The holiday season is upon us, and there’s no better way to embrace the holiday spirit than by exploring charming, festive small towns across the US! Each town on this list is bursting with Christmas cheer, stunning light displays, and holiday events that would rival a Hallmark movie setting. From twinkling lights to horse-drawn carriage rides, these destinations are perfect for creating magical holiday memories. Let’s unwrap the charm of these best Christmas towns to visit this Christmas!
Quick Jumplinks
1. Santa Claus, Indiana
Nothing screams Christmas season like visiting a town named after the jolly man himself! Santa Claus, Indiana, transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. From the Santa Claus Museum to the iconic Santa Claus House, you’ll feel the Christmas spirit everywhere.
- Don’t Miss: The Santa Claus Lane, complete with twinkling lights and festive decorations.
- Stay: Lake Rudolph Campground & RV Resort offers cozy cabins perfect for families.
- Fun Fact: The town receives thousands of letters addressed to Santa each year!
2. North Pole, Alaska
Embrace a white Christmas like no other in North Pole, Alaska, where it feels like Santa’s workshop is right around the corner. This Christmas town is decked out with festive lights and holiday cheer throughout the year, but it truly shines during the holiday season.
- Don’t Miss: Santa’s reindeer at the Santa Claus House and the dazzling million lights display.
- Stay: Hotel North Pole offers warm, festive accommodations.
- Beloved Holiday Tradition: Take a picture by the candy cane light poles along Main Street!
3. Park City, Utah
This historic town is a favorite for those who love snow, skiing, and Christmas magic. Park City Utah comes alive with festive decorations, outdoor activities, and holiday spirit.
- Don’t Miss: The annual Christmas tree lighting and cross-country skiing in the surrounding mountains.
- Stay: The Stein Eriksen Lodge, a luxurious mountain retreat, offers the perfect backdrop for a wonderful life moment.
- Pro Tip: Sip hot cocoa by the fireplace after a day on the slopes!
4. Santa Fe, New Mexico
If you’re seeking a unique holiday experience, Santa Fe New Mexico delivers with a blend of culture, art, and festive lights. The town’s adobe buildings glow under thousands of holiday lights, creating a magical atmosphere.
- Don’t Miss: The holiday market and tree lighting ceremony on the Plaza.
- Stay: La Fonda on the Plaza is both luxurious and rich in tradition.
- Beloved Holiday Tradition: Strolling Canyon Road to see the luminarias and festive events.
5. Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville North Carolina boasts a perfect mix of natural beauty and Christmas cheer. From Victorian village vibes to holiday markets, this town offers a storybook Christmas experience.
- Don’t Miss: The annual festival at Biltmore Estate, featuring one of the largest Christmas trees in the country.
- Stay: The Omni Grove Park Inn combines luxury with holiday charm.
- Beloved Holiday Tradition: Sip on spiced hot chocolate while enjoying the stunning light displays.
6. Leavenworth, Washington
This Bavarian-style village is straight out of a Hallmark movie with its twinkling lights, festive decorations, and horse-drawn carriage rides. Every corner of Leavenworth is brimming with holiday spirit.
- Don’t Miss: The Christmas Lighting Festival and miniature outdoor skating rink in the town square.
- Stay: The Bavarian Lodge offers cozy, Alpine-style accommodations.
- Beloved Holiday Tradition: Listening to holiday music as you stroll through the illuminated streets.
7. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
While it might not snow in Myrtle Beach, this small town transforms into a holiday festival with plenty of holiday cheer. The illuminated boat parade is a must-see spectacle!
- Don’t Miss: The Christmas village at the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and the festive live music performances.
- Stay: Marina Inn at Grande Dunes offers oceanfront holiday luxury.
- Pro Tip: Take a stroll to enjoy the festive holiday lights and Christmas decorations.
8. Newport Beach, California
The seaside town of Newport Beach brings its own brand of Christmas magic with its illuminated boat parade and stunning light displays. This annual tradition features decked-out yachts and boats sailing along the harbor.
- Don’t Miss: The annual Christmas tree lighting and festive events along the marina.
- Stay: Balboa Bay Resort offers waterfront luxury perfect for celebrating Christmas.
- Beloved Holiday Tradition: Watching the live entertainment on Main Street after the boat parade.
9. Santa Rosa Beach, Florida
Swap snow for sand in Santa Rosa Beach, where you can still enjoy all the Christmas spirit of a traditional holiday. This small town dazzles with tree and bridge lightings and holiday markets.
- Don’t Miss: The festive holiday market and live entertainment at the town square.
- Stay: WaterColor Inn offers a unique beachside holiday retreat.
- Pro Tip: Try the festive hot cocoa while enjoying the seaside twinkling lights!
10. Stockbridge, Massachusetts
Known for its picture-perfect New England charm, Stockbridge captures the essence of a traditional Christmas. This small town comes a live with Christmas carol sing-alongs, holiday decorations, and a classic tree lighting ceremony.
- Don’t Miss: The Norman Rockwell Museum’s holiday exhibit featuring the artist’s iconic Christmas illustrations.
- Stay: The Red Lion Inn, a historic landmark, is brimming with holiday spirit.
- Beloved Holiday Tradition: Enjoy a carriage ride through the snow-covered streets.
A Few Extras for Your Christmas Itinerary
- Victorian village vibes: Head to Galveston, Texas, for Dickens on the Strand.
- Festive shopping: Explore holiday markets in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, aptly nicknamed Christmas City.
- Santa costumes: Join the SantaCon festivities in various cities for a fun twist to your holiday plans!
FAQs
What are some must-try holiday treats in these festive towns?
Many towns feature unique holiday treats. Try gingerbread cookies in Santa Claus, Indiana, biscochitos in Santa Fe, and apple cider donuts in Stockbridge, Massachusetts.
Are these Christmas towns family-friendly?
Yes, all the towns listed are great for families, with activities like ice skating, Christmas caroling, and holiday markets designed to delight visitors of all ages.
When is the best time to visit these towns during the holiday season?
Mid-November to late December is ideal, as most towns begin their holiday festivities and light displays in November and wrap up after Christmas or New Year.
Are there outdoor activities in these towns during Christmas?
Absolutely! Enjoy skiing in Park City, Utah, carriage rides in Leavenworth, Washington, and illuminated boat parades in Newport Beach, California.
