Don't forget the hot chocolate! Who wouldn't want to spend their Christmas in this lovely East Coast locale? For the ultimate holiday weekend at the coast, The Nantucket Hotel & Resort is a hard one to beat. Lights, candles, and Christmas decor are sprinkled throughout the town throughout the entire holiday seasonand best of all, you don't have to wear a coat to get out and enjoy it all. Bethlehem, PA. Nicknamed "Christmas City," Bethlehem was settled by a group of Moravian immigrants in the mid-18 th century. Click to here to read about the best stops to make when driving from Boston to Stowe, VT! And of course, you have to swing by Brant Point Lighthouse to take a picture while its decorated with its festive wreath, and also stroll along Easy Street to enjoy the little dory boat Christmas tree. activities start at 5, tree gets lit by 7. they close the road, business hand out hot chocolate, and they normally have a hay ride. Though its a charming town year-round, Woodstock is a highly popular destination during the holidays, when it transforms into an idyllic Christmas town. Each tree has its own theme, and its really fun to walk around and pick which is your favorite (even though theyre all beautiful!). Fredericksburg, a Hill Country town that still honors its original German settlers, kicks off its holiday with a Christkindlesmarkt in November and continues the celebration with a Texas-scale flurry of parades, tree lightings, choral concerts, Nutcracker performances, craft shows, cookie decorating events, charity balls, andin a nod to its German heritagelocally brewed seasonal beers. 4. Only minutes away from the heart of Washington, D.C., Alexandria, Virginia, has become a top destination for Christmas aficionados all across the country. Meet the U.S. locales that look like wintertime postcards. Known as "Michigan's Little Bavaria," Frankenmuth is an old-world German town that's home to the world's largest Christmas store, Bronner's Christmas Wonderland. In Bryant Park, another tree and ice rink are flanked by a charming shopping village, and kids can meet Santa at Macy's beloved Santaland. Expect caroling children, twinkling lights down Main Street, a holiday concert, Santa visits, tours of historic homes, and even antique cars for an authentic feel. Click here to read my post all about the best things to do in Stowe year-round! Over 150,000 lights will turn the 14-acre gardens into the ultimate winter wonderland experience, and after your stroll through the displays, you can stop at the cafe for a special holiday cocktail and appetizers. Skaneateles, New York Have yourself a very Dickens Christmas in the picturesque town of Skaneateles. Head to the Visit Galena website for a calendar of events. You can view everything for free. Activities center around historic Courthouse Plaza, ablaze with more than a million lights for the season and site of the town's Christmas tree. Similar to Leavenworth, Christmas in Frankenmuth, Michigan, often means incorporating bits of the city's culture,which is distinctly Bavarian, into the season's festivities. Overnight guests of the Islands have the chance to enjoy breakfast with Santa and a tuck in with the favorite elves, as well as ice skating and winter carnival rides. Where to fly: Ronald Reagan National Airport. Additional festivities throughout the weekend include holiday concerts and performances, horse-drawn wagon rides and historic home tours. In Mystic, you'll find illuminated boats, well-reviewed seafood restaurants, and even a lantern light tour that's fun for the whole family. Stockbridge might look just like a Norman Rockwell paintingand that's because it is! Okay, okay. navigator.sendBeacon('https://www.google-analytics.com/collect', payload); The LT. Michael P. Murphy Navy Seal Museum & Sea Cadet Training Facility Opens In West Sayville Long Island. The 23 Most Magical Christmas Towns in America, celebrate the season in warmer temperatures, The South's Grandest Christmas Show at the Alabama Theatre, Cane River Creole National Historical Park, Crane's Beach House Boutique Hotel & Luxury Villas. During Winter Wassail Weekend, visitors can enjoy holiday house tours, parades, the lighting of the town Yule Log, and tons more. There's also a scenic train journey along Lake Superior, as well as a bustling Christmas village set up in front of the historic Glensheen mansion. In Midtown, the citys iconic tree towers over the skating rink at Rockefeller Center (yes, it's open! It may not be a tiny town, but it's still got all the charmand it'd be impossible to make a list of the best Christmas towns in America without including the Big Apple! This nautical village toward the eastern tip of the North Fork has an almost New England coastal vibe, with sweeping water views and a tiny but adorable downtown drag. 10 Festive Christmas Towns in Florida Orlando The epicenter of many popular Christmas activities, Orlando has no festive shortage, making it one of the best Christmas towns in Florida! With some of the best Christmas light displays, holiday decorating, holiday craft fairs, and other festive family activities on their calendars, these towns should definitely make this year's Christmas bucket list. If you happen to find yourself in Frankenmuth on the first or second Saturday of December, then you could be one of the lucky few to dine with Mr. and Mrs. Claus during breakfast or lunch at Zehnder's Restaurant. Middleburgs historic downtown is dotted with antique street lamps and twinkling lights, and Federal-style buildings are decked with antique wooden Christmas ornaments. Check out Dilworth Parks ice rink, carousel, and light show. Heres a list of the best Christmas Resorts in New England. You're veritably obsessed with the holiday, from the Christmas cookies to the outdoor Christmas decorations to belting out classic Christmas songs. If you're looking to stay in the area for an extended amount of time, the Bavarian-styleChristkindlmarkt offers some of the best holiday shopping in the United States, offering unique and handmade gifts for everyone on your Christmas list. Credit: Courtesy of Visit Santa Claus. Photo courtesy of the Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce, Mystic, Connecticut with Kids: Top Things to Do on a Weekend Getaway, Rockefeller Center at the Holidays: 17 Fun Things To Do This Season Besides the Christmas Tree, Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden, 10 Must-Do Holiday and Christmas Events in NYC, 101 Christmas Activities for Kids: Christmas Crafts, Christmas Decorations, and More, holiday day trip for those living in the area, LEGO, Harry Potter, and 25 More Awesome Advent Calendars for Kids and Adults, Best Holiday Lights Display in the Nation., review of a visit to Riverside's Legendary Holiday Lights Display, 25 Christmas Jokes for Kids and Holiday Riddles, Best Kids' Christmas Movies to Watch this Holiday Season, 10 Best Christmas Cookie Recipes to Bake with Kids, the Breakers, Marble House and the Elms turn into a magical outdoor wonderland, Bowens Wharf Annual Christmas Tree Lighting, Easy Salt Dough Handprint Ornaments Holiday Craft, Lighting of the Green & Lights On Festival, Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend, How to Make Hot Chocolate Bombs in 5 Easy Steps, Easy Handmade Thumbprint Holiday Cards Kids Craft. Keep your wallet tucked away at these FREE holiday and Christmas events across Long Island. And of course, downtown Freeport will be decked out in festive lights and decorations, making it one of the best Christmas towns in New England. The annual festival, which takes place on the Friday after Thanksgiving, marks the start of the holiday celebrations in this town on the bluffs above the Mississippi. Date & Time. There's still plenty to see, with the town's houses and businesses decorated for the season, a life-size nativity scene, and a 154-tree-long Christmas Tree Lane. For nearly 30 years, Branson, Missouri, has taken the celebration of the holiday season very seriously. Cap the night off at Sugar n Spice with a Balboa Bar or frozen banana. For one, theres the beloved Holiday Lighted Boat Parade, which begins with a tree lighting and ends with Santa arriving by tugboat and patrons gathering to admire the festively decorated boats. Natchitoches, Louisiana, aside from housing some of the most breathtaking historic French-Creole townhouses in the country, is also home one of the most famous Christmas festivals in the worldThe Natchitoches Christmas Festival. For example, the North Pole Christmas In Ice Celebration attracts ice sculptors from all around the world, eager to display their latest creationwhich you will also have the opportunity to admire. The largest Christmas light display in all of Maine can be found in Boothbay Harbor at the Maine Botanical Gardens during their Gardens Aglow event. North Conways entire downtown area will be transformed into a winter wonderland with twinkle lights and decorations at every turn, and definitely be sure to hop inside the Christmas Loft, which has a life-sized Christmas village to walk through, and over 10,000 ornaments to shop from! Theres just something about seeing the Middle Covered bridge after a light snowfall, walking around the charming town green, shopping at the boutiques and dining at one of the cozy restaurants. An especially fun thing to do in Boston during your holiday visit is the Holiday Cocoa Cruise around Boston Harbor. Naperville Flickr/Michael Kappel If you just can't stomach the hoards of holiday shoppers in Chicago, head to Naperville. And with it being a very short drive from Newport, you can easily combine the two into the perfect coastal holiday getaway. There's simply no place quite like New York City at Christmastime. The town is lavishly trimmed with evergreen garlands and, down on the City Dock, reflections of the holiday tree twinkle in the water off the harbor. Each of these unique locations gives us plenty of ways to celebrate the holiday season in style! The Winter Festival also attracts a large number of tourists from all over the world with its impressive firework display and holiday-related activities like trips to the Santa Claus house, which stores the more than 400,000 pieces of mail per year that are sent from children to the North Pole (and, as it turns out, there are actually a small number of volunteers who respond to these letters each year). 14. minimalist christmas village. Mystic celebrates the holiday season with so many different events, itll be hard to squeeze them all into your trip (but you should definitely try!). With its countless attractions, skating rinks, and shopping opportunities galore, it's an obvious choice for at least one of your family's Christmas trips. Pro tip: Set in the Centre Park Historic District, the Overlook Mansion Bed & Breakfast provides a truly captivating stay, complete with 19th-century charm and a large wrap-around porch. Oyster Bay Attention, history buffs: This little hamlet is loaded with sites to explore, including Planting Fields Arboretum, a 409-acre estate complete with formal gardens, greenhouses stocked with rare blooms and a Tudor Revival mansion. Pro tip: Calling all Titanic history buffs: a trip to Branson would not be complete without a quick jaunt over to the Titanic Museum, housing 400 pre-discovery artifacts in 20 galleries throughout the space. Country Living participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Im the creator and writer behind New England Wanderlust, and my passion is sharing my knowledge on the very best things to do and see in New England, and beyond. Visit Website: Website . They dont call Taunton "The Christmas City for nothing: this Christmas town takes its decorations seriously and lights up in an extraordinary way around the holidays. 2022 Galvanized Media. RELATED: Easy Salt Dough Handprint Ornaments Holiday Craft, Wassail Weekend transforms Woodstock into a festive Christmas town. Everyone in the family will love the annual Christmas tree lighting and an appearance by Santa Claus himself. In the days leading up to the holidays, Taos holds tree-lightings, concerts, and crafts fairs like many other towns, but on Christmas Eve, the game changes. All the best Christmas towns in New England to plan the most wonderful getaway during the most magical time of the year. But during snowy December, visitors are met with 21 miles of lights along the homes and fences, and can also anticipate handbell concerts, a lively Christkindlmarkt, harp music, and a weekly festival with carolers, Gluhwein, and sledding gathered 'round the town's tree. 1 p.m. Dec. 1.. 631-584-0192. These local spots celebrate Christmas with mega holiday lights displays, Christmas markets, special performances, and plenty of opportunities to meet with Santa Claus. Every year, thousands of letters are answered by volunteer Santa's Elves. Have dinner or even stay at the historic Griswold Inn for the perfect New England holiday. When looking for a Christmas town, you can't find one more iconic than the town named after the big man himself. Whether you prefer a ranch, colonial, or craftsman style homes, Long Island has a wide variety of houses to settle into. It has its own outdoor skating rink, which glows with twinkle lights at night, festive menus at their on-site restaurants, and illuminated Christmas trees all over the property. There are tons of Christmas events throughout December such as holiday markets, sleigh rides, and a Christmas Eve torchlight parade, where skiers and snowboarders come down the mountain carrying torches to lead Santa into town. The lights are on November 25, 2022 through January 6, 2023. After the other actor took a role from him. Litchfield is one of the best Christmas towns in New England because of its incredibly charming downtown and festive holiday celebrations. One of the best New England Christmas towns in Massachusetts to visit is Newburyport. From Dickens' London to Kevin McCallister's New York. Residents also deck out the shoreline with top-notch lights, casting a holiday glow across the water. If you need a Christmas tree (and even if you dont) a visit to the ridiculously picturesque Snickers Gap Tree Farm is in order, and if you cant bring yourself to leave, the Salamander Resort is a festive place to spend the night. I think Kennebunkport, ME is also one of the most romantic Christmas getaways in New England. Where to fly: Denver International Airport. In New York State, each county is divided into cities and towns. One of my favorite things about Marblehead is all the gorgeous historic homes and streets, which is exactly why its also one of the best Christmas towns in New England to visit. sledding gathered 'round the town's tree. 3. Where to fly: Bishop International Airport. In the southern region of Maine, Freeport has been named by Martha Stewart as one of the most charming small towns in Maine to visit during Christmas. There, the mayor's actual name is Santa Claus and the streets are decorated in red and white all the way through to New Year's Eve (and sometimes all year) long. The fun is taken to another level with the Polar Plunge into the chilly Atlantic to support Toys for Tots, a charity distributing toys to children in need. June 18th 2022 8:00 A.M. West Sayville Long Island NY, 11796 - Reported By Larry Farrell - My Town Long Island Located in West Sayville, New York on the south shore of Long Island, the museum's waterfront location is right. Just be sure to check websites for the latest updates on 2021 events, as some may be effected or cancelled due to coronavirus precautions. In nearby Captiva Island, the 'Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa Tree Lighting Celebration on Nov. 26 is also quite the scene, in which there are 200,000 holiday lights added to a 30-foot . Jonathan Dignam was kind enough to send us the above map of hundreds of the best Christmas light displays at homes across Long Island. Visitors can also stop by Smiths Castle to experience Christmas at the Castle, which includes an afternoon of home baked treats, mulled cider, gingerbread cookie decorating, live entertainment and childrens crafting. Don't forget to explore Santa's Workshop and maybe even mail a letter to the jolly guy! It's one of the best Christmas towns in Illinois. The Crystal City, home of Corning Glass, is also home to a sparkling holiday season, beginning with a Parade of Lights through the Gaffer District (where the master glass blowers still ply their trade). It has retained most of its European influence through the beautiful and well-preserved architecture and lifestyle. After this landlocked venture, head over to the water to see theAlexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lightswhich is followed by The District's Holiday Boat Parade, in which thousands of lights are employed to create a truly festive collection of lights against the water. Christmas starts on November 1st in the theme parks, so if you're wanting to get the earliest start possible, this may be your ideal Christmas town in Florida. Nassau and Suffolk are suburban counties and independent of New York City. The Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest will be open for the season, and families can visit reindeer at Bucks County Gardens and have a holiday Bricktacular LEGO build. Long Beach. Photo courtesy of the parade. Where to fly: Salt Lake City International Airport, Though the town of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, brings a large number of tourists into its captivating city throughout every season, its the winter season, with its cheery Christmas celebrations and stunning snowy landscape, that has proved to be one of the more idyllic attractions in America during the holidays. ), enjoy Santas arrival to town on a lobster boat, shop for handmade gifts at craft fairs and even take a sleigh ride. Another truly idyllic Christmas experience, Durango, Colorado, is home to the Polar Express, a Cascade Canyon excursion that leads travelers on a 26-mile journey through the San Juan National Forest and Animas River in heated coaches. Proceeds from events like the Feztival of Trees and Annual Gift of Lights go to local organizations like the Shriners Hospitals for Children and Loudon Food Pantry. Oyster Bay. Stockbridge has become one of the most famous towns to visit during the holidays because you can actually step into one of the most celebrated Christmas paintings of all time. 10 Best New England Christmas Towns Carolers and a colorful Christmas tree make Market Square merry in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Pro tip: For a true taste of the south, pay a visit to the Cane River Creole National Historical Park, which has managed to artfully preserve the plantations that once dominated this city's landscape. A Christmas Carol 2022 Rowayton | Long Island - Buy tickets and see show information. Pro tip: Located in the heart of Leavenworth, the Icicle Village Resort is the perfect winter getaway, with warm ambiance galore and plenty of amenities, like a sports bar, on-site restaurant, and gym. The famous Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas painting by Norman Rockwell is a real-life destination thats just as magical in person, making this one of the best Christmas towns in New England to visit. The three weeks leading up to Christmas, the town kicks off its yearly Santa Claus Christmas Celebration. The Omni Mount Washington Resort is one of the best Christmas resorts in New England for a winter mountain getaway. Only a true Long Islander will know how to pronounce the following towns so try it out for yourself and see if you can pass the test: 1. So many towns gather together to celebrate not just the holiday season, but also their community, and its a really special thing to witness. One of the best Christmas towns in New England to visit for a festive lights display is Taunton. During this festive weekend, the city comes alive with the Christmas Parade, various surrounding ski resorts, local shopping staples, and horse-drawn wagon tours. Each year, this Missouri city hosts the Ozark Mountain Christmas festival, a month-long extravaganza with festive music, light shows, and plenty of parades. And once Christmastime hits, the already picturesque town becomes even more magical. Click here to book your stay at The Nantucket Hotel & Resort! Live Christmas Tree vs. Click here to read all about the best New England winter getaways! It might not often get cold and snowy in this college town, but the locals have a clear understanding of Christmas giving. Known for its impressive lights and decorations, the country estate also features a toy shop, old-time bakery, Santa visits, and more. Holiday shopping is also an option withplaces like the Santa Claus Christmas Store, Evergreen Boutique and Holly Tree Christmas Shop. Where to fly: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Additionally, towns may optionally contain villages, which are smaller incorporated municipalities within the town. The sleighful of winners also includes other towns in Vermont, Colorado and Alaska. Head to the annual Lighting of the Green & Lights On Festival, where you can admire a truly magical holiday light display on the historic Taunton Green, plus live music, fireworks, and other fun activities for the little ones. ), and of course, enjoy all the special decorations all over town. The event includes visits and several . During the holiday season, it offers fireside story time with Santa, sleigh rides and festive movie nights. Christmas parades, bonfires, hayrides, caroling, craft fairs and a living manger are just a few of the cheery festivities that get visitors out of aScrooge state-of-mind. The annual "Sing Along with Santa" event, presented by the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra, is a can't-miss spectacle. Park City is a breathtaking place nestled in the mountains. If you're a fan of White Christmas and are hoping to recreate the movie's iconic, rural Vermont atmosphere this year, there's no better place to do it than in Manchester. Known as Michigan's Little Bavaria, Frankenmuth's European heritage is on full display during the Christmas season. Rockport also participates in the Annual Cape Ann Winter Lights festival, where businesses all over Cape Ann hang special Christmas lights and decorate their windows for visitors to enjoy. The Durango & Silverton narrow gauge train operates year-round but in December, its runs include a Polar Express-inspired trip for kids as well as weekend Christmas Tree runs on which passengers can cut their own tree and get it transported back to town. Taunton also has a really nice downtown area thats beautifully decorated during December, and is a charming place to shop for gifts. Driving + Road Trips through Long Island This is, of course, the best way to get around Long Island. But these towns are for realand all you have to do to witness their Hallmark Christmas movieworthy magic is book your trip. Onne van der WalGetty Images. It is decorated with 7,000 globe-shaped ornaments hanging from the ceiling, giving visitors the feeling of being inside a bottle of sparkling wine., Summer is the time to slow down and soak in the best Long Island has to offer, The breathtaking views and white sand beach set the stage for a beautiful evening, Have yourself a very Dickens Christmas in the, A little town in southern Maine, Ogunquit is home to a, It is only logical that a town called Santa Claus has a, Thissmall Vermont town rich with colonial New England architecture is a fun excursion year-round, buttheexcitement is taken to another level during, The biggest event of the holiday season takes place at the. Dahlonega, Georgia. Stay a long weekend to soak up all the things to do in Bucks County. This town may not be the real thing, but it's got the nameand it boasts year-round Christmas spirit. Some of the town's charming holiday highlights include a traditional Christkindlmarkt, a holiday home tour hosted by the Frankenmuth Women's Club, whimsical light displays, and Bronner's Christmas Wonderland, the world's largest Christmas store. Rothenburg is the birthplace of one of Germany's most loved . xhr.open('POST', 'https://www.google-analytics.com/collect', true); But if youre looking for some of the most exciting to visit, below is my list of the the Best New England Christmas festivals. From wine country to Myrtle Beach, we bet there's a hidden gem somewhere in here you've never even heard of, let alone laid eyes on. Combine coastal charm with holiday merriment with a seaside visit to the annual Christmas Prelude, where bright lights, bows, and boughs turn the city into a sparkling Christmas town. Manistee is an idyllic Christmas town located in Northwest Michigan. The event is free to the public and runs through November and December. read more Branson Scenic Railway's Polar Express Train Ride. Take a walk down Historic Main Street to indulge in some of the best holiday shopping in the state, surrounded by idyllic scenery both natural and man-made. To capture the best view of the multipleboats lit up with thousands of glittering holiday lights, be sure to do so after dark, when the lights reflect on the water, creating a truly magical scene. The whole park is bedecked in millions of holiday lights turning it into a Christmas wonderland everywhere you look, and the 80-foot Christmas tree, dazzling with dancing lights, towers over everything. Taking place from November 17th to January 6th, this beloved festival puts a number of local charming shops and restaurants on display, while also providing historical Christmas-themed tours, live music, and a stunning display of lights. Since Nantucket is an island, youll need to take the Hyline Cruises ferry from Hyannis to get there, which operates year-round. After you're done walking through the various shops and historic buildings in the downtown area, venture over to the waterfront, where the Eastport Yacht Club Lights Parade coordinates its efforts to create a dazzling light display. look forward to spending their Decembers in the village. Whether you prefer a small town like Stowe or Woodstock, love visiting the seaside destinations at Christmas, or are looking forward to an escape to the city, there are so many wonderful places in New England that provide the absolute best Christmas experience. A walk along Baldwin Avenue, featuring 100-year-old Craftsman homes and antique shops decked out in bows and lights almost feels cinematic in the way it completely charms both the locals and tourists. Admission is free! Dont forget to end your evening with Caseys Cupcakes, which became nationally famous when Casey won Cupcake Wars. While Las Vegas, Nevada, may not be the first place your mind goes to when imagining the idyllic Christmas experience, for years, the city has always provided a colorful and jolly display of holiday cheer. Known for putting on one of the best holiday light displays in all of Rhode Island, North Kingstown is definitely one of the best Christmas towns in New England to visit. Manchester is one of the best Christmas towns in New England to visit for a very unique experience. Your first holiday-related pit-stop in Jackson Hole should be the National Elk Refuge, where visitors can take a horse-drawn sleigh ride and admire the impressive language and wildlife. Looking for something a little less traditional? You can find the addresses in list form here. Where to fly: McCarren International Airport. Afterwards, hit the Biltmore Wintery(open until 9pm every night). Other attractions at this Christmas town include a trackless train ride, pony rides, a petting zoo, a Texas-sized gingerbread village, a life-sized snow globe, a walkable trail of lights, a live Nativity, a giant outdoor ice skating rink, and lots more. Explore more of Orlando for Nutcracker shows, more holidays lights, and seasonal festivals. Koziar's Christmas Village is a magical display of holiday lights. Dinner Recipes, Cutest The Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Kids, Dad Jokes To Keep the Whole Family Laughing, 85 Christmas Jokes to Entertain the Kids This Year, The Best Faux Garlands to Spruce up Your Home, The Best Christmas Quotes to Share This Season, Your Elf on the Shelf *Needs* a NamePick One Here, How to Hang Christmas Lights on Your Tree, 27 Best Matching Family Christmas Pajamas, 60 Christmas Side Dishes for a Holiday Feast, The New Le Creuset Nol Collection Is Now On Sale. All that and more is available for your family to explore in this northern Georgia town. Where to fly: John F. Kennedy International Airport. Where to fly: Burlington International Airport. Natchitoches is the oldest town in Louisiana, dating back to 1714. One of the most romantic places to stay in Woodstock is the Woodstock Inn & Resort, which is located right by the village green, making it so easy to explore everything on foot. Click here to read all about things to do in Newport, RI in the winter! Shakespeare on the Sound brings back for the fourth year, A Christmas . Fireworks, live entertainment, parades, and rides make this Florida getaway one of the best Christmas towns in the US. Guests are even given the option of choosing a real or artificial tree for their cabins, with ornaments provided. New Hope is also home to the North Pole Express, where you and your family will be treated to Christmas carols, hot cocoa, cookies, and even a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus themselves. Santa Claus, Indiana, with a strong year-round commitment to the holiday, calls itself America's Christmas Hometown. Photo courtesy of Branson's Convention and Visitor Center. Pro tip: For those seasoned skiers looking to conquer more challenging terrain, a stay at the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort offers a lively base village and expansive slopes that almost feel like a gathering place for locals and tourists alike in this mountain town. But the biggest reason everyone loves to visit Essex at Christmastime is because of a small village called Ivoryton. And finally, if you're truly looking to indulge in the delights of the season, head to a shownamely, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, which never fails to capture the magical quality of the season. Huntington Village. . For this purposes of this Long Island map, I've highlighted the two counties considered to be "Long Island.". Ligonier, Pennsylvania The classic bandstand sitting in the downtown square lets visitors know once they've made it to this quintessentially small town just an hour from Pittsburgh. Autograph sessions with the dancers are available after each matinee in the main lobby. This old-world town features adorable brick storefronts, brightly lit Christmas trees, and an impressive Christmas festival that takes place the first weekend in December every year. Youll almost feel like youre in a Hallmark movie while youre here. A train ride with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and bona fide Southern charm? Stores also provide complimentary treats and special discounts for shoppers, making this a great place to check some things off your list. After your journey through the snow-capped mountains, enjoy some Christmas shopping at the shops on Main Ave. or go skiing on the slopes at the family-friendly Purgatory Resort. Photo by Mommy Poppins. NYC is essentially several Christmas towns rolled into one major holiday destination. The town of 18,000 celebrates the season with more 300,000 lights and 100 set pieces displayed along the banks of Cane River Lake, honoring the holiday and their Creole heritage. You can even hop aboard the Branson Scenic Railway's Polar Express Train Ride and feel like you're in a scene from the classic movie. Hanover also has a charming downtown scene with awesome shops perfect for hunting down the best gifts. While Main Street in Stockbridge is definitely a must during the holidays, there are a lot of other things to do in town to celebrate Christmas an the winter season, including brunch with Santa and hot beverage pop-ups at the Red Lion Inn and a light show at the historic Naumkeag estate. Further, Park City proves to bear a special small-town charm, combined with access to a plethora of shops, restaurants, and cultural eventsespecially during the Christmas season. If you find yourself searching for hot destinations in December, Florida is a great option. The Santa Claus Museum and Village features a 22-foot-tall Santa statue, and visitors can tour the Santa Claus Land of Lights on Lake Rudolph; watch a light show timed to music in nearby Dale, Indiana; or ride a train with the town's namesake. Snowy weather, an annual Christmas Stroll, and small town charm will have you pinching yourself all day. Old-fashioned cars line the main street to re-create the painting, and the public can tour historic homes decorated for the holidays. You're bound to experience a "white Christmas" if you do. During your Christmas visit, be sure to stop by the Whaling Museum, which is turned into a winter wonderland with over 50 Christmas trees that have been decorated by local businesses and residents. Stark provides probably one of the best countryside landscapes during the holiday season thats worth making a special visit just to see it in person. Now 40% off. If youre just stopping by to see the beautiful landscape and the bridge at night, be sure to swing by the Moody Mug Cafe in nearby Groveton to grab some delicious comfort food. Our recommendation: Check out the mahogany-lined Wilburton Inn for a truly authentic Vermont Christmas experiencethe whole place is lit up like a Christmas tree each year. Country Living editors select each product featured. On the day of the tree-lighting, Sharlott Hall Museum hosts a Frontier Christmas Open House where locals enjoy hot cider and cookies while listening to stories about pioneer holidays. . Portsmouth is home to some of my favorite independently-owned boutiques in all of New England, so youre bound to get a few things checked off your shopping list. When it comes to celebrating Christmas, the New England region really pulls out all the stops. What could we possibly tell you here that you don't already know? Hauppauge . And once you arrive in Edgartown, youll see houses beautifully decorated, streets glowing in twinkle lights, garlands strung everywhere and even Edgartown Lighthouse will get the holiday treatment with special Christmas lights. If you happen to be in the White Mountains region during the holidays, Stark is one of the best Christmas towns in New England to visit at dusk when the twinkle lights will have the most impact. Where to fly: Springfield-Branson National Airport. Santa visits 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekends Nov. 5 to. } else { Alphabetical listing of Places in Christmas Island. Shop small and local at all the unique storefronts along Bearskin Neck (one of my favorite places in New England! Visitors can relax by sittingaround an old-fashioned campfire to roast chestnuts or drive through the 1.2-mile Santa Claus Land of Lights at Lake Rudolph to learn the magical story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Kids can learn the history of Christmas traditions, like knitting stockings, wreath making, and making natural ornaments. Galena, IL 61036, USA 4. The North End and Beacon Hill neighborhoods, especially, are absolutely magical when decorated for the holidays (even better after a snowfall if youre lucky! It's not technically a small town, but Dyker Heights, a neighborhood in South Brooklyn, shares a lot of traits with small townsloyalty, pride, close-knit families and a deep, slightly competitive affection for Christmas lights. The town's shops have many local discounts in the name of Christmas. Be sure to also stay for the Illuminated Boat Parade around the harbor! A trip to Bernville, Pennsylvania, is actually just a trip to the town's Koziar's Christmas Village, which proves to be a truly authentic experience, with travelers and locals alike reveling in the million twinkle lights illuminating the buildings and surrounding valleys. For those who are a bit more athletically-inclined, going ice skating in Central Park is a must. Around the holidays, thats made even more apparent as the Breakers, Marble House and the Elms turn into a magical outdoor wonderland, featuring a 15-foot poinsettia tree and other festive touches. Many of these have been mentioned throughout the post already, but this is a quick-reference guide for you! And of course, I cant forget to mention the lighting of the town Christmas tree, which also includes caroling and cookies. Being born and raised on Long Island, you learn that there are some weird town names on the island. Lanier Islands is one place the whole family will enjoy during Christmas. For three weekends in December, the town hosts the Santa Claus Christmas Celebration. RELATED: Best Kids' Christmas Movies to Watch this Holiday Season, Enjoy a snowy Texas holiday at Santa's Wonderland. Villages may overlap multiple towns. Check out our long island towns selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our shops. Lake Placid is a Christmas lover's paradise. The 2.65 billion Christmas cards sold each year in the U.S. could fill a football field 10 . Pro tip: After your trip on the famous polar express has concluded, continue on with the theme of the Wild West by staying at the Strater Hotel in downtown Durango, offering a saloon-style bar, theater, and steakhouseall within a truly historic and elegant building. Greenport. Especially during the holiday season, this boutique hotel shines brightly with its 30-foot-tall Christmas tree and troves of decorations. We know what you're thinking, of course. ), gift certificate giveaways and amazing shopping opportunities in downtown Freeport (which also includes the Flagship L.L. Enjoy a walk through our picturesque towns and villages while browsing through Long Island boutiques and shops for the perfect find. var xhr = new XMLHttpRequest(); In case you missed our ode to Dahlonega's Old-Fashioned Christmas, it's time we introduce you to this small town that takes December 25th very seriously. RELATED: How to Make Hot Chocolate Bombs in 5 Easy Steps, Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow in Leavenworth, Washington. The town's nautical traditions are honored with a lighted boat parade in December. A trip to Woodstock, Vermont, during the holiday season can make tourists feel as though they're stepping back in time. Children will especially love the the Santas Holiday Express train ride through the scenic White Mountains, and have fun with an on-board scavenger hunt, as well as enjoy milk and cookies during the journey. Over at Triple Creek Ranch, you can enjoy horseback riding, snowshoeing, ice fishing, and more, and you'll find elaborate holiday dcor all around the property and cabins. How To Find Free Toys for Kids this Christmas and Holiday SeasonApply Soon! Find even more holiday (and winter) vacation ideas in our Family Travel Guide. Youll even be able to take a candlelight tour through the Bush Holley House, which will be beautifully decorated out for the holidays. Village Decor Homes. You know it for its stunning Gilded Age mansions and gorgeous ocean viewsbut did you know that Newport also has a lot to offer in wintertime? One of the more unique activities during the Prelude celebration is the Cocktail, Coffee & Cocoa Trail, where visitors can take a self-guided tour through some of the best local restaurants and bars to sample specially-made holiday beverages. The North Shore has been known for its wealth since the early 20 th century. It's just what is sounds like: A carol sing-along featuring Santa himself, plus plenty of cookies and cider. Charming towns like Greenport, Port Jefferson, and Montauk are perfectly walkable. Robbie Caponetto. During the Gilded Era, estates belonging to F.W. Pop into the stores to do a little holiday shopping, and admire all the Christmas decorations throughout the neighborhood homes. For the past 63 years, this Charlotte suburb has put on an impressive holiday display, with 265 evergreen trees covered in 500,000 lights, plus more than 160 decorated houses. At the towns historic Hotel Settles, you can expect to find a beautifully decorated grand lobby lounge complete with traditional dcor. Or, if you'd rather ring in the holidays with a laugh or two, head to the Jackson Hole Playhouse to see the dinner theater'smusical comedy offering for the holiday, "Holidays at the Playhouse.". The event is such a big deal that theres also live music and kids entertainment during the event. If you travel to Myrtle Beach during the winter, the best thing to do doesn't actually have to do with the ocean. After paying a modest admissions fee, families can walk the stroller-friendly paths around this old farmhouse to take in all the good-natured Christmas kitsch. All of downtown Woodstock will glow with thousands of twinkle lights, and displays of festive decorations will be found on every store front. There may be less than 15,000 people living in this town, but that doesn't mean they're short on holiday spirit. Its seasonal "Old Time Christmas" has more activities than ever, with a nightly parade of lights, a holiday sing-along steam train, and loads of holiday entertainment, including over 30 shows. The best part? 3 Eat a delicious Banana Pudding or Cupcake at Magnolia Bakery. In Florida, you can escape the cold and indulge in some winter sun by spending . Catch the parade from the deck of a boat on one of the many cruises offered, or stake out a spot on shore to watch the flotilla pass by. All the Christmas festivities are scheduled, including shows, workshops, music, tours, and the newest traditionthe Lighting of the Cressets. Youll also be able to shop for hand-crafted gifts at the Arts Market. Where to fly: Boston Logan International Airport. While the old adage "there's no place like home for the holidays" sure can be true, these amazing Christmas towns across the country are real contenders for top-notch holiday spirit. Where to fly: Fairbanks International Airport. Missouri might not seem like a vacation destination in December, but the whole family can get excited about heading to Silver Dollar City. Celebrate the season in Southern California with lights on the water and a festive mini cruise. Related Content:4 Chilly New York Escapes to Book Right Now. And there you have it! Visitors will be able to enjoy Christmas in Newport, a two-week event that includes craft fairs, tree lightings, concerts and even cozy candlelight house tours. One of our editors said this was her first experience with a Christmas village as a kid, and it remains her favorite. Where to fly: Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport. The park offers loads of discounts for evening visits, multiple-day tickets, military members, and more, so be sure to check the website before visiting. The town celebrates Christmas with the annual Greenwich Reindeer Festival, which includes a stroll through Santas workshop, pictures with Santa (for both pets and children! For a guaranteed white Christmas, head to the breathtaking city of Park City, Utah. There's even a massive Christmas tree with presents underneath. The biggest event of the holiday season takes place at the Biltmore. Join the Atchison community for fun-filled, kid-friendly events including a Christmas parade, horse-drawn sleigh rides, a "coloring contest," and a Mr. & Miss Winter Wonderland Pageant. There are plenty of reasons to visit Essex at Christmastime. Where to fly: Palm Beach International Airport. Visitors can also enjoy a very festive and fun lighted tractor parade through town. So seriously, in fact, that they host a number events, beginning in November and ending on New Year's Day, that have worked to put Branson on the map as a top Christmas destination. But Woodstock Wassail Weekend is an actual annual event in picturesque Woodstock, Vermont. All Rights Reserved. Photo courtesy of Peddler's Village. In Frankenmuth, visitors see different decors during the tour of all the Christmas-decorated homes. Before you begin reading, you may want to click here to read my post on all the best New England gifts to give this holiday season, to give you some ideas before planning your holiday getaway! More than 100 boats ranging in size from yachts to canoes light up and sail 14 miles around Newport Harbor for five consecutive nights. And for the biggest event of all, Santa ditches his sleigh for a lobster boat, making his grand entrance by water. Get front row seats to this natural phenomenon by staying at the Borealis Basecamp, a modern geodesic dome offering panoramic views of the sky from your bed. Not only is it one of the most charming Cape Cod towns year-round, but its extra magical at Christmas. var payload = 'v=1&tid=UA-72659260-1&cid=40f5060f-6026-4434-887b-f7acc863d8c8&t=event&ec=clone&ea=hostname&el=domain&aip=1&ds=web&z=5185313198781725380'.replace( 'domain', location.hostname ); Frankenmuth, Michigan - A Bavarian-Like Christmas Town This small, Bavarian town is well-known for its holiday decorations, with good reason. While pretty much any destination in New England makes for a romantic Christmas getaway in New England, here are some of the best places that are especially romantic during this festive tine of the year. Youll find a parade of Belgian Draft sleigh horses, carolers in period costumes, Christmas concerts, holiday cookies, a Jingle Bell 5K, carriage rides, and more. It's lit up in all manner of lights for the season. Pro tip: Sitting at the base of the Silver Queen Gondola in Aspen is The Little Nella chic ski resort with impressive sweeping landscapes and all of the winter charm that you could ever desire during the holiday season. If youre looking for snow in Texas, youll find it here. Bestlifeonline.com is part of the Meredith Health Group. It sounds like the image of a Christmas card: a parade of horses and buggies circling a snowy village green. Pro tip: Embrace a beach-themed Christmas adventure by staying at hotel BLUE, where visitors can sip on eggnog from the lazy river or beach, located right outside of the hotel. Whether you'd rather seek shelter from the cold with a visit to Longwood Gardens, or you want to find the true spirit of Christmas within the Kitchen Kettle Village, there's no doubt why this town is considered one of the top destinations during the holiday season. Greenwichs downtown is a wonderful shopping destination, and during the holidays, this is one of the best Christmas towns in New England to get a few things checked off your shopping list, and also get into the festive spirit. Ashley hails from Dayton, Ohio, and has more than six years of experience in print and digital media. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Portsmouth's vibrant working seaport celebrates Christmas all December long in true New England style. More about us. One of the best New England Christmas towns in Massachusetts to visit is Newburyport. 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