Best Places to Visit at Christmas

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Are you looking for the best places to visit at Christmas? For the last several years I have travelled to a different town almost every weekend in search for the best places to visit at Christmas. It’s quite fun to learn about a town’s traditions during the holiday season. I have been pleasantly surprised by what I have learned so far on my #ChasingChristmas themed holiday as I search for the best Christmas destinations.

Take a look at these Christmas towns and cities I have visited that may inspire you to take a trip this Christmas season. You may find the best places to see Christmas lights, the best places to go Christmas shopping, or the best Christmas vacations for couples.

Christmas in Santa Claus, Indiana

Christmas in Nashville

Christmas in St. Augustine, Florida

Christmas in Red Wing, Minnesota

Christmas in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Breckenridge, Colorado Christmas

Williamsburg at Christmas

Christmas in New Orleans

Christmas Town USA

Bardstown Kentucky Christmas

Christmas at Sea Island

Frankenmuth Michigan at Christmas

Rochester Michigan Christmas Lights

Christmas in Sanibel, Florida

Christmas in San Antonio, Texas

Christmas in Fredericksburg, Texas

Christmas in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Christmas in Boston

Christmas in Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Christmas in NYC

Christmas in Savannah, Georgia

Christmas in Newport, Rhode Island

Christmas in Dahlonega, Georgia

Christmas in Helen, Georgia

Christmas in Lebanon, Tennessee

Christmas in Austin, Texas

Don’t miss: Christmas Lake, Santa Claus Museum, Holiday World

Where to stay: Search best hotels in Santa Claus.

Where to eat: Try the world’s largest cocoa beverage, the Avalanche, at Santa’s Candy Castle

Every corner of the globe has its own unique way of celebrating the festive season. But did you know that there’s a place in the heart of America that takes its Christmas celebrations to a whole new level? Yes, you guessed it right! The history of Santa Claus, Indiana is as enchanting as it’s present. This town was established in the 1800s, and its residents wanted a name that was unique and memorable. After much deliberation, they settled on, well, “Santa Claus.” Even the road signs are holiday themed.

This town of Santa Claus has so many unique Christmas things to do. Santa Claus Land was the world’s first theme park, now known as Holiday World. You will find Santa statues all around the town. I highly recommend learning about the town’s history in the museum and mailing a letter to Santa at the post office where thousands of letters are answered back.

You absolutely cannot miss stopping at Santa’s Candy Castle where you will find just about any kind of candy you could want. Make sure to try the Avalanche frozen hot chocolate drink and stop in when there’s chestnuts roasting on an open fire.

America’s Christmas hometown is one of my top Christmas destinations.

Don’t miss: Broadway/Downtown Nashville, Parthenon, Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, Grand Ole Opry

Where to stay: Search best hotels in Nashville.

Where to eat: The Loveless Cafe, Hattie B’s, White Limozeen

Nashville, famously known as “Music City,” transforms into a winter wonderland with a melodic twist during Christmas. If you’re planning a visit during the festive season, immerse yourself in a range of delightful activities that the city offers. One of my favorite highlights is visiting the Gaylord Opryland Resort that is decorated with over 3 million holiday lights. It’s the perfect place to spend the holidays in Nashville as there are so many activities such as a gingerbread decorating station, ice sculptures at the ICE exhibit, ice skating, and snow tubing. You can take a boat ride through the indoor garden and see all the holiday decorations as well.

For those who enjoy bright displays, the Zoo Illumination at the Nashville Zoo hosts the country’s largest Chinese lantern festival, casting thousands of lanterns into the winter night. If music is more your style, don’t miss out on the Nashville’s Nutcracker at TPAC, a classic Christmas ballet that comes with its own Nashville twist, set against the backdrop of the 1897 Centennial Exposition. The renowned Roman Auditorium also offers Christmas concerts where famous artists come together to serenade the holiday season.

There’s so many things to do in Nashville at Christmas that you won’t be bored.  General Jackson Showboat offers holiday cruises on the Cumberland River. These cruises often feature live entertainment, sumptuous dining, and breathtaking views of the Nashville skyline. The surrounding towns are also fun to explore, such as Franklin during it’s Dickens of a Christmas Festival.

Don’t miss: St. Augustine Lighthouse, Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, Cathedral Plaza, Old Jail Museum, St. Augustine Beach, Fountain of Youth

Where to stay: Search St Augustine hotels.

Where to eat: Salt Life Food Shack, Gas Full Service, Llama Restaurant, Prohibition Kitchen, Claude’s Chocolate

I always wanted to visit Christmas in St. Augustine, Florida due to the “Nights of Lights” festival. The event illuminates the ancient city, with over three million twinkling lights draping over the historic buildings, palm trees, and bridges, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that has been recognized globally, including by National Geographic. The event is deeply rooted in the city’s Spanish heritage, paying homage to the tradition of displaying a white candle in windows during the Christmas season. The lights can be seen via a walking tour, from the water on a boat ride, or a horse drawn carriage tour.

Beyond the lights, the city hosts a variety of unique events, such as the Christmas Parade and the Regatta of Lights, which showcase both on-land and nautical celebrations. The combination of balmy Florida weather, historical ambiance, and splendid light displays intertwining with the Spanish colonial architecture, ensures a Yuletide celebration in St. Augustine that is enchanting and unlike anywhere else.

Tip: I advise booking Christmas tours in St Augustine early as they sell out.

Don’t miss: Red Wing Shoe Store & Museum

Where to stay: Look for places to stay in Red Wing.

Where to eat: The Mac Shack, Red Wing Brewery, The Smoking Oak Rotisserie & Grill

Red Wing, Minnesota, distinguishes itself during the Christmas season with its community spirit and historical charm. Nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River, this quaint town is set against a backdrop of bluffs and tranquil waters, providing a serene and scenic environment for holiday celebrations.

The Red Wing Holiday Stroll is a community event where the streets come alive with carolers, horse-drawn carriage rides, a tree lighting ceremony, parade, and ends with a display of fireworks. My favorite thing was the aroma of roasted chestnuts, the holiday decorated windows of the locally-owned shops, and warming by the wood-fired barrels in the streets (it was cold!!). I was blown away by the performances of the local theatres and local artwork. It’s the blend of scenic beauty, historical richness, and engaged community involvement that creates a Christmas experience that is genuinely unique to Red Wing.

Don’t forget: Every year there’s a new Red Wing collectible ornament to purchase.

Don’t miss: Christkindlmarkt, Historic Bethlehem, Moravian Book Shop

Where to stay: Search hotels in Bethlehem.

Where to eat: The Bayou, Bethlehem Brew Works

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, proudly dubbed “The Christmas City,” offers a plethora of festive events during the holiday season, immersing locals and tourists alike in a jubilant yuletide atmosphere. The renowned Christkindlmarkt is a must-visit, offering an unparalleled shopping experience with its vast array of handcrafted items, delicious foods, and live performances. The city becomes a luminous spectacle with its exquisite Christmas lighting, notably at the famous Bethlehem Star, which illuminates South Mountain. Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites facilitate a delightful “Christmas City Stroll,” which guides you through beautifully adorned streets, revealing the history and charming tales of this festive city. Horse-drawn carriage rides through the brilliantly illuminated downtown area provide a romantic and enchanting perspective of Bethlehem’s seasonal splendor. With an array of activities ranging from tree-lighting ceremonies to Christmas-themed workshops, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, becomes a vibrant tapestry of joy, tradition, and celebration during the holiday season.

Don’t miss: the nation’s only live advent calendar daily at 530 PM from December 1-23. Each evening, someone knocks on the door and a surprise is revealed. One night I was given chocolate!

Don’t miss: Breckenridge Gondola, Historic Main Street, Breckenridge Troll, Breckenridge Welcome Center

Where to stay: Book a hotel in Breckenridge.

Where to eat: Downstairs at Eric’s, Blue River Bistro

Experience the magic of Christmas in Breckenridge. From snowy landscapes to festive activities, discover the holiday spirit in the Rockies! The town of Breckenridge, Colorado, is famous for its world-class skiing, but it transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. The town’s streets, lined with historic Victorian buildings, are adorned with sparkling lights and decorations.

The snow covered streets are not only instagram worthy, they will make you feel like you are in a holiday card. The town hosts a variety of events, including sleigh rides, sledding, and the Ullr Fest. The Ullr Fest is where locals and visitors praise the Norse god of snow in hopes that there will be a lot of snow for the ski season.

On the first weekend of December, the town kicks off the holiday festivities with an adorable holiday dog parade. Then, hundreds of people dress up like Santa and run down Main Street in what is known as the Race of the Santas.

The Lighting of Breckenridge, where the town square is illuminated with thousands of lights is the main event that weekend. Just before the lights come on there’s a countdown and everyone stands together and sings Christmas songs. It will make you feel like you are in a Hallmark Christmas movie.

Tip: Breckenridge at Christmas is like a winter snow globe. Make sure to bring warm clothes and pay attention to the weather as the roads could become treacherous. While there, I received avalanche warnings for the area and the main interstate coming in was closed due to snow. It snowed most of the weekend a powdery snow and the drive out was a bit scary due to the road being slick.

Don’t miss: Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown Settlement, Yorktown, Governor’s Palace, Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Where to stay: Look for hotels in Williamsburg.

Where to eat: Second Street Bistro, Colonial Pancake House, Southern Pancake and Waffle House

Williamsburg, Virginia at Christmas is full of history and fun. This town combines colonial Christmas with the nearby Busch Gardens for a Christmas vacation like no other.

Tip: When in town, eat at a pancake house for breakfast. For lunch or dinner, eat at Second Street Bistro (we ate there twice!).

See what it was like to have Christmas in Williamsburg in the colonial days while visiting the decorated streets of the historic downtown area. Discover the trades of the day, shop in the 18th century shops, take a carriage ride around the town while checking out the beautifully decorated houses, or stop in the bakery for a gingerbread cake and cider.

The big event and the one that I LOVE is the Grand Illumination. Back in the colonial days, guns would be fired and fireworks would be set off to celebrate major events. The Grand Illumination weekends in Williamsburg reenact this event even with a Santa parade that is unique to the colonial period. The firework display in one of the prettiest I have ever seen and I highly recommend experiencing this unique Christmas tradition with your family.

Tip: Make reservations for the restaurants ahead of time. Check the holiday calendar for holiday happenings as there many events you will not want to miss. Also, nearby Yorktown and Jamestown settlements are not to be missed either.

If you are in Williamsburg at Christmas then make a stop at Busch Gardens for the Christmas Town event. The theme park is decorated with over 10 million Christmas lights, making it one of North America’s largest holiday displays. Spend the day on the rides, enjoying holiday shows, shopping, taking selfies, and eating festive goodies.

Don’t miss: French Quarter, Bonfires on the levee, Jackson Square, City Park Celebration in the Oaks

Where to stay: Look for hotels in New Orleans.

Where to eat: Tujague’s, Brennan’s, Cafe de Monde, Mother’s Restaurant

New Orleans at Christmas is a unique place to be as its warm, has Cajun and Creole foods, and unique traditions. There are the usual parades, lights, and carolers, however, New Orleans has a lot more to offer thanks to its Creole tradition that dates back to the early 1800s.

There’s a reveillon dinner you can reserve that includes a 3 or 4 course meal at some of the top restaurants in the French Quarter and surrounding area. This is in line with the tradition that dates back to when the early Creoles would return from mass on Christmas Eve and have a big meal at 2 AM. The restaurants now offer a more traditional or contemporary menu during the holidays for guests to try their food.

Another big event near New Orleans is the Festival of Bonfires and Bonfires on the Levee held on Christmas Eve. On Christmas Eve, the pyramid shaped bonfires are lit along the levees for Papa Noel to know where to find the good boys and girls.

A NOLA Christmas is a bucket list adventure for sure and should be on your list of Christmas cities to visit!

The McAdenville Christmas Lights have given this small town the nickname of Christmas Town. A visit in the month of December will leave you in the Christmas spirit for sure. Over 100 homes are beautifully decorated and you can either ride the loop of the neighborhood in your vehicle or walk. I absolutely loved the kids screaming, “Merry Christmas” out the window as they passed by me. If you decided to drive, grab some hot chocolate and snacks, put on some Christmas carols, and enjoy the beautiful Christmas display.

Tip: Walking is suggested for better viewing and to hear the church chimes. Also, don’t forget to stop at the neighborhood shops.

More information on planning your trip to McAdenville.

Bardstown, Kentucky is known as the “most beautiful small town in America” but not known as much for its Bardstown Christmas parade. Out of all the towns I have been to over the years, this town has to win so far as my favorite for giving me that feeling of Christmas with the little ones. Santa comes in on a fire truck with his helper elves and even the adults are excited to see him as he prepares to turn on the Christmas lights on the town courthouse.

Afterwards, Santa gives out candy canes to each child as they tell him what they want for Christmas. There are activities around the town square and it is just a fun event. Watch the video of Christmas in Bardstown.

Have you ever wanted to stay in a jail cell? The Jailer’s Inn Bed and Breakfast is a unique place to stay with a delicious breakfast.

Nestled on the beautiful Georgia coastline, Sea Island is a place where tradition meets luxury, and nowhere is this more evident than during the holidays. When Christmas arrives at Sea Island, the island transforms into a coastal wonderland, blending festive cheer with the charm of the South. This secluded, private island off, not far from Jekyll Island, offers so many amenities such as golf, restaurants, horseback riding, spa, and sunset cruises that you will not want to leave. The resort was decorated elegantly for the season even down to a gingerbread house with pastries.

Don’t miss: Frankenmuth River Place Shops, Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, Bavarian Inn Holz Brucke Covered Bridge

Where to stay: Search Frankenmuth hotels.

Where to eat: Zehnder’s Restaurant, Bavarian Inn Restaurant, Frankenmuth Cheese Haus (chocolate cheese)

Christmas in Frankenmuth, Michigan is not to be missed. This Christmas town an hour and a half north of Detroit has the world’s LARGEST Christmas store called Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland. This particular Frankenmuth Christmas store is different from the others as it is the size of 1 1/2 football fields, has more than 350 decorated Christmas trees, and you will find decorations and gifts from over 70 nations.

The streets of Frankenmuth are decorated in holiday decor to make you feel festive. The food is so delicious you will dream of it for months to come. Don’t miss a stop at the Old Bavarian Inn for the world famous chicken dinner. Make sure to stop for some chocolate cheese while you do some Christmas shopping.

The town of Rochester, Michigan has to be one of the best places to view Christmas lights. Each year, as darkness descends, downtown Rochester undergoes a mesmerizing transformation into a radiant wonderland called the Big, Bright Light Show. Over a million twinkling Christmas lights adorn the buildings, trees, and streets, turning the town into Christmas bliss.

Strolling along the brilliantly illuminated streets, you can’t help but to take photos of the beautiful display of glimmering holiday lights. It’s a beloved tradition that brings the community together and attracts visitors from near and far, all united in their awe and appreciation of this breathtaking display of holiday magic. This is another one of those grab some cookies and warm cocoa and drive through the town a few times while listening to Christmas music. I wish our city did something like this!

Where to stay: Search hotels in Sanibel.

Sanibel Island, located on the gulf coast of Florida, is one of the warm Christmas destinations on this list. My son and I took a few days away right before Christmas thanks to a SunCountry airlines deal I found. Sanibel provided the perfect getaway as we rode bikes around the island that was decked out with Christmas lights and blow up decorations from the recent Sanibel Luminary Holiday Stroll. This annual event is a way the community gets together to promote goodwill and spread holiday cheer with one another. The stores try to get creative with their holiday decor for all to enjoy. One of my favorite things to see in Sanibel was the peaceful palm trees illuminated with lights against the night sky as the palm leaves blew in the wind.

Sanibel Island is known for its seashells so what better place to do some creative holiday shopping and activities that involved them. One afternoon we made our own Christmas tree ornaments made from seashells found on the beach. It not only provided a souvenir from our time there, but a fun afternoon activity.

Don’t miss: River Walk, San Fernando Cathedrilthe Alamo, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

Where to stay: Best San Antonio hotels.

Where to eat: Gourdough’s, Boudro’s

The San Antonio Christmas lights on the River Walk was a highly anticipated bucket list item for me. We took a dinner cruise tour with Boudro’s restaurant who I recommend getting reservations with in advance. We ate a delicious meal while drinking cocktails and cruising along the Riverwalk looking at over 100,000 sparkling lights that were placed on the cypress trees.

San Antonio’s strong Mexican influence means you can enjoy traditions like Las Posadas, which reenacts Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging, and the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a significant Mexican religious celebration. Alongside the River Walk were more than 2,000 luminarias which is a traditional hispanic Christmas lantern. We were lucky to be there on the weekend to see these luminarias lined up along the river.

The historic San Antonio Missions, including the famous Alamo, are beautifully decorated during the Christmas season. They host special events and activities, and the warm San Antonio weather makes it easy to explore these landmarks on bike like we did.

Tip: Something else I recommend to see if going on the weekend is the light show at San Fernando Cathedral that is not far from Boudro’s. Don’t forget to try some tamales while spending Christmas in San Antonio.

Here’s a video of our San Antonio River Walk Christmas Lights Tour. (On a side note, our dear skipper accidentally misjudged how far away the boat was from the dock and he fell into the water.)

Make sure to head to the Pearl District on Thursday nights in December for the holiday night market that is set up. It’s the place to be for food, local shopping, and live music.

If you are looking for a Christmas town in Texas look no further than Fredericksburg. It is nestled in the heart of Texas wine country and that’s how we found it (looking for wine!). We were pleasantly surprised by this old fashioned little town with a German meets Texas feel to it. The buildings filled with quaint shops and restaurants are over a century old but give you that “I want to come home for Christmas” feeling that you look for from watching a Hallmark movie.

What really caught my eye was the German Christmas Pyramid. I had never seen one before and found this very interesting. There’s actually a lighting ceremony held here each year in which the whole town gets together to watch and then have cookies and hot chocolate.

There’s so much to do in this charming little town not far from San Antonio and Austin. There’s many wineries in the area and I had some of the best food in Texas while here. Fredericksburg may be one of my favorite little towns to visit for Christmas!

Don’t miss: Chattanooga Choo Choo, Tennessee Aquarium, Holiday Trail of Lights, EPB’s Holiday Windows, Rock City

Where to stay: Shop Chattanooga hotels.

Where to eat: Clumpies Ice Cream, Maple Street Biscuit Company, City Cafe Diner, Puckett’s

Chattanooga is the place to be at Christmas time! This city surprised me as having some of the most activities for all ages. Popular events for the kids include seeing Scuba Claus at the Tennessee Aquarium and watching the animals open presents a the Chattanooga Zoo. Hopping on board Tennessee Valley Railroad’s North Pole Limited Train to an imaginary train ride to the North Pole is also a fun event for the kids where they can visit Santa.

You can’t miss the twinkling snowflake lights on the Walnut Street Bridge over the Tennessee River. One of the best views is via the Southern Belle riverboat. Another not to be missed view is Ruby Falls with their Christmas Underground theme. I recommend Ruby Falls any time of the year, but seeing it at Christmas time is the most magical!

One of my favorite things that is unique to Chattanooga is visiting Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights on Lookout Mountain. The garden trails lead you through over a million Christmas lights into four fantasy lands including a Magic Forest with one of the world’s largest walk through electronic Christmas trees. We went on a night when there was a light mist so it was like we had the whole park to ourselves. There were no lines for the cookie decorating, photos with Santa, or cappuccino!

If you have never visited at night, I urge you to go! It was SO fun squeezing through the rocks at night! Here’s video of the Enchanted Garden of Lights.

I recommend staying at the Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel in one of the train cars during the holiday season. The area turns into a winter wonderland with shopping, ice skating, and Christmas lights and decor. If this is unable, I recommend staying at the Read House.

Don’t miss: Boston Common, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Beacon Hill

Where to stay: Get a hotel in Boston.

Where to eat: Black Tap, Boston Creme Pie where it originated at Omni Parker House Hotel, Beantown Pub (baked beans)

Christmas in Boston is a beautiful time to visit. While exploring the city’s rich history, we marveled at the decorated stores and trees in the city park. There are Christmas concerts, ice skating, and holiday foods that will make you feel right at home for the holidays here in Massachusetts.

We stayed at the Marriott Custom House, which I felt was a perfect walking location to my favorite Christmas event in Boston, the Blink! Holiday Light Show. We grabbed a cup of hot apple cider (free from our hotel!) and walked to Faneuil Market. There we found horse drawn carriage rides, people holiday shopping, and the largest Christmas tree in New England. The Blink! Christmas tree really lights up the square with its flashing lights to the music. I went back several times during my stay just to watch it.

Another tree not to be missed in Boston is the one in Boston Common from the people of Nova Scotia. This special Christmas tree is donated yearly in remembrance of the Halifax Explosion that the people of Boston responded to in 1917.

Cape Cod is cold but still beautiful in December. Many of the restaurants are closed since the tourists are gone, but the Christmas decor is up! We had the beach to ourselves and loved spending the alone time together. Don’t forget to see the Cape Cod lighthouse decked out for the season.

Don’t miss: Tour the Breakers homes

Where to stay: Search for Newport hotels.

Where to eat: Pour Judgement, Jo’s American Bistro

I have to say I was so very surprised by the Christmas traditions in Newport, so much so that I would LOVE to return for another Christmas! Who would think that a small town along the coast would be a fun place to go for the holiday season?! We felt like we had the town to ourselves when we stayed at the decorated mansion Chanler at Cliff Walk.

One evening while eating dinner, we heard what we thought sounded like music from an ice cream truck. When we looked out the window we saw a fire truck and another vehicle behind that. In that vehicle we saw a waving Santa! We were told this was to raise money for charity. 🙂 

The tour of the Newport Mansions at Christmas will definitely put you in the holiday spirit. I was amazed at the beautifully decorated trees and rooms. Don’t forget to take a look at the gingerbread replica in the Breakers mansion if you visit.

Don’t miss: 5th Avenue window displays, Rockefeller Center, watch the Rockettes Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Dyker Heights in Brooklyn, Central Park

Where to stay: Search for hotel deals in NYC.

Christmas in New York City is absolutely spectacular! Ice skating under the tree at Rockefeller Center is a bucket list moment for many. I did find that the crowds were just a bit much and waiting past 930 pm made the Sak Fifth Avenue store front more enjoyable. I loved exploring New York City at Christmas because every where I turned there was a tree or something decorated for the season.

One of the main reasons I went to the area for the holidays is to check out Brooklyn at Christmas time. The Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour had been on my list of things to do for some time and Chris and I loved our tour with A Slice of Brooklyn. I highly recommend a tour of these amazing Christmas lights as these homes are decorated beyond anything I’ve ever seen in my life!

Click here to look at our gallery of photos from Christmas in New York City.

Don’t miss: Broughton Street, Historic Districts, Forsyth Park, Plant Riverside District

Where to stay: Search for Savannah hotels.

Where to eat: The Olde Pink House, Leopold’s Ice Cream

If you are looking for Hallmark Christmas towns, Christmas in Savannah is one of the closest experiences I have had. The weather was perfect for walking around as the townspeople gathered around the Christmas tree for the tree lighting and music. The following evening I saw my first boat parade of lights. It was interesting to see making Savannah one of the best Christmas towns to visit on the east coast! You can read more details about my Christmas weekend in Savannah including where to stay here.

Don’t miss: Historic square area with shops, restaurants, and inns as seen in the Christmas movie, “Christmas in Homestead.”

Where to stay Downton Dahlonega: Book a hotel in downtown Dahlonega.

Where to eat: Bourbon Street Grill

I read there was a Hallmark movie filmed in Dahlonega and found out it was a Christmas movie. The small town in the mountains of Georgia is the perfect setting for a Hallmark Christmas movie with carriage rides, old town feel, and Christmas decor around town. Grab a glass of wine and settle in for relaxing weekend. I recommend staying at the Dahlonega Square Hotel and Villas.

Don’t miss: the nearby Babylon General Hospital (Watch Cabbage Patch Kids being born, Habersham Winery, Unicoi Hill Park

Where to stay: Look up hotels in Helen.

Where to eat: Hofbrauhaus Restaurant, Hofer’s of Helen

While researching Hallmark movie towns, I found this gem. Christmas season in Helen is a wonderful time to visit because everything is within walking distance (unless you want to go on a winery tour!). If you are wanting to a romantic getaway weekend this time of year, this is the perfect place to do it. You have beautiful scenery, plenty of good food, and fun. Click here for the best places to stay.

The Dancing Lights of Christmas moved just north of Nashville to Lebanon, Tennessee in 2017 to show off over half a million lights to the sound of music. Watch the video below to see more.

Don’t miss: Zilker Park, Four Seasons Hotel (gingerbread houses), Chuy’s Holiday Parade

Where to stay: Book a hotel in Austin.

Where to eat: Austin Eats Food Tour, Lala’s Little Nugget, Gourdough’s Food Truck

We happened to be in town for the 30th annual Chuy’s Parade held in downtown Austin, Texas. The tradition to raise toys for needy children began 40 years ago with the Austin police department. At that time 20 children were assisted, now 20,000 children are given toys with the Operation Blue Santa Program.

This starts like any parade I’ve been to except there are giant balloons! Towards the end of the parade, children (and adults) give gifts to needy children by placing the presents in trucks that are strategically placed throughout the parade. The trucks were so full of gifts that extra trucks had to come in and help with the overflow. This is such a great tradition and I wish more big cities did something like this!

Here’s a video of the Chuy’s Children Giving to Children Parade.

If you are looking for a place to go where it is Christmas any time of the year, I recommend the Inn at Christmas Place or the little Christmas town in Alaska, North Pole. (One of my favorite trips EVER!)

If you happen to find yourself in Finland, I recommend stopping at the Christmas Village where you can see the Northern Lights and even meet Santa Claus! People line up from all around the world to meet him and he is able to speak a little of every language.

Make sure to follow us on our social media to find out where we are going this year! Use #chasingChristmas or follow on all social media.