The Best Christmas Town In Each State in 2025

Fairhope feels especially cheerful during Christmas. The whole downtown lights up with warm golden strings wrapped around the trees, and the shops stay busy with people grabbing gifts, sipping cocoa, and wandering the streets just to take in the glow. The season really kicks off with the annual tree lighting, when all the lights switch on at once and the square settles into full holiday mode for the rest of December.

Early December brings the Christmas parade, one of those classic small-town events where the floats are bright, the bands are loud, and the energy stays high the whole way through. Between the lights along Mobile Bay, the decorated storefronts, and a steady mix of community events, Fairhope makes for an inviting Christmas stop — especially if you like towns that genuinely lean into the season.

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North Pole leans into Christmas harder than just about anywhere. Candy-cane streetlights, holiday-themed street names, and year-round decorations make the whole town feel like it’s always December. During the holiday season, everything gets dialed up even more with community events, light displays, and plenty of chances to see Santa — it is the North Pole, after all.

The Santa Claus House is the big draw, with its giant statue, shelves of ornaments, and live reindeer out front. It’s a spot where families linger, take photos, and send postcards with the famous postmark. With Alaska’s snowy backdrop and the town’s all-in holiday spirit, North Pole ends up feeling both festive and fun in a completely sincere way.

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Prescott calls itself Arizona’s Christmas City, and once December rolls in, it’s pretty clear why. The historic courthouse plaza becomes the centerpiece, wrapped in lights and surrounded by decorated trees, shops, and old brick buildings that give the whole place a cozy, hometown feel. The lighting ceremony and parade draw big crowds every year, and the energy sticks around long after the events end.

Holiday markets, live music, and small community gatherings fill the calendar, but even on quiet nights you can just wander the square and enjoy the shine. Prescott keeps things simple — classic decorations, lots of light, and a welcoming atmosphere — and that combination works remarkably well for a Christmas getaway.

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Hot Springs takes on a warm, glowing holiday atmosphere once the season starts. The big highlight is Garvan Woodland Gardens, where winding paths and forested walkways light up with massive displays that turn the whole place into a glowing winter landscape. It’s the kind of spot where you end up taking way more photos than you planned.

Downtown stays lively too, with decorated historic bathhouses, local shops, and restaurants all leaning into the season. Hot Springs mixes holiday lights with natural scenery and old-school charm, making it a relaxed place to spend a December weekend.

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Solvang feels tailor-made for Christmas. The Danish-style buildings, windmills, and bakeries already have a cozy look year-round, but once the lights go up and Julefest starts, the whole town shifts into full holiday mode. Streets glow, shop windows fill with Scandinavian-style decorations, and visitors wander from bakery to boutique soaking up the atmosphere.

The parade, evening light shows, and small markets add to the holiday rhythm, but even simple things like walking the streets at dusk feel festive. Solvang’s blend of European vibes and California sunshine gives the season a different flavor — bright, cheerful, and easygoing.

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Vail turns into a real-life snow globe once December hits. The alpine architecture, cobblestone walkways, and steady snowfall make the whole village feel instantly festive. Lights wrap around buildings, trees glow along the streets, and the mountain backdrop pulls everything together in a way that feels almost unreal.

Visitors come for the skiing, but the holiday side of Vail is just as memorable — the tree-lighting, the torchlight parade, the small holiday market, and all the cozy spots where people gather around fireplaces after dark. It’s a place where the scenery does a lot of the work, and the town adds just enough decoration to make it feel extra special.

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Mystic brings a classic New England charm to the holidays. With its waterfront views, old-style buildings, and narrow streets lined with lights and wreaths, the town feels calm and festive at the same time. December usually comes with lantern-lit walks, waterfront decorations, and a steady stream of small events that highlight the area’s maritime history without feeling overly staged.

The downtown area knows how to set the mood — shops lean into the season with simple decorations, warm lighting, and holiday treats that make it easy to spend an afternoon wandering around. Mystic’s slower pace and pretty winter setting make it a great place for anyone who prefers a more relaxed, cozy Christmas atmosphere.

Lewes blends its coastal calm with a charming holiday style. The historic district dresses up with warm lights, window displays, and small decorations that fit the town’s old-fashioned character. December brings a popular Christmas parade and several community events that give the season a friendly, close-knit feel.

The town’s neighborhoods also put real effort into decorating, so even a casual evening drive becomes part of the holiday experience. Lewes is a great Christmas spot for anyone who likes quieter, more traditional celebrations with a coastal backdrop.

St. Augustine becomes one of the brightest holiday towns in the country thanks to its massive Nights of Lights display. Millions of tiny white lights outline the historic buildings, palm trees, plazas, and waterfront, turning the entire city into a glowing maze of streets and courtyards. It’s one of those places where you don’t even need a plan — just walking around feels like an event on its own.

The holiday season runs long here, and the warm weather makes it easy to enjoy everything outdoors. Trolley rides, boat tours, and simple strolls along the bay all take on a festive feel when the lights flip on each night. It’s a fun option for anyone who wants Christmas spirit without winter temperatures.

Helen leans all the way into its Bavarian village style, and Christmas is when it shines the most. The half-timbered buildings, alpine rooftops, and mountain scenery already feel festive, but once the lights go up and the holiday events begin, the whole town looks like a themed postcard. Markets, live music, and small celebrations give the season a lively but approachable feel.

The shops and restaurants decorate heavily, and the town’s walkability makes it easy to explore everything at your own pace. Helen is a great fit for visitors who enjoy a slightly quirky, European-style holiday experience without leaving the U.S.

Honolulu offers a totally different take on Christmas, and that’s part of the fun. Palm trees wrapped in lights, decorated city streets, and warm breezes set the tone for the holidays here. The big draw is the Honolulu City Lights celebration, which brings oversized displays, glowing trees, and plenty of nighttime activity to downtown.

The beachfront areas and neighborhoods also add their own style, so you’ll see everything from lit-up boats to tropical-themed decorations all over the city. Honolulu is perfect for anyone who wants holiday spirit without winter — bright, colorful, and easygoing from start to finish.

Coeur d’Alene feels especially magical in December thanks to the way the lake and mountains frame all the holiday lights. The downtown area glows with decorated storefronts, light-wrapped trees, and a steady stream of winter activity. One of the town’s major traditions is the holiday light cruise across the lake, where boats take visitors out to see floating displays and shoreline scenes that you can’t catch from the road.

The whole area leans into the season with cozy restaurants, busy shops, and plenty of opportunities to warm up after being out in the cold. Coeur d’Alene has that mix of mountain town atmosphere and polished holiday charm that makes it easy to settle into the Christmas mood.

Galena has a way of making Christmas feel classic. The 19th-century buildings along Main Street look even better once the garlands, wreaths, and lights go up for the season. The town hosts a handful of holiday events, including light displays and small parades, but the real draw is simply walking through the historic district at night when everything is glowing.

The shops and restaurants keep things warm and inviting, and the hills surrounding town make the scenery feel cozy and tucked away. Galena is a great pick if you enjoy Christmas settings that lean more timeless than flashy.

Santa Claus doesn’t hide its theme — the holiday spirit is everywhere, and the town fully embraces it. Streets, shops, and local attractions carry Christmas names year-round, but December adds extra lights, displays, and family-focused activities that bring the whole place to life. Even simple things like grabbing a snack or exploring small attractions carry that holiday vibe.

Because the town builds its identity around Christmas, it’s an easy stop for families who want a cheerful, lighthearted holiday destination. The decorations, events, and overall atmosphere make it feel like a festive pocket in the middle of Indiana.

Mason City brings a friendly, community-centered approach to the holidays. Downtown gets dressed up with lights and decorations, and seasonal events usually focus on music, local makers, and neighborhood activities that give the season a homey feel. There’s also a strong arts presence in town, and that helps add a little extra color and personality to everything happening through December.

Even outside of formal events, Mason City has a comfortable pace that fits the season well. The blend of holiday lights, historic architecture, and local shops makes it a nice spot for visitors looking for a simple but genuine Christmas atmosphere.

WaKeeney has proudly claimed the title “Christmas City of the High Plains” for decades, and the town works hard to live up to it. The large display in the center of town — complete with lights, garlands, and a big tree — sets the tone for the season. The decorations stretch across the main streets, creating a bright, welcoming look that stands out against the wide-open Kansas landscape.

The town hosts several community events during December, but even on quiet nights the lights alone make WaKeeney worth the stop. It’s a small town that treats Christmas as a long-standing tradition, and that dedication shows in all the little details.

Bardstown has a warm, classic holiday feel that fits perfectly with its historic downtown. The old brick buildings, narrow streets, and small shops all dress up with garlands, lights, and window displays that make evening walks especially nice in December. The town usually leans into the season with parades, music, and simple community gatherings that highlight its small-town charm.

Because so much of Bardstown’s character comes from its history and slower pace, the holiday season ends up feeling relaxed and inviting. It’s the kind of place where you can take your time, enjoy the lights, and explore a downtown that looks even better once the Christmas decorations are in place.

Natchitoches is one of the most well-known Christmas towns in the South, and the riverfront setting plays a huge part in that. Lights and decorations line both the historic district and the water’s edge, giving the whole area a warm glow that reflects off the Cane River. The town is known for stretching its holiday season across several weeks, with festivals, fireworks, and plenty of reasons to spend time walking the riverbank after dark.

The historic buildings along Front Street make the decorations feel even brighter, and the shops and restaurants help keep the town lively throughout December. If you’re looking for a holiday trip with color, energy, and a strong sense of tradition, Natchitoches delivers.

Kennebunkport mixes coastal Maine charm with a festive holiday style that feels both cozy and cheerful. Its historic homes, small streets, and waterfront views all get dressed up with simple lights and decorations that fit the town’s New England character. December usually brings a handful of popular holiday events, but even outside of those, the atmosphere feels bright and welcoming.

The shops and restaurants in Dock Square help keep things lively, and the town’s winter scenery adds a lot to the overall mood — especially when there’s snow on the ground. Kennebunkport is a great pick for visitors who enjoy Christmas celebrations with a coastal twist.

Frederick does a great job blending its historic downtown with a festive holiday look. The Carroll Creek area lights up with seasonal displays, and the brick-lined streets get decorated with wreaths, garlands, and warm window lights that make the whole city feel inviting. The holiday season brings markets, concerts, and lots of smaller community events that keep things busy without feeling overwhelming.

Frederick’s mix of shops, restaurants, and walkable streets makes it easy to spend a full day exploring, especially once evening hits and the lights reflect off the creek. It’s a well-rounded Christmas spot with a balance of charm, history, and activity.

Stockbridge has a holiday look that feels straight out of a classic painting thanks to its historic homes, old-style main street, and the way the town decorates for December. Simple lights, wreaths, and small-town touches make the whole place feel warm and nostalgic, especially when snow settles in the Berkshires.

The holiday season usually comes with a mix of community events and old-fashioned traditions that highlight the town’s character. Stockbridge is the kind of Christmas destination that doesn’t rely on big displays — it’s the quiet charm, architecture, and atmosphere that do most of the work.

Frankenmuth goes all-in on Christmas, and its Bavarian-style buildings make the decorations feel extra atmospheric. Lights, wreaths, and festive touches line the main streets, giving the whole town a warm glow throughout December. The big draw is the sheer number of holiday-themed shops and displays, which makes it easy to spend an afternoon wandering from place to place.

The town’s architecture does a lot of the heavy lifting, but the community events and small gatherings help bring everything to life. Frankenmuth has a cheerful vibe, and it’s a fun spot if you enjoy Christmas settings with a hint of European flair.

Stillwater feels especially cozy during the holidays thanks to its riverfront location and historic downtown. Once the lights go up, the brick buildings, old-fashioned lamps, and snowy river views all come together to create a classic winter atmosphere. The town usually adds a mix of small events, markets, and live music that keep the season lively without feeling hectic.

Shops and restaurants stay busy this time of year, and the walkable layout makes it easy to take everything in on foot. Stillwater’s combination of winter scenery and historic charm makes it a reliable pick for a peaceful, scenic Christmas visit.

Canton transforms its historic courthouse square into a glowing holiday centerpiece. The lights wrap around the stately buildings, trees, and walkways, giving the whole area a warm, inviting look. The town usually hosts several Christmas activities throughout December, and the focus is always on family-friendly fun and community traditions.

The decorations stretch beyond the square, and the mix of local shops and seasonal displays makes it easy to linger downtown. Canton offers a classic holiday setting with a small-town Southern feel.

Branson treats Christmas as a full-season celebration. The town lights up with large displays, decorated streets, and a steady lineup of shows that lean into holiday themes. The entertainment side of Branson plays a big role here, and the result is a bright, busy Christmas season that draws visitors from all over.

The combination of lights, theaters, and festive attractions makes Branson feel energetic from morning to night. If you enjoy a more lively, colorful holiday experience with no shortage of things to do, Branson fits the bill.

Whitefish naturally looks like a Christmas town thanks to its snowy mountain backdrop and alpine architecture. Once December arrives, downtown fills with lights and decorations that highlight the surrounding scenery. The whole area feels crisp and bright, especially in the evenings when the snow reflects the glow.

The town has a relaxed pace, even during the holiday season, which makes it easy to enjoy the shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities without feeling rushed. Whitefish is a great choice for visitors who like their Christmas trips paired with winter landscapes.

Omaha puts a lot of focus on lights and downtown atmosphere during the holiday season. The Old Market district — with its brick streets, historic buildings, and cozy storefronts — looks especially good once the decorations go up. Simple touches like wreaths, string lights, and decorated windows give the area a warm, welcoming feel.

The city usually offers a mix of music, markets, and family-friendly events, but even without a set itinerary, wandering the Old Market at night feels festive on its own. Omaha blends big-city variety with small pockets of holiday charm, which makes it an easy and enjoyable December stop.

Reno brings a brighter, more colorful holiday look to its downtown and riverfront areas. Lights wrap around the trees and bridges along the Truckee River, and many of the shops, restaurants, and outdoor spaces add their own decorations to the mix. The city tends to keep things upbeat with seasonal activities and events that help fill out the month.

Even with its lively personality, Reno still manages to create some cozy corners around town where the lights feel calm and inviting. It’s a good fit for visitors who like a holiday atmosphere with a bit more energy and variety.

Portsmouth leans into its historic New England style during the holidays. The downtown area, with its brick buildings and narrow streets, looks especially charming once the lights, garlands, and wreaths go up. The town’s winter events often highlight its heritage, giving the season a comfortable, traditional feel.

The waterfront adds another layer of scenery, especially on clear December nights. Portsmouth’s mix of history, decoration, and walkability makes it a solid choice for anyone who likes a classic, understated Christmas setting.

Cape May turns into a Victorian-style holiday postcard thanks to its old homes, ornate architecture, and streets lined with period decorations. The historic district looks even more detailed once the lights and garlands are in place, and many of the inns and homes add their own touches that make nighttime walks especially pretty.

The town tends to keep a steady holiday schedule filled with trolley rides, tours, and small events, but the real charm comes from the overall look and feel of the neighborhoods. Cape May is a great pick for anyone who likes Christmas settings with a vintage, coastal twist.

Santa Fe brings a unique Southwestern style to the holiday season. The adobe buildings, luminarias, and soft golden lights give the city a warm glow that feels completely different from traditional Christmas decorations. The Plaza becomes the heart of the season, with lights wrapped around trees and classic luminaria displays creating a calm, inviting atmosphere.

The city mixes its cultural traditions, art, and food into the celebrations, so you get a holiday experience that feels distinct to northern New Mexico. If you enjoy Christmas settings with history, local flavor, and a totally different aesthetic, Santa Fe stands out.

Rhinebeck brings a lot of charm to the holidays with its historic buildings, small shops, and tree-lined streets that look their best once the lights go up. The town has a cozy, old-fashioned feel in December, and the decorations highlight that character without overdoing it. One of the biggest seasonal draws is its European-inspired winter festival atmosphere, where performances, costumes, and community traditions add some extra personality to the celebrations.

The whole downtown stays lively through the season, and the warm storefronts and decorated windows make it an easy place to spend time. Rhinebeck is a great option for visitors who want a holiday setting that feels cheerful, creative, and deeply tied to local tradition.

McAdenville is known for going all-out with its Christmas lights, turning the entire town into a glowing display that draws visitors from across the state. Homes, trees, and streets are covered in lights, creating a colorful, walkable route that feels more like a holiday attraction than a typical neighborhood. The community puts a lot of effort into keeping the tradition strong, and it shows in the details.

Because the lights stretch through much of the town, driving or walking through McAdenville feels like a complete Christmas experience on its own. It’s a solid pick for anyone who loves bright, cheerful holiday lights done on a hometown scale.

Medora brings a Western twist to the holidays, blending rugged Badlands scenery with festive decorations in its compact downtown. December tends to include themed celebrations and simple, community-focused events that fit the town’s personality well. Even without big displays, the combination of lights, historic buildings, and open landscapes creates a memorable winter setting.

The quieter pace works in Medora’s favor — it’s the kind of place where the scenery and small-town atmosphere do most of the work. Visitors looking for a holiday experience that feels different from the typical big-light displays will appreciate its charm.

Clifton is famous for one thing during the holidays: lights, and lots of them. The town’s massive seasonal display covers buildings, trees, bridges, and open spaces, creating a bright, colorful glow that fills the entire area. Even from a distance, you can see how much effort goes into setting everything up.

The surrounding village adds its own touches, with decorations and small shops that help round out the visit. Clifton offers a straightforward, full-on Christmas lights experience — exactly what many travelers are looking for this time of year.

Guthrie leans into its Victorian history during the holidays, which gives the town a distinctive look once the decorations go up. The brick streets, old storefronts, and classic architecture are already impressive, but the holiday season adds garlands, lamps, and warm lighting that highlight all the best details.

The town’s holiday celebrations usually include reenactments, markets, and parades that fit the Victorian theme without feeling overly theatrical. Guthrie is a good match for visitors who like a Christmas setting with a strong sense of character and a bit of old-fashioned flair.

Silverton has a relaxed, small-town holiday style that fits the surrounding countryside. The downtown area dresses up with lights and simple decorations, and the shops and cafés take on a warm, welcoming feel once December rolls around. One of the biggest draws this time of year is the Oregon Garden’s seasonal market and light displays, which add a festive glow to the edge of town.

The quiet streets, friendly locals, and easygoing atmosphere make Silverton a comfortable place to explore at your own pace. It’s a good pick for anyone who likes holiday trips that lean more cozy than crowded.

Bethlehem takes its nickname—Christmas City—seriously. The historic district looks especially good during the holidays with candles in the windows, lights across the old buildings, and a warm glow through the narrow streets. The town’s European influence shows up in its markets, decorations, and overall approach to the season.

The mix of history, architecture, and festive touches gives Bethlehem a classic holiday feel without tipping into anything too commercial. It’s a great destination for visitors who enjoy traditional Christmas settings with plenty of charm.

Newport blends coastal scenery with historic mansions, and both play a big role in its holiday style. The grand homes along Bellevue Avenue decorate for the season, and the lights and wreaths look striking against the old architecture. Downtown adds its own touches with glowing storefronts, decorated streets, and plenty of spots to warm up with food or drinks.

The combination of ocean views, detailed decorations, and historic charm gives Newport a distinctive holiday atmosphere. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who like Christmas celebrations with a bit of elegance and coastal personality.

Greenville lights up Main Street with a bright, inviting holiday look. The trees, storefronts, and walkways get decorated early in the season, and the whole downtown develops a warm, lively energy. Ice skating, small markets, and community events help fill out the month without making things feel too busy.

The downtown layout makes it easy to explore on foot, and the mix of restaurants and shops keeps things convenient. Greenville is a great option for a city-style Christmas that still feels friendly and laid back.

Deadwood brings a unique Old West twist to the holiday season. The historic buildings and wooden facades look even better once the town decorates with lights, greenery, and classic Christmas touches. December usually includes a few themed celebrations and parades that highlight Deadwood’s character in a fun, approachable way.

Even on quieter nights, the combination of holiday lights and old-style architecture makes the downtown area a memorable place for an evening walk. Deadwood offers a holiday experience that feels different from typical Christmas towns, but still warm and inviting.

Pigeon Forge goes big for the holidays, with lights and decorations stretching along the Parkway and into the surrounding attractions. The whole area feels bright and energetic this time of year, and the mountain backdrop adds a nice contrast to all the color. Dollywood’s Christmas season is a major draw, and it brings a warm, cozy feeling to the whole region even if you’re just passing through.

Shops, restaurants, and small entertainment spots join in on the decorating, so the town stays lively from morning to night. Pigeon Forge is a good match for visitors who like a high-energy, activity-filled Christmas trip with plenty to see and do.

Grapevine fully embraces its title as the Christmas Capital of Texas. The historic downtown area is packed with lights, garlands, and festive storefronts, creating a bright and cheerful atmosphere that stretches for blocks. The town puts a lot of effort into holiday shows, parades, and themed events, giving the season a long, steady rhythm.

The decorations and classic Texas hospitality make it an easy place to enjoy the holidays at your own pace. Whether you’re walking Main Street or stopping into the small shops and cafés, it’s hard not to get swept up in the Christmas spirit here.

Park City blends ski-town energy with a polished holiday look. Main Street winds uphill past old mining-era buildings that glow under string lights and mountain snow. Once December starts, the town feels especially welcoming, with decorated storefronts and plenty of spots to warm up after a day outside.

The mix of snow, scenery, and historic architecture gives Park City a classic winter feel. Visitors can enjoy the slopes by day and then settle into a bright, lively downtown at night — a combination that makes the holiday season here feel both relaxed and festive.

Woodstock delivers the kind of Christmas atmosphere people imagine when they think of a snowy New England village. The historic homes, white church steeple, and small shops all look even better once the wreaths and lights go up. The town’s holiday traditions, including outdoor decorations and community gatherings, help create a warm, timeless mood.

Snow-covered fields and quiet backroads add to the charm, making Woodstock feel peaceful even as the season gets busy. It’s an ideal spot for visitors who want a classic, postcard-style Christmas with beautiful scenery and a slower pace.

Williamsburg leans into its colonial history during the holidays, using simple greenery, candles, and traditional decorations to give the town a warm, old-fashioned feel. The historic district looks especially pretty in December, with its wide streets, brick buildings, and lantern light that fits the season perfectly.

The mix of history and holiday charm creates a calm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're walking through the historic area or exploring modern shops nearby, Williamsburg offers a Christmas experience that feels classic without being overly elaborate.

Leavenworth looks like it was built for Christmas. The Bavarian-style buildings, mountain backdrop, and heavy use of lights give the whole town a bright, festive feel from the moment you arrive. December adds even more charm as storefronts decorate, music fills the village, and visitors wander the streets taking in the glow.

The town stays lively throughout the season, with plenty of places to grab warm drinks, enjoy treats, and explore the little shops that line the main streets. Leavenworth’s combination of alpine scenery and holiday enthusiasm makes it one of the most memorable Christmas destinations in the Northwest.

Lewisburg brings a small-town, artsy vibe to the holiday season. The historic downtown dresses up with lights, wreaths, and simple decorations that highlight the town’s brick buildings and cozy storefronts. Local shops and galleries add their own touches, giving the whole place a warm, creative atmosphere.

The town’s holiday events tend to focus on community, music, and local traditions, which helps keep things relaxed and welcoming. Lewisburg is a great fit for visitors who enjoy a quieter Christmas setting with plenty of charm tucked into its streets.

Cedarburg feels like a classic holiday postcard once December arrives. The stone buildings, historic mills, and decorated streets all take on a warm glow under the winter lights. The town usually keeps a full schedule of seasonal events, but even on quieter days the decorations alone make it fun to wander around.

The shops and cafés contribute to the cozy feel, and the walkable downtown makes it easy to explore everything at a comfortable pace. Cedarburg offers a traditional Midwest Christmas with plenty of character and charm.

Jackson pairs Western style with a snowy mountain landscape, giving its holiday season a rugged but warm look. The famous antler arches on the town square get wrapped in lights, and the storefronts along the wooden sidewalks decorate in a way that fits the area’s rustic personality.

The surrounding peaks and wide-open scenery add a winter feel that’s hard to match. Jackson is a great choice for visitors who want Christmas vibes mixed with outdoor adventure and dramatic landscapes.