The Most Magical Christmas Towns in the U.S.

In the United States, there are plenty of towns you’ll hear called Christmas towns or cities, as they go all out in decorating and getting into the Christmas spirit! We’ve found 8 of the most magical Christmas towns in the United States, and they’re sure to give you some holiday inspiration. Check them out below!

1) North Pole, AK

North Pole, AK is a small town located on the northernmost edge of the Kenai Peninsula. Founded as a mining camp, North Pole is now home to just over 2,000 residents and was named after Santa Claus’s home because of its proximity to the Arctic Circle. The town’s two main attractions are Santa Claus House and North Pole Village. Santa Claus House features an interactive tour of the jolly old elf’s workshop where visitors can watch him create toys with elves, or take a free reindeer ride around the world. North Pole Village offers holiday-themed events year-round for children and families such as Elf Day in November when children dress up like elves and work at various stations such as baking cookies or writing letters to Santa.

2) Galveston Island, Texas

Galveston Island is an island about 45 miles southeast of Houston. It’s a great place for a winter getaway, and there are plenty of things to do all year round. Galveston Historical Foundation’s (GHF) Dickens on The Strand festival has been celebrating downtown Galveston’s Victorian architecture for 48 years while providing a unique holiday destination filled with the sights and sounds of Charles Dickens. With new entertainers, returning favorites, and family-friendly programming, the event continues that tradition. This annual festival begins Friday, December 3, with free admission to Fezziwig’s Beer Hall from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and continues with ticketed entry Saturday, December 4, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday, December 5, from 12 to 6 p.m.

3) Frankenmuth, MI

Frankenmuth, Michigan is a small town that produces some of the best gingerbread cookies and other holiday treats. The town goes all out during Christmastime, with festive decorations on nearly every building as well as a parade that takes place on December 3rd. Its German background and architecture throughout the city will make you feel as if you’ve stepped into a fairy tale. Plus, it’s home to the largest Christmas shop in the US. 

4) Leavenworth, Washington

Another German-style town on the list, Leavenworth, Washington is a small town that welcomes visitors year-round. But during the Christmas season, you’ll find all of your favorite holiday traditions. Nearly every store will be decorated for the occasion. It’s also  not uncommon to see people dressed up like Santa or Mrs. Claus. Plus, they have an annual parade with a real live reindeer! 

5) Burlington, Vermont

Burlington is a small city with the feel of an even smaller town. With a population just over 43,000, it’s easy to navigate and get around. Burlington offers plenty during all four seasons, but it’s most well known for its Christmas season. In November, downtown Burlington bursts into holiday cheer with over 250,000 seasonal lights and decorations. The tree lighting ceremony is in November and has been a tradition since 1976.

6) Newport, RI

Newport is a historic seaport town that welcomes visitors with tree-lined streets, oceanfront mansions, and brightly decorated homes. This year, Newport is hosting its annual Holiday Stroll event from December 2nd through January 6th. The whole town will be decked out for the season. Additionally, there will be plenty to do for all ages, including caroling at local elementary schools, carriage rides on Narragansett Bay, and festive performances from some of Newport’s choirs.

7) North Pole, CO

If you’re looking for a place to call home during your winter travels, North Pole, Colorado may be just what you’re looking for. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, this town is considered to be one of the first settlements to have been established on Earth by Santa Claus himself. A visit here will  give you some respite from the colder weather. Additionally it will also provide an opportunity to see how locals celebrate their holiday traditions year-round. For example, there’s no such thing as too many lights here and the local tree-trimming event can’t be missed!

8) Natchitoches, LA

Natchitoches, LA is one of the most magical places to visit during the holidays. The town celebrates by lighting up over 100,000 lights on their enormous Christmas tree . They also have a parade with a lighted-up horse-drawn wagon. Every night for 12 days leading up to Christmas.

Would you be interested in booking a trip to one or more of these Christmas towns? Please let us know.

Purple Light Vacations provides you with the knowledge, insight and personalized service to make your vacation all you want it to be at no additional cost. We help you travel in the know wherever you go. To get started, fill out this quick form or call 619.324.1444 (ext. 3).