christmas villages to visit near me

Christmas Villages In NJ: 10 Places That Feel Like A Hallmark Movie

Cue the Hallmark movie—you can find quintessential Christmas villages in NJ with glittery lights, traditional decorations, and lots of charm made even better after a fresh snowfall. From the Victorian delights of Cape May to the glittering lights of Smithville, these towns go all out for the holiday season and turn into a Christmas wonderland. Ready to fall into the charms of a Christmas village in NJ? Read on for ten places to visit this season. And for more holiday fun, stop by one of the winter markets in NJ this season . (featured photo credit:  @shawniemikes )

10 Christmas Villages in NJ to visit this holiday season

The Village at Anne Ellen November 11-December 30 Take a hayride through the fields to get to this adorable village illuminated with thousands of lights, and make sure to visit the charming post office where kids can write and mail letters to the North Pole, peek into the awesome life-sized gingerbread house and an igloo, sip hot cocoa, watch candy canes get made, get a sticky and sweet treat from the syrup shack, and snap photos with Santa in his own house. After, stop by the tree lot to pick up your freshly cut tree to bring home.  114 Daum Road, Manalapan, NJ 07726

Historic Smithville November 24-December 23 From shopping and a beautiful light show on the lake to a holiday train ride and an enchanted talking tree, the historic town of Smithville turns into a Christmas wonderland in December. Slow down, enjoy the magic of the season, and shop around at this delightful Christmas village in NJ. Historic Smithville, Route 9 and Moss Mill Road, Smithville, NJ 08205

Historic Allaire Village November and December events Step back in time and enjoy the simple pleasures of the holiday season in this delightfully decorated historic village, where Victorian-era crafts and games, caroling, and decorations will be on full display. In December, there are special events like Christmas at Allaire, The Holiday Evening Stroll, and the Lantern Tour at night, a great idea for a holiday date night. This in-depth tour explores the history of Allaire and the holidays during that time (recommended for adults).  Allaire Village, Inc., 4263 Atlantic Avenue , Farmingdale, NJ 07727  

Holidays in Collingswood November-December Shop, dine, and enjoy the holiday season in adorable Collingswood, where singers and shoppers get into the holiday spirit amid twinkling lights. Events for the family include Menorah Lighting, Tree Lighting, FREE Santa visits, Holiday Parade, and the Parade of Lights. Downtown Collingswood, Haddon Avenue, Collingswood, NJ 08108

Christmas in Cape May November 17 to January 1 There’s no better place to feel like you’ve stumbled into a Hallmark Movie set than in Victorian-inspired Cape May. The downtown area transforms into a magical scene, with greenery, lights, tours, and more reminiscent of a classic Dickens village. You can stroll along the sidewalks at the Candlelight Christmas House Tours, take a trolley ride, and shop at one of the many festive boutiques. For the ultimate Christmas Village Experience, plan to spend a few days in town. 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ 08204

Christmas Light Show and Village November 22-December 30 Drive through a beautiful exhibit that twinkles with over two million dazzling lights, and then stop by the Christmas village with vendors, food, and holiday music. Kids can visit Santa, dine on hot cocoa and s’mores, and play lots of festive-filled games. Skyland Stadium, 94 Championship Place, Augusta, NJ 07822 

Winter Events at The Red Mill Museum November 24-26 and December 1-3 The Winter Village is an annual tradition with over 50 local craft artisans, activities, and food trucks where your entire family will get into the holiday spirit. There’s also a beautiful Festival of Trees with decorated trees and wreaths and 12 gorgeously decorated historical buildings that you can tour and enjoy.  Red Mill Museum, 56 Main St, Clinton, NJ 08809  

Palmer Square Holiday Happenings  Starts November 24 The streets of historic Princeton will be dressed in their finest, and window shopping is a must to see the gorgeous displays of each store while sipping warm cups of cocoa. With strolling musicians, Santa sightings, a Menorah lighting, and a dazzling decorated spruce at the center of the Square, you can make your holiday visit memorable. End your day with Skating on the Square, where the whole family can glide on a synthetic ice rink under twinkling lights.  Palmer Square, Princeton, NJ 08542

German Christmas Market of New Jersey December 1-3 Brighten up the beginning of the holiday season at the German Christmas Market at the Sussex County Fairgrounds. This annual tradition since 2001 is the largest yearly Christmas Market in the state of NJ and is an event you don’t want to miss. Filled with lights, holiday tunes, authentic foods, and vendors, add this Christmas village in NJ to your must-do list this season. Sussex County Fairgrounds, 37 Plains Road, Augusta, NJ 07822

The North Pole Experience at Harbaugh Village November 29 to December 31, select dates Dubbed the North Pole of NJ, this is one of the Christmas villages in NJ that feels like a holiday movie come to life. Kids will love visiting Santa’s workshop, where they can make reindeer food with elves, write wish lists, and meet with the big guy in red. Afterward, there’s plenty to do to get into the spirit—take a ride on the carousel, ice skate, play games, visit the sweet shop, cozy up to the fire pit, and shop for gifts in the vendor village. All proceeds benefit GeorgesHouse.org, a non-profit committed to providing toys and transitional housing for children and families in need.  126 Bridgeton Pike, Mullica Hill, NJ 08062

Which Christmas Villages in NJ will you be visiting this year?

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About Author

Karen lives in Central Jersey with her two dogs, one cat, husband and daughter Olivia. Graduating from Seton Hall University with a B.A. in Journalism and Public Relations, she has been writing and working in the social media field for a few years. One of her proudest moments as a writer so far has been interviewing Tim Gunn from 'Project Runway' and subsequently winning Honorable Mention in NJ for Feature Writing. When she is not busy as a mom, she enjoys reading, going to the beach and watching the Real Housewives. She is very excited for the opportunity to be a part of the NJ Mom team!

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35 Charming Christmas Towns You Have to Visit in the U.S.

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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25 Best Christmas Towns in the U.S.

From coast to coast, here are the most charming towns to visit for Christmas.

Nothing quite compares to the joy of seeing a town bedecked with holiday decorations. The sight of boughs of holly and string lights can warm you even in the coldest temperatures. Everyone wants to spend Christmas in a town like that, seemingly plucked from a Hallmark movie, and there are plenty of them dotted all around the U.S.

Festive destinations across the country beckon families and solo travelers alike. Prepare to find yourself drinking a hot toddy among locals at a cozy tavern, see some of the most epic light displays , and cross paths with Santa Claus himself as you stroll the streets of these charming Christmas towns.

Aspen, Colorado

A combination of luxe living and small-town charm makes this Rocky Mountain town one of the merriest in the country. Wandering along Cooper Avenue, you may chance upon cookie exchanges, public s'mores roasts, or elf meet-and-greets. Get into the spirit at Aspen's treasured hotels — the lobby of the Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection , often hosts carolers, while Ajax Tavern and Element 47 at The Little Nell both serve fabulous holiday meals. Looking for a bird's-eye view of the decorations? Book one of the Sky Residences at W Aspen to get access to a private rooftop lounge overlooking incredible mountain scenery.

Ogunquit, Maine

Travelers may be drawn to this former artists' colony in Maine as a beach getaway, but the holiday season offers a different set of perks — namely lower prices and an overall calm, with just enough festivity to keep things humming. December's Christmas by the Sea festival typically includes a bonfire on the beach and visits with Santa. From Ogunquit, you can also easily reach two areas prime for Christmas shopping: the Kittery Outlets and, about an hour's drive away, Freeport, where you can shop at the L.L. Bean Flagship store and pose with the famous big boot. For distinctive local shopping, browse the Harbor Candy Shop on Ogunquit's Main Street (the gift boxes make great stocking stuffers).

Vail, Colorado

Chris McLennan/Vail Resorts

Ski season kicks into high gear during the holidays in this Colorado wonderland. December brings fresh powder, the village tree lighting, and New Year's Eve festivities. Vail is not only one of the best Christmas towns in the U.S., it's also known for good coffee and cocktails. Try local favorites Yeti's Grind and Loaded Joe's in the morning, and sip well-crafted drinks at Root & Flower in the evening. You might ring in the New Year at Flame, the fine dining restaurant within Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail , before having a nightcap at The Sebastian - Vail, a Timbers Resort . Finally, rest your head at the ever-charming, alpine-chic Lodge at Vail, a RockResort , whose heated outdoor pool is flanked by gorgeous fire pits.

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Nantucket's annual Christmas Stroll is its banner holiday event. The tradition started in the 1970s — shopkeepers would stay open later in the evening so locals wouldn't have to travel to Cape Cod to buy gifts. Now, on the first weekend in December, you can shop downtown amid dozens of Christmas trees, take part in wine and cocktail tastings, and go on organized walking tours. Pick up some gifts at Murray's Toggery Shop (the mothership for holiday-ready Nantucket reds) and Jessica Hicks , the boutique of a local jewelry designer. And don't miss the many Christmas trees, all uniquely decorated by community members, at the Whaling Museum 's annual Festival of Trees.

Orlando, Florida

The country's theme park capital is unsurprisingly one of the most festive places to visit over the holiday season. At Walt Disney World, you can attend Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party , which includes a Christmas-themed fireworks show and classic attractions like the Jungle Cruise and Space Mountain decked out in festive cheer on select days from early November to late December. Meanwhile, at Universal Orlando, there's nowhere dreamier than The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Christmastime, when the scenery is topped with a layer of (manufactured) snow and the butterbeer is best served hot.

Breckenridge, Colorado

Breckenridge gets revved up during the holidays as ski season swings into high gear. This resort town dances between thrills and tranquility. During the month of December, festivities abound, from the tree lighting to the Race of the Santas , a half-mile footrace featuring costume-clad runners. You're also bound to fall for the charming après-ski options in Breck, from the house-made beers at Breckenridge Brewery to the martinis and flights at Base Nine Bar .

Lewisburg, West Virginia

Every year, Lewisburg transforms into a winter wonderland with Christmas lights and carriage rides. It's a peaceful getaway for holiday travelers hoping for a low-key escape. But there's plenty of opulence — especially at the nearby Greenbrier , the Lewisburg area's epicenter of holiday splendor. The 18th-century resort keeps visitors entertained with over-the-top decorations and family programming.

Beaufort, North Carolina

You probably won't find snow on the ground in this Outer Banks town come December, but the mild climate means you can celebrate Christmas on the water. Typically, the weather is still warm enough to kayak or join a boat tour along Taylor's Creek. The Christmas lights take to the water, too: one of the biggest holiday events is the Crystal Coast Christmas Flotilla , a twinkling lights-strewn boat parade held on the first weekend in December.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Travel Pictures/Alamy

This California town with a rocky coastline doesn't experience much in the way of winter weather, but Carmel-by-the-Sea does get chilly (around mid-40s to high 50s) in December. The city decorates a tree in Devendorf Park and holds a tree and menorah lighting ceremony in early December. Because this is the low season for tourism, it becomes a little easier to get a table at popular restaurants like La Bicyclette and Flying Fish Grill .

Park City, Utah

This Utah mountain town demands serious wattage during the holidays. The season kicks off with an Electric Light Parade, featuring cars, bicycles, and the town trolley all bedecked with lights. Even if you miss the parade, typically at the end of November or early December, you'll get to admire the glittering lights of the town Christmas tree in Miner's Park. Continue your tour of holiday decorations at Stein Eriksen Lodge , which builds a giant gingerbread display every year.

Santa Rosa Beach, Florida

Visit Florida's 30A in the off-season to get white-sand beaches practically to yourself. With daily highs in the 60s throughout December, you could easily forget it's Christmas. You would be reminded, however, at the Annual Holiday Market at The Artists Warehouse, which happens to be the perfect place to shop for unique gifts. For more one-of-a-kind finds for under the tree, stop by Kitchen Garden Books and Antiques , which calls its own selection "odd" and "unusual."

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Winter is the best season to score lower rates in this family-friendly beach town, but that doesn't mean the place goes totally quiet. People go to Myrtle Beach for the low-season deals and holiday-specific sights like Brookgreen Gardens' annual display of 2,700 hand-lit candles and Ripley's Aquarium's Festival of Trees . The decorations at the Carolina Opry Theater are worth a visit alone, but you should especially go to see the time-honored tradition that is the “ The Christmas Show of the South ."

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe does Christmas a little differently. Its Canyon Road Farolito Walk flips the script on conventional festive displays — instead of modern-day LED string lights, a trail of lanterns sets the iconic pink adobes aglow. And although you might be imagining only desert and earthen homes, you can still have a white Christmas in Santa Fe by making a trip up to the Ski Santa Fe resort in the Rocky Mountains.

Newport, Rhode Island

If flashing neon holiday lights make you cringe a little, head to classy Newport, where only white lights are encouraged to conjure an old-fashioned candlelit vibe. Touching on its upscale history, tours of the Mansions of Newport take you through Gilded Age architectural icons like The Breakers , The Elms, and The Marbles, all decked out with sumptuous trees, fine china, and decorations. Since crowds are lighter, it's a good time to try Newport's most in-demand restaurants, like The Dining Room at Castle Hill Inn .

Annapolis, Maryland

D. Trozzo/Alamy

This military town along the Chesapeake Bay does plenty of pomp, circumstance, and tailgating during the holiday season. Annapolis boasts a plethora of Christmas lights, notably strewn on boats and along the water's edge. On some Thursdays leading up to December 25, the adorable shops downtown stay open until midnight, making for a special shopping experience. Appropriately, the event is called Midnight Madness , and you can expect not just late-night deals but also treat giveaways and Christmas decorations galore.

Paso Robles, California

Cecily Ray Photography

Forget green — red reigns as the premier holiday color in this Central Coast town. We're talking about pinot noirs, cabernets, and syrahs. Leading up to Christmas, wineries offer low-key tastings, musical performances, and great gift shopping. Check out Parrish Family Vineyard 's tasting room and teleport to a '20s-era Christmas at Hearst Castle . The elaborate decor makes the 40-mile drive worth it.

Healdsburg, California

Healdsburg is a charming Sonoma County town known for great restaurants and even better wineries. Visit Flowers Vineyards and Winery for the pinot noir and Aperture Cellars for the view. If you can make it over to Napa, grab a few bottles from Faust to bring back to Montage Healdsburg , where the charming decor, Christmas trees, and roaring fireplaces will put you in the holiday mood.

Telluride, Colorado

Telluride is a pleasantly quirky town whose flair becomes even clearer this time of year. The centerpiece is the Ski Tree, which is literally made of old skis. It's illuminated during an annual tree lighting, during which there's an accompanying bonfire made of more old and broken skis. You'll love the Telluride nightlife in any season. Grab a cocktail in the Timber Room at Madeline Hotel and Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection , and stop by New Sheridan Hotel's Historic Bar , which has kept the same mahogany-paneled look since 1895.

Leavenworth, Washington

Connie Coleman/Getty Images

Leavenworth is an American town that looks more like a portal to Germany in the middle of the Washington Cascade Mountain Range. The town was built to resemble a traditional Bavarian village, and the nearby mountains, poetically named the Enchantments, are reminiscent of the Alps. You'll feel like you're really in Europe this Christmas.

More than half a million lights go up across town in late November and don't come down until February. You can see them any night from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. Weekends are often full of holiday activities like gingerbread house displays, caroling, and frequent appearances by Santa.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

David J. Murray/Clear Eye Photo

This waterfront New England town is steeped in history, with settlements dating back to the 1600s. Winter is a festive time to explore its 10-acre time capsule, the Strawbery Banke Museum . In December, you can join the museum's open-air Labrie Family Skate at Puddle Dock Pond or walk along paths lit by candle lanterns to see decorated homes from centuries past. New Hampshire offers one big 21st-century draw, too: tax-free shopping statewide — the best excuse to load up on classic toys and kids' books in Portsmouth.

Cape May, New Jersey

This Jersey Shore town has a strong Victorian streak easily recognized by its quaint architecture, and the holiday season pushes it a little further on the Dickensian scale. Walk the Washington Street Mall to admire garlands and festive lights as you shop. While you're there, drop by The Original Fudge Kitchen , which also offers great fudge and saltwater taffy gift boxes. Book a stay at Congress Hall , especially if you have kids. The hotel typically turns its Grand Lawn into a seaside winter wonderland complete with festive activities.

Charlottesville, Virginia

Charlottesville quiets down as college students cram for finals and then head home for the holidays. Before they go, though, the University of Virginia campus is decorated for the annual Lighting of the Lawn , which usually happens in early December. Another fun tradition is the gingerbread display competition at the Ronald McDonald House.

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Peter Tobia/ACA

A casino and boardwalk don't exactly conjure images of plum puddings and carolers, yet you might appreciate Atlantic City's wild weekend spirit and vivid people-watching around the holidays. Festivities include the annual tree lighting at The Quarter at Tropicana shopping center and the Atlantic City Holiday Bazaar at the Noyes Arts Garage of Stockton University .

Natchitoches, Louisiana

Natchitoches, pronounced "nack-a-dish" and named for its native people, is one of the oldest settlements in Louisiana. During the holidays, the whole city is lit up with impressive displays, and family-friendly festivities are on offer every weekend from Thanksgiving through Christmas. However, the star event is arguably the boat parade, when string lights and fireworks reflect on the Cane River.

Laguna Beach, California

There's no chance of a white Christmas in Southern California. But instead of watching the sky for snowflakes, you can scan the waves for migrating whales. The gallery-lined streets of Laguna Beach get people into the Christmas spirit with an annual arts and crafts festival, Sawdust Winter Fantasy , that spans five weekends in November and December. Stay at the elegant Montage Laguna Beach for more holiday programming and easy access to Christmas Cove, a beautiful and isolated beach.

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18 Best Hallmark Christmas Towns in USA | Experience the Magic Just Like in the Movies

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Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

The countdown to Christmas means a little something different for everyone, and each year, cherished holiday traditions come alive in the month of December. For some, the Christmas season may begin with making their shopping lists, decorating cookies, or addressing cards, but for many, the season truly begins when the Hallmark Channel releases its Christmas movie premiere list.

So much of the magic of a Hallmark Christmas movie comes from seeing the charming small towns the characters explore, and we want to make it easy for you to have the same experience. We’ve rounded up our favorite U.S. charming towns and quaint villages that come alive with holiday spirit each year and truly embody the same feel-good spirit as a Hallmark movie.

As for the movies, Hallmark airs its Christmas movies year-round, and you can also stream them on demand from Hallmark Movies Now.

18 Best Hallmark Christmas Towns in USA | Feel the Magic Like in the Movies

1. freeport, maine.

Michael G McKinne / Shutterstock.com

If you’re looking to do your holiday shopping in a beautiful town sparkling with delightful decorations, then a trip to the shopping mecca of Freeport, Maine, is a must. Whether you’re looking for a gift for the Hallmark movie lover in your life or something unique for yourself, the shopping district in Freeport is a great place to walk and browse. Freeport is home to L.L. Bean’s flagship store, which is the perfect place to start your shopping spree. The shopping district is very walkable and filled with so many festive decorations you won’t be able to stop taking photos. Along with Freeport, here are our other picks for charming Maine towns that will make you feel like you’re in a Hallmark movie.

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2. Woodstock, Vermont

Felix Lipov / Shutterstock.com

The entire state of Vermont oozes classic New England charm so it’s difficult to pick our favorite Hallmark movie towns, but Woodstock has a special holiday appeal. Maybe it’s the town’s mountain scenery and stately white colonial homes, or the many charming bed and breakfasts where you can enjoy a long, cozy weekend. If you are visiting during the holidays, don’t miss the Victorian-inspired Christmas celebrations hosted by Billings Farm. The antique decor and beautiful scenery are sure to put you in the holiday spirit! Aside from Woodstock, there are quite a lot of towns in Vermont that feel like a Hallmark Christmas movie .

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Woodstock, Vermont

Mountain Green Ski & Golf Resort $473/nightly avg

CozyCub Cheerful Haven $324/nightly avg

3. Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania

With sparkling light displays, horse-drawn carriage rides, visits from Santa Claus, and more, you will feel the holiday magic when you visit Tunkhannock during the holiday season. The tiny town, one of many towns in Pennsylvania that look like a Christmas Hallmark movie , of 1,682 residents puts on quite the show each holiday season when it hosts its popular Santa Train Rides and Christmas in Our Hometown event with carolers, cookie decorating workshops, movies, and more family activities. Even if you miss one of the festivals, you’ll still find plenty of holiday spirit in the many light displays around town and of course the gorgeous natural winter wonderland scenery.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania

4. Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

Liz Albro Photography / Shutterstock

This year, the historic town of Harpers Ferry celebrated the 50th anniversary of its Olde Tyme Christmas and Holiday Light Tour when the entire town is lit up for the holidays. During colonial times, candles were put in windows as a symbol for good news or a welcome for visitors, and Harpers Ferry keeps this tradition alive when the beautiful Victorian-era homes are filled with candles for the holiday season. The locals help add to the historic holiday charm by dressing in period costumes, decorating the streets and shops in town, and hosting horse-drawn wagon rides.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

5. Rock Hall, Maryland

This charming town in Maryland that could star in a Hallmark Christmas movie , with only 1,278 residents on the Chesapeake Bay, hosts a variety of festive holiday events every year. The season kicks off with its Hometown Christmas celebration that features a horse-drawn carriage ride and open houses at the local shops. Later in the season, there’s a lighted boat parade that welcomes Santa Claus to Rock Hall for the tree lighting ceremony. Rock Hall’s tree is made of crab baskets, a nod to their charming location on the water.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Rock Hall, Maryland

6. Middleburg, Virginia

JOHN ELLINGSON

The tiny town of Middleburg, Virginia, is big on Christmas spirit, and the holiday season kicks off with the Christmas in Middleburg parade. The parade features more than 150 men in full hunting attire on horseback leading 40 hound dogs. After the parade, the kids can enjoy crafts and caroling at Santa Claus’ Workshop while the adults can partake in a craft beverage and food experience throughout the town.

There are also beautiful light shows near town to explore all season long. Middleburg is just a short drive from Washington, D.C., and is the perfect place for a day trip to get out of the city and into the winter wonderland holiday spirit. See which other Virginia towns made our list of festive Hallmark Christmas movie towns .

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7. Franklin, Tennessee

It seems like everyone in town participates in Franklin’s annual Christmas parade which kicks off the holiday season in this historic Tennessee town. The festivities continue with the annual Dickens of a Christmas Festival which brings characters to life from  Oliver Twis t and  A Christmas Carol and features tasty Victorian-era treats. The event also features a Victorian village with traditional decorations to admire. Tennessee’s small towns are filled with character, history, and charm, so be sure to explore other Tennessee Hallmark Christmas movie towns .

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8. Statesville, North Carolina

Statesville, North Carolina, brings the holiday cheer with a variety of events for adults and kids alike throughout the Christmas holidays. Everything kicks off with the annual tree lighting and horse-drawn carriage rides through town.

The Holiday Shop & Stroll Spectacular is a great way to explore the town and get your Christmas shopping done, with trolly and train rides, open houses at the local shops, and a live nativity scene. The town also transforms its City Hall into Santa Central, where kids can send letters to the North Pole and get a personalized reply.

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9. Pendleton, South Carolina

You’ll find a taste of small-town Europe in Pendleton, South Carolina, during the holidays. Locals and visitors can stroll through the Christkindlmarkt, an authentic European-style Christmas market on the historic Village Green. Shoppers can browse hand-crafted goods, sip festive drinks, and sample local holiday treats.

A giant 40-foot Christmas tree anchors the market and adds a festive atmosphere to the hustle and bustle. The town also celebrates the season with its annual tree lighting and Christmas parade, sure to brighten anyone’s spirits.

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10. Thomasville, Georgia

Thomasville Visitors Center

Thomasville, Georgia, doesn’t hold back when it comes to extravagant Christmas celebrations. The town is home to one of the country’s most acclaimed Christmas light displays and hosts many events throughout the season to delight visitors.

All of the buildings and the town square come alive each season with beautiful light displays and the locals go all out with holiday entertainment, including dances, caroling, and festive costumes. Throughout the month of December, you can participate in Sip and Shop where you can grab your favorite winter beverage and stroll the streets looking for the perfect Christmas gift for everyone on your list.

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11. Foley, Alabama

Robin O’Neal Smith

The beautiful Gulf Coast town of Foley, Alabama, adds a dash of southern charm to its Christmas cheer each holiday season. The town hosts several events throughout the season to get locals and visitors in the spirit, including a Christmas parade, tree lighting, and the family-friendly Let It Snow Celebration complete with crafts, a petting zoo, and more activities everyone will love.

Heritage Park in the center of downtown comes alive with hundreds of sparkling lights during the Christmas season and you can go on a train ride through the park to see the lights up close. In Foley, you’ll also find great restaurants, plenty of opportunities for holiday shopping, and seasonal shows sure to entertain. Be sure to check out all of our recommendations for how to spend a delightful holiday weekend in Foley here .

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12. Glenwood Springs, Colorado

davisdeatonphotography / Shutterstock

The snow-covered towns of Colorado come alive with holiday spirit each year, especially the town of Glenwood Springs. Glenwood Springs is a great day trip from Denver, and we recommend riding the train into the mountains so you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the snow-covered Rocky Mountains.

Once you arrive in Glenwood Springs, be sure to book time at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort to soak in the natural hot springs while surrounded by sparkling Christmas lights. Wander down the main street and take in views of dazzling lights and pop into the many little shops and restaurants in town. If you have time, there are other Colorado towns that feel like a Hallmark Christmas movie to check out.

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13. Mesilla, New Mexico

New Mexico True

The small New Mexico town of Mesilla is full of history as it was once an important stop on the Butterfield Overland Trail that connected St. Louis and San Francisco. Each Christmas season, the historic buildings and town plaza come alive with thousands of luminarias that greet shoppers as they bustle in and out of the many unique boutiques in town.

Just 15 minutes from downtown Las Cruces, Mesilla is a great place to complete your Christmas shopping with delicious and interesting gifts from small businesses. Christmas in the desert is a different feel than Christmas in the mountains or elsewhere, but it’s just as magical and worth experiencing!

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14. Prescott, Arizona

Though Prescott is more a mid-sized city than a small town, the city embraces small-town charm during the many holiday events hosted during the month of December. Prescott is known as Arizona’s official “Christmas City” for good reason, with the anchor of the festivities being the Courthouse Lighting, which is in its 67th year.

The event draws thousands to the courthouse plaza for a Christmas program followed by the illumination of thousands of lights on the courthouse and in the plaza. All season long, visitors can enjoy delicious food and drink at one of the many historic and charming inns and pubs that offer spectacular views of the courthouse lights. If you’re already in Arizona, you can opt to visit some other towns in Arizona that remind you of a Hallmark Christmas movie .

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15. Newport, Oregon

The rugged beauty of Oregon, with its soaring mountains, enchanting forests, and wild coastline is the perfect backdrop for some Christmas magic and you’ll feel the holiday spirit when you visit Newport. This oceanfront town makes the most of its setting with a number of Christmas activities on the water where you can watch decorated vessels of all shapes and sizes participate in the Christmas Boat Parade. Newport has many charming accommodations right in the harbor for the best view of the parade and the holiday lights. Be sure to stroll through the town’s historic Bayfront area where you’ll find unique local items for gift giving and can enjoy seasonal refreshments.

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16. Leavenworth, Washington

In this Bavarian village in the Cascade Mountains east of Seattle, the Christmas season is extended thanks to Christmas lighting festivals that last through February. The lighting festivals include live music, holiday treats, and half a million lights in the downtown area. You can see reindeer up close at the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm where you can tour the farm and enjoy hot chocolate and apple cider. There’s also a large Gingerbread House exhibit sure to make your stomach rumble, and you can visit the Nutcracker Museum to see antique nutcrackers — what’s more festive than that? The scenery surrounding Leavenworth is beautiful and you’ll want to cozy up for a weekend of Christmas cheer and outdoor adventures. See the other beautiful Washington towns that will make you feel like you’re in a Hallmark movie here.

With so many towns in the U.S. that serve up big doses of holiday spirit, it really can start to feel like there’s Christmas magic all around — just like in a Hallmark movie! Be sure to add one of these towns to your holiday travel plans for good cheer, delicious food, beautiful light displays, and more. For the ultimate Hallmark fan experience, you can even book a custom-designed suite that will truly make you feel like you’ve stepped onto a Hallmark movie set.

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17. Dahlonega, Georgia

Once a well-known gold rush town in the 19th century, this small town in the Georgia mountains has transformed into a holiday destination today. You may recognize Dahlonega’s downtown from Hallmark’s films Christmas in the Smokies (2015) and Christmas in Homestead (2016). 

Dahlonega kicks off its Christmas decorations in early November, then multiple events begin the day following Thanksgiving. A romantic ride in a horse-drawn carriage, trekking through the snowy forest of the Festival of Trees, and shopping at the village’s bustling Christmas Market are just some of the things you can do with the festive season in full swing. 

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18. Kennebunkport, Maine

Ranked as the second-best Christmas town in the United States by HGTV, Kennebunkport goes the extra mile for its visitors during the festive season. Charming hotels, restaurants, shops, and galleries provide for a splendid weekend winter wonderland getaway. The town’s annual Christmas Prelude kicks off on Nov 30, with gingerbread house decorating and s’mores roasting over a bonfire. 

With miles of nature trails, the town is meant for activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, or a delightful sleigh ride. No other part of the US can deliver small-town holiday cheer the way Kennebunkport can.

And if you’re venturing abroad for the holiday season, don’t miss the best Hallmark movie towns from around the world!

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Were All Hallmark Christmas Shot In The USA?

No. The majority of Hallmark Christmas movies were filmed in Canada because of tax incentives with Vancouver being the favorite spot. Some films were even shot across the pond, like ‘Christmas in Vienna’ which was filmed in Austria. 

What Region of The USA Is Hallmark’s Favorite For A Christmas Movie?

The South is Hallmark’s favorite region for filming, with Christmas movies having been shot in Georgia, North Carolina, Virginia, Texas, Kentucky, and more. On American soil, Hallmark’s heartwarming Christmas movies are often set in picturesque small towns. 

Are Hallmark’s Christmas Movies Shot During Christmas?

No. Hallmark usually make their Christmas movies in the summer, and production crews use trucks full of ice and white drapes to make the sets look wintery. The actors you see bundled up in puffy jackets and cute scarves are probably sweating like crazy. 

How Much Does A Hallmark’s Christmas Movies Cost to Be Made?

Each movie costs about $2 million to make, which is cheap, considering that it can cost as much to shoot one episode of a television show. Hallmark’s Christmas movies are usually shot fast, with some filming just a month before they hit television screens. 

Why Do Hallmark’s Christmas Movies Have That Warm Holiday Feeling?

Because all Hallmark’s Christmas movies have to complete a holiday checklist, with scenes involving classic Christmas traditions like wrapping presents, getting a Christmas tree, or baking cookies. The movies often involve people who find love or try to save their family business in time for Christmas.

Erika's favorite travel memories include seeing the sunrise in Acadia National Park, strolling through the Alhambra in Granada, Spain, and eating her way through Charleston, South Carolina. She loves cooking and trying new recipes, gardening, and spending time with her husband and daughter.

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The Most Charming Small Towns to Visit During the Christmas Season

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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.

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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25 Best Christmas Towns in America to Visit This Holiday Season

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.

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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8 incredible Christmas towns to visit this winter

Boost your ole saint nick energy in one of these festive u.s. cities this holiday season..

The holidays are all about making lifetime memories with friends and family, so why not plan a vacation that’s all about celebrating the most wonderful time of the year? Whether you’re looking for a classic winter wonderland in the heart of the mountains or a bustling cityscape, we’ve got something Christmas-y for everyone. Looking for something a bit unexpected? Head to the Dolly-verse that is Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, or the Bavarian hideaway of Leavenworth, Washington.

Ahead, check out our list of the best Christmas towns in the U.S. to start making your yuletide dreams come true.

Pigeon Forge, TN

No one does Christmas like Dolly. Tucked away in the pristine Smoky Mountains in Pigeon Forge, TN , you’ll find Dollywood and one of the largest Christmas celebrations in the country. From November to February, visitors can enjoy world-class entertainment and five million lights twinkling across the city. If you can’t get enough of the Queen of Country, stay at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort & Spa . For something a little more laid-back, try The Inn on the River on the scenic Little Pigeon River.

Snowmass, CO

Just a short drive from Aspen, Snowmass, CO , lives up to its name during the holidays. Every Christmas, this mountain village getaway transforms into an enchanted wonderland. The Limelight Hotel —located just seven miles from the Aspen-Pitkin County Airport—makes a particularly excellent choice for your digs (some of the rooms’ balconies even have ski-in/ski-out access). In Snowmass, there are ample activities for folks of all interests to enjoy, from twinkling light displays and dog sled rides to endless skiing opportunities.

Mackinac Island, MI

Rated one of America’s most walkable towns, Mackinac Island, MI is also one of the country’s top Christmas destinations. Though October marks the start of the island’s off-season, you wouldn’t be able to tell from the holiday season celebrations. The city’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony features live caroling while the Christmas bazaar runs every Saturday to Monday. When it comes to a place to stay, the “worth-every-penny” Grand Hotel where they “treat you like royalty” is the correct answer. Heads up: No cars are allowed on Mackinac Island.

Stockbridge, MA

You might not know it, but when you think of Christmas, you’re probably imagining scenes similar to the ones you’ll find in Stockbridge, MA . The subject of Norman Rockwell’s timeless painting "Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas (Home for Christmas)," the town fully embraces the holiday spirit. Every year, the town recreates the painting, complete with classic cars and tours of wonderfully preserved period homes. Stay at The Red Lion Inn or The Cottage B&B to channel those cozy, wintry vibes.

Rhinebeck, NY

For a Dutch twist to your Christmas, check out the cozy Hudson River town of Rhinebeck, NY . Sinterklass visits this tight-knit community every year in honor of the town’s Dutch heritage. Visitors can enjoy an open, non-denominational festival complete with food, drinks, and plenty of winter activities. When it comes time to call it a day, retreat to Beekman Arms and Delamater Inn , a delightful inn with a roaring fireplace that has been welcoming visitors since 1766.

Park City, UT

Park City, UT , offers visitors a magical Christmas experience, with the historic Washington School House serving as the ideal home base for your alpine adventures. Every December this ski town transforms into a picturesque winter retreat complete with sleigh rides and festive holiday markets. The season kicks off with a live concert at the Christmas tree lighting in The Canyons Village. On Christmas Eve, be sure to scope out (or join in on) the torch-lit procession down Park City’s main street.

Leavenworth, WA

Just east of Seattle you’ll find the mountain town of Leavenworth , a Bavarian-style escape in the heart of Washington. The community offers majestic views of nearby slopes, and the Christmastown Village of Lights from November 25 to December 24 is not to be missed. While in town, you can enjoy sleigh rides and even a trip to the local reindeer farm, making for a Christmas experience you’re sure to remember for years to come. Post up at the Der Ritterhof Inn , a pet-friendly property with postcard-worthy views of the Cascade Mountains.

30 Most Magical Christmas Towns and Villages Across the World

Book a ticket to these villages that exude holiday cheer.

If you're planning a holiday getaway and looking for the best Christmas town to visit in the U.S. or in the world, these Christmas villages are guaranteed to make you feel like you're stepping inside your favorite holiday flick , or more specifically, a literal Hallmark movie . Just be sure to check websites for the latest updates on 2021 events, as some may still have coronavirus precautions in place—like requiring proof of vaccination.

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Tucked in Colorado Springs is an amusement park called The North Pole . Here, you'll not only find—what else—Santa's Workshop, but there's also rides, plenty of twinkling lights, and more, all at the foot of Pikes Peak. That's not all the town boasts, though. You can ride the Polar Express train that takes you straight to said theme park, plus enjoy the annual festival of lights parade that marks the illumination of the town's streets and kicks off a series of festive holiday events.

College Station, Texas

They say everything's bigger in Texas, and that's certainly true at Santa's Wonderland —one of the biggest Christmas celebrations in the state. The College Station locale is home to dozens of magical holiday experiences, from an illuminated Santa hayride, to an oversized gingerbread village, to a live nativity scene, to a cowboy Christmas corral. Of course, revelers will also get the chance to meet the man in the big red suit, too.

Solvang, California

In the Santa Ynez Mountains outside Santa Barbara, this tiny Danish village celebrates Christmas with ample cheer during its annual Julefest . Events include the Skål Stroll Wine and Beer Walk, candlelight tours, a nativity pageant, a holiday concert, and the Julefest parade. Keep an eye peeled for the Jule Nisse: festive gnomes with clues leading toward holiday prizes.

Bad Ragaz, Switzerland

The Swiss town of Bad Ragaz kicks off its yearly Christmas season in late November with a ceremonial festival of lights, illuminating the 131-foot-tall sequoia tree on the lawn of Grand Resort Bad Ragaz —supposedly the tallest living Christmas tree in Europe. Other events hosted at the picturesque village's Grand Resort include several Christmas markets, multiple concerts, dinners, parties, and processions, and a Russian Christmas gala.

Woodstock, Vermont

Woodstock, Vermont is a magical place all year long—but perhaps even more so at Christmastime, when the quintessential New England town turns into a holly jolly hotspot straight out of a Hallmark movie. (In fact, the network's Last Vermont Christmas was set there.) During its annual Wassail Weekend , you can tour Woodstock’s most charming historic homes, travel by horse-drawn wagon to see the town's quaint covered bridges and snowy vistas, shop for locally-made holiday presents, attend a variety of world-class concerts, line the streets for the colorful equestrian parade, and gather for the lighting of the town's tree, yule log, and hundreds of luminaries. Need a place to stay? Make sure to check out the postcard-pretty Woodstock Inn & Resort .

Franklin, Tennessee

Nearly 100,000 people travel to Franklin, Tennessee each year for its Dickens of a Christmas : a two day festival featuring over 200 musicians, dancers, and characters from Charles Dickens stories. Other highlights include a Victorian Christmas Village, carriage rides, and a makers village.

Leavenworth, Washington

Dreaming of a white Christmas? Look no further than Leavenworth, Washington, a small town tucked away in the Cascade Mountains. For three weekends leading up to Christmas, the village's snow-covered, Bavarian-style buildings are illuminated by more than 500,000 twinkling lights and the sounds of hand-bell ringers, marching bands, and carolers fill the streets. In addition to oohing and aahing over the breathtaking display, visitors can also ski, sled, or tube down the powdery mountainside, take horse-drawn carriage rides, and stop by the annual Christkindlemarkt for handmade gifts and steaming cups of Gluhwein (a.k.a. spiced wine) or cocoa.

Aarhus, Denmark

Denmark's second-largest city, the quaint destination of Aarhus is a Christmas dream. The town boasts thousands of lights on its "Strøget" high-street, with delights including a Christmas market selling Danish specialties, the exterior of department store Salling wrapped up like a gift, Christmas tree-lined streets in the Latin Quarter, and a panorama of Danish Christmas throughout the ages at The Old Town Museum, Den Gamle By.

Natchitoches, Louisiana

Natchitoches may be a small Louisiana town—but it celebrates Christmas in a big way. The holiday prep gets underway in June, when 300,000 glittering lights and 100 riverbank decorations are tested in anticipation of the annual Festival of Lights , which has been running for more than 90 years. During the six-week holiday festival, visitors can also participate in docent-led tours of historic homes; shop at Louisana’s oldest general store, Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile; pick up creamy eggnog daiquiris at Maggio's Package Liquors, a drive-through beverage barn; munch on the town's iconic, piping hot meat pies; watch fireworks light up the sky over Cane River Lake; and stay at the Steel Magnolia House Bed and Breakfast , which served as part of the film's set.

Williamsburg, Virginia

Calling itself the Best Christmas Town in America, Colonial Williamsburg particularly shines at Christmastime. Traditions abound, such as caroling by torchlight, a gun-salute display, and every home in the historic area lighting a candle in their windows—dating back to the days of the Founding Fathers. As far as lights, the area can’t be beat, with Busch Gardens donning 10 million lights for the largest display in North America. And the Community Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Market Square is a must.

St. Augustine, Florida

When you think of the most dazzling light displays across the globe, places like Hong Kong and Madrid probably come to mind. But what about St. Augustine, Florida? According to National Geographic, it's one of the top 10 places worldwide. That's because every year, more than three million twinkling bulbs (each white, per city ordinance) drape all 20 blocks of the city's Historic District during the annual Nights of Lights festival . Guests can view the brilliant spectacle by trolley, train, boat, helicopter, horse-drawn carriage, and, of course, foot. Even more brilliant: You can enjoy the whole show without wearing a coat, hat, and gloves.

Colmar, France

A quaint Alsatian village close to the German border, Colmar, France is reportedly one of the locales that inspired Belle's town in Beauty and the Beast . Indeed, the fairy-tale aspect of Colmar comes to life during the holidays, with five Christmas markets, an endless array of twinkling lights, carolers, a roller coaster, carousel, and an ice skating rink.

Newport Beach, California

Drop your anchor at Newport Harbor for the annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade , which started more than a century ago with a single gondola and a few canoes. Now, it's one of the biggest holiday celebrations on the water, with owners of more than 150 boats—from kayaks to 100-foot super-yachts—spending months (and thousands of dollars) decorating their vessels with everything from LED lights and inflatable characters to live bands and air cannons. After setting sail for five consecutive nights in December, owners of the brightly decorated boats compete for prizes in a range of categories, including animation and humor and originality.

Alexandria, Virginia

For a traditional American Christmas, head to Alexandria, Virginia , where the Old Town's streets and 18th-century row houses bustle with good cheer each December. Festive-seekers can find carolers, hand bell choirs, ample lights and decorations. What's more? Nearby, you'll find Mount Vernon, home to Aladdin, a Christmas camel, as well as a Colonial Christmas experience.

Duluth, Minnesota

During the Christmas season, Duluth, Minnesota seems to shine just a little bit brighter—literally. The festivities officially kick off the Friday before Thanksgiving with the Christmas City of the North, nighttime parade that includes two dozen marching bands, 70 businesses, several dance groups, and even Santa. But the headliner is the Bentleyville Tour of Lights —America's largest free walk-through Christmas light display—in which displays of local attractions, as well as a 12-foot Christmas tree are lit up by more than 4 million multi-colored lights, while volunteers offer hot chocolate, cookies, and popcorn along the way. Pro tip: The port city averages 70 inches of fluffy powder each year, so be prepared to dash through the snow—unless you're taking a ride on the Christmas City Express , a vintage train wrapped in holiday lights and decor.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

A meticulously-preserved walled medieval town in Germany, Rothenburg ob der Tauber boasts a centuries old Christmas market well worth the trip to its cobblestone streets. (Incredibly, this used to be Germany's second largest city.) Revelers can find treats like mulled wine, grilled sausage, roast chestnuts, or an original Rothenburg Snowball fried dough pastry, while other highlights include a German Christmas Museum. The market kicks off every year with the appearance of the “Rothenburger Riders,” horsemen who—while formerly scary—are now believed to be messengers of good news.

McAdenville, North Carolina

For more than 60 years, residents of McAdenville, North Carolina, have come together to deck the tiny town and 375 trees in more than 500,000 red, white, and green twinkling lights—which is exactly why its known as Christmas Town, USA . But the festivities don't stop there: Locals also decorate their own homes to look like something you'd see in a Hallmark movie and host a variety of holiday activities—a tree lighting ceremony, yule log parade, and 5K race—for the 600,000 annual visitors.

Santa Claus, Indiana

With a name like Santa Claus , how could this small Indiana town not be full of seasonal tidings? Celebrations include the annual Christmas parade, a Santa Claus Arts & Crafts Show, Santa's Candy Castle for elven chats, a German-inspired Das Nikolausfest, and the Santa Claus Museum & Village, where children can write letters to St. Nick. (P.S. letters postmarked by December 20th will receive a response, too!)

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

On December 24, 1741, a little town located in the heart of Pennsylvania's Lehigh Valley was named Bethlehem by Moravian Count Nicholas Ludwig von Zinzendorf. Since then, the town—which is about an hour outside Philadelphia— has taken its name and history very seriously. Every November, more than 150 artisans from around the country set up shop alongside live musicians at the German-inspired Christkindlmarkt , while an 81-foot-tall steel star shines down on the town and can be seen from 25 miles away. Not to mention there's also a live advent calendar that counts down the days to Christmas, starting December 1.

Mont Tremblant, Quebec

At Christmastime, Canada's pedestrian village Mont Tremblant turns into a winter wonderland, complete with skiing, tubing, dogsledding, and horse-drawn sleighs. Toufou, the town mascot, greets visitors who come for events such as the holiday parade, Lumberjack Day, concerts and entertainment from the Grelot Family elves, and generational storytelling on Legends Day.

Nadine Jolie Courtney is a lifestyle writer whose work has appeared in Town & Country , Robb Report , and Angeleno ; a graduate of Barnard College, her fourth book, All-American Muslim Girl , was named a Kirkus Best Book of 2019. She lives in Santa Monica, California, where she posts too many photos of her daughter on Instagram.

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18 Magical Christmas Towns in the USA That You Must Visit This Winter!

Are you looking for the best Christmas towns in the USA? We are here to help!

There are so many beautiful towns in America where you can experience the magic of Christmas. 

Although big cities like NYC or Boston have loads to offer, visiting a small Christmas town in the US is the perfect thing to do if you like to stay away from the crowds.

Christmas markets, carols, delicious Christmas food… you will find them all! There is no better place to get in the holiday spirit!

In this article, you will discover the best US Christmas towns to visit in December! The list includes famous spots as well as hidden gems.

They can be visited as a family or on a romantic getaway. No matter what, pack all your Christmas outfits because you’re about to have loads of fun!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

🔎 Table of Contents

Burlington, Vermont

Burlington is another Christmas town in Vermont that is worth visiting. It is bigger than Stowe which is ideal for people who don’t like small villages.

Church Street is the place where you will find most of the Christmas activities. It’s covered in lights and such a beautiful place to discover in the evening.

But the main reason why you should visit Burlington in winter has nothing to do with the usual Christmas activities! Burlington is the place where you can ride the Polar Express. It’s the ultimate Christmas train!

Stowe, Vermont

This small American town is known for being an excellent destination in the fall but guess what, it’s also one of the cutest Christmas towns in the USA!

As a general thing, Vermont is one of the best states to visit during the holiday season. It’s cute, festive, snowy and has this very unique New England feel.

Roaming around downtown is an excellent thing to do. You will get to discover the beautiful Christmas lights as well as the cute local craft shops.

There also is a Christmas lights contest organized so you can be sure to be in for a treat in terms of lights.

As Stowe is an important skiing location, you can be sure to get a white Christmas here!

WHERE TO STAY: When it comes to accommodation in Stowe at Christmas time, opt for Field Guide Lodge . It’s a very cute inn and they fully decorate it for Christmas. It’s super cool! 

READ MORE: 10 Incredibly Romantic getaways in Vermont with jacuzzi

Durango, Colorado

The main attraction in the town is the Durango and Silverton narrow gauge railroad that takes you through breathtaking sceneries in the wilderness of the San Juan National Forest.

Today, this railroad is a national historic landmark. If you are traveling with a guide, they will bring out the true significance of this railroad to the people in the town.

During the Christmas holiday, you can visit Durango to enjoy this train ride (Polar Express) that makes you feel like you are stepping into the Wild West, or mingle with the locals to enjoy the fantastic (although laid back) decor and lights display.

While on this ride, you can visit a farm to choose a Christmas tree, cut it and bring it with you.

Leavenworth, Washington

Located in the state of Washington, a couple of hours away from Seattle, Leavenworth is the perfect destination if you want to get a European-themed Christmas while staying in the United States.

This German town will make you feel like you are in Bavaria for a while. As you roam around downtown, you will discover the beautiful German-themed local shops.

Although it is a great place to visit all year round, the magic truly takes place in December. German music, Christmas lights, sausage stands, sleds for kids… it truly is the best town to spend Christmas in the USA!

You can also visit the Gingerbread Factory and the Nutcracker Museum. It’s very good fun!

Park City, Utah

The main street in Park City Utah looks like a scene from a movie at night during the Christmas holidays.

The town is built at the base of the Wasatch Range, offering skiers a breathtaking view of the city as they come down the beautiful ski slopes.

Visit the annual tree lighting ceremony at Canyons Village or take a scenic train ride around the town. At night, Park City transforms into a shopper’s paradise.

There are dozens of small, beautiful, and well-decorated shops lining up each side of the road.

Asheville, North Carolina

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is one of the best Christmas towns in North Carolina.

Not only are the surroundings the perfect mountain winter getaways but you will also have access to many festive activities. 

Christmas lights are absolutely everywhere and several displays and performances take place in December.

You can admire them in many different places including downtown and the North Carolina Arboretum. 

Another amazing spot worth checking out is the Biltmore Estate. They put up over 30,000 lights and candles, making it a magical Christmas spot!

In terms of shopping, you will find cute local shops where you can buy unique gifts.

Finally, you can also participate in the National Gingerbread House Competition.

Stockbridge, Massachusetts

If you have seen Norman Rockwell’s painting “ Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas ” you already know what awaits you in the town during Christmas.

Every year during Christmas time, beautiful vintage cars line up the streets as the owners try to recreate images in the painting.

Every house seems to be buzzing with Christmas decor, spectacular lighting display, and the mood in the air is delightfully eccentric.

The people in this town take Christmas seriously and the town has been mentioned repeatedly as being among the best Christmas towns in the US.

Craft fairs, street performances, amazing lighting, and decorations bring about a vibrancy you cannot find in other places.

Vail, Colorado

The location of Vail makes this one of the most stunning places to visit during Christmas.

The effortless blend of the mountain with the little town during this time is breathtaking.

You can visit the town for winter sports (skiing, snowmobile, sledding), and to enjoy a spectacular display of Christmas lighting and decorations.

Vail looks as if it popped right out of a storybook. There are free concerts, parades, fireworks, lantern walks, and other attractions at almost every corner you come across while walking inside the town.

READ MORE: 10 Small towns in Colorado To Visit ASAP

McAdenville, North Carolina

NC is home to some of the best Christmas towns in America. The most famous one is McAdenville.

It’s a very small town with less than 1,000 inhabitants but when it comes to the holidays, there is nothing small about it.

The festive spirit is so important here that McAdenville was nicknamed “Christmas Town USA”.

Every single house is decorated and there are more Christmas trees and lights that you can count!

Visitors from all over the US come here in December to discover this magical winter wonderland.

The displays of holiday lights are amazing. There are half a million Christmas lights!

The Yule Log parade and the tree lighting ceremony are events you shouldn’t miss.

Darby, Montana

Darby town is the perfect location for people seeking to enjoy their Christmas holiday the old-fashioned cowboy way.

Horseback riding, ice fishing, snowshoeing, sledding are some of the activities you can engage in here.

Darby may be a small town, but it is a beautiful town that attracts tourists throughout the year.

However, during Christmas time, the decorations and the Christmas merry transform this town into one of the most beautiful places to visit in the US.

You can stay in a luxury cabin inside Triple Creek ranch.

Bernville, Pennsylvania

Koziar’s Christmas Village is the heart and focus of Bernville during the Christmas holiday. Here, you will find the best display of Christmas lights in Pennsylvania.

The Koziar’s know how to put on a show, and what started as a family hobby has blossomed into a tourist attraction venture.

With over a million lights in one location, in different colors, and working harmoniously, the 8-acre farm is a sight to behold (especially at night).

If you are with your spouse (or partner), be sure to check out the Kissing bridge.

Branson, Missouri

This is a great destination to visit with kids because it contains endless attractions and activities that will keep them preoccupied.

You can even hop onto a Christmas cruise from Branson, or enjoy the Polar Express train ride.

Concerts, parades, street performances, music, light display, and delicious local foods are some of the attractions you can expect to see this Christmas holiday.

You can also go snow tubing at the Wolfe Mountain, ride on the Polar Express, see live reindeer at the Promised Land zoo, take a cruise on the Showboat Branson Belle or eat with Santa during your visit.

The Christmas season begins immediately after Halloween and lasts till New Year’s Day.

Santa Claus, Indiana

When a town names itself after Santa, you know that you will be in for a real Christmas treat.

This small Southwestern Indiana town does not disappoint if you are looking for Christmas cheer. Everything in this quaint little town has a Christmas theme.

You can expect lots of light displays (especially at night), sleds (being pulled by real reindeer sometimes) in the streets, roller coasters, water parks, and much more when you visit during the holiday.

Music, dances, lots of food, loads of gifts and other attractions are popular here at Christmas.

There is a holiday-themed amusement park for your kids as well.

Do not forget to visit the Santa Claus Museum and Village to get an even more interesting outlook on this town.

Grapevine, Texas

Grapevine is known as “The Christmas Capital of Texas”.

Well, that already says a fair bit about what you will be in for!

Spending Christmas in Grapevine is ideal for people who truly love all things Christmas and want to try it all.

This magical Christmas town in Texas organizes 40 days of festive events.

Everything you can think of, you will find it here including:

• Victorian Markets
• North Pole Express train
• Christmas movies at the Historic Palace Theatre
• Holiday lights everywhere…

If you are traveling with kids, make sure to join the Elf Adventure. You will be given the Grapevine Christmas Passport. It’s very good fun.

READ MORE: 8 Beautiful Small Towns in Texas to visit this year!

Natchitoches, Louisiana

Natchitoches is the oldest town in Louisiana, dating back to 1714. It has retained most of its European influence through the beautiful and well-preserved architecture and lifestyle.

Every year during Christmas, the town arranges for the most spectacular display of lights you have ever seen.

The Christmas festival lasts for 6 weeks and has over 300,000 lights and more than 100 set pieces on display every night. It is called the festival of lights.

Carriage rides, parades, an annual gala, and home tours are other attractions you may be interested in while visiting this town during the Christmas holiday.

Helen, Georgia

If you want to see (or be part of) a German Christmas tradition, this is the town you should visit during the holidays.

Everything is recreated to reflect a more cheerful and colorful aura, with traditional markets (the Christkindlmarkt), breakfast with Santa events, and parades that reflect the Bavarian style.

Shop for gifts, enjoy local delicacies, see the annual parade and attend a local performance to make and keep sweet memories of this Bavarian town.

St. Augustine, Florida

Florida might not be the first place that comes to mind when we think of Christmas. Yet, it’s actually quite a cool place to spend the holidays.

The weather is warm and there are some beautiful small towns to visit .

The best Christmas town in Florida is St. Augustine.

Known as the oldest city in the US, St. Augustine is a stunning historical small city and the end of the year is the perfect time to visit.

The most famous Christmas event in St. Augustine is the Nights of Lights.

It starts at the end of November and lasts until the end of January. It was listed by National Geographic as one of the top 10 holiday light displays in the world!

There are various trolley tours that you can take in St Augustine to explore the town. This is the most popular activity and a great way to see the lights.

READ MORE: 13 Best Beach Towns in Florida for an amazing vacation in the Sunshine State

Prescott, Arizona

Prescott is known as Arizona’s Christmas City. This should already give you an idea of what you are in for. 

Located in the central part of the state, you can easily get there by car from Phoenix. There also is a small regional airport but there aren’t that many flights.

In terms of Christmas events, you will be in for a treat. Here are some of the best ones:

• Parade and courthouse lighting.
• Valley of the Lights in Prescott Valley
• Wild-lights and animal sights at Heritage Park Zoo
• Arizona’s largest Gingerbread village

Make sure to also check out Prescott Gateway Mall. They have loads of Christmas activities including “Enchanted Christmas”, an indoor holiday light attraction.

You may also be interested in:

• 9 Beautiful Fall Towns in the USA to visit this fall!
• Beautiful American Small Towns: 26 Prettiest and Coolest Small Towns in the USA
• 13 Best Pumpkin Patches in Florida to visit This Fall

Founder of Beeloved City, I am originally from France and have been living in the UK since 2016. I've travelled to 25 countries as a backpacker, travel coordinator and for holidays. I spent a year in Australia before eventually settling down in Manchester, England

11 Best Christmas Towns Near NYC To Visit This Holiday Season

Take a holiday for the holidays with these festive towns within driving distance from NYC!

Though New York becomes its own magical holiday wonderland throughout November and December, it’s fun to travel to some smaller towns and pretend you’ve hopped on Santa’s sleigh and taken a visit to the North Pole.

Here are 10 options for adorable Christmas Towns near NYC that we found — yes, the exact places you can just imagine a cheesy Hallmark movie taking place!

1. Bethlehem, PA

Did you know the country’s most Christmassy city is only an hour and a half from NYC? Home of the first-ever Christmas tree in the United States in 1747, now this perfectly-named eastern PA city has fully embraced its holiday history, becoming a popular destination every single year. Read more about “Christmas City USA” here.

Distance from NYC: 1 hr 45 min by car

2. Rhineback, NY

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This historic town in upstate New York is the perfect place to get in the holiday spirit! Their annual Sinterklaas Festival — a Dutch tradition that features children’s workshops, dance, theatre and music all over the village of Rhinebeck, plus a giant puppet parade at night — is coming up on December 2.

Plus, there are tons of beautiful decorations on the streets , decked-out places to eat , and lovely shops to get all your needed gifts. See more about it here.

Distance from NYC: 1 hr 45 min by train (Metro-North), 2 hr 20 min by car

3. New Hope, PA

This little town right near the New Jersey/Pennsylvania border is an artistic haven with tons of galleries, markets and more (there’s even a giant Arts & Crafts festival each September!). For the holiday season the true must-visit is Peddler’s Village within the city, offering 65 specialty shops and boutiques, and 1 million Christmas Lights lighting the way through the village.

There’s even special events happening too like Gingerbread Competition & Displays, Nighttime Stories with the Grinch, Singing Santa, plus more. See full calendar here .

Distance from NYC: 1 hr 35 min by car

4. Cape May, NJ

Though this beach town is known more for its summer haunts, it’s quite quaint during the holiday season! There are holiday-themed trolley rides, tree lightings, and an outdoor shopping village and concert series at their Congress Hall in the center of town. See details on their website here.

Distance from NYC: 2 hr 45 minutes by driving

5. Kingston, NY

This Catskills town that is also accessible via Metro-North is perfect for a holiday getaway from the big city. They host a Snowflake Festival every year (each Friday in December starting Dec 1), and have tons of Christmassy events like the Polar Express train ride to the “North Pole,” a holiday makers market featuring 60+ artists, and more! Plus the village itself looks adorable.

Distance from NYC: 2 hr 15 min by car, 2 hr 45 min by train

6. Bernville, PA

The main feature of this rural Pennsylvania town is the completely and utterly magical Koziar’s Christmas Village . What began as a tradition in 1948 now spans three generations of the same family, and welcomes thousands of visitors from all over. Tucked into a valley is a brilliant and bright Christmas town covered in over 1 million lights, adorning buildings, gift barns, and landscapes. Find more exact hours and more about how to visit on their website here.

Distance from NYC: 2 and half hours driving

7. Beacon, NY

This artsy town located right under Beacon Mountain is great for a quick day getaway from the city (and you can get there without a car). It’s so charming around Christmas time as you see the mountain tops from town, with wreaths and lights adorning the quaint lamp posts. There are also tons of shops for last-minute gifts, and lots of events from breakfast with Santa, holiday craft fairs, and holiday gallery shows . See all events here .

Distance from NYC: 1 hour 30 minutes driving, about 2 hours via train on Metro North

8. Corning, NY

Though a bit far from NYC, it would still make a nice weekend getaway (and hey, you could split up the driving by stopping at another one of the cities on the way — making a holiday road trip!). It was actually named one of the top Christmas towns in the entire country by Country Living magazine, for its various events like the Parade of Lights, the “Sparkle” festival, and the completely illuminated Gaffer District complete with a massive Christmas tree decked out with hand-blown glass ornaments. The town itself described it as “shak[ing] a snow globe and marvel[ing] at the magical scene within of snow swirling around a winter wonderland” as what it feels like to stroll through the Gaffer District.

Distance from NYC: 4 hours driving

9. Burlington, VT

From holiday lights sparkling on the Church Street Marketplace to the snowcaps of the Adirondack Mountains, Burlington is a great holiday destination to check out this year. There is tons to do, including the small businesses along Church Street in downtown, holiday markets offering Vermont artisanal foods and one-of-a-kind goods, and of course major ski resorts (Stowe, Jay Peak, Sugarbush, Mad River Glen, and Smuggler’s Notch).

Distance from NYC: 5 hours driving

10. Sleepy Hallow, NY

Just north of NYC in Hudson Valley is Sleepy Hallow! While many think of it as a Halloween town…it’s just as magical in during the holiday season! There’s tons of things to do, including the sing-a-long Dickens’s Christmas Carol and t ouring historic sites like Philipsburg Manor, Washington Irving’s Sunnyside, and Union Church of Pocantico Hills . Or opt for their pop-up events like tea parties, hot cocoa bars, cake pop decorating, plus more! See all events this season here .

Distance from NYC: 1.5 hours driving

11. Middleburg, VA

You can’t get more festive than Middleburg, Virginia, which was recently named the most magical Christmas town in America by Country Living ! Here you can cheer on a parade of hounds riding through the streets, sip on small-batch hard ciders, and shop for old-world holiday decor. Read more here.

Distance from NYC: 5.5 hours driving

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The six best Christmas towns to visit around the world

No matter the time of year, it’s always Christmas at these festive-themed destinations

Perhaps you really do, as the song goes, wish it could be Christmas every day. Well, in a few parts of the world, that’s totally a thing. Dotted across the globe, there are entire towns and villages that deliver serious Christmas energy – no matter what time of the year you visit.

Some of these magical places are specifically dedicated to all things Christmas, with year-round festive celebrations and activities. Others are simply destinations that just inherently look and feel very, very Christmassy. Either way, in the world’s most sparkly Christmas towns and villages, you can guarantee some solid seasonal feels whenever you go. Here are the best and most festive.

RECOMMENDED: 🎄 The best places to go for Christmas 🎁 The best Christmas markets to visit in Europe this winter ❄️ The best places to travel in December 🍿 The 50 best Christmas movies of all time

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Christmas towns you can visit around the world

North Pole, USA

Drive 15 minutes east from Alaska ’s state capital Fairbanks and you’ll come across North Pole: a town with candy canes painted on the streets and festive parades throughout the summer months. It’s also home to the Santa Claus House gift shop and the world’s largest fibreglass Santa statue. Before you get carried away, it isn’t the actual North Pole – that’d be about 1,700 miles further north.

Rovaniemi, Finland

Rovaniemi calls itself the ‘Official Hometown of Santa Claus’ and it’s hard to argue with that. The main population centre of Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi is best known for its spectacular Santa Claus Village amusement park, which features Santa himself (yes, the real one). That’s open year-round, but it’s basically always a white Christmas here – the edge of the Arctic Circle is just five miles away – so winter brings plenty of opportunities for sleigh rides and overnight stays in igloos.

Colmar, France

Thanks to the charming timber of its traditional architecture style, quite a lot of the eastern French region of Alsace boasts seriously Christmassy vibes. But nowhere are those vibes quite as strong as in the town of Colmar, with its picture-perfect old town, narrow cobbled streets and slightly surreal neatness. It’s really not hard to imagine elves scuttling through the town’s gingerbread-house style streets. While it’s a merry old place year-round, Colmar is at its festive best during the wintertime.

Santa Claus, USA

Where better to start than somewhere literally named Santa Claus? This Indiana  town is Christmas-themed for all 12 months of the year, with festive-themed stuff that ranges from a Santa Claus Museum and a novelty attraction called Santa’s Candy Castle to a post office that receives – and replies to – thousands of children’s letters to Santa every year. There are several places in the US named Santa Claus (the others are in Georgia and Arizona ) but the one in Indiana is the Christmassiest by a country mile.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

A fairytale-like enclave halfway between Frankfurt and Munich , Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of Germany ’s best-preserved walled towns – and it’s great for Christmas-themed holidays, no matter the season. Not just visually magic, Rothenburg is also home to the German Christmas Museum , which offers a comprehensive lowdown of the holiday’s history and traditions. And if you do visit around Yuletide, the annual Reiterlesmarkt is up there with Europe’s best Christmas markets .

Christmas, USA

Sunny Florida might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Christmas, but the southern US state has an entire town named after the holiday – and, as you can imagine, it’s pretty darn Christmassy. Although it has a tree and decorations up all year, Christmas, FL, gets particularly popular during the festive season. After all, what could be cooler than receiving a card with a Christmas postmark?

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14 Best Christmas Village Sets for a Magical Holiday Display

From starter sets to collectibles, there's a Christmas village here for everyone.

Country Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?

Whether you're looking to start a new holiday tradition with your first Christmas village or you just want to spruce up your tried-and-true favorite, you've come to the right place. We scoured the market to find the best Christmas villages for all different styles, from collectible villages you'll pass down through generations to fun little towns to set up in your child's room. No matter your style, we're sure there's a village here you'll love.

PS: a Christmas village also makes a wonderful gift for the new homeowner or newlyweds!

Where is the best place to put a Christmas village?

Atop the fireplace mantel is the most common location to place your Christmas village, but is far from the only spot. In my family, we always placed our village atop the dining room buffet, so it cast the most gorgeous and comforting glow while enjoying Christmas Eve dinner . You could also place your village on a console table, coffee table, island, or just about any spot that is long enough to hold your sprawling village.

A few of these villages come with different locations around the town, like the Lemax and Harry Potter editions . As you collect more pieces to these sets, you might just find that your village extends through your home, creating a fun decoration that guests will love to see as they venture inside.

Lemax Village Collection

Lemax has just about anything and everything your little (or large) Christmas village could ever need, from a ski lodge to St. Nick's Elf Academy and even a pet adoption center . It's impossible to have every single item, so expect your village to grow and grow as the years go by.

Department 56 Country Living Village

We might be biased, but is there anything sweeter than a country Christmas village? Our Country Living village comes with tons of different figurines, including a barn with silo and a small country chapel . Don't miss the attention to detail on each of these pieces!

SHOP THE ENTIRE VILLAGE

Department 56 Harry Potter Village

Harry Potter fans, get your wallets out and ready. This village set includes tons of different locations, from Hogwarts to Diagon Alley to The Three Broomsticks and even to visit the Weasleys in The Burrow, which is exactly why we love this village so much. You could build onto it in years to come, starting with one location, say Hogwarts, and moving on. Set this village up along a large table or throughout an entire room (or your home) for a Christmas village that gets all your guests looking.

Terrain Concordville Zinc Barn

For the true country-style enthusiast, it's hard to beat this rustic zinc village. It comes with all the traditional village essentials, like a church and half Dutch house , but also with farm-inspired pieces, like the water tower , greenhouse , and garden shed .

Lenox Christmas Villages

Lenox pieces can be on the pricier side, but their classic and elegant style makes it totally worth the investment. This is one Christmas village you can enjoy for decades and then pass down to the next generation.

Department 56 Grinch Village

Imagine how adorable this Grinch village would be in a child's room. It event includes a Mount Crumpit figurine complete with the Grinch watching over Whoville.

Kurt S. Adler Light Up Christmas Village Tree

Have you ever seen a Christmas village as magical as this? This wooden Christmas village is battery operated and comes in one piece, making it simple to set up and store.

Bethany Lowe Metallic Snow Village

We love the classic pressed paper snow villages, and this one takes the cake. Frosted with glitter and in a sweet Parisian style, it's the perfect accent for any home with a more classic femme aesthetic.

Department 56 A Christmas Story Village

Don’t let anyone use their Red Ryder BB gun around this set inspired by A Christmas Story. The village includes everything from the bowling alley to the “triple dog dare” flag pole to Ralphie in his pink bunny pajamas . The highlight is Ralphie’s house , decked out with garland and snow (and, yes, a leg lamp in the window).

Tabletop Village Advent Calendar

Get two decorations in one with this village. Each house has multiple drawers/doors that open to reveal a piece of candy, sweet message, or other holiday treat of your choice.

Creative Co-Op Wood Laser Cut Village

This woodland-inspired village includes a music box and a rotating tree, showcasing the attention to detail in this beautiful display.

Department 56 National Lampoon Christmas Vacation Village

The figurines are one of the best parts of this Christmas village. You can include Aunt Bethany and her jell-o mold , Clark "trimming" the tree , Cousin Eddie emptying the you-know-what , and even a shocked Clark , just to name a few. And if that doesn't do it for you, then don't miss the Griswold house and Cousin Eddie's RV . If you get that holiday bonus, you could even snag yourself the pool fantasy scene .

West Elm Ceramic Tealight Village Set

For the minimalist, this tea light village set is the perfectly understated decoration your mantle needs. Bonus: this earthenware pottery is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

Village Decor Homes

If you have more of a chic minimalist aesthetic, then this village set might be more your style. The classic city homes are flecked with glittering snow but are all white, so feel free to dress it up with some colorful bottlebrush trees or keep with the winter whites theme.

Hannah Jones is the Commerce Editor for Country Living. Her eye is always on the next up-and-coming products to include in gift guides and she's ready to test everything from dog beds to garden tools for product reviews. When she’s not scoping out the latest and greatest items on the market, you can find her hanging with her two rescue dogs.

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