In the spirit of the beloved carol “The 12 Days of Christmas,” we thought it would be fun to share the festivities of 11 favorite Christmas towns. From traditional to magical, these destinations will help make your holiday wishes come true. Why only 11? Because, on that 12th day of Christmas, we know your favorite destination is home.
Georgetown, Colorado
The magic of Georgetown, Colorado will transport you to a bygone era. Embrace the timeless charm of the Georgetown Christmas Market while shopping for handcrafted gifts and other unique finds; admission is free. Savor roasted chestnuts, relish a ride in a horse-drawn wagon, enjoy classic holiday treats, witness the Santa Lucia procession and listen to carolers attired in Victorian garb.
Explore its historic properties adorned for the season on the Christmas Market Museum Tour, which features the Hamill House, Hotel de Paris, Energy Museum and The Old School. Then let the holiday spirit continue with a Santa-themed train ride, which offers cozy club cars and heated coach options.
Durango, Colorado
Discover the enchanting holiday spirit in Durango, Colorado. Hop aboard the Polar Express for a 26-mile journey through snow-capped mountains with scenic views of the San Juan National Forest and Animas River. Once you’re back at the station, enjoy Christmas shopping on Main Ave. or hit the slopes at the family-friendly Purgatory Resort for some skiing fun.
Taos, New Mexico
From Thanksgiving through the new year, Taos, New Mexico comes alive with unique Yuletide celebrations that blend Native American, Spanish, Mexican and modern American cultures. Witness the beauty of candles in paper sacks, called farolitos, which line the streets creating a warm glow on the coldest desert nights.
Park City, UT
Enjoy a memorable holiday in the breathtaking mountain town of Park City, Utah. First, take in the Electric Light Parade, then head over to Miner’s Park to see the town Christmas tree. The holiday displays at Stein Eriksen Lodge are known for their giant gingerbread creation. Take a ride on the North Pole Express and visit the Egyptian Theater for “Christmas with the Celts.”
Branson, Missouri
Known as “America’s Christmas Tree City,” your Branson, Missouri adventure should begin at the Ozark Mountain Christmas Festival, a month-long extravaganza featuring festive music, dazzling light displays and incredible parades. “An Old Time Christmas” at the Silver Dollar City theme park, Santa appearances and live shows. Explore the gingerbread village at the Chateau and hop aboard the Branson Scenic Railway's Polar Express, complete with hot chocolate.
Galena, Illinois
Experience a picture-perfect Christmas in the historic and charming town of Galena, Illinois. For a festive escape, experience the Mistletoe Stroll, the Holiday Fire in the Sky fireworks show and the Territory Holiday Market. Stay in cozy digs like the Romantic Cottage, Sunrise Villa, or Irish Cottage Inn & Suites.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Looking for a holiday surprise? Enjoy festive delights like ice skating, seemingly never-ending Christmas lights and unique displays, such as the Bellagio Conservatory, where massive holiday displays are created using flowers and plants. Watch the Bellagio fountains dance to holiday favorites and skate the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas's Ice Rink.
Bardstown, Kentucky
Under an hour from Louisville, Bardstown, Kentucky is a charming small town, well known for its bourbon heritage and classic bourbon tours. While in Bardstown during the holiday season, take time to explore “Merry & Bright” at My Old Kentucky Home, ride the North Pole Express and enjoy its Kiwanis Club's Annual Christmas Parade. Then visit the Heaven Hill Distillery for a holiday Bourbon Experience.
Frankenmuth, Michigan
The Bavarian charm of Frankenmuth, known as “Michigan's Little Bavaria,” delights with a traditional Christkindlmarkt, whimsical light displays, over 150 colorfully decorated trees along Main Street and a 40-foot Christmas tree and music show in the town’s center. Embrace Frankenmuth’s European culture by staying at the Bavarian Inn Lodge. Visit Bronner's CHRISTmas Wonderland—the world's largest Christmas store.
Leavenworth, Washington
Known for its Bavarian-style charm, Leavenworth, Washington transforms into a magical Christmas town each December, featuring the annual Village of Lights Christmastown Festival. While there, take in the Nutcracker Museum, visit the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm and savor Leavenworth’s seasonal scents and sounds. Perhaps you’ll meet Santa's transit workers!
Santa Claus, Indiana
Known as “America's Christmas Hometown,” Santa Claus, Indiana, lives up to its name by offering Christmas-themed parades, craft shows and enchanting light displays. Delight in staying at Santa’s Lodge, visiting Santa's Candy Castle, exploring the Santa Claus Museum and Village, browsing over 8,000 Christmas ornaments at the Santa Claus Christmas Store and driving through the 1.2-mile holiday light show, Santa's Land of Lights.
"Savor roasted chestnuts, relish a ride in a horse-drawn wagon, enjoy classic holiday treats, witness the Santa Lucia procession and listen to carolers attired in Victorian garb."