20 of the BEST Places to Celebrate Christmas

There isn’t quite any time like Christmas, is there? Christmas is more than just a day on the calendar, it is an entire season of festivity, optimism, happiness, and glee. And now that it’s over and 2017 has arrived, like most people, you’re probably feeling some withdrawals! Yeah, we totally get it. While most people tend to spend Christmas at home it can be quite the nice change of pace to experience it abroad! Listed below are 20 of the best places to celebrate Christmas — in our opinion!

Leavenworth, WA

If you have family out in Washington this could be the perfect time to visit. Leavenworth, WA goes all out in order to decorate for the Holidays. You’ll find over 21 miles worth of lights wrapped around town to go along with harp music, a gigantic festival, and special sledding. The town probably doesn’t need a government bribe to spend funds on the Holiday season.

Chicago, IL

The Windy City is a cold winter destination but the view might just be worth it. The city of Chicago does everything they can to dress up Navy Pier for some serious holiday amusement. Businesses prep their internet merchant account for all of the business that comes to the city. We highly suggest checking out the Christkindmarket as well as Winter WonterFest at Navy Pier.

Santa Claus Village, Finland

If you are ready to swipe the merchant service counter at the airport then head over seas to Santa Claus Village in Finland. There’s a great little amusement park in town called Santa Park and the town itself is canvassed with Holiday cheer.

Asheville, NC

Do you want a Disney-esque Christmas view without the tourism aspect? Head to the Vanderbilt mansion in Asheville, NC to see a true to life Disney estate dressed up for the season. The rest of the town, located at the base of a mountain, is teeming with arts, crafts, and fun Christmas activities.

Key West, FL

Okay, so this is a little bit outside of the box. If you feel like enjoying your Christmas with a margarita and a little bit of warmth then head down to Key West, Florida. The beaches are as pretty as ever and the season feels even more enjoyable when you aren’t freezing. Best part of all? You won’t have to charge a huge bill at the airline merchant accounts — trips to Florida are cheap.

Edinburgh, Scotland

As the second most populated city in Scotland Edinburgh knows that they have a lot to prove. Edinburgh puts on a flamboyant display of festive holiday cheer. Check out the Ferris Wheel, the light show, and even the giant fireworks display for a family friendly good time.

Natchitoches, LA

You won’t need to be able to pronounce this town’s name in order to enjoy it. Natchitoches begins prepping for their Christmas festival of lights in June. 300,000 lights, 100 different set pieces, and a host of special activities keep people filled with Holiday cheer. The party here lasts through the new year, culminating on January 6th.

Nuremberg, Germany

If you are in Germany this Christmas season then consider bopping down to the city of Nuremberg. Here you’ll find an unrivaled outdoor market that features over 200 vendors — all competing for presentation awards. Needless to say, the Hauptmarkt really sets the bar on Christmas decoration.

Dublin, Ireland

Fancy starting your Christmas day off with a swim? Tradition in Dublin may make Westerners scratch their head but the town is tons of fun either way. Our favorite part of Christmas in Dublin comes in the form of caroling at the beautiful St Patrick’s Cathedral.

Williamsburg, VA

If you feel like stepping back in time head on over Williamsburg, VA to enjoy a classically themed Christmas. You’ll see people dressed in period clothing celebrating the holiday in style. Check out the Grand Illumination firework show to finish off your night.

Paris, France

How could the City of Lights not make this list? The Eiffel Tower stands tall, shining beautifully above a city dressed to impress. Paris is magical year round but Christmas could possibly be the city at its peak.

Aspen, CO

We are down with any reason to head to the mountains in Colorado and Christmas sure gives us a good one! Aspen, Colorado is one of the best snow towns in the United States and the powder is perfect in December. Spend the day on the slopes and the night in town with music, events, and a light show.

Tokyo, Japan

Japan and Christmas may not seem like they go together but, rest assured, they sure do. Tokyo may not have all of the religious significance of Christmas on display but the city still lights up in a way that few places can. Christmas Eve is the actual main event in Tokyo as they don’t really celebrate Christmas day.

Durango, CO

Colorado is a solid destination year round but Durango ups their game for the Holidays. This old mining town has a steam engine that offers a Polar Express themed ride for kids and families alike. You can take in the mountains, the Polar Express, and the rest of this beautiful mountain town from the comfort of the numerous lodges in the area.

Delray Beach, FL

Any town that goes through the trouble of erecting a Christmas tree that stands over 100 feet tall deserves a spot on our list. You’ll stay warm in this beach town as you take in the light show, the giant tree, and the numerous miniature Holiday displays on tap.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico can serve your Christmas sunny side up with fresh salsa music and some roasted pork. The Christmas season here extends through December and all the way to January 6th. You’ll have all of the local flavor and culture to go with your Christmas festivities.

Annapolis, MD

Annapolis embraces its roots in a particularly festive way down at the City Dock. Here you’ll see boats dressed up like they would look in the 18th century — only dressed in Christmas lights too. Candelit walks around the harbor pretty much make this the perfect romantic destination.

Cologne, Germany

We’re getting the feeling that we need to head to Germany for Christmas. Cologne showcases eight distinctive and enjoyable Christmas themed markets for the season. Street vendors offer up hot drinks and hotter food. The whole town is lit up in order to impress both local residents and tourists alike. There is a lot to enjoy here in this unique and charming city.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

There are a lot of reasons to visit Amsterdam but did you know that Christmas is one of the best ones? The town is drenched in 16th and 17th century charm fulfilled by lights, holiday displays, and more.

New York City, NY

Is there anything more unique than Christmas in the Big Apple? Sure the city may be run on the odd government bribe here and there but that doesn’t take away from the Rockefeller Center on Christmas! Ice skate at any of the numerous rinks and even head to the special New York Ballet’s performance of The Nutcracker.