With nearly 38% of Americans having forgone vacations over the past year, the holiday season presents a much-needed chance to step back from the daily grind and immerse in the restorative power of leisure.
It’s a time to embrace the spirit of adventure, explore new horizons, rediscover the simple joys of connecting with loved ones, and be thankful. For those struggling with work-related burnout, the holidays provide a welcome respite, an opportunity to recharge and return to their professional endeavors with renewed energy and focus.
Whether going with your loved ones, spending time with your family at home, or traveling, these five cities are worth visiting for Christmas festivities.
New York City, New York
New York City might be your place if you’re searching for a magical Christmas.
Main Attraction – This year’s Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree will be an 80-foot-long Norway spruce adorned with 50,000 lights and a three-dimensional Swarovski crystal star. It is one of the most famous Christmas traditions dating back to 1931.
The tree lighting ceremony took place on 29th November. It stays lit till January 13, 2024.
Other Things To Do –
- Cirque du Soleil Christmas show at Madison Square Garden from 9 to 27 December.
- Witness the Holiday window displays on Fifth Avenue.
- Shop at Union Square Holiday Market and Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park under the beautiful lights
- Visit Gingerbread Lane in Chelsea Market in Manhattan from November 26 to January 7. It will be displaying over 1000 gingerbread houses, bakeries, ice cream parlors, etc, designed by artist Jon Lovitch
McAdenville, North Carolina
Known as the Christmas Town USA, this small town transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas. It hosts an annual Christmas Town 5K, allowing visitors to experience the magic of the lights while participating in a festive run or walk.
Main Attraction – Witness the tree lighting ceremony on 1st December this year at 5:30 PM, at 102 Main Street, in McAdenville town. The main attraction is the light display that illuminates the entire town, turning it into a magical holiday destination.
The lights are carefully synchronized and often follow thematic displays, creating a captivating and coordinated visual spectacle that captivates visitors of all ages.
Other Things To Do
- Enjoy the Yule Log Parade, which began in 1949 and will commence on 14th December on the laws of the Pharr Corporate Office.
- Floating Christmas trees on the lake will be the new highlight this year.
- Shop and dine at Terra Mia Ristorante, Mona’s Boutique and Gifts, 115 Craft (Brewery), and Revolver Records.
New Orleans, Louisiana
During Christmas, New Orleans offers a distinctive and lively celebration, with Celebration in the Oaks as the crowning jewel. There are several concerts, ceremonies, and markets to explore in the city this season.
Main Attraction
The Celebration in the Oaks is the largest fundraiser and New Orleans family tradition that draws many visitors. The holiday lights festival is held in the historic City Park, transforming it into a wonderland of lights, decorations, and festive displays.
Visitors can stroll through the park and marvel at the festive views.
Other Things To Do
- Enjoy the Running Of The Santas Bar Crawl on 10th December 2023
- Attend the holiday St. Louis Cathedral concerts
- Experience the LUNA Fête light show that will illuminate the Convention Center.
- The 5th annual Christkindlmarkt market will return bigger and better this year. Relish a fresh German Christmas with festive music, food, and lights.
Branson, Missouri
The city offers a wide array of attractions during the Christmas season.
Main Attraction – Besides immersing into the diverse range of shows, the city hosts Silver Dollar City’s “An Old-Time Christmas” festival to cherish the Christmas celebrations and food. The festival will feature around 6.5 million lights this year.
Explore theme parks, water parks, dinner cruises, campgrounds, book lunch with Santa, etc.
Other Things To Do
- Branson Landing is a waterfront shopping and dining district. Visit for special events and massive tree lighting.
- Trail of Lights is a drive-through experience through the Ozark Mountains countryside.
- Snow tubing and Polar Express train rides in the city
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Known as the Christmas city of the country, Bethlehem is renowned for its one-of-a-kind Christmas celebrations. Explore the open-air market and go through the expanded winter experience at Lehigh Valley Zoo.
Main Attraction
Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem is a traditional European-style Christmas market that captures the charm of old-world holiday festivities. The market features 150 vendors and artisans who offer myriad handmade crafts and unique gifts. Visitors will love to immerse themselves in live performances by entertainers, musicians, etc.
Also, kids can indulge in a meet and greet with St. Nicholas, which gives an experience of the traditional European holiday ambiance.
Other Things To Do
- Christmas City Village is an open-air market featuring wooden stalls with unique gifts and seasonal treats.
- Tours and carriage rides for a historical experience to learn more about the city’s rich history.
- Local markets during Christmas and buy souvenirs.
Where Are You Going?
Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly adventure, a romantic getaway, or a moment of quiet reflection, there’s a Christmas city or a light display perfect for you. This is the time to make a decision and give it a go.
This article was produced by Mrs Daaku Studio and syndicated by Wealth of Geeks.