When it comes to celebrating the holiday season in the United States, the options are plentiful. Many destinations offer a magical setting to experience a cozy and warm Christmas.
While snow on December 25th isn’t guaranteed, communities across the country overflow with holiday spirit through activities ranging from classic festive light displays to horse-drawn sleigh rides.
Here are five must-visit destinations to make the most of the holiday season:
1. Chicago, Illinois: Lights, Markets, and Endless Fun
Chicago, the largest city in the Midwest, celebrates Christmas in a big way. Over a million sparkling white lights decorate around 200 trees along the famous Magnificent Mile, one of the city’s most iconic commercial avenues.
Furthermore, the city hosts the annual Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier. This event offers over 24 attractions and a massive indoor ice-skating rink, perfect for the whole family.
Another essential stop is the Christkindlmarket Christmas market. From late November until Christmas Eve, visitors can find endless decorations. Don’t forget to try traditional delicacies like kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes), bratwurst, and glühwein (spiced mulled wine).
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2. Aspen, Colorado: Best destination on Christmas for Living Winter Postcard
With an average annual snowfall of over 4.5 meters (15 feet), Aspen is the embodiment of a «white Christmas.» This town in the Rocky Mountains—famous for its ski slopes and luxurious atmosphere—shines even brighter during the holiday season.
Annually, it hosts the event known as «12 Days of Aspen.» This includes Victorian carols at the historic Hotel Jerome, free family skating parties, workshops for making ornaments and holiday cards.
Additionally, special activities are held at the Cooper Avenue Mall, where children can meet a real reindeer, enjoy hot chocolate, and savor Christmas cookies.
3. Door County, Wisconsin: Christmas Tradition with Rural Charm
The Door County peninsula, along Lake Michigan, is known for its natural charm and summer activities like cherry pie and fish boils. But in winter, small communities like Sturgeon Bay and Sister Bay transform into cozy destinations perfect for enjoying Christmas.
Key activities include gingerbread house decorating classes and Christmas parades. Food lovers can enjoy festive dinners at traditional inns like the Thorp House Inn and White Gull Inn, where guests are transported through illuminated streets in horse-drawn carriages to savor soups, main courses, salads, and seasonally inspired desserts.
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4. Taos, New Mexico: Multicultural Tradition and Hispanic Luminarias
In Taos, Christmas is celebrated with a unique blend of cultural traditions. Known for its artistic vibe and nearby Taos Ski Valley, this high-desert destination combines Hispanic and Native customs at the Yuletide in Taos festival.
Luminarias, made from sand-filled bags and candles, illuminate historic streets like Ledoux Street. Posadas, a Mexican tradition reenacting Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter, are staged with candlelit caroling processions from house to house.
The indigenous community of Taos Pueblo also participates in the celebrations, guided by religious and ceremonial leaders.
5. Boston, Massachusetts: History and Holiday Spirit at Every Turn
Boston blends its rich colonial history with charming holiday festivities. Featuring two enormous Christmas trees—one in Boston Common (established in 1634) and another at Faneuil Hall Marketplace—the holiday atmosphere reaches its peak.
Shows like the «7-minute Blink!» where over 350,000 LED lights illuminate the skyline in sync with Christmas songs, create unforgettable experiences for all attendees.
During December, the iconic Symphony Hall welcomes the famous Boston Pops Orchestra for holiday concerts that have become a beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike.
From traditional markets and sparkling lights to cultural festivals and snowy landscapes, these five destinations offer unique Christmas experiences that capture the season’s spirit and turn any visit into a picture-perfect memory.
Whether you’re looking for snow, history, or multicultural traditions, the United States has a special place for your perfect Christmas celebration.
