If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit and experience festive markets and holiday traditions, there are many options available. Here are some ideas:
1. Christmas in Italy: Italy celebrates Christmas, or Natale in Italian, with various traditions and festive markets. The festivities kick off on December 8 .
2. Christmas Markets in Michigan: Michigan offers several festive Christmas markets where you can enjoy lights, music, food, and gift shopping. It’s a great opportunity to start your own holiday tradition .
3. Portland Holiday Events: Portland, Oregon, has a long-running tradition called the Christmas Ships Parade. Dozens of festively decorated boats float on the waterways, delighting onlookers. Additionally, Southeast Portland’s Peacock Lane is known for its well-lit holiday stroll, where houses break out the twinkle lights from December 15-31 .
4. Christmas in Germany: Germany is famous for its cozy Christmas markets, exciting traditions, and magical winter adventures. Exploring German Christmas markets can be a delightful experience .
5. Christmas Vacations: If you’re looking for a Christmas vacation, there are many destinations that offer festive markets, feasts, and holiday traditions. Cape Town, South Africa, for example, combines balmy December weather with plenty of festive traditions .
6. Christmas in Chicago: Chicago offers a range of holiday activities, including museum exhibits that showcase holiday traditions from around the world. The Museum of Science and Industry hosts the annual Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light exhibit, featuring 50 elaborately decorated trees representing different holiday traditions. The Art Institute of Chicago also celebrates the season with the Wreathing of the Lions tradition and festive live shows .
7. Christmas in New York: New York City is known for its holiday markets, epic light displays, and festive hotels. It’s a great destination to experience the perfect Christmas atmosphere .
8. Christmas Around the World: Many cities around the world transform during December to celebrate Christmas. From European towns with storybook Christmas markets to Asian megacities with over-the-top light displays, there are plenty of destinations to choose from. Some cities even offer warm temperatures for those who prefer a poolside holiday .
9. German Christmas Markets: Germany is renowned for its traditional holiday markets, which offer decorations, baked goods, live concerts, ice skating rinks, and more. These markets are a great way to experience the festive spirit .
10. Boston Winter Holiday Markets: Boston hosts winter holiday markets that draw inspiration from European Christmas markets and New England crafts fairs. These markets offer a mix of comfort drinks, delicious food, entertainment, kids’ activities, and handmade gifts from local artisans and artists .