15 U.S. Destinations That Celebrate the Holiday Season with Festivals
During the holiday season, several U.S. destinations come alive with vibrant festivals and events. These celebrations provide a unique way to experience the season, blending tradition with festive fun. Whether you are drawn to snow-covered streets or colorful holiday markets, each destination has its own way of marking the occasion. It is the perfect time to explore these locations and get into the holiday spirit.
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New York City, New York
New York City’s holiday season is nothing short of iconic. The city sparkles with dazzling lights, festive markets, and incredible performances, making it a must-visit destination. The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree stands as one of the most famous holiday symbols in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. The atmosphere is electric, with attractions such as ice skating at Bryant Park and the grand window displays along Fifth Avenue.
The city’s vibrant holiday festivals add even more charm. The Christmas markets in Union Square and Columbus Circle offer unique gifts and seasonal treats. Additionally, performances like the Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes provide entertainment for the whole family. From Broadway shows to holiday shopping, New York City is the ultimate place to embrace the season.
Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth, Washington, is a Bavarian-style village that goes all out during the holiday season. The town transforms into a winter wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights decorating every corner. The Leavenworth Christmas Lighting Festival is the main event, where the entire village is illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere. Visitors can also enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride, perfect for experiencing the winter charm.
Leavenworth is known for its festive atmosphere and welcoming spirit. The Christmas market is filled with local crafts, holiday treats, and traditional Bavarian food. Visitors can enjoy live music performances and indulge in hot cocoa or mulled wine. This cozy town makes for a picturesque holiday getaway, with something for everyone.
Natchitoches, Louisiana
Natchitoches, Louisiana, is known for its impressive Christmas festival, the Festival of Lights. The event is one of the oldest holiday festivals in the country, attracting visitors with its stunning light displays along the Cane River. Thousands of lights adorn the historic district, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. The festival also features live entertainment, boat tours, and local craft vendors.
The city’s charming ambiance is enhanced by its Southern hospitality. In addition to the lights, Natchitoches offers holiday shopping at local boutiques and delicious Southern food. The town is also home to several historic homes, making it a perfect destination for those who enjoy combining history with holiday cheer. Natchitoches is a unique Southern experience during the holidays.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is renowned for its spectacular holiday events, including the Christmas Market at Daley Plaza, a European-style market filled with handcrafted goods and delicious treats. The city also hosts the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, where over a million lights illuminate the famous shopping street. Visitors can enjoy live performances, parades, and an ice skating rink at Millennium Park.
Chicago’s holiday season is full of family-friendly activities, from visiting the Lincoln Park Zoo’s ZooLights display to exploring holiday-themed exhibits at the Art Institute of Chicago. The city is also known for its iconic holiday displays, such as the windows at Macy’s State Street. Chicago’s festive energy is sure to make anyone’s holiday season brighter.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe’s holiday season blends Southwestern traditions with festive cheer. The city’s historic adobe buildings are adorned with thousands of farolitos, small paper lanterns that light up the streets. The Santa Fe Winter Indian Market showcases Native American art and crafts, offering a unique holiday shopping experience. Visitors can also enjoy traditional holiday performances and music, highlighting the city’s diverse culture.
Santa Fe’s Christmas Eve Lantern Walk is a peaceful and magical tradition. The city’s rich history and artistic atmosphere make it a perfect destination for those looking to enjoy a more serene holiday experience. You can stroll through the town, soaking in the lights and enjoying the crisp winter air. Santa Fe offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage and holiday joy.
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville, North Carolina, is known for its winter beauty and holiday cheer. The Biltmore Estate, America’s largest privately-owned home, hosts a magnificent holiday display, including beautifully decorated trees, festive lights, and a Christmas tour. The estate’s winter garden and candlelight tours are especially popular, offering visitors a glimpse of the grandeur of the season.
The downtown area of Asheville also comes alive during the holidays with local markets, street performances, and festive events. Visitors can enjoy the local holiday spirit with a stroll through the winter wonderland that is Asheville. The city’s vibrant arts scene, along with its cozy mountain backdrop, makes it a perfect destination to celebrate the season.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a beloved destination in the Smoky Mountains, especially during the holidays. The Smoky Mountain Winterfest transforms the town with millions of twinkling lights and festive displays. Visitors can enjoy Christmas parades, horse-drawn carriage rides, and explore unique shops filled with holiday goods. The Winter Magic light display is a popular attraction, offering visitors a chance to see the town lit up in vibrant colors.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Gatlinburg offers holiday hiking experiences with scenic views of the surrounding mountains. The town’s holiday celebrations are complemented by festive activities, including ice skating and holiday-themed shows. Gatlinburg’s winter wonderland offers a mix of natural beauty and holiday joy, perfect for families and nature lovers alike.
Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City is a prime destination for holiday festivals, especially with its famous ZooLights display at the Hogle Zoo. The Winter Market at the Gateway Mall offers visitors the chance to shop for local arts and crafts while enjoying the festive atmosphere. The downtown area is also home to the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony, which marks the beginning of the holiday season.
Salt Lake City’s historic Temple Square is beautifully decorated with millions of lights, creating a stunning visual spectacle. Visitors can enjoy free concerts, holiday-themed performances, and stroll around the beautifully lit streets. Whether you are interested in shopping, attending concerts, or simply enjoying the holiday lights, Salt Lake City provides a range of activities for everyone.
Orlando, Florida
Orlando, Florida, is a popular holiday destination thanks to its famous theme parks. Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with festive parades, fireworks, and light displays. Universal Studios also offers its own holiday festivities, including themed attractions and Christmas shows.
In addition to the theme parks, Orlando’s holiday celebrations extend to events like the Festival of Trees at Leu Gardens and the Ice! exhibit at the Gaylord Palms Resort. Visitors can enjoy themed performances, shopping at holiday markets, and visiting festive dining spots. Orlando’s blend of theme park magic and holiday charm makes it an ideal destination for family fun.
Branson, Missouri
Branson, Missouri, is known for its impressive holiday shows and festivities. The city hosts the annual Ozark Mountain Christmas, which includes millions of Christmas lights, live performances, and a variety of holiday-themed attractions. Silver Dollar City, a popular theme park, transforms into a Christmas village with rides, festive music, and spectacular light displays.
Visitors can also enjoy holiday shopping at Branson’s many outlet malls or attend live theater performances, where classic holiday shows are staged. Branson’s combination of outdoor winter activities and live entertainment makes it a unique place to celebrate the season. The small-town charm adds to its appeal, making it a cozy yet exciting destination.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia is a historic city that celebrates the holidays with a blend of tradition and modern excitement. The Christmas Village at Love Park features a European-style holiday market with food, gifts, and live entertainment. Visitors can also enjoy the annual light show at Macy’s, where the department store’s windows are adorned with festive decorations.
Philadelphia’s festive spirit continues with the annual Holiday Garden Railway at the Philadelphia Zoo, showcasing miniature trains and holiday decorations. The city’s historic charm provides the perfect backdrop for visitors who want to experience both history and holiday magic. Philadelphia’s vibrant holiday festivals make it an unforgettable place to visit during the season.
San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio, Texas, embraces the holiday season with its beautiful River Walk lights and festive celebrations. The Holiday River Parade and Lighting Ceremony kicks off the season, where colorful lights illuminate the iconic waterway. The River Walk is lined with cafes, shops, and boats, making it a scenic and festive place to stroll.
In addition to the River Walk, San Antonio hosts a number of cultural events during the holiday season, including the Ford Holiday River Parade and the Alamo Lights. Visitors can experience the city’s blend of Mexican and Texan holiday traditions through festive foods, music, and markets. San Antonio’s warm weather and festive spirit make it a great destination for those seeking a lively holiday getaway.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston, South Carolina, is known for its beautiful historic charm, and the city goes all out during the holiday season. The Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park features spectacular light displays and a holiday market. The city’s historic district is also beautifully decorated, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere for visitors.
In addition to the light displays, Charleston offers holiday events such as Christmas carriage rides and festive food tours. The city’s rich cultural heritage and Southern hospitality shine through during the holiday season. Charleston’s warm weather and charming ambiance make it an ideal destination for a relaxing holiday getaway.
Denver, Colorado
Denver, Colorado, is known for its winter beauty and holiday celebrations. The city hosts the Denver Christkindlmarket, a traditional German Christmas market that offers handcrafted gifts and delicious seasonal treats. The Denver Botanic Gardens also transforms into a winter wonderland with thousands of holiday lights, providing visitors with a magical experience.
In addition to the holiday markets and light displays, Denver offers ice skating, seasonal performances, and festive dining options. The city’s location in the Rockies provides a perfect backdrop for winter activities, such as skiing and snowboarding. Denver’s combination of outdoor adventure and holiday cheer makes it a perfect destination for winter celebrations.
Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara, California, offers a unique holiday experience with its mild winter weather and coastal beauty. The city hosts its annual Holiday Parade, where local floats, marching bands, and performers come together to celebrate the season. The downtown area is also beautifully decorated with holiday lights, and visitors can enjoy strolling through the festive streets.
In addition to the parade, Santa Barbara offers holiday shopping at local boutiques and the popular Santa Barbara Arts and Crafts Show. Visitors can relax on the beach while enjoying the holiday decorations, making it a perfect destination for those who want a blend of holiday cheer and scenic beauty. Santa Barbara’s laid-back holiday spirit offers a refreshing twist on traditional winter celebrations.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.