Magical Christmas Destinations
Check out the following locations that really make the Christmas spirit come alive.
North Pole, Alaska
What better place to spend Christmas than at the home of Santa Claus himself in North Pole, Alaska? Honestly, you can go any time of the year and be immersed in the joy of Christmas since the residents there have their decorations up and celebrate Christmas all year long. But you’ll see the lights glimmer just a little bit more when you can take a walk down Santa Claus Lane or Kris Kringle Drive in December. Visit Santa’s workshop and see his merry elves building toys or head inside and help Mrs. Clause bake gingerbread cookies and prepare hot cocoa. During the season you’ll also be able to see the works of famed ice sculptors at the ‘North Pole Christmas in Ice Content’ which is held every year.
Rovaniemi, Lapland, Finland (Santa Claus Village)
Popularly known as Santa Claus Village, Rovaniemi, Lapland is one of the most visited places in Finland. Their Christmas celebration is so grand that you’ll forget all about the North Pole – especially when you meet Santa, Mrs. Claus, and their family of reindeer and elves. The soft snow puts a light blanket over the frozen winter wonderland while the aromatic smells waft from the surrounding pine forests. You can spend your time taking in all the lights and decorations, going on a husky-dog ride in the forest, enjoying a reindeer-led safari, and much more. Children are also invited to take pictures with Santa Claus, bake cookies with Mrs. Claus, or learn how to write their Christmas wish lists with a traditional quill from the elves.
Vienna, Austria
For a more romantic, old-fashioned style Christmas, fly off to Vienna, Austria. The entire city sparkles in a soft glow and holiday decorations bounce off the walls of the town’s gorgeous art nouveau architecture. It’s everything you imagine Christmas to be as you walk around their many outdoor Christmas markets filled with ornaments, hot cocoa, and other holiday-themed snacks. You can spend some time ice skating in the large outdoor rink, have a glass of Gluhwein with friends at a local cafe, or watch projected lights flash around the Museumquartier. Keep your ears peeled for the soul-baring sounds of the popular Vienna Boys’ Choir performing their annual Christmas concert.
Reykjavik, Iceland
The snow-covered city of Reykjavik comes alive every December as people come from near and far to celebrate Christmas in true Icelandic tradition. The festivities last all month long and are fun for children as well as those who are children at heart. The peaceful town can spread Christmas cheer with the tiniest of details from the decorations to the music. You’ll see everyone come together at the town square to spend evenings enjoying choir concerts, caroling, or ice skating in one of the largest rinks you’ll ever come across. The fairy twinkle lights reflect off the snow and add a touch of warmth no matter how chilly the weather can get.
Leavenworth, Washington
With the Cascade Mountains towering in the background, the Bavarian village of Leavenworth in Washington state will remind you of the Christmas villages you see inside snow globes. The city transforms into a Christmas haven during the holiday season and even the people seem to be so cheerful and filled with Christmas joy. Be sure to go ahead of time so you can take part in the annual Christmas Lighting Festival when the whole town comes together to light the tree and then since Christmas carols, drink delicious hot coffee, and spend time with Santa, Rudolph, and the holiday elves.