13 Cities With December Festivals Worth Planning A Trip Around
December is the perfect time to travel and experience the magic of festive celebrations around the world. From the twinkling lights of European Christmas markets to vibrant cultural festivals in tropical destinations, there’s something for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking cozy winter charm or a warm holiday escape, these cities offer unforgettable experiences filled with tradition, seasonal cheer, and unique holiday activities. Plan your trip to one of these incredible destinations and make this December truly special.
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Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg, known as the “Capital of Christmas,” is a city that fully embraces the spirit of the season. The city’s Christmas market, dating back to 1570, is one of the oldest and most famous in Europe. During December, the historic centre of Strasbourg is adorned with sparkling lights, and its cobblestone streets are lined with over 300 wooden chalets selling everything from handcrafted ornaments to delicious seasonal treats. The market stretches across several squares, but the heart of the celebration is around Strasbourg’s magnificent cathedral. The towering spires of the cathedral are illuminated, adding to the festive atmosphere, and visitors can enjoy performances, local music, and the ever-popular smell of mulled wine and freshly baked gingerbread.
The city is also known for its fusion of French and German cultures, reflected in its food and traditions. Strasbourg’s Alsatian specialties, such as tarte flambée (a savory flatbread topped with cheese and onions) and Kougelhopf (a spongy, spiced cake), are must-tries during the market season. Visitors can stroll through the many themed markets, including one focused on local artisan products and another dedicated to fine wines and gourmet delicacies. The combination of Strasbourg’s rich history, breathtaking architecture, and festive spirit makes it a top destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable Christmas experience.
Munich, Germany
Munich is home to one of Germany’s most beloved and traditional Christmas markets, which takes place in the heart of the city at Marienplatz. This market has been a part of the city’s holiday celebrations for centuries, offering a festive atmosphere complete with twinkling lights, the sounds of Christmas carols, and the smell of spiced wine and roasted chestnuts in the air. The stalls, set against the iconic backdrop of the New Town Hall, offer a wide variety of goods, including handcrafted ornaments, wooden toys, and traditional Bavarian crafts. Munich’s market is renowned for its cozy, festive feel and is perfect for visitors looking to immerse themselves in a truly traditional German holiday experience.
In addition to the main Christmas market, Munich features several other seasonal events, such as the medieval-themed market, which transports visitors back in time with its wooden huts, live performances, and medieval-style crafts. The food at Munich’s Christmas markets is another major draw, with plenty of Bavarian specialties to sample. Whether it’s bratwurst sausages, gingerbread cookies, or a cup of hot mulled wine, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Munich’s festive spirit extends beyond the markets, with ice skating rinks, holiday concerts, and charming Christmas lights illuminating the city, making it a fantastic holiday destination.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna is a city that effortlessly combines classical elegance with festive charm during the holiday season. The Christmas markets here are some of the best in Europe, with the one in front of the City Hall being the most famous. This market is renowned for its festive atmosphere, with rows of stalls selling beautiful handcrafted decorations, aromatic candles, and traditional Austrian treats. Visitors can warm up with a cup of Glühwein (mulled wine) while admiring the impressive architecture surrounding them. The scent of roasted chestnuts fills the air, and the dazzling lights on the City Hall and surrounding trees create an enchanting atmosphere that is perfect for families and couples alike.
In addition to the classic Christmas market, Vienna offers several other unique seasonal experiences. The market at Schloss Schönbrunn, the imperial palace, features over 70 stalls offering handcrafted gifts and gourmet food. Another highlight is the “Dream Christmas Market” at the Belvedere Palace, which offers a more romantic, fairytale-like atmosphere. Vienna is also famous for its winter concerts, including performances by the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, adding a musical touch to the festive season. With its combination of history, music, and beautiful holiday decorations, Vienna offers a luxurious and magical experience for anyone visiting during December.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai, located in northern Thailand, offers a unique and colorful way to celebrate the holiday season. While it may not feature the classic Christmas markets of Europe, Chiang Mai is home to the enchanting Yi Peng Lantern Festival, which takes place in November but sets the stage for a magical December atmosphere. During this time, the city lights up with thousands of lanterns floating into the sky, creating an unforgettable sight. The festival is a deeply spiritual event that celebrates the full moon and the end of the rainy season. As December approaches, the city remains vibrant with festive lanterns and cultural celebrations that draw both locals and tourists alike.
The December celebrations in Chiang Mai are also marked by unique Thai customs, including traditional performances, food markets, and the chance to explore the city’s famous temples decorated with bright lights and flowers. The food in Chiang Mai is a major highlight during the holiday season, with street vendors offering local delicacies such as khao soi (a coconut curry noodle soup) and sai oua (a flavorful northern Thai sausage). While not a typical “Christmas” destination, Chiang Mai offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere with its distinct blend of holiday cheer and Thai cultural traditions.
Hong Kong, China
Hong Kong is a vibrant city that offers a dazzling blend of holiday spirit and modern festivities. In December, the city comes alive with extravagant light displays, holiday shopping sales, and festive events that attract visitors from all over the world. The Hong Kong Winterfest is a major event that lights up the city’s skyline with dazzling displays, particularly around the harbor. Visitors can enjoy the spectacular Christmas tree at Statue Square and the festive decorations along Tsim Sha Tsui, creating a magical atmosphere. The city’s shopping malls are also transformed into winter wonderlands, making it a great destination for those looking to combine holiday shopping with seasonal cheer.
Hong Kong is also known for its diverse and delicious food scene, with seasonal treats such as Christmas-themed dim sum and sweet pastries available at local bakeries. For those looking for unique holiday experiences, Hong Kong offers the chance to celebrate Christmas with a mix of traditional Western celebrations and local customs. You can visit the famous Hong Kong Disneyland, which is decked out in festive decorations, or attend one of the many Christmas concerts and events hosted around the city. With its blend of East and West, Hong Kong offers a truly special holiday experience that is both exciting and culturally rich.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
While Rio de Janeiro is better known for its Carnival celebrations, the city’s December festivities offer a unique and vibrant way to experience the holidays in the Southern Hemisphere. In Brazil, Christmas occurs during the summer, so the weather is warm, and celebrations are held outdoors. Rio’s Copacabana beach becomes a focal point for celebrations, where locals gather for massive New Year’s Eve parties. The famous “Reveillon” is celebrated with fireworks, live music, and a colorful display of fashion as people dress in white to bring good luck for the year ahead. This energetic festival creates a lively and joyful atmosphere, making it a fantastic destination for those looking to experience Christmas with a tropical twist.
Rio’s Christmas celebrations also include festive concerts, local food markets, and religious events. The city’s Christmas tree in Lagoa is one of the world’s largest floating Christmas trees, and it lights up the night with its vibrant colors, becoming a beloved sight for locals and tourists alike. In addition to the festive events, visitors can enjoy Rio’s world-class beaches and stunning views of Sugarloaf Mountain, combining the holiday season with some of the most scenic landscapes in the world. Rio de Janeiro’s December festivities are unlike any other, offering a vibrant and lively way to celebrate the holiday season.
Lapland, Finland
Lapland, located in the northernmost part of Finland, is the perfect place to experience a magical winter wonderland in December. This region is renowned for being the official home of Santa Claus, and every year, thousands of visitors travel to the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi to meet Santa and enjoy the festive activities. In addition to visiting Santa, Lapland offers the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Arctic Circle. Visitors can enjoy activities like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and viewing the mesmerizing Northern Lights, all while surrounded by snow-covered forests and reindeer.
The Christmas celebrations in Lapland are truly enchanting, with the area’s traditional wooden houses decorated in festive lights and markets offering unique holiday crafts and gifts. The region is also home to the Yule Goat Festival, an ancient Finnish tradition where people dress as the Yule Goat and participate in celebrations that include singing, dancing, and feasting. Whether it’s exploring the snowy landscapes or indulging in local Finnish delicacies, Lapland provides an unforgettable holiday experience that captures the magic of Christmas in the most unique way possible.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai may be known for its modern luxury, but during December, the city transforms into a holiday paradise. Dubai’s Christmas celebrations feature extravagant light displays, festive shopping, and themed events at world-class shopping malls like The Dubai Mall. The city’s Christmas markets offer a blend of traditional European holiday charm with a Middle Eastern twist, where visitors can find everything from handcrafted gifts to local sweets and spices. Dubai is also known for its winter-themed events, including ice skating rinks and festive performances, providing visitors with plenty of options for family-friendly fun.
While Christmas may not be as widely celebrated in the UAE as it is in other countries, Dubai makes up for it with its luxurious take on the holiday season. Many of the city’s top hotels host extravagant Christmas brunches and dinners, offering international cuisines with a touch of holiday flair. For those seeking a unique holiday experience, Dubai also boasts a variety of desert safaris and warm weather experiences, making it the perfect destination for those looking to escape colder climates while still enjoying festive cheer.
Quebec City, Canada
Quebec City is a magical place to visit in December, especially if you’re looking for a classic winter experience. This charming, French-speaking city offers a picturesque setting with cobblestone streets and historic buildings covered in snow, making it feel like a holiday postcard come to life. The Old Quebec Christmas Market is the centerpiece of the festive season, where visitors can find handmade gifts, cozy up with a hot cup of cider, and enjoy delicious traditional Quebecois treats like tourtière (meat pie) and maple taffy. The festive lights that adorn the city’s landmarks, like the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, make it an enchanting destination for holiday travelers.
In addition to the market, Quebec City offers a variety of winter activities, from ice skating at Place d’Youville to dog sledding in the nearby countryside. The city’s festive atmosphere is complemented by performances, parades, and concerts that celebrate both French and Canadian holiday traditions. For those looking for a truly magical experience, a visit to the Hotel de Glace, an ice hotel that is rebuilt each year with intricate ice sculptures and rooms made entirely of ice, is a must-see. Quebec City in December offers the perfect mix of winter wonderland beauty and festive charm.
New York City, USA
New York City is iconic for its December festivities, offering something for everyone during the holiday season. The city is famous for its enormous Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, which draws thousands of visitors every year. This towering tree, adorned with thousands of lights and topped with a sparkling star, is a must-see for anyone visiting the city during the holidays. The holiday windows of department stores like Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue are another attraction, with elaborate displays that capture the magic of the season. New York City is also home to a variety of ice skating rinks, including the rink at Rockefeller Plaza and the one at Bryant Park, where visitors can skate beneath the glow of Christmas lights.
Beyond the festive decorations and events, New York City is known for its vibrant cultural offerings during December. Broadway shows, holiday concerts, and ballet performances like the “Nutcracker” at Lincoln Center are staples of the season. Visitors can enjoy a holiday walk through Central Park, which looks stunning covered in a blanket of snow, or explore the city’s many holiday markets, where they can find unique gifts, seasonal foods, and festive decorations. With its dazzling lights, holiday cheer, and endless things to do, New York City is an unforgettable destination for a December getaway.
Madrid, Spain
Madrid in December is a blend of traditional Spanish holiday celebrations and modern festive flair. The city is known for its dazzling Christmas lights, especially in the neighborhoods of Gran Vía and Puerta del Sol, which are adorned with elaborate light displays. One of Madrid’s most beloved holiday traditions is the Mercado de Navidad (Christmas Market), located in Plaza Mayor, where visitors can find an array of Christmas decorations, nativity scene figurines, and artisanal gifts. The market also offers plenty of delicious Spanish treats like turrón (nougat) and churros with hot chocolate, making it a perfect stop for anyone looking to indulge in holiday flavors.
In addition to the markets and lights, Madrid offers plenty of other holiday experiences. The Royal Palace hosts an annual Christmas concert, and the city’s many theaters feature seasonal performances, including ballet and classical music concerts. Madrid is also known for its festive parades and celebrations, such as the Cabalgata de Reyes (Three Kings Parade), which takes place on the night of January 5th and kicks off the holiday season’s grand finale. With its lively atmosphere and blend of tradition and modernity, Madrid is a fantastic city to visit for those seeking a warm and festive December getaway.
Sydney, Australia
While the Northern Hemisphere celebrates Christmas in the cold, Sydney offers a sunny and festive holiday experience in December. The city’s Christmas celebrations are unique, as they take place during the summer, with warm weather allowing for beach parties and outdoor events. The Sydney Christmas Tree, located in Martin Place, is a major attraction, towering over the crowd with stunning decorations and lighting. The Christmas markets around The Rocks offer a variety of handcrafted gifts, food, and holiday treats, while the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge provide a stunning backdrop to the season’s festivities.
Sydney’s holiday celebrations are marked by an outdoor lifestyle, with many residents and visitors enjoying barbecues, beach outings, and holiday picnics in the sun. The city also hosts a variety of outdoor concerts and events, including the Sydney Christmas Concert, which features performances by local and international artists. Additionally, the Australian tradition of Carols by Candlelight, a holiday concert where people gather in outdoor parks to sing carols, is celebrated with enthusiasm across the city. Sydney’s Christmas celebrations offer a refreshing twist on the holiday season, combining traditional festivities with the beauty of summer.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam in December is a city of cozy cafes, festive lights, and seasonal delights. The Amsterdam Light Festival transforms the city’s canals and streets into a dazzling display of art installations and light sculptures. Visitors can take a boat tour to view the illuminated works of art from the water, or simply stroll through the historic streets to admire the lights. The city’s Christmas markets, especially the one at Museumplein, offer a variety of holiday goods, including handmade decorations, gifts, and delicious Dutch treats like poffertjes (mini pancakes) and hot chocolate.
In addition to the Christmas markets, Amsterdam is known for its unique winter experiences. Visitors can explore the city’s world-class museums, such as the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, or take a winter canal cruise, where the city’s historic buildings are beautifully reflected in the water. Ice skating is another popular activity in Amsterdam during December, with temporary ice rinks set up in places like the Museumplein and Vondelpark. The combination of festive markets, beautiful light displays, and cozy winter activities makes Amsterdam an enchanting destination for anyone looking to enjoy a holiday getaway.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.