well-behaved kids. Christmastime is also just a rather lovely time to visit Reykjavik, with the city boasting markets and ice-skating – as well as, thanks to its extra-long nights, great opportunities for viewing the Northern Lights .

6.  London, UK

Best for: traditional romantics 

Festive cheer sweeps through London sometime in early November and doesn’t let up. By the time the end of December comes around, Christmas vibes hit a fever pitch: the already-very-romantic UK capital finds itself lined by fir trees, twinkling with Christmas lights and sound-tracked by jangly festive tunes. Aye, it’s exactly as magical as it sounds.

Read more: The best Christmas lights in London

7.  Nuremburg, Germany

Best for:  Weihnachtsmarkt fanatics

Germany ’s Weihnachtsmarkts (traditional Christmas markets) are famous the world over – and Nuremburg’s is one of the country’s oldest, biggest and best. Notes of gingerbread and mulled wine waft through a mini city of wooden stalls teeming with candy canes, scrummy lebkuchen and handmade decorations.

8.  Sydney, Australia

Best for: Christmas dinner on the barbie

Looking for somewhere that goes full-throttle for Chrimbo but isn’t so, erm, wintry ? Australia ’s likely your best bet. Sydney has all the festive lights, trees and even ice skating of a typical Christmas-celebrating city, but with toasty average temperature highs of 25C. Don’t knock an Xmas dinner cooked on a beachside barbeque until you’ve tried it.

9.  Bruges, Belgium

Best for: chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate

Turkey, mince pies, and pannetone are all the festive foods that might spring to mind at first, but it wouldn't be Christmas without chocolate. And where's the best place to go for that? Well, it has to be Bruges - from the divinely rich hot chocolates on offer at the market to the traditional Yule log, this little city has bags of Christmassy confection to fill those stockings, or to gorg on under the twinkly lights. 

10.  Tokyo, Japan

Best for: the culturally disconnected 

With no public holiday and everything open as usual, Japan doesn’t really celebrate Christmas – but that’s also its charm. The country is nicely disconnected from the rest of the world’s Xmas mania but still has tonnes of festive stuff to see and do, from Tokyo’s gorgeous winter illuminations to the annual Japanese tradition of getting KFC on Christmas day.

11.  Caracas, Venezuela

Best for: religious roller-skaters

Think you’ve got a neat ride when it comes to heading down to church (if that’s your jam, anyway) during the Christmas period? Check out the locals in Caracas. From December 16-24 before 8am, roads are closed in the Venezuelan capital so that churchgoers can roller-skate to mass. It’s also common for rollerbladers to dress up in Santa gear... does it get much cooler than that?

12.  Marrakech, Morocco

Best for: festive escapees 

Christmas isn’t celebrated by the vast majority of people in Marrakech, making it perfect for escaping conventional festive vibes. The Moroccan city also isn’t anywhere near as hot in December as it is in the summertime (hitting highs of 20C without dipping too low at night), so exploring its medina, souks, mosques and riads is even more pleasant.

13.  Greenland

Best for: adventurous eaters

The festive period in Greenland is best known for its food: specifically mattak (essentially a strip of whale skin) and kiviak (a kind of fermented seabird). Both are a delicacy to natives, but they’re likely a bit more, er, stomach-testing to the rest of us.

14.  Phuket, Thailand

Best for: clubbers and beachside chillers

Sure, if you really want to, you can have a perfectly Christmassy time in Phuket. The island has plenty of carol concerts and festive dinners if you so want them. However, it’s an ideal place to get away from all the usual festivities, too. As a largely Buddhist country, Thailand doesn’t really celebrate Christmas – leaving you free to chill out at a beachside bar or go clubbing as if it’s any normal day of the year.

15.  Prague, Czech Republic

Best for: aesthetes

With its awesome gothic churches and winding baroque streets, Prague is one of Europe’s most dazzlingly pretty cities at any time of the year. But at Christmastime? Well, the Czech capital somehow gets even prettier. The key attractions here are the markets, which take over the likes of Prague Castle and Wenceslas Square with local specialities such as medovina (honey wine), rybí polévka (traditional fish soup) and perníčky (spicy gingerbread).

16.  Vienna, Austria

Best for: total festive immersion

Whether you’re watching Krampuses (a sort of nightmarish Austrian anti-Santa) roam the streets, munching on toffee apples at one of the city’s many Christmas markets or simply soaking in the very, very pretty street decorations, we challenge you not to get totally swept up in Vienna’s all-encompassing Chrimbo vibes.

17.  Cape Town, South Africa

Best for: sun bunnies

The beauty of the southern hemisphere in December is that the climate is precisely the opposite of the chilly north. With its long days of uninterrupted sunshine and temperatures in the high 30Cs, Cape Town offers a totally different Chrimbo vibe. Festive picnic atop Table Mountain or in the lush Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, anyone?

18.  Singapore

Best for: light display fanatics

With main thoroughfare Orchard Road hosting a celebration on Xmas Eve complete with countdown and fireworks, Christmas in Singapore has a unique New Year’s Eve feel about it. Most legendary, however, are the city’s light displays. From the Christmas Wonderland in the Gardens by the Bay to the light shows at Vivocity, Singapore sure knows how to put on a mesmerising electrical show.  

19.  Guatemala City, Guatemala

Best for: demon banishers

There’s something very purifying about burning stuff – and Guatemalans know that so well that they’ve made a tradition out of it. Every year on December 7, Guatemala celebrates the ‘Día del Diablo’ (or ‘Day of the Devil’), kicking off the Christmas period by burning an effigy of the devil. The act is intended to symbolise the cleansing of bad spirits.

20.  Colmar, France

Best for: Christmas dreamers

Even in the height of summer, Colmar, a thirteenth-century town in the eastern French region of Alsace, looks rather a lot like it’s made out of gingerbread. Add a dusting of snow, some tasteful Christmas lights and a characterful festive market? You’ve got one of the world’s most picture-perfect Xmas destinations.

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23 Amazing Places To Visit In USA For Christmas (2024)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole

December is a magical time of year in many places in the United States. Christmas festivities are in full swing and you can feel the joy and excitement that this brings. There are beautiful Christmas lights, lively Christmas markets, decorated Christmas trees, and of course, decadent Xmas treats tempting you almost everywhere you go. Some of us live in hot sunny climates and daydream about snowy winter wonderlands filled with sleigh rides, visits to Santa workshops and hot chocolate. While others live in these winter wonderlands and can’t wait to discover Christmas delights on beaches, by hotel pools, and while walking in t-shirts and shorts along city streets or country paths. If you are not sure what you want, you have come to the right place. Here are 23 best places to visit in the USA for Christmas.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means that I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you buy something through my site. This helps me run my website and produce the articles that I hope you find helpful.

Other Options For Christmas Holidays

Many places in America start preparing for the Christmas holidays with Christmas lights, setting up Xmas trees, and opening Christmas markets in mid to late November. This is an ideal time to travel to enjoy these events without crowds and to take advantage of lower costs from travelling in low season. If you are interested, please take a look at my article 20 Best Places To Visit In USA In November.

For those of you who are looking for a little more adventure with more cost savings, consider visiting Europe. Here are 24 Best Places To Visit In Europe For Christmas .

If you are looking for warm winter getaway s in or near the United States, you have a lot to choose from! Here are:

• 50 Best US Beach Destinations For A Warm Winter Getaway ;
• 20 Best Cheap Warm Winter Vacations In USA ; and
• 21 Best Cheap Warm Winter Vacations Near USA .

Alternatively, if all you dream about is spending your Christmas holidays under blankets of snow in a charming small town or exploring the best snowy winter activities that ski resorts or other destinations have to offer, then take a look at 24 Best Snowy Winter Wonderlands To Visit In The USA .

If you are simply looking for the best Christmas parades in the United States, then check out 15 Best Places To Watch Christmas Parades In USA .

Christmas Gifts

For those of you looking for fun, affordable and thoughtful stocking stuffers or gifts, check out 38 Best Christmas Stocking Stuffers For Adventure Seekers And Travelers and 60 Best Christmas Gifts For Men.

23 Best Places To Visit In USA For Christmas

In this article, I have asked 23 travel bloggers where they have found the best Christmas events in the United States. Unsurprising, they are located in all four corners of the continental USA, as well as Hawaii.

As you expect, most big cities offer over the top extravaganzas and special events. However, many small cities and towns will blow your socks away with their beauty and Christmas spirit.

In addition, when not gazing at gingerbread houses, going on sleigh rides, or watching Xmas parades, all of these places offer amazing every day attractions and experiences. As you will see, I haven’t made it easy for you to choose where to go.

New York City, New York

By James of Travel Collecting

Christmas in New York City  is a magical experience. There are so many amazing things to see and do making New York City one of the best cities to visit in the USA for Christmas.  

All of the department stores decorate for the holidays. You and your whole family can do an easy walking tour around Midtown Manhattan taking in all of the holiday windows. Along the way, visit Santaland at Macy’s and stop at Bryant Park or Rockefeller Center and go ice skating surrounded by the iconic New York skyscrapers! 

There are also decorated Christmas trees throughout the city. The largest and most famous is the real tree in Rockefeller Center that is topped with an enormous Swarovski crystal star. Other interesting trees are the one at the Met, which is surrounded by an antique Italian creche; the animal origami-covered tree at the American Museum of Natural History; and the bright blue tree at Bryant Park. Stop at the Bryant Park Holiday Village for a hot chocolate or hot toddy while you’re there. 

Of course, if you simply want to walk amongst hundreds of trees lightly dusted with snow, head to Central Park.

NYC is a great place to stock up on gifts. There are outdoor holiday markets at Union Square, Bryant Park and inside Grand Central Terminal that sell hand-crafted gifts.   

Finally, there are a couple of classic shows to enjoy. Kids and kids-at-heart will love the iconic Rockettes in the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. It has real-life camels, the high-kicking Rockettes and, of course, Santa. Another show not to miss is the annual season of The Nutcracker by the New City Ballet at Lincoln Center. 

For amazing tips to make your trip to New York City safe and cost effective, please see 50 Best New York City Tips For First Time Visitors .

If you are curious about how to save money in New York City, where you should stay, how to be safe and get around, and so much more, please see  50 Best New York City Tips For First Time Visitors .

For those traveling with kids and teenagers, here are two helpful articles about what you should do when you are not busy with Christmas activities: An Action Packed New York City Weekend With Teens and 10 Ultimate New York City Attractions With Teens .

Best Way To Reach Destination

There are three international airports that serve New York City. JFK is a 35-minute drive from Midtown Manhattan if there is no traffic (which there almost always is). The much smaller La Guardia is 25 minutes from Midtown with no traffic. The third airport, Newark, is actually in nearby New Jersey and is also about half an hour with good traffic from Midtown.  

It is best not to rent a car. Parking is very expensive in New York and there is excellent public transportation. Accordingly, pick up a taxi or Uber/Lyft from airport. You can also easily take the train from Newark Airport to Penn Station.

The average high temperature in New York City in December is 45°F.  You can expect around 3 inches of rain and 3 inches of snow in December.

Hotel Recommendation

There are so many hotels to choose from in New York City. Without question, choosing a hotel is one of the most overwhelming tasks when planning a trip there. I have stayed at several.

On my last trip, I stayed at the Kimpton Hotel Eventi which I loved. The hotel was luxurious but still reasonably priced and the location was fantastic for many amazing attractions . We were easy walking distance to the High Line and Macys, and easy subway rides to Times Square and Broadway Shows. Even better, everyday the hotel offered complimentary wine and cheese!

Savannah, Georgia

By Erin of Savannah First-Timer’s Guide

Savannah is charming any time of year, but something about the Christmas season makes it feel extra magical. From the hundreds of twinkle lights draped across Broughton Street to the seasonal greenery in the squares to the carolers that stroll through the Historic District…Savannahians just know how to celebrate the season!  

A few of the most popular seasonal events include the Holiday Boat Parade, the Gingerbread Trail, and the Holiday Tour of Homes. Make sure to also visit the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist. It is filled with red poinsettias and an elaborate nativity scene. 

The most festive areas of town during the holiday season include River Street, Broughton Street, and City Market. Don’t forget to stroll down Jones Street, which is considered one of the prettiest streets in America. Be sure to check out all the  beautiful Christmas decorations in Savannah’s Historic District . They are very classic in nature and look like something straight out of a Dickens novel. 

Two of the most popular dining spots for the holidays are The Olde Pink House and the 17hundred90 Inn & Restaurant. Since Savannah is one of the best Christmas vacation destinations in the United States, make sure that you make reservations at least a month in advance for The Olde Pink House! 

If you’re planning a visit, the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) is the closest option. From there, it’s just a short 15-mile drive to the Historic District.

You won’t need to stuff your suitcase with heavy winter coats, since the average high temperature in December falls in the mid 60s. However, it does cool down at night to mid 40s with about 2.6 inches of rain in the month.

Erin says, “The Marshall House is a fantastic place to stay. The hotel is in a very convenient location on Broughton Street. I’s very easy to walk to restaurants, landmarks, and shops.”

Asheville, North Carolina

By Bret & Mary of Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide

With its incredible array of outdoor attractions , critically acclaimed restaurants, and thriving cultural scene, you could argue that Asheville is one of the best places to visit in the USA at any time of year. But the mountain scenery and art deco architecture are especially attractive when surrounded by the festive lights and decorations of the holiday season.

Asheville is a beautiful place to visit in America around the holidays. In addition, there are plenty of things to do a Christmas getaway.

For starters, you’ll want to see Christmas at Biltmore Estate (the largest privately-owned home in the US), which starts with the raising of a 35-foot-tall tree in the Banquet Hall in early November. You can take daily tours of the lavish Estate all decked out in the festive colors of the season. Their nighttime candlelit tours make for an excellent date night. 

You’ll also love Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum. Thousands of shimmering Christmas lights make up shining displays along their wooded edge and gardens. Last year, there were several new nature-themed displays, including a giant daisy “garden,” winter wildlife and colorful butterfly displays, and an insect lantern exhibit. 

Of course, there are also lots of other Asheville attractions and activities that you can do all year round. This includes driving the Blue Ridge Parkway to visiting iconic landmarks like Mount Mitchell State Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. But these unique Xmas events are what makes Asheville, North Carolina one of the best places to visit in the USA for Christmas.

Despite its location in the mountains, the town offers surprisingly mild temperatures in December, with average highs of 50ºF and lows of around 31ºF. You can expect around 3.6 inches of rain and 1.9 inches of snow fall in December.

While a white Christmas in Asheville is not completely out of the question, it is certainly not guaranteed.

Although it’s one of the larger towns in the Blue Ridge Mountains (population approximately 92,000), Asheville does not have its own international airport.

You can fly into Charlotte Douglas International Airport, which is located about 120 miles to the southeast. But several major airlinesoffer direct flights into Asheville Regional Airport from major US cities like Atlanta, Boston , Chicago, Denver, Houston, and NYC. 

Brett and Mary say, “If you love those competitive cooking shows, you won’t want to miss the 29th Annual National Gingerbread Competition at the Omni Grove Park Inn (one of our favorite Asheville hotels). This is a 12-day Xmas event featuring some of the most elaborately decorated Gingerbread Houses you’ve ever seen.”

Naples, Florida

By Lori of Naples Florida Travel Guide

If you’re dreaming of something other than a white Christmas this year, a tropical holiday can be just as magical, and a wonderful break from the freezing cold! Hop a flight to southwest Florida and head to the Paradise Coast of Naples where Christmas is every bit as festive as the north.

Holiday parades along the southern Gulf Coast are anything but typical. Santa usually arrives on a party boat decked out in holiday lights and rocking Christmas tunes. The annual Christmas boat parades herald the start of the holiday season, and there are several you can attend throughout December. 

The annual tree lighting ceremony also kicks off the holidays the first week of December. During a two-day celebration, there is a long table on 5th Avenue, a skating rink, and a stunning live Nativity scene. The magical scene reappears throughout Christmas week as well.

Throughout the holidays, shops in the downtown create unique displays and artificial snow machines add a bit of traditional Christmas. But the real reason that Naples is one of the best places to visit in the USA for Christmas is that all this holiday cheer can be enjoyed along with a trip to the amazing beaches for which the city is known. And while the water might be a bit chilly for locals, the mid-60s temps (F) will suit most visitors just fine!

Average high temperatures hover pleasantly in the mid-70’s (F), although they can be in the 80s or drop down to the 50s at night. You can expect very little rain.

Getting to Naples is easy. Fly into Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers, then drive or Uber the 30 minutes to Naples.

Lori says, “The Inn On Fifth is in the center of downtown Naples and one of the best luxury stays in Naples. For the best value, we highly recommend Bellasera Resort.”

Branson, Missouri

By Elizabeth of the Fearless Foreignor

Branson, Missouri is one of the best destinations in the United States during the Christmas season. It has a lot of holiday special events, shows, and activities that don’t take place the rest of the year.

Branson is known for their high quality theater productions. During the holiday season almost all of the shows turn into a seasonal spectacular with Xmas songs, holiday story lines, and festive backdrops. 

The theme park, Silver Dollar City, should also be on your list of places to visit. The whole park is decked out in millions of lights. The Christmas in Midtown light spectacular is a highlight of the park, as well as the nightly holiday parade, Christmas sing along train, and Christmas shows. 

In December, the average high temperature is 48°F and average low temperature is 33°F. Branson has had as much as 8.4 inches of snow but, it rarely snows that much. Usually it is only an inch or two and melts quickly during the day.

Accordingly, don’t expect Branson to be a winter wonderland, but on the plus side, the temperatures won’t be so low that you can’t be outside enjoying all the holiday festivities! 

Many people who visit Branson drive. However, there are several small airports around Branson for those who prefer to fly.

The closest, just 20 minutes south of downtown Branson, is the Branson Airport (BKG). Kansas City International Airport (MCI) and St Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), both about 4 hours away, are the closest international airports. 

However you reach Branson, Branson at Christmas time is the perfect place to visit during the Christmas season!

Elizabeth says, “The Camden Hotel and Conference center is only minutes away from many of the shows and attractions in Branson. In addition to good prices and clean rooms, it offers delicious free desserts every night! 

Las Vegas, Nevada

By Roxanna of Gypsy With A Day Job

If you are looking for the best American Christmas vacations, Las Vegas is a perfect choice. The city has everything for a holiday break: warm activities, cold activities, shopping venues, bright decorations and cheerful events. Even if you are not a big Vegas fan, during the holidays it will warm your heart. If it is your first trip to Las Vegas, you will be pleasantly surprised.

Start your trip with a walk on the strip to get into the spirit. Every resort spruces up its already lavish decor with seasonal tributes. You’ll find trees of every size (including palm trees) with bulbs and baubles, and festive events at every turn. In particular, take a detour and explore the Wynn, Palazzo, Bellagio, and Aria resorts!  

Once you’re fully in the mood, finish your Xmas shopping. You are spoiled for choices. For high end, try The Shops at Crystals, The Forum Shops, or the Grand Canal Shops. For main-stream options try Fashion Show, and for bargains, Las Vegas North Premium Outlets is the best choice.

If shopping exhausts your cheer, the normal Las Vegas attractions are available, and outdoor adventures abound in the surrounding area. 

Consider getting back to nature and doing some hiking at the stunning Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, only 30-40 minutes drive away.

However, if what you really want is more extravagant Christmas events, drive the Las Vegas Motor Speedway light show, walk the Christmas cactus garden at Ethel M. Chocolate Factory, or ride the Holiday Express at Springs Resort. 

If searching for insider tips and tricks on where to stay, how to save money, and the best things to do, please check out  50 Best Las Vegas Tips For First Time Visitors .

For those looking for  21st birthday  inspiration, Las Vegas is also a fantastic destination to celebrate this milestone.

To get to Las Vegas, fly into the McCarran International Airport. The Vegas strip is only 20 minutes away by Uber or Lyft. Avoid taxis as they charge a premium for airport pick up.

In December, you will find the average high temperatures around 59 degrees Fahrenheit. Bring a jacket though, as it cools to the low 40s at night. There will be very little rain and no snow.

Roxanna says, “We recommend staying at the Venetian, or sister resort, the Palazzo. The lavish opulence is appropriate for the city, as is the impeccable staff and luxe resort offerings. More importantly, every room is a comfortable suite with clear sitting, dining and sleeping areas.”

Leavenworth, Washington

By Karee of Our Woven Journey

Leavenworth, Washington is a small, Bavarian-themed city nestled just east of the Cascade Mountains in the United States. Its charm draws nearly one million visitors a year, with many of them coming to experience Christmas in the village.

Much of the ambiance is due to the half-million Christmas lights that decorate the city. Over 20,000 people come each weekend to see the lighting ceremonies that happen every Saturday and Sunday during the first three weekends of December.

Since Leavenworth is small, you’ll be able to walk to most of the shops and boutiques that line the streets. Be sure to start at the Nutcracker Museum and the Hat Shop as they are both very popular!

If there is snow on the ground when you visit, plan to take sleigh rides through the beautiful, evergreen forest. There are several places that offer rides and reservations are needed, so plan for this attraction.

Is feeding a real-life reindeer on your bucket list? You can make it happen at the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm! You’ll need to buy tickets ahead of time since this is also a very popular thing to do.

Leavenworth is worth visiting any time of year, but for those wanting to experience the magic of Christmas, Leavenworth is one of the best American small towns to visit for Xmas.

The average high temperature for December is 34°F.   The snow season starts in October and lasts through March, with December getting 17 inches of snow on average!!! You’ll want to be sure to dress properly for this winter wonderland! 

If you’re planning a  trip to Seattle , Leavenworth is a great day trip to add to your agenda. It’s only about a two-hour drive, although you could easily spend more than one day there.

Sea-Tac International is the main airport for those flying from out of state.

Karee recommends the Bavarian Lodge. Located across from the Village center, it offers luxurious accommodations with incredible views of the Village and surrounding mountains. It also includes complimentary full breakfast buffet, heated outdoor pool, and two hot tubs.

Baltimore, Maryland

By Terri of Female Solo Trek

Baltimore’s nickname is “Charm City” but during Christmas, it becomes “Jolly Charming City”. It is one of the best places to visit in the USA during the Christmas season.

Hampden is a tight-knit Baltimore neighborhood that is famous for its “Miracle on 34th Street!” Now in its 73rd year, this outdoor holiday exhibit causes traffic jams and happy smiles.

Parents dress their dogs as well as kids in reindeer antlers and Christmas sweaters. As cars crawl down 34th Street, passengers see traditional Baltimore rowhouses and porches transformed into twinkling holiday homes. More information on the 2021 Miracle on 34th Street program can be found at  Christmas Street.com .

Hampden has also hosted the Mayor’s Christmas Parade in the past. In some years, there have been 25,000 people along the 2.5 mile route. The performers included 160 marching units, bands, floats, local TV and radio personalities, over 100 Harley Davidson motorcycles, the Mummers of Philadelphia, Miss Yuletide and Miss Yuletide Jr. Santa Claus flew in for the festivities.

Don’t miss the Baltimore Parade of lighted Boats at historic Fells Point. Also, check out The Farmers Market which offers an array of wreaths and Christmas gifts.

If you can spare an extra day, take the MARC train to Washington DC’s Union Station and check out the Capitol Christmas tree . It is in walking distance!

Average high temperatures in Baltimore in December is 47 °F with 2.9 inches and 2.2 inches of snow.

Fly into Baltimore International Airport for a quick 12-mile drive to the neighborhood of Hampden.

Terri says, “If money is no object, book your stay at the Four Seasons waterfront luxury hotel.” Its location is amazing and offers beautiful rooms.

Oahu, Hawaii

By Noel Morata of This Hawaii Life

Christmas in Oahu is special and different on the island than the mainland. You get all the fun decorations, colorful displays, Christmas fairs and special events but with a more tropical vibe, colors and gusto. 

In December, you can experience:

• a fun Christmas parade;
• Xmas lights and decorations at all the major venues and shopping centers;
• a decorated night boat parade;
• Christmas fares and holiday markets;
• firework displays at the Hilton resort; and
• orgeous store decorations.

However, all of these Christmas attractions have Hawaiian and tropical flare to wow you. Hot tropical flowers, birds, palm trees, and local imagery are included in traditional Christmas themes and colors to create a unique look, making it one of the best places to visit in the USA for Christmas.

Beyond the Christmas cheer, you can also enjoy some of the best things to do in Oahu no matter the time of year, such as hiking Diamond Head, visiting Pearl Harbor , and exploring downtown Honolulu.

The weather in Oahu is perfect and ranges from the mid 70s to mid 80s with low humidity, wonderful breezy weather and blue skies.

Visitors to the island fly into Honolulu International airport and most visitors stay around the tourist districts of Waikiki and downtown Honolulu. It’s approximately 25 minutes by taxi or ride share.

Noel says, “There are many options to stay around Waikiki from boutique to luxury brands. However, the iconic place to have a real Oahu experience with beautiful decorations for the holidays would be to stay at The Royal Hawaiian fronting Waikiki Beach”

Washington, DC

By Maggie of Pink Caddy Travelogue

Christmas in Washington, DC  is unlike any other place in the US! The nation’s capital goes all out for the holiday season, and it celebrates in a way only DC can.

Like decking out the White House. Yes, THE White House. During Christmas time, visitors can tour the Presidential residence and see the annual White House gingerbread cake, the dozens of differently decorated Christmas trees, and an 18 th -century nativity scene. Regardless of your political affiliation, a tour of the White House at Christmas is an amazing experience.

However, make sure you book your tour reservations through your Congressman’s office 3 months in advance. It is very popular and will sell out.

Another can’t miss experience is seeing the National Christmas tree and its surrounding 56 mini trees (one for each state and territory). The annual lighting has been a DC Christmas tradition since 1923 when President Calvin Coolidge lit the first tree. The Capitol also has its own decorated tree located just below the east steps.

Other must-dos include attending a performance of Handel’s Messiah at the National Cathedral and visiting the special Christmas exhibit at the U.S. Botanic Garden (they recreate DC landmarks using just plants!)

If you’re traveling with kids , definitely check out “Enchant DC” (the world’s largest light maze, hosted at Nationals Park), and Zoolights at the Smithsonian Zoo.

The best airport is Ronald Regan National Airport (it is international, despite the name). It’s right across the river from downtown DC. The driving time is 15 minutes, or you can take the metro directly from the airport.

The temperature in December can vary greatly. It can be in the 20s or in the 70s, but the average is in the 40s-50s. You can expect around 2.8 inches of rain and 2.5 inches of snowfall in December.

Maggie says, “The Willard is one of the most historic hotels in DC and is right next to the White House. It’s luxury, but you’ll be able to say you spent the night in the same place as every important world leader and diplomat who visits DC.”

Vail, Colorado

By Daniela of Fox In The Forest

As one of the most  beautiful places in Colorado , Vail is one of the best places to visit in the USA for the Christmas season if you want a winter wonderland. With plenty of skiing adventures, European-inspired villages, and a whole lot of alpine goodness, spending Xmas in Vail should be on everyone’s travel bucket list.

Vail is a premier ski destination during the winter months and it is packed with fantastic ski resorts. However, if you want to explore beyond the slopes, there are plenty of Christmas-inspired activities to keep you entertained during your visit.

For a day spent in the mountains, a sleigh ride with a cup of hot chocolate in hand is a must, as well as a gondola ride to the top to get a first-hand view of the beauty of Vail Valley.

To get you into the holiday spirit, you should visit the Kris Kringle Market, an outdoor holiday market that will have you feeling as though you’ve landed in Europe. Closer to Christmas Eve, the annual Winterfest is an amazing event, with illuminated ice sculptures and Christmas lights that light up the entire town!

Temperatures in Vail in December range from 24°F to 43°F. In December, you can expect almost 3 inches of snow.

Vail is serviced by two airports: The closest one is Eagle Regional Airport (around a 40-minute drive) as well as Denver International Airport, which is around 120 miles east of Vail (around a two hour drive).

New Orleans, Louisianna

Ashlee Fechino of  The Happiness Function

New Orleans, Louisiana, has an exciting Christmas season. When most people think of New Orleans, they usually think of Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) in spring. However, it is one of the best cities to visit in the USA in December. Reasons being – New Orleans has some of fantastic lights and food to experience!

Many restaurants offer French food menus in honor of Réveillon celebrations which only happen during the month of December. Additionally, there are incredible Xmas light displays at hotels such as The Roosevelt Hotel, Hotel Monteleone, and The Bourbon Orleans.

During the month of December, NOLA typically has mild weather for folks wanting to escape the cold, perfect for sightseeing and exploring the town. However, be sure to pack some layers for the evening. You don’t want to miss walking around Bourbon Street (a.k.a. the French Quarter) and catching some live music on Frenchman Street!

If you are looking for a little more adventure in New Orleans and the weather is on the warmer side, don’t miss taking a swamp boat tour or visiting the historic Oak Alley Plantation. There are multiple tour companies to accommodate transportation to and from hotels on different days of the week or rent a car and do it yourself . They are both easy to reach from the French Quarter in New Orleans.

Did you know that you could hold your own Christmas parade in New Orleans, or hire a company that can put one together for you? All you have to do is get a permit from the city and you will get a police escort for free! For these and other amazing money-saving, safety, food and accommodation tips, please see  40 Best Travel Tips For New Orleans For First Time Travelers .

In December, temperatures average 65 degrees Fahrenheit with lows in the mid-40s. You can expect around 4.4 inches of rain.

The French Quarter is a quick 30-minute taxi ride from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY).

Ashlee says, “Plan to stay at the historic Hotel Monteleone. Hotel Monteleone is famous for its Carousel Bar along with an impressive Christmas light display. Be sure to eat at Criollo inside – the turtle soup is a must! Hotel Monteleone is one block from Bourbon Street.”

Alexandria, Virginia

By Brianna of The Casual Travelist

Alexandria, Virginia is a beautiful historic town located just across the Potomac River from Washington, DC. While there are tons of  things to do in Alexandria  any time of year, it is one of the best Christmas vacations to take in the United States at Christmas time.

During the first weeks of December, this all American Colonial town celebrates the holidays with a Scottish flair. While you’re wandering the brick paved streets exploring the 18th century buildings, you’re as likely to hear a Scottish brogue as a southern drawl. Each year Alexandria  celebrates its Scottish heritage with the annual Scottish Christmas Walk Parade. Here, Scottish clans parade through town dressed in their finest tartans while bagpipes herald the arrival of Santa Claus.

After welcoming Santa in Scottish style, head over to the Carlyle House to see re-enactors from the First Virginia Regiment set up camp to show how Christmas was celebrated in the Eighteenth century.

You can fly into any of Washington DC’s airports but Ronald Regan National Airport is the closest at only 5 miles away.

While weather can be variable, December temperatures average 45 o F during the day and 35 o F at night. You can expect 2.8 inches of rain and 2.2 inches of snow.

Brianna says, “The Alexandrian Hotel is in the heart of old town Alexandria and a great place to base your visit”

Seattle, Washington

By Adria Saracino of The Emerald Palate

Seattle might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Christmas, but the city has a ton of holiday spirit. Plus, there are less tourists and snowy destinations only an hour away (Leavenworth is two!), so winter is the perfect time to visit one of the best Christmas destinations in the United States.

No matter the weather, there are a ton of Christmas activities in Seattle . For example, there are typically more than 50 holiday craft fairs around the greater Seattle area. The Pacific Northwest has a huge DIY culture, so handmade gifts are easy to come by.

Experiences more your thing? Check out one of the dozens of holiday shows in the city. Head to the classic Nutcracker Ballet or check out the reimagined hip hop and burlesque versions. Another option is to head to Winterfest where they transform the area underneath the Space Needle into a winter wonderland with events, shows, and craft markets.

It’s not Christmas without dazzling decorations, and Seattle has a ton. You can head to Zoo Lights to see fun light installations among the animals. Or you can go to a drive through neighborhood exhibit at the Lights of Christmas Festival or Dazzle .

You can experience Christmas in Seattle by flying into Sea-Tac International Airport and then driving 30 minutes to the city.

Winter temperatures are usually in the high 30s to 40s with around 3.3 inches of rain. However, if you’re lucky to visit during a winter storm you are in for a treat.

The city is extremely hilly and the local government is against using salt because it damages the road and is bad for the environment. So even with what east coasters might think of as a light dusting, the city shuts down for an unofficial snow day. And if it really snows like it has for at least a few days the past few years, you can expect to find people cross-country skiing, sledding, and snowboarding in the streets!

Adria says, “Everywhere you turn there will be Christmas festivities in Seattle, but if you want to stay in the middle of it all, get a hotel in downtown Seattle. One great option is the swank Fairmont Olympic Hotel with its Festival of Trees that transforms the lobby into a winter forest.

Another option is the more affordable Sheraton Grand, which hosts a huge Gingerbread Village installation in its lobby popular with kids.

Orlando, Florida

Christine of Live Love Run Travel

When looking for the best place to visit in the USA for Christmastime, make sure to put Orlando, Florida, on your list. There are plenty of things to do in Orlando at Christmas , from the theme park holiday events to local events unlike those you’ll see anywhere else.

The theme parks are a popular Xmas destination, but you can also enjoy touring the hotels at Disney without paying for theme park entry. For example, check out the massive Christmas Tree and the huge gingerbread house at the Grand Floridian.

Gaylord Palms also goes over the top at Christmas with their famous ICE! display and other Christmas shows and activities, including some that are free. The theme changes each year, but there are things for all ages to enjoy.

Light Up UCF is another fun and family-friendly place to enjoy at Christmas. With light shows, free movies, and ice skating, it’s a great spot to enjoy for both kids and adults.

Christmas in Orlando is a special time even without the cold and the snow – in fact, that may be the best part of visiting Orlando at Christmas!

To get to Orlando, fly into Orlando International Airport. From there, you can be in downtown Orlando, at the theme parks, or in many of the areas holding Christmas events in about 30 minutes.

Winter in Orlando is one of the best seasons to visit. No hurricanes and humidity (or less humidity at least), and cooler days. You can actually enjoy your time outdoors and not have to deal with the daily thunderstorms found in summertime.

Temperatures range greatly with average temperatures in the mid-70s. Some days can be in the 30s or 40s and others can still get into the upper 80s. There is around 2 inches of rain in December.

It’s a great place to escape the frigid temperatures up north.

For great rates for accommodation in Orlando, please take a look at the interactive map below.

Frankenmuth, Michigan

By Kris of My Michigan Travel

Frankenmuth, Michigan  is a small town known for its German heritage and adorable Bavarian-inspired architecture. Michigan’s “Little Bavaria” is fantastic year round, but it is one of the best places for Christmas spirit in the USA in December.

One of its top attractions is Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, which claims to be the world’s largest Christmas store. Inside, you’ll find a dizzying array of more holiday decorations and accessories than you could imagine. The store is always popular, but it’s absolutely bustling during the lead up to the holidays. You can shop for ornaments, trees, lights, and more, or take photos with one of the many larger-than-life displays.

Frankenmuth also hosts a traditional Christkindlmarkt during November and December. It features outdoor shopping booths like you’d find throughout Germany and the rest of Europe. You can stroll along the booths selling handmade gifts, décor, and food items. Grab a hot cocoa to sip for warmth! The only thing missing is the gluhwein (hot spiced wine).

Once you’re done, you can fill up on Frankenmuth’s famous family-style chicken dinners. Two competing restaurants – Zehnder’s and Bavarian Inn – serve warm, hearty food like fried chicken, mashed potatoes, stuffing, buttered noodles, cranberry sauce, and more. You can wash it down with Hofbrauhaus beer straight from Munich if you’d like.

The closest international airport is Detroit-Metro. Frankenmuth is about an hour and a half north unless you hit rush hour traffic.

Average temperature in December is 32 o F. You can expect around 4.2 inches of snow. that rarely stays on the ground for long.

Kris says, “There are numerous hotels to choose from, but the Bavarian Inn Lodge and Zehnder’s Splash Village are the most fun.

Bavarian Inn is located across the famous wooden bridge and features multiple pools, waterslides, an arcade, and an indoor mini golf course.

Zehnder’s, located right next door to Bronner’s, has a whole indoor water park in case you’re missing sunny summer days.”

Los Angeles, California

By Francesca of Homeroom Travel

Los Angeles is one of the best cities in the USA to visit for Christmas.

During the winter season, there are lots of enjoyable things to do. Do not miss the Descanso Gardens: Enchanted Forest of Lights. This 150-acre botanical garden puts on a huge walk-through light show every Xmas season. Another recommendation is to visit Universal Studios . The park is totally decked out in Christmas decorations and there are fun Christmas-themed snacks. 

For music lovers, a Christmas concert at the Walt Disney Concert Hall makes for a fun evening. The LA Philharmonic normally puts on several Christmas sing-along concerts throughout December. 

The Christmas season in Los Angeles is fun. It is a warm escape but still feels like Christmas because there are massive amounts of decorations everywhere. There are entertaining events all across the city which makes for a unique winter escape.

To get to Los Angeles, you will want to fly into Los Angeles International Airport. This airport is located in Western Los Angeles and it will take about 30 minutes (without traffic) to get to various places across Los Angeles. 

During the winter months, the average weather is in the high 60s, which makes it the perfect escape for people who do not like the cold.

Francesca says, “To be in the best location, stay in Downtown Los Angeles. The Westin Bonaventure or the Millenium Biltmore are two great hotel choices.”

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

By Paulina of On The Road

Milwaukee is a wonderful city for a Xmas destination. Top things and places to enjoy in December include Christkindlmarket which is less crowded than other Christmas markets. It hosts small wooden huts filled with treasures. You can also eat some yummy Christmas delicacies. Another one is the German Christmas Market, popular for all things German. This includes beer, food, BBQ, and mulled wine.

Do not miss “the Ward” on the first Friday of December, which is one of the most famous neighborhoods of Milwaukee. It has exciting fireworks, live reindeer, and Santa. The Holiday Lights Festival is also fantastic for its variety of shows. 

Wisconsin shines in lights and becomes the happiest during this time of the year. The Christmas markets make it special and bright. That is why Milwaukee is one of the best places to visit in the USA during Christmas.

Milwaukee is easily reached by air. The Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport is just 10 minutes from downtown. If you are keen for a road trip, you can drive from Chicago, which would take about a day.

Weather 

The temperature of Milwaukee in December can range from 39.2 degrees Fahrenheit to -37.4 degrees Fahrenheit.

Wisconsin sees the highest snowfall during the months of December (around 3.6 inches), January and March. Therefore, pack heavy clothing for outdoor activities. 

Paulina says, “For an affordable stay, you can stay in downtown Milwaukee at County Clare Inn.

Sedona, Arizona

By Jenifer of The Evolista

During Xmas, Sedona is a fantastic holiday escape.

It hosts the festival of lights at Tlaquepaque where they have 6,000 luminarias that adorn the courtyards and walkways. Cheerful holiday displays dress up windows of galleries and restaurants, while live music and a visit from Santa add to the fun. In fact, there are multiple holiday events held in Downtown Sedona all month long.

No matter what time of year you visit, Sedona is well known for 2 things – some of the most amazing hikes and the presence of an energy vortex.

Discover both the healing energy and the best views on Sedona Vortex hikes . Devil’s Bridge is another terrific hike to a natural bridge that’s sure to be a hit for your holiday card photo. The best part is that these hikes are easy enough for most everyone and you get spectacular red rock vistas.

After flying into Phoenix airport, a 2 hour drive will get you to one of the best places to visit in the USA for Christmas.

Christmas in Sedona is festive and fun with average highs in the mid 50s, perfect for some of the prettiest hiking in the USA. While less than 4 days of rain is expected during the month, you might get lucky with a temporary sprinkling of snow on the gorgeous red rock landscape. 

Jenifer says, “Enchantment Resort is a luxurious resort with a spa that’s perfectly located at Boynton Canyon, one of the prettiest spots in town. In addition to their beautiful accommodations, they host multiple activities like guided hikes and mountain bike rides.”

Denver, Colorado

By Michelle of Moyer Memoirs

Denver is one of the best places to visit in the USA during the holiday season because it holds many festive events. There are light displays up and down the 16 th  Street Mall in downtown Denver, including the Mile High Tree. This 110-foot-tall immersive art display lights up with the holiday music. It is lovely to see and hear while strolling around the walk-thru exhibit.

Near the 16 th  Street Mall, the Christkindle Market is a holiday tradition for small businesses that sell hand-crafted artistic gifts and holiday treats. It is reminiscent of German Christmas markets with little wooden huts showcasing their wares, complete with live entertainment and authentic Bavarian pretzels and Glühwein.

Denver has many sites that are open year-round to enjoy even in the cold winter weather, including some great hikes. The Red Rock Amphitheatre should definitely be on your  Denver itinerary . It is only a short drive from downtown and offers beautiful trails in the crisp air of the holiday season.

To get here, the Denver International Airport (DIA) is 25 miles from the heart of downtown. 

December is normally the coldest month of the year with an average temperatures ranging from 46°F to 23°F.  Although it is chilly, it is very dry and the sky will most likely be clear, blue, and sunny. 

Unlike the snowy mountains around the city, it doesn’t snow much in the city of Denver. Typically, snow falls are a few days during December with barely an inch of accumulation.

Michelle says, “If you are staying in downtown Denver, the Curtis Hotel is a uniquely themed boutique hotel.  It has a different theme for each of its 13 guest room floors. The lobby is also themed and very entertaining.  It is a great location for walking around the 16 th  Street Mall and downtown Denver.”

Chicago, Illnois

By Dymphe of Dymabroad

One of the best places for Christmas getaways in the United States is Chicago as there are lots of special things going on in the city.

For example, you can visit the Christkindlmarket. This is a very popular annual Christmas market taking place at Daley Plaza. You can shop for unique handcrafted Xmas gifts and eat delicious Christmas treats.

Besides that, going holiday shopping along the Magnificent Mile during this time is lovely. One of the best places is the shopping mall “Water Tower Place” which has lots of holiday decorations. To be immersed in lights, head over to Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden where you can walk along beautifully lit up trails.

Beyond the Christmas celebrations, Chicago has many amazing attractions to experience . Two of the best museums are the The Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum, both on Lake Michigan and near Millennium Park.

The Art Institute is one of the largest museums in North America and houses an impressive collection of impressionist art from some of the greatest artists of all time, such as Picasso, Monet and Van Gogh. You can get lost in the Field Museum’s amazing exhibits, including exploring Egyptian pyramids.

At Skydeck at Willis Tower, you have incredible panoramic views of the city. In Millennium Park, you can see the famous Cloud Gate sculpture. Also, during December, Millennium Park displays a huge Christmas tree and it is one of the most Instagrammable places in Chicago .

To get to Chicago, you can fly into O’Hare International Airport. From the airport, it takes about 30 minutes to drive to Downtown Chicago.

When visiting the city in December, you can expect an average temperature of 37°F and about 1.5 inches of rain and 2 inches of snowfall.

I have been to Chicago over twenty times. On my most recent trip, I stayed at the Fairfield Inn And Suites Chicago Downtown River North. I was very pleasantly surprised by the amazing location, comfortable beds and the excellent value.

Lake Placid, New York

By Michael and Nicole of Affordable Family Travel

Lake Placid is a wonderful place to spend Christmas. Lake Placid provides the perfect Christmas atmosphere with its snow-covered mountains, a visit with Santa, and snuggling up by a warm fire at one of the lovely lodges in the village.

Enjoy the Lake Placid Village Holiday Stroll and pick up some last-minute gifts at any of the many great shops in the village. Head over to Santa’s Workshop in North Pole, NY only 20 minutes away where you can meet Santa and his reindeer. The Park offers rides, shows, and of course, Christmas treats.

Lake Placid was home to 2 Winter Olympics so winter is a great time to see the village in all of its glory.

The average temperature in Lake Placid, NY in December is 31 degrees Fahrenheit and they receive an average of 11 inches of snow during the month.

Michael and Nicole say, “Mirror Lake Inn is a quaint hotel with lake view rooms and a large fireplace in its common area. They have a spa and the town’s only 4 Diamond Restaurant. If you are looking for a  budget Lake Placid trip , Hampton Inn is located across the street from the lake with outdoor fire pits and an indoor pool.”

If you are looking for a Christmas destination in the United States, you have lots from which to choose. Whether you prefer a city or small town experience with or without lots of snow, or you wish to enjoy a tropical Christmas escape with gorgeous beaches and plenty of yuletide cheer, you will be thrilled with your choices in America.

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The Most Charming Small Towns to Visit During the Christmas Season

If you ask most Americans to think about the hallmarks of the holiday season , it's usually the twinkling lights, snow-lined streets, and yuletide markets that first come to mind. That's why many agree that small towns across the country are some of the most charming places to visit at Christmastime—they offer all of these things and more. In some towns, residents prepare for their December celebrations all year long: Working together to turn their hometowns into true Christmas villages, these communities are excited to welcome visitors when the holiday season finally arrives.

If you're looking for a family-friendly destination to visit during the Christmas vacation, put one of these 15 towns on your list. Though they're charming throughout the year, they're especially noteworthy during the holiday season. Have you long hoped to treat your family to a white Christmas? You're in luck, as nearly all of these destinations provide it by the bucketful. Even towns in the warmer Southeast—like Andalusia, Alabama, which manufactures a faux snowfall for a festival —get in on the fun. There's more to do than just look at snowdrifts, though. In North Pole, Alaska, located in the suburbs of Fairbanks, the entire community bands together for unique activities, including an ice sculpture festival and visits to Santa's house . In Durango, Colorado, you can take the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad to visit Santa in a would-be North Pole, just like the Polar Express.

Some would say that the activities in these towns are really just added bonuses, though. The real charm comes from just how quaint each locale is. Even in towns without a major parade or community-wide event in the days leading up to Christmas, cheer is in the air— local shops and restaurants decorated every inch of their storefronts with holly, lights, and other seasonal décor , and the hubbub on Main Street as people mill around becomes irresistible.

Whether you're looking to get away for a quiet holiday with your family or simply seeking out a day trip with festive cheer, these magical settings are sure to fill you with Christmas spirit .

Dahlonega, Georgia

Tucked away in northern Georgia, about 75 miles away from Atlanta, the town of Dahlonega comes alive at Christmastime—its residents welcome those from near and far to partake in festive events and holiday displays around town. Main Street may look somewhat familiar to you, as it's regularly featured in popular Hallmark movies, including Christmas in Homestead . The day after Thanksgiving, Dahlonega kicks off a month-long celebration called Old-Fashioned Christmas , where Santa makes appearances and twinkling lights decorate the town.

North Pole, Alaska

If you're looking for festive cheer in wide open spaces, there's no where better to visit than Alaska. Given its name, North Pole residents celebrate Christmas all year round, but traveling there in December feels extra special. Visitors can actually visit the Santa Claus house , which collects more than 400,000 pieces of mail per year from children all over the country.

Branson, Missouri

According to the Branson board of tourism, this small city in southern Missouri puts up more than 1 million Christmas lights each year, as well as hundreds of Douglas Fir trees. December schedules in Branson consist of parades, Christmas light shows, and tree lighting ceremonies, but the biggest draw for families is when the Branson Scenic Railway transforms into the Polar Express seemingly overnight. Kids can enjoy cookies and hot chocolate on the hour-long train ride where the iconic Christmas tale is recounted to all.

Durango, Colorado

At the base of the rolling hills of the San Juan National Forest, Durango is often the scene of a winter wonderland, but in December, residents pull out all the stops to create a Christmas scene. Seasonal activities like sleigh rides and ice skating in an open rink in the heart of town are fun things to do in the evenings, but Durango's main attraction is an extended version of the Polar Express aboard the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad . Aboard a snowy locomotive, visitors snake their way in and out of foothills towards the "North Pole" and Santa makes an appearance at the end of the journey.

Nantucket, Massachusetts

People know and love this coastal town as a summer attraction, but it's just as alluring in the winter as it is in the warmer months. During the first weekend in December, permanent Nantucket residents invite visitors to join them once again on this quiet island off the coast of Massachusetts for the town's annual Christmas Stroll . Sip wine, listen to carolers, and check out hundreds of Christmas trees on display throughout the town.

Leavenworth, Washington

If you didn't know you were in the middle of Washington state, you may believe you'd stumbled into a town straight out of the Bavarian countryside in Germany. Leavenworth is as close to a European holiday as you'll get stateside, as it exudes the same alpine charm as many chalet towns in Europe. From Thanksgiving through February, Village of Lights: Christmastown offers activities like meeting Santa and hearing live music while visitors watch Leavenworth light up with more than 500,000 Christmas lights.

Santa Claus, Indiana

Living up to its name, Santa Claus is a must-visit destination for any Christmas fanatic—the town throws the Santa Claus Christmas Celebration during weekends in December, with parades, craft shows, and a host of light shows. Kids will love visiting Santa's Candy Castle or heading to the Santa Claus Museum & Village , where volunteers answer letters in the days leading up to Christmas.

Williamsburg, Virginia

According to U.S. News and World Report , Williamsburg has been informally dubbed as the "Best Christmas Town in America," and it's easy to see why. At the historic Jamestown settlement , tour guides demonstrate how original colonists celebrated the holidays back in the 1700s. In Colonial Williamsburg , there's a lighting ceremony at Market Square, and visitors are treated to the history of the first-ever Christmas tree in America. Don't forget about the amusement park Busch Gardens , which comes aglow by night thanks to 10 million holiday lights, making this the one of the largest displays in America.

Solvang, California

Christmas for wine lovers awaits in Solvang, California, which is centrally located in the Santa Ynez Valley and largely modeled on Danish heritage. In December, this small town—a collection of vineyards and quaint retailers—puts on a jovial festival known as Julefest . There's a holiday candlelight tour that is offered multiple times throughout the month, plus a makers market and Santa's Village in the town center.

McAdenville, North Carolina

The suburbs of Charlotte may seem ordinary enough, but those in the know have established McAdenville as " Christmas Town USA ." Residents here band together to put on a massive holiday display that includes nearly every home in town. Every year, for over 65 years, people travel far and wide to see more than 250 trees decked out in upwards of 500,000 lights, according to the event's organizer, Steve Rankin. There's no charge to roam around and take in the 160 decorated houses in this suburb before heading back to Charlotte later in the day.

Woodstock, Vermont

Nearly all of New England looks like a Christmas card in December, but even Vermont natives travel to Woodstock to experience a Christmas festival like no other. Known as the Wassail Weekend , the annual event features live carolers up and down main street and a public tree lighting. Antiquity is deeply rooted in this town, and historic buildings and old farmhouses open their doors to the public to showcase their beauty. The best way to see everything? By horse and buggy, of course.

Freeport, Maine

There's simply no better place to do your Christmas shopping than in Freeport, Maine, home to the L.L.Bean headquarters. The entire coastal town is filled with both national outlet shops and local retailers, but you'll want to pause your shopping to take in the tree lighting and an event known as Sparkle Celebration in early December. Here, L.L.Bean hosts a Christmas Parade of Lights right on their grounds and hands out free hot cocoa to everyone in attendance. Plus, you can enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride around town for a general tour before you hit the stores.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is not the smallest place on this list—it's actually one of North Carolina's largest cities—but the unparalleled yuletide décor at one of the most famous mansions in the nation earns its spot on this list. The Biltmore , a historic property owned by the Vanderbilt family, is adorned in garlands, twinkling lights, and plenty of crimson ribbons for the occasion. Taking in the grounds and seeing its interiors is a great precursor to shopping in Asheville's River Arts District , home to local craft retailers with truly unique Christmas gifts.

Frankenmuth, Michigan

Another example of Europe's influence on American villages, Frankenmuth looks like a holiday scene all year round. The town hosts a Christkindlmarkt in December, and lively Christmas light displays are peppered among the market's stalls. The true draw, however, is Bronner's Christmas Wonderland, which has been dubbed the "world's largest" Christmas store: You'll find unique décor here that you can't find anywhere else.

Helen, Georgia

You'll be hard-pressed to find a more popular Christmas destination for Southerners than Helen, Georgia. This whimsical village has built itself into a pristine replica of a German Bavarian town. In December, artists complete the transformation by decorating holiday trees that line the town's streets, and those holiday wonders are then auctioned off to the public at the Festival of Trees . There's also a traditional Christkindlmarkt to peruse.

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Richmond ranked the Best Town to Visit in 2024

RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - According to CNN Travel, Richmond is the “Best Town to Visit in 2024.”

“Richmond, Virginia — or ‘RVA’ as locals call it — has top-notch museums and intriguing neighborhoods, and it’s a great spot for dining, drinking and getting outdoors,” the report said . “There’s an impressive arts scene and a nearly year-round lineup of festivals.”

The city was ranked number one because of the rich arts, culture, and history Richmond displays.

“We are truly honored to be recognized as the No. 1 American Town to Visit in 2024 by CNN Travel,” said Katherine O’Donnell, Richmond Region Tourism executive vice president. “This acknowledgment is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire community in creating meaningful experiences for visitors.”

To read more about Richmond’s ranking, visit here .

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• 35 Best Places To Spend Christmas In Europe In 2024

28 Nov 2023

From the glittering conifers, to the midnight mass glitz, From the aroma of rum cakes, to the greetings with a kiss! From the smiles that the gifts bring, to the ones that we truly miss, It’s the favorite time of the year, that feels nothing less than sheer bliss!

You got that right! New year is here and festivities are just around the corner. And when it comes to grand celebrations, all we could think of was which of these would be the best places to spend Christmas in Europe ?

With the snowfall covering the rooftops, christmas conifers up for sale, the taste of cinnamon and ginger breads in the air, and with the hustle and bustle of best Christmas markets in Europe , it’s undoubtedly going to be a grand show. And for those who cannot help but be a part of this mega celebrations, get going to these best places to spend Christmas in Europe that will add magic to your winter holiday!

How Is Christmas Celebrated In Europe?

Image Source Celebrations in Europe start four Sundays prior to the eve of Christmas which marks the beginning of the Advent. Post the Advent, most of the Catholic countries also celebrate the Feast of St. Nicholas on the 6th of December. This may not be the tradition in all countries but some of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe 2023  do celebrate it as a part of their culture. Following the feast, the main celebration is that of the Christmas Eve wherein people attend the Midnight Mass and relish a heart-warming meal their families, and friends.

35 Best Places To Spend Christmas In Europe In 2023

Here are some of the best Christmas getaways in Europe that you have always been seeking. Every city and every town is colorful and full of light during this time of the year. The Christmas villages, Santa Claus and the ever-charming celebration of this festival is one of the biggest. So, here are the best places to spend Christmas in Europe  that will surely give you a great time:

• Amiens, France
• Basel, Switzerland
• Belfast, Ireland
• Heidelberg, Germany
• Wroclaw, Poland
• Valletta, Malta
• Leukerbad, Switzerland
• Manchester, England
• Grindelwald, Switzerlnad
• Florence, Italy
• Edinburgh, Scotland
• Berlin, Germany
• Kraków, Poland
• Reykjavik, Iceland
• Cologne, Germany
• Prague, Czech Republic
• Milan, Italy
• Strasbourg, France
• London, England
• Rovaniemi, Lapland
• Vienna, Austria
• Leipzig, Germany
• Copenhagen, Denmark
• Salzburg, Austria
• Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Brussels, Belgium
• Valencia, Spain
• Budapest, Hungary
• Madeira, Portugal
• Helsinki, Finland
• Stockholm, Sweden
• Tallinn, Estonia
• Geneva, Switzerland
• Dubrovnik, Croatia
• Vilnius, Lithuania

35. Amiens, France

Amines is one of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe with amazing Christmas markets full of incredible food and drink. The markets are relatively more eco-friendly than many others. The town shares the same atmosphere, enthusiasm and authenticity of other cities but with a lot less crowds. The quaint French town has a lot of beautiful parklands and cute villages where you can taste some delicious food.

Must-have experiences : Visit the stunning Cathedral Basilica and watch the light shows Temperature in December : Ranges between 2°C – 7°C How to reach : You can take a flight to the Charles-de-Gaulle Airport in Paris from where Amiens is 110 km away via train ride. Languages spoken : French, English Famous cuisine or food item : Ficelle Picarde

Must Read: 7 Places to Visit In Milan In 1 Day

34. Basel, Switzerland

Switzerland and Christmas are synonyms. Such is the culture of this amazing festival in Basel. Being one of the best Christmas getaways in Europe, a winter vacation is inevitable once you visit this city. The magic of snowy alps and festive markets overpowers the city. The finest Christmas market out of all of them is Münsterplatz Christmas Market . There are approximately 180 vendors selling handmade Christmas gifts, candles, wooden toys and so much more.

  Must-have experiences : Take a chilling cruise down the Rhine River to explore the city lights Temperature in December : Ranges between 1°C – 6°C How to reach : Basel has an international airport which welcomes flights from all over the world Languages spoken : German Famous cuisine or food item : Basler Mehlsuppe

33. Belfast, Ireland

Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland with a quiet and warm environment. It holds well against the best places to spend Christmas in Europe with its buzzing and uniquely local festive charm. Explore the Botanic Area of Belfast which is highly popular amongst the students of the city. The Belfast Christmas market sits in the vicinity of the iconic City Hall building.

Must-have experiences : Explore the  traditional pubs of Cathedral Quarter which is an area popular with Belfast’s city workers Temperature in December : Ranges between 4°C – 8°C How to reach : You can directly board a flight to the Belfast International Airport which has flights from all parts of the world Languages spoken : English, Irish (dialect) Famous cuisine or food item : Ulster Fry

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32. Heidelberg, Germany

The debate about the best places to celebrate Christmas in Europe is an ever-lasting one. While that goes on, we look at Heidelberg – an adorable university town. There are several amazing Christmas markets located near the charming Heidelberg Castle. Ride the funicular or cable-driven cars to go up the hill and explore the castle. The views from up top of the entire town is simply not to be missed.

Must-have experiences : Visit the giant Christmas Pyramid located at the middle of the town Temperature in December : Ranges between 1°C – 5°C How to reach : You can either take a flight to Frankfurt or Stuttgart from where there are regular trains which usually takes about an hour Languages spoken : English, German Famous cuisine or food item : Saumagen

31. Wroclaw, Poland

Wroclaw is an under-rated yet one of the best Christmas getaways in Europe. What you get is the charm and grandeur of other major cities at a fraction of the cost. The Christmas market is full of beautifully decorated stalls. Winter in Poland can be very cold and so the market is full of nooks like a three-story house where you can warm up. 

Must-have experiences : Visit the Cathedral Island and then tour the Rynek Square where you can catch the Christmas parades and theater performances. Temperature in December : Ranges between -3°C – 4°C How to reach : The best and easiest way to get to the city of Wroclaw is to take a flight to Copernicus Airport located in the city. Languages spoken : Polish  Famous cuisine or food item : Pierogi

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30. Valletta, Malta

Malta might be a summer destination but Christmas holidays are really charming once you set foot. It becomes one of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe. It might not be the coldest in Valletta but the Christmas spirit is quite warm. The streets of Valletta are lightened as you get extraordinary Christmas vibes. 

Must-have experiences : Shopping at the Christmas markets and eating some delicious traditional food Temperature in December : Ranges between 8°C – 15°C How to reach : Valletta is the capital city and the Malta International Airport is located in it. You can catch a flight here and then tour the city in a bus or cab. Languages spoken : Ticinese, Bosin Famous cuisine or food item : Tortelli con Zucca

29. Leukerbad, Switzerland

Another perfect Christmas destination in Europe is Leukerbad in Switzerland. It is a picturesque Swiss village perfect to soak in the Winters and play with the snow. Located high in the Swiss Alps, you can definitely expect a lot of snow making Leukerbad one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in Europe. Sledding is another popular activity in the village which definitely welcomes you for an exciting Christmas.

Must-have experiences : Spent some of the Christmas Day soaking in the  hot springs of the village Temperature in December : Ranges between -4°C – 3°C How to reach : There are 5 airports from where you can take buses and other public transport to reach Leukerbad. But the closest ones are in Berne and Geneva. Languages spoken : French  Famous cuisine or food item : Älplermagrone

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28. Manchester, England

Image Source

Manchester is a city full of life but Christmas takes the energy to another level. This was the UK’s first city that hosted a Christmas market in 1999. The event becomes grander every year and has around 300 stunning stalls. From handicrafts to jewelries, to food items, there are a variety of things that you can buy. 

Must-have experiences: Spend time at the rooftop bars in the city enjoying the view and food Temperature in December: Ranges between 4°C – 8°C How to reach: Manchester Airport is the international airport in Greater Manchester.  Regular flights connects from here connect the city to other parts of the world. Languages spoken : English Famous cuisine or food item : Manchester Caviar

27. Grindelwald, Switzerlnad

Wondering where to spend the Christmas day in Europe? A Christmas in Switzerland will surely be a spellbinding experience. And if it is in the resort town of Grindelwald, you need not ask for more. This hill town is among the cheap places to go for Christmas in Europe and offers gorgeous sites during winters. With the snow-capped Alps, endless carpet of snow, pine trees, and warm festival lights, this place will bring alive all your childhood Christmas dreams. Even the hotels are organized with the special Christmas themes and lunch and dinner.

Must-have experiences: This has one of the most popular ski resorts in Switzerland, bodmi Arena,  so trying this adventure sport is a must. Temperature in December: Ranges between 1°C – 6°C How to reach: Zurich Airport is the nearest airport from Grindelwald. It can be reached within 2.5 hours by road and within 3 hours by rail.   Languages spoken : German, Portuguese  Famous cuisine or food item : Swiss cuisine

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26. Florence, Italy

Florence, the beautiful Italian city turns more stunning during Christmas. Decorated with lights and Christmas trees, the public places like cafes and piazzas welcome guests with the warmth of this festival. You would fall in love with the skyline of the city dominated by ancient cathedrals that are decorated with lights. Christmas markets are also a part of the celebrations. Indeed, Florence is one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in Europe.

Must-have experiences: Shop at Christmas Market in Piazza Santa Croce and visit the big Christmas tree at Piazza Duomo Temperature in December: Ranges between 3°C – 11°C How to reach: Florence Airport, Peretola is the international airport in the city which connects it to other cities of the world. Languages spoken : Italian Famous cuisine or food item : Bistecca alla Fiorentina

25. Edinburgh, Scotland

You would not need to think again about where to spend Christmas day in Europe if you are considering Edinburgh as your first option. Christmas-time oozes magic into the air of this Scottish capital. Festival lights illuminate the streets of the city and Christmas markets warmly invite locals and travelers alike. But the rides at the Princes Street Gardens are one of the major highlights.

Must-have experiences: Enjoy a special afternoon tea at the Dome; go ice skating Temperature in December: Ranges between 1°C – 7°C How to reach: Edinburgh Airport is the main international airport in the city Languages spoken : English Famous cuisine or food item : Stornoway Black Pudding

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24. Berlin, Germany

Berling is one of the best places to spend your Christmas in Europe 2023 .  The Christmas markets in this German capital add life and shimmer to the whole cityscape. You can pick some beautiful gifts and souvenirs from here for your loved ones. The restaurants surrounding these Christmas markets make the best hangout places for spending time with your friends and family, enjoying good food and carols.

Must-have experiences: Shopping at Gendarmentmark, Spandau and market outside Charlottenburg Palace Temperature in December: Ranges between 0°C – 4°C How to reach: Berlin-Tegel Airport is the main international airport in the capital that connects the city with other parts of the world. Languages spoken : German  Famous cuisine or food item : Currywurst 

23. Vilnius, Lithuania

Image Source Considered to be the most underrated Christmas getaways in Europe , celebrating the most favorite time of the year in this historical land feels nothing less than magic. No matter how cold or dark the winters get, the spirit of the festivities and the best Christmas markets in Europe spread around the city, are always successful in cheering up everyone during large gatherings in the city centre.

Must-have experiences: Explore the International Christmas Charity Bazaar at Rotuse, admire the Cathedral Square Christmas tree, visit the Church of St Anne, buy a pair of woolens at the famous Wool House, and more. Temperature in December: An average of -3°C How to reach: Vilnius Airport is the nearest airport located at a distance of about 6 km from the city centre. The city has it own railhead of Vilnius Central Station. Languages spoken : Lithuanian Famous cuisine or food item : Didžkukuliai or Potato Dumplings

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22. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Image Source If at all there is one thing that you can’t miss on an European Christmas vacation in Dubrovnik, it is to sing the traditional Dubrovnik carols. Considered to be one of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe, it is a must for everyone to witness Christmas trees on the Stradun when in Dubrovnik.

Must-have experiences: Visit the Old Town, dine with the locals and relish some sausages with beer, attend the Christmas Fair at the Convent of St. Claire, shop for Christmas ornaments, taste the Christmas cookies, and more. Temperature in December: An average of 8°C How to reach: Also known as the Čilipi Airport, Dubrovnik Airport is located at a distance of about 15 km from the city centre. Located at a distance of about 100 km, Ploce is the nearest railhead to Dubrovnik. Languages spoken : Croatian, English Famous cuisine or food item : Zelena Menestra or Green Stew

21. Geneva, Switzerland

Image Source Christmas in Geneva is equal to the best Christmas Lights ever. The whole Lake Geneva is lit up with shops, stalls, and a thousand lights as a part of the European Christmas traditions . And for the foodies who’re looking forward to the best places to spend Christmas in Europe this year, look no further than Geneva that hosts a market full of pre-Christmas food exhibitors from all over the world. With so much to offer, it is definitely one of the best places in Europe for Christmas .

Must-have experiences: Must-attend the Genève Marché International de Noel at Place de la Fusterie, explore the Christmas market at Lake Geneva, go shopping at Rue du Marché, and Rue de Rive, and more. Temperature in December: An average of 3°C How to reach: Geneva Airport is just 4 km away from the city centre. Also, the nearest railhead is that of Gare de Cornavin which enjoys a central location in the city. Languages spoken : French, English  Famous cuisine or food item : Cheese Fondue

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20. Tallinn, Estonia

Image Source The real glow of Christmas can be witnessed in its glorious form only in Tallinn. Reckoned to be one of the best Christmas destinations in Europe , walk through the cobblestone streets that take you down the nostalgic lane of a winter wonderland. From attending the special winter programs like Christmas Villages to exploring the realms of Estonian Open Air Museum, Tallinn is going to be a gem in the heart of Europe during Christmas.

Must-have experiences: Skating in the Old Town, taste the mulled wine, explore the medieval churches, shop at the Town Hall Square’s Christmas market, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Tallinn, and more. Temperature in December: An average of -2°C How to reach: Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport is the closest airport to the city centre, whereas the Baltic Station is the nearest railhead to Tallinn. Languages spoken : Estonian, English Famous cuisine or food item : Aspic

19. Stockholm, Sweden

Image Source Be it shopping at the beautiful Christmas markets or relishing some of the delectable and freshly baked gingerbread, none of your Christmas trips to Europe are complete without experiencing the best of both the modern as well as traditional worlds at Stockholm. Let the beautiful lights guide to some of the most beautifully decorated places to visit in Sweden.

Must-have experiences: Christmas markets at the Old Town, and Skansen, Christmas show with Richard Soderberg, be a part of celebrations at the Drottningholm Castle, and more. Temperature in December: An average of -1°C How to reach: Stockholm Bromma Airport is located at a distance of about 11 km from the city centre. The nearest railhead is that of the Stockholm Central Station which connects the city to nearby places of Oslo, Goteborg, and so on. Languages spoken : Swedish  Famous cuisine or food item : Cured Salmon

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18. Helsinki, Finland

Image Source In most of the European destinations, the Christmas markets steal the show for the whole winter season. Similarly, the astonishing Christmas Market of Helsinki is considered to be one among the much famed top 10 Christmas markets in Europe . Forming the core of almost all that the best places to spend Christmas in Europe have to offer, attending one of these bustling markets is all about fun, food, family, friends, and the festive mood.

Must-have experiences: Follow the tradition of eating rice, porridge, and plum juice in the morning, shop for some of the best handicrafts from more than 140 vendors at Christmas markets at the Senate Square, attend a free Christmas concert, and more. Temperature in December: An average of -4°C How to reach: The airstrip of Helsinki-Vantaa Airport is the closest to the city centre located at a distance of 19 km. Also, Helsinki railway station enjoys a central location in the city. Languages spoken : Finnish, Swedish Famous cuisine or food item : Baltic Herring

17. Madeira, Portugal

Image Source For those who are planning to spend their Christmas holidays in Europe with one of the best music and entertaining scenes, must head towards Madeira in Portugal. The moment the streets of Funchal are lit up with decorative lights, everybody in the city turns on their festive mood and becomes a vital part of the cultural, artistic, and religious programs that is probably the most unusual Christmas celebration in Europe .

Must-have experiences: The Fireworks show, Twelfth Night celebrations, the traditional Christmas Carol show, live performance by the local music bands, attend the Funchal Road Race, and more. Temperature in December: An average of 18°C How to reach: Madeira Airport is the nearest airstrip located at a distance of 18 km from the city centre. Traveling by train to Madeira is not the best choice as the nearest railway station is that Agadir in Morocco. Languages spoken : European Portuguese. English Famous cuisine or food item : Tomato and Onion Soup

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16. Budapest, Hungary

From riding the lit Streetcar to skating on the ice rink at Budapest Park, Budapest serves as one of the most fascinating and best places to spend Christmas in Europe . With grand celebrations like attending midnight mass at the St Stephen’s Basilica to being a part of the traditional and classic Hungarian Folk Show, Budapest will leave no stone un-turned in charming you with its festive offerings. Hungary is also listed among the cheap places to spend Christmas in Europe.

Must-have experiences: Christmas Market at Vorosmarty Square, Christmas Fair at the Basilica, explore the Szechenyi Baths, enjoy night cruises on the river Danube, relish the Chimney Cake at the Xmas Fair, and more. Temperature in December: An average of 1°C How to reach: Located at a distance of 21 km from the city centre, Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport is the nearest airport. Also, the Budapest Keleti Train Station is located just 10 minutes away from the city centre. Languages spoken : Hungarian Famous cuisine or food item : Goulash

15. Valencia, Spain

Image Source As traditional as the nativity play, and as modern as the quirky feel of the city, Valencia offers a perfect mix of both the old and the new during Christmas. Lifting up the true essence of the holiday spirit, Valencia is one of the best European cities to be cherished on a Christmas Eve followed by New Year’s as well.

Must-have experiences: Witness the mesmerizing decorations at Plaza Ayuntamiento, go ice skating at the Aqua shopping mall, treat yourself to the roasted chestnuts, take your kids to the Gran Circo Wonderland for an offbeat Christmas celebration in Europe . Temperature in December: An average of 10°C How to reach: The city of Valencia has its own international airport which is just 11 kms away from the centre. The city also facilitates the travelers with easy access to nearby cities of Madrid, and Barcelona from the central train station of Valencia Train Station or the Estació del Nord. Languages spoken : Spanish, Valencian (dialect) Famous cuisine or food item : Paella

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14. Brussels, Belgium

Image Source Search for some of the best gifts for your family and friends? Head to one of the biggest Christmas markets held in Brussels inside the premises of Place Flagey. Shop for some of the best handicrafts products as souvenirs by artists who fly down from places like France, Hungary, Germany and so on.

Must-have experiences: Adore the huge Christmas tree at the Grand Palace, witness the soul-stirring light and music show, go skating at the Marché aux Poissons, don’t miss out on savoring the best beef stew in town, treat your sweet tooth with some chocolate waffles at the Christmas markets of Place Sainte-Catherine, and more. Temperature in December: An average of 5°C How to reach: Located at a distance of 55 km, Brussels Charleroi Airport is the nearest airstrip whereas Brussels Nord train station is easily accessible due to its central location. Languages spoken : French, Flemish Famous cuisine or food item : Moules-frites

13. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Image Source Netherlands is the best country to spend Christmas in Europe if you are someone Unlike other European countries, celebrations in Amsterdam started a month ago in November itself. The main gathering place of the Museum Square transforms into a magical Christmas village where one can enjoy to the fullest at some of the best Christmas markets. From enjoying a joyous ferris wheel ride to the endless food, music, drinks, and dance scenes, Amsterdam is indeed one of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe .

Must-have experiences: Attend the Amsterdam Light Festival, enjoy a special Canal Cruise, be a part of the Amsterdam Winter Parade at Amsterdam RAI convention centre, experience the second Christmas Day or Boxing Day in Amsterdam, and more.

Temperature in December: An average of 4°C How to reach: Schiphol Airport is the nearest airport located at the distance of just 18 km while the Amsterdam Central Train Station is the nearest train station to the city centre. Languages spoken : Dutch, English Famous cuisine or food item : Stroopwafel

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12. Salzburg, Austria

Image Source Considered to be one of the oldest Christmas markets in not just Europe but the whole world, Salzburg Christkindlmarkt is known to be rooted to its age-old traditions and cultural values. Dating back to the 15th century, Salzburg serves as one of the traditional cities with a strong historical background for those who are gearing up for one of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe .

Must-have experiences: Drinking Glühwein and eating Lebkuchen is a must, enjoy skiing in the Alps, go shopping in the famous Salzburg Christmas markets, attend the Alpine Heritage event of Perchtenlauf, know the history behind Silent Night, and more. Temperature in December: An average of 1°C How to reach: Linz airport is the nearest airport to Salzburg located at a distance of about 101 km. The nearest railhead happens to be the Central Train Station which is just 15 minutes away from the city centre. Languages spoken : German, English  Famous cuisine or food item : Salzburger Nocker

11. Copenhagen, Denmark

A true Christmas city in all its senses, Copenhagen follows some of the best traditions during the celebrations at one of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe . The whole city is covered in lights to the brim and one can always run into massive Christmas markets at every nook and corner of the city. From relishing the best of street food to touring the old candy factory, Copenhagen has a lot more than what meets the eye.

Must-have experiences: Stroll through the majestic gardens of Tivoli, enjoy mulled wine at the unique Hotel d’Angleterre, go ice skating at Frederiksberg Have, dine at one of the Royal Copenhagen’s Christmas tables, and more. Temperature in December: An average of 2°C How to reach: The nearest airport is that of the Kastrup Airport which is just 8 km away while the nearest railhead of Copenhagen Central Station is located at a distance of 15 minutes from the city centre. Languages spoken : Danish, English Famous cuisine or food item : Durum Shawarma

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10. Leipzig, Germany

Image Source Considered to be the second oldest yet one of the prettiest markets in the whole of Europe, Leipzig also happens to be one of the lesser known destinations in the continent. Serving as a stunning and one of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe at its best, Leipzig is yet to be explored to its fullest potential.

Must-have experiences: Explore the city centre of Zentrum, be a part of endless parades and music scenes, attend the arts and craft market at the Old Leipzig, take a ferris-wheel ride at Augustusplatz, go for cross-country skiing, and much more. Temperature in December: An average of 2°C How to reach: Leipzig / Halle Airport is the nearest airstrip located about 22 km away from the city centre while the nearest Leipzig train station serves as the central point for getting around the city. Languages spoken : German, Leipzig Sächsisch (dialect) Famous cuisine or food item : Leipziger Allerlei

9. Vienna, Austria

Image Source From the evening sky at Belvedere to the streets of Graben and Kärntner Strasse, every bit of Vienna feels magical during Christmas in Europe . It is needless to say how thriving the Christmas markets in Europe are, but for those lucky ones who get to be in Vienna during Christmas, it is a must to explore the fantasy-like and the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe right here, and stroll around the city during the evenings to know why it’s among the best places to visit in Europe for Christmas .

Must-have experiences: Capture Belvedere Palace in a perfect light, taste the culinary delights served in the most creative forms, gulp down the Christmas punches called Weihnachtspunsch, take a hop on hop off bus tour in the evening, attend the nativity play at St. Peter’s Church, and more. Temperature in December: An average of 3°C How to reach: Located at a distance of 23 km, Vienna International Airport is the nearest airport whereas Vienna Main Station enjoys a central location in the city. Languages spoken : German Famous cuisine or food item : Wiener Schnitzel

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8. Rovaniemi, Lapland

Image Source Welcome to the land of Santa! Celebrating at one of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe brings a lot of surprises on the go, of which, the best one can be encountered in the city of Rovaniemi. The official home of Santa Claus which is located at the heart of Lapland, travelers can visit and greet the Santa at the Santa Village which lies on the Arctic Circle. This is possible for all 365 days of the year, and we’re not joking!

Must-have experiences: Meet Santa at the Santa Village, experience a Reindeer ride, tour the city with huskies, let northern lights charm you, explore the Arctic zoo, enjoy snowshoeing during Christmas, and more. Temperature in December: An average of -11°C How to reach: Rovaniemi has its own international airport which is located at a distance of 11 km from the city centre. Rovaniemi Railway Station is located right next to the city centre. Languages spoken : Finnish Famous cuisine or food item : Bread Cheese

7. London, England

If you do not have enough time to discuss and decide with your family about where to spend Christmas in Europe then London is the easiest option. Celebrating Christmas in London is a unique experience in itself. The whole city transforms into a winter wonderland with skating being one of the most loved activities during Christmas. From shopping to relishing a heart-warming meal, and from the carol concert to midnight mass celebrations, London is, as all say, among the best places to visit in Europe during Christmas where you’ll love every bit of the celebrations.

Must-have experiences: Know the history behind Christmas tree at Trafalgar Square, attend the midnight mass at Westminster Abbey, don’t miss out on the Christmas Lights, attend the Carol Concert at the Royal Albert Hall, be a part of the Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, and more. Temperature in December: An average of 6°C How to reach: London has a total of five major airports of Gatwick, London City, Heathrow, Stansted, and Luton. Similarly, the three express railways of Heathrow, Stansted, and Gatwick facilitate the travelers in daily commuting and getting around the city easily. Languages spoken : English, Bengali, Polish, Turkish, French and many more Famous cuisine or food item : Fish & Chips

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6. Strasbourg, France

Image Source Want to know the best place to cherish your Christmas celebrations? It has got to be Strasbourg, hands down! Much reckoned to be the Christmas Capital, it is a strict no no to miss out on exploring the 400 years old Christmas markets that makes Strasbourg one of the best European cities for Christmas .

Must-have experiences: Visit the city centre of Place Broglie, explore the Christmas Markets at the Cathedral Square, admire the giant Christmas tree near Sharing Village, and more. Temperature in December: An average of 3°C How to reach: Karlsruhe or the Baden-Baden airport is the nearest airport which is 42 km away from the city centre. For those who’d like to travel by train, Strasbourg has its own central train station. Languages spoken : French Famous cuisine or food item : Choucroute

5. Milan, Italy

Image Source Christmas in Europe is not complete without considering the fashion capital of the world in the list. All those who’ve dreamt of a fairyland like that in the movie Frozen, can flock to Milan to make their dreams come true. The whole city is covered with snow and the lights add the much needed glam to the city which looks magical to bits and pieces.

Must-have experiences: Adore the Christmas tree at Piazza del Duomo, spot the beautiful window displays throughout Milan, visit the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, relish the Panettone, and more. Temperature in December: An average of 4°C How to reach: Of all the three airports of Linate, Malpensa and Orio Al Serio, Linate is the closest airport to Milan located at a distance of just 8 km. The nearest railhead is that of Milan Centrale. Languages spoken : Italian Famous cuisine or food item : Risotto alla Milanese

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4. Prague, Czech Republic

Image Source Last but not the least, nothing surpasses the charm of Prague when it comes to the best places to spend Christmas in Europe . Beating the second oldest and the oldest markets, Prague boasts of the most beautiful and the best Christmas market in the whole of Europe. With its famous attractions all decked up and all the streets shining brighter than ever, celebrating Christmas in Prague feels nothing less than a carnival.

Must-have experiences: Experience dining with Mozart, shop till you drop in the best Christmas market at the Wenceslas Square, walk through the Old Town Square, savor the traditional Czech Christmas meal, and more. Temperature in December: An average of 2°C How to reach: Prague Václav Havel Airport is the nearest airstrip to the city located at a distance of just 19 km. Praha Hlavni Nadrazi is the central railway station which is located just 15 minutes from the Old Town Square. Languages spoken : Czech  Famous cuisine or food item : Trdelník 

3. Cologne, Germany

A total delight for foodies, Christmas in Cologne is going to treat you with the best and most savory culinary items that will leave your tummy asking for more! Filled with the aroma of fresh cinnamon biscuits, mulled wine, and baked apples, Cologne has some of the best Christmas markets in Europe where you can buy such tantalizing baked and roasted goods and have a jolly time! Other than gorging on a plate or two of Christmas delights and soaking in the lit atmosphere, there are plenty of experiences that await you here to make your Christmas celebrations merrier.

Must-have experiences: Boating in the Rhine, a concert at Cologne Philharmonic, live music at the bars and pubs. Temperature in December: An average of 3°C How to reach: The nearest airport is the Cologne Bonn Airport while Koln Hauptbahnhof is the nearest train station connected to all cities in Europe. You can also take a bus to Cologne from other nearby cities in Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic. Languages spoken : German Famous cuisine or food item : Himmel un Ääd

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2. Reykjavik, Iceland

While it may look like a tiny city with not much going on, Reykjavik actually bursts into a frenzy of colors, cheer, and festivities on Christmas. In fact, unknown to many, it is one of the best places in Europe for Christmas celebration with your loved ones who do mind the cold temperatures. This city truly turns into a hub of joy and bonhomie during Christmas time and every bit of it is lit up with festive lights, filled with the aroma of freshly baked goods, and the sounds of Christmas carols echoing through the houses!

Must-have experiences: Lighting of Oslo Christmas tree, see Christmas creatures at Reykjavik Art Museum, witness Winter Woods Wonderland at City Hall, buy Christmas goodies at the markets. Temperature in December: An average of 1°C How to reach: Take a flight to Keflavik Airport or the Smyril Line ferry from Denmark. Languages spoken : English, Danish, German, French and Spanish  Famous cuisine or food item : Pylsur or Reykjavik’s Hot Dog 

1. Kraków, Poland

Poland is among the best Christmas destinations in Europe that celebrate this much-awaited day of the year with as much enthusiasm and joy as any of Catholica nation in Europe. With twinkling Christmas trees set up in town squares, delightful church services and prayers, and lavish feasts on Christmas Eve called Wigilia, Christmas in Poland will surely steal your heart away! In fact, it is said the mystic city of Krakow looks its best when its draped in Christmas festivities and cheer, sprinkled with a fresh blanket of snow to add a fairytale touch!

Must-have experiences: Krakow Christmas Cribs Contest, go on a shopping spree, attend Christmas masses and services, cook up a lavish feast and plum cakes. With bustling nightlife, sparkling wines, and fireworks, It is among the top places to spend Christmas in Europe. Temperature in December: An average of 1°C How to reach: Take a flight to John Paul II International (Kraków) Airport and take a bus or taxi from the airport to get anywhere in Kraków. Languages spoken : Polish, English Famous cuisine or food item : Pierogies

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With Christmas just around the corner, which of these best places to spend Christmas in Europe are you heading towards? Plan your Europe Christmas vacation with our Europe tour packages and take your celebration to the next level. Also, let us know in the comments below your favorite place in Europe where you’d like to celebrate Christmas this year!

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Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Places To Spend Christmas In Europe

Which is the best European country to visit in December?

Europe sees quite a number of visitors during the month of December as it is the holiday time with both Christmas and New Year falling in the month. Some of the best countries in Europe to visit during December are Germany for its Christmas markets, Norway for the chance to enjoy watching Northern Lights, Finland to have a great time at Santa Claus Village and France for its gorgeous Christmas decorations.

Why do people celebrate Christmas on Christmas Eve?

According to traditions, it is known that Jesus was born at night and Midnight Mass is celebrated at midnight on Christmas Eve which is the day before Christmas to celebrate the birth of Jesus. Therefore, people celebrate Christmas on Christmas Eve.

Where did Christmas markets originate?

Christmas markets are street markets associated with Christmas celebrations which begin with the start of the season of Advent. Christmas markets originated in Germany in the late Middle Ages, but now are held worldwide. Some of the popular cities where Christmas markets are held are Augsburg, Frankfurt, Nuremberg, Dresden, Erfurt, and Stuttgart making these cities top tourist destinations during the time of Christmas.

Does Paris have Christmas markets?

Christmas markets have spread worldwide and Paris hasn’t been left untouched by its charm and glitter. Some of the popular ones are Marché de Noël at Notre Dame, Le Village de Noël at Les Halles, and Abbesses Christmas Market at Montmartre. These markets start in late November and continue till early January. Some of the best buys here are decorations and mulled wine.

Which European destinations are warm in December?

If one is looking for the sun in December in Europe, then one of the best holiday destinations is Sicily in Italy. Another amazing country that is warm in December is Malta which is home to quite a few UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the temperatures here do not drop below 15°C.

Which is the best Christmas market in Europe?

Though Zagreb in Croatia has been voted twice in a row as the best Christmas Market in Europe, nothing beats the charm of the Christmas market in Prague. It is the European’s favorite.

Are there Christmas markets in Prague?

Not just one or two, but the whole city of Prague is decked up with Christmas Markets while the most famous are the ones that are held at the Old Town Square, and the Wenceslas Square.

Where is the best place in Europe to spend Christmas?

All the above-listed cities serve as the best cities to celebrate Christmas in Europe. Of these, Strasbourg, Prague, London, Vienna, Rovaniemi, and Milan would be the most enchanting ones.

Where is warm at Christmas in Europe?

Canary Islands in Spain has a warm but pleasing temperature throughout the year.

What is the coldest Christmas in Europe?

Iceland and Norway have some of the coldest Christmas celebrations throughout the year.

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Do you know what events in Washington state are happening soon? What concerts, lecture topics and theatrical performances are coming – and which annual festivals are returning? Find out this and more from the Tri-Cities events calendar.

Looking for events in the Tri-Cities ? The group of cities that includes Kennewick , Pasco , Richland & West Richland ? We're ready to help! You'll see there are plenty of exciting activities and attractions all over the Tri-Cities region. On our events page you can get the scoop on monthly art walks, yoga in the park, when to pick your own fresh produce, the annual rodeo in August, and anything else that interests you. Use the search tools below to narrow your results and find the perfect event.

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The B Reactor National Historic Landmark is the world's first full-scale plutonium production reactor and part of the…

Manhattan Project B Reactor Tours 2000 Logston Blvd Richland, WA 99354

Al’s performances display a comprehensive mastery of a very broad range of styles. You will hear classic 90’s…

Live Music with Al Hare 16304 N Dallas Road Richland, WA 99352

Join us every Thursday 6-8pm for Trivia Night - FREE!

Tri-Trivia Night at Summer's HUB of Kennewick 6481 W Skagit Ave Kennewick, WA 99336

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Solar Spirits Trivia and Taco Truck 2409 Robertson Dr Richland, WA 99354

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Desert Moondogs at Goose Ridge 16304 N Dallas Road Richland, WA 99352

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Music on the Mountain (21+ EVENT) with Gabriel Knutzen 1106 Jurupa St Kennewick, WA 99338

Music ranges from Country, to Rock "Oldies", Swing, and popular favorites....be our guest!

Swingshift at Kennewick Eagles 115 N Fruitland St Kennewick, WA 99336

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The Best Time to Book a Flight for Domestic, International, and Summer Travel

Here are our best tips for booking travel in 2024.

When to Book Flights for Domestic Travel

When to book flights for international travel, when to book flights for summer 2024 travel, when to book flights for holiday 2024 travel.

Buying plane tickets is something of an art form. Ideally, you want to secure your spot months in advance to avoid the inevitable price spike as your travel dates get closer. But sometimes the best time to book a flight also depends on the destination and whether it's domestic or abroad. The trends are always changing, but experts say the sweet spot for booking domestic flights is 28 days, or 60 days for international flights.

Flights generally open for booking about a year ahead of time, and the airfare will change often between then and takeoff. Although you can book just a couple of weeks before the departure date in some cases, prices are likely to be astronomical. In other cases, when you want to go somewhere popular or during a big travel weekend, flights could fill up faster than normal. Our advice: Track flight prices on Google Flights or Hopper as early as possible so you can keep an eye on cost fluctuations. Read on for more advice about when to book flights from the pros.

According to Expedia's 2024 Air Travel Hacks report , you should aim to book 28 days before your domestic flight. "Doing so can save travelers up to 24 percent compared to those who wait until the last minute, from zero to six days out," Expedia travel expert Christie Hudson tells Travel + Leisure.

For domestic trips, pricing is elevated when tickets are first released, about a year before the flight. Those prices will slowly creep downward, all the way to their lowest point in the prime booking window, after which you'll likely see a huge increase in cost for last-minute travel.

Meet the Expert

Christie Hudson is a travel expert at top booking site Expedia.

You're better off booking earlier rather than later for international travel, but the Expedia report says ideally no more than four months before your desired departure date. The sweet spot is around 60 days. "This is a big change from 2022 data, which showed the cheapest fares were secured when travelers booked four to six months out." Hudson says. "2023 data revealed that people who booked that far in advance actually paid more on average." The report says the least expensive day of the week to book is Sunday and the most expensive is Friday, for both domestic and international travel.

But there is some regional variance. Going , a platform that tracks flight prices and notifies members of good deals, has found the best months to book flights to Africa, Asia, Oceania, Europe, and Latin America, for travel about 60 days out. Here's what it says.

Africa: Book in May.

Asia: Book in August or October, followed by April or September.

Oceania: Book in November, January, or July.

Europe: Book in August, October, or November.

Latin America: Book in October.

The real trick to finding good deals on international airfare is to avoid booking your travel for peak times, which include summer and major holidays (don't forget — that includes holidays in your destination, too).

Summer is traditionally one of the most popular times of the year to travel, which means it can be tough to find a good deal on airfare. Ideally, you should book flights for summer travel as soon as possible, preferably at least six months in advance.

"The best time to book for peak season is … the opposite season," says Katy Nastro, travel expert at Going. "While most of us are scrambling to focus on our winter holiday plans, we should also keep our eyes open for some great summer fares."

She notes that the booking window for peak season ranges between three and seven months for domestic flights and four to 10 months for international trips. "And if you do book something, keep that flight alert on," says Nastro. "If it drops again, depending on your ticket type, you can call to rebook and get a refund or travel credit back with the difference."

Katy Nastro is a travel expert at Going, a website that finds flight deals to more than 900 destinations around the world.

Around the winter holidays is the priciest time to travel, Nastro says. "Your best bet is to remember the Goldilocks zones: look to book between three to seven months ahead for domestic travel and four to 10 months ahead for international travel."

Hudson advises that at the very latest, your holiday travel should be booked by mid-October. "But the biggest holiday travel savings actually come from choosing the right dates," she says. "Avoiding the busiest days like the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Friday and Saturday before Christmas will yield major savings."

Track flights and book your holiday tickets as soon as you find a decent deal, but make sure to book a fare that will give you a credit if you cancel (generally speaking, that means don't book basic economy). That way, if prices drop between the time of booking and your travel dates, you can cancel your original ticket and use the credit to book the cheaper fare. The only downside is you'll still have some remaining credit, but you can then use it to treat yourself to a future flight. Just don't let that credit expire.

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