Seven best small towns to visit at Christmas
Small towns, big holiday spirit
Imagine strolling through a picturesque town square blanketed in snow and twinkling holiday lights, sipping hot cocoa while celebrating the season with the locals. The following seven small towns have earned their reputation as holiday havens, each boasting a distinct charm and a lineup of festive events that make the season even merrier.
This Bavarian-style village transforms into a winter wonderland during the holidays, with over half a million twinkling lights adorning the town. The Village of Lights: Christmastown festival runs all December, creating a magical atmosphere.
The Christmas Lighting Festival features live music performances, visits from Santa, and the spectacular lighting ceremony. The Christkindlmarkt offers traditional German foods, handmade crafts, and entertainment.
Nordic skiing and snowshoeing on scenic trails, sledding at local parks like Front Street Park, and visiting the reindeer at Leavenworth Reindeer Farm.
This quintessential New England town becomes a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with snow-covered streets and twinkling lights. The town's historic covered bridges and charming Main Street create a postcard-perfect setting.
Wassail Weekend is a festive celebration featuring holiday home tours, a parade, and traditional Norse horseback riding demonstrations. The Woodstock Inn & Resort hosts special holiday events and dinners.
Go on a sleigh ride through the picturesque Kedron Valley and go snow tubing at the Killington Tubing Park.
Taos offers a unique blend of Native American, Spanish, and Anglo holiday traditions, creating a truly distinctive Christmas experience. The town's adobe buildings are adorned with farolitos, creating a warm glow on winter nights.
The Lighting of Ledoux features bonfires, farolitos, and caroling along historic Ledoux Street. The Taos Pueblo Christmas Eve celebration combines Native American traditions with Catholic midnight mass.
Take a scenic drive to see the holiday lights, visit local art galleries for unique art, and soak in nearby hot springs.
Branson transforms into a dazzling Christmas destination, with millions of lights illuminating the Ozark Mountains and festive shows filling the theaters. The combination of family-friendly entertainment and holiday cheer draws visitors from across the country.
An Old Time Christmas at Silver Dollar City features over 6.5 million lights, two Broadway-style shows, and a 5-story special effects Christmas tree. The Branson Scenic Railway's Polar Express Train Ride brings the beloved children's book to life.
Enjoy holiday-themed shows at Branson's many theaters, drive through the Trail of Lights at Shepherd of the Hills, or go shopping at Branson Landing, which features a spectacular fire and water show set to Christmas music.
This historic coastal town offers a unique blend of holiday cheer and balmy weather, making it perfect for those seeking a warm Christmas getaway. The city's Spanish colonial architecture provides a stunning backdrop for millions of twinkling lights.
The Nights of Lights festival bathes the entire downtown in a warm glow, with over three million lights adorning buildings, trees, and bridges. The St. Augustine Holiday Regatta of Lights features a dazzling parade of boats decked out in holiday decor.
Take a trolley tour to see the lights, enjoy holiday concerts at the Cathedral Basilica, or visit the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum for their Luminary Night event.
Durango transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, offering a perfect blend of Old West charm and holiday magic. The snow-capped San Juan Mountains provide a picturesque backdrop for festive celebrations.
The Polar Express train ride, based on the beloved children's book, takes families on a magical journey to the "North Pole." Noel Night, a downtown celebration, features special offers at local merchants, entertainment, and holiday treats.
Go skiing or snowboarding at nearby Purgatory Resort, take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snowy landscape, or enjoy holiday shopping in the historic downtown area.
This lakeside town becomes a magical holiday destination, with its stunning lake views and festive atmosphere. The combination of natural beauty and holiday cheer creates a truly enchanting experience.
The Holiday Light Show features over 1.5 million lights and the world's tallest living Christmas tree. The Journey to the North Pole Cruise takes visitors across Lake Coeur d'Alene to Santa's workshop, complete with a fireworks display.
Go ice skating at the outdoor rink in McEuen Park, enjoy winter sports at nearby ski resorts, or take a stroll through the festively decorated downtown area to shop and dine.
