The holiday season is here, and there is no better way to celebrate than by visiting a charming town that comes alive with the spirit of Christmas. From freshly baked treats, the scent of mulled wine, festive decorations, tractor parades down Main Street, horse drawn carriages, twinkling lights and more, these towns can make you feel like you are right in the middle of a Hallmark Christmas movie.
We all have our own traditions from Elf on the Shelf to Yule Logs, but why not establish a new tradition of journeying to a town that exudes Christmas spirit and will be sure to put you in a festive mood? Here are three perfect destinations to experience the magic of Christmas.
1. Vienna, Austria
Vienna is said to be home to the world’s largest Christmas market in the world. Christkindlmarkt am Rathausplatz, located in the Innere Stadt district of Vienna, is home to more than 100 wooden stalls where you can find items like mulled wine, Viennese delicacies and handmade wooden toys.
There are more than a dozen additional Christmas markets in Vienna to explore. Each sells a vast array of seasonal gifts and treats. It’s the perfect place to find a unique Christmas gift for the special people in your life.
The literal translation of Christkindlmarkt is “Christ Child Market,” which is usually referred to as an angel-like “Spirit of Christmas.” Journey to Vienna to experience this angel-like Spirit of Christmas, all while sipping on a hot mug of mulled wine!
2. Calistoga, California
Nestled in the heart of Napa Valley is the charming town of Calistoga. Storefront shops, art galleries and restaurants are adorned with twinkling lights and holiday decorations, and are brimming with festive activities and one-of-a-kind gifts.
Even the world class wineries get into the spirit and light up their vineyards. Cozy up by a fire, sip on your favorite wine, and learn about what wines to pair with your traditional holiday meals.
Calistoga’s annual Lighted Tractor Parade is not to be missed! A parade unlike any other, where tractors are lovingly decorated every December with colorful holiday lights and ornaments. Each one is a unique and creative masterpiece. This parade has been bringing the community together for more than 24 years.
Calistoga’s scenic beauty, small-town charm, romantic vineyards and authentic Victorian architecture combine to create an atmosphere that feels straight out of a Hallmark movie. Embrace the cozy Christmas charm of this picturesque town, and let the beauty of Calistoga make your holiday season unforgettable.
3. Woodstock, Vermont
Though it’s charming year around, Woodstock truly transforms into an idyllic Christmas town. This picture-perfect locale welcomes visitors to experience a quintessential New England Christmas. Here you will find colonial architecture, snow-covered streets, decorated historic houses, and the sounds of holiday music throughout the village.
Visit during Wassail Weekend to see the town at its Christmas best. This cherished local tradition features horse-drawn carriage rides, caroling on the green, and a famous parade, where villagers don period costumes and celebrate the season! Visitors can skate with Santa, sip warm cider, and immerse themselves in the town’s rich heritage.
Outdoor enthusiasts can engage in activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and exploring the serene beauty of Vermont’s countryside. Whether you’re partaking in traditional festivities, enjoying farm-fresh cuisine, or relaxing by a roaring fireplace, Woodstock captures the true essence of Christmas straight out of a storybook.
Enjoy VIP amenities at featured properties in these locations, including breakfast daily, resort credits upgrades and more. Email me at yvonne@theshamelesstourist.com.
