Merry Christmas to you! Some wonderful places to spend Christmas in the U.S.

ENC News 23 Dec 2019

Tired of your classic holiday traditions? Maybe it’s time to mix it up this year and venture to a nearby town or an out-of-state destination, where the holidays are more than just a season of family reunions and gift-giving. From resorts and towns named after Christmas to special events held just for the Christmas season, there are some wonderful places to spend Christmas in the U.S., including fun spots in California and New York.

Whether it’s an amusement park’s celebratory event, a handmade chocolate tour, or a meet-and-greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus you’re after, there’s so much to do while you’re at these holiday-centric locales.

If you wish to have an amazing, adventurous, and loving holiday season, why not spend Christmas there:

Jackson, New Hampshire

Around Christmas, there’s no more apropos destination spot than the Christmas Farm Inn & Spa. You can enjoy skiing and other outdoor activities, and check out Santa’s Village. Another item on your list may be to hop aboard a sleigh for The Jingle Bell Chocolate Tour, where you can taste test handmade chocolate.

Andalusia, Alabama

Head down south for Andalusia’s Candyland, held throughout Christmas.

It’s free of charge, but includes a small $3 fee for horse-drawn carriage rides. You can also go ice skating and hop on a train, among other activity options.

North Pole, Alaska

Go on a lookout for the real-life Santa Claus in the United States’ very own North Pole. The city in Alaska takes pride in its name, and you can visit the Santa Claus House any day of the year. There, you’ll see live reindeer, holiday gifts galore, and the world’s largest Santa statue. In the summer and holiday season, a real-life Santa stops by too.

Newport Beach, California

There might not be any snow, but trust that this California destination offers plenty of holiday spirit at the annual Christmas Boat Parade. Each year, you can stop by the bay to witness a series of boats decked out in holiday decor.

Before you head out, walk along Balboa Island, where you’ll see houses decorated immaculately for the holiday season.

Orlando, Florida

Is there anything more amazing than spending Christmas at Disney World? Many people go there almost every year to enjoy the wonderment of Disney at Christmastime.

Don’t miss out on dancing along to holiday tunes at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, and trying to count one of the 596 small Christmas trees located all over the park.

Santa Claus, Indiana

With a name like Santa Claus, you know this city is ready to welcome you and your family at Christmas. One of the best places to spend Christmas this year is this Indiana town, which is nicknamed “America’s Christmas Hometown.” During the holidays, though, they have even more special events, like the Santa Claus Christmas Parade and Festival of Lights.

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Since the first weekend of December, Nantucket goes all out to celebrate the Christmas season. A tradition that started in the early ’70s, the Christmas Stroll involves witnessing the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, and simply strolling to your heart’s content.

Branson, Missouri

There are light displays galore, as well as the massive event called An Old Time Christmas at Silver Dollar City.

But perhaps your favorite Branson holiday activity will be hopping on the Polar Express, where you and your kids can witness the Chris Van Allsburg classic come to life.

New York City

We’ve seen it in movies and on Instagram, but there’s really no iconic spot that rivals the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Plaza.

McAdenville, North Carolina

There’s a reason its nickname is “Christmas Town USA.” Bring your family to this holiday-centric locale and be among the more than 600,000 visitors who visit each year. You can witness the 375+ trees glowing with red, white, and green lights.

Bernville, Pennsylvania

East Coasters will highly recommend Koziar’s Christmas Village for all the holiday fun you’ll ever need. This countryside town boasts a Christmas Village unlike any other.

You can also take a Winter Wonderland tour, which takes you to Santa’s Post Office, a toy shop, and an old-fashioned bakery (to name a few).

Leavenworth, Washington

The town likens itself to a “swirling snow globe,” and you’ll see why when you browse through photos. The Bavarian village hosts Christmas concerts, a Christkindlmarkt, an much more.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole is breathtaking year-round, but the city’s Christmas celebrations and decorations may surpass your expectations. Every hall is decked, there are horse-drawn sleigh rides, the Town Square Tree is a real wonder. You can even get the opportunity to ski with Santa!