5 Merry Christmas Towns to Visit in 2016

Patrick Clarke
by Patrick Clarke
Last updated: 7:00 AM ET, Fri November 25, 2016

It's the most wonderful time of the year. So, why not head somewhere festive?

There's no shortage of stellar Christmas towns and cities in America, but a select few stand out from the rest this year.

Jackson, Wyoming

If you're taking a ski vacation this Christmas, consider Jackson, Wyoming. This time of year, the iconic elk antler arches in Town Square are decked out in eye-catching Christmas lights and the potential for snow is high.

Fans of the outdoors won't run out of things to do and those who just want to have a good time this holiday can check out the Jackson Hole Public Art Winter Block Party Dec. 8, followed by the Backcountry Zero Winter Bash at Q Roadhouse Dec. 9.

Santa Claus, Indiana

With a name like Santa Claus, you've got to celebrate Christmas year-round, and that's exactly what this Indiana town does. Still, America's Christmas Hometown is perhaps best experienced around the holidays during events like Santa Claus Land of Lights and other Santa-themed experiences ranging from castles to museums.

Woodstock, Vermont

For those seeking a chilly winter escape with the potential for snow, Woodstock, Vermont is another excellent option.

[READMORE] READ MORE: Why Not Skip Christmas and Travel Instead? [/READMORE]

Take a horse-drawn-wagon tour of this charming town or plan your visit around the 33rd Annual Wassail Weekend Dec. 9-11. Festivities include Billings Farm and Museum's Christmas at the Farm, a chorus performance at the local elementary school and annual house tours.

Branson, Missouri

Home to Silver Dollar City, Branson, Missouri takes the holidays to the next level. the aforementioned theme park's Old Time Christmas is already underway and features five million Christmas lights, hundreds of decorated trees, parades and live performances for young and old alike.

Naples, Florida

The weather along the Gulf of Mexico may make it feel like summer at times, but given the destination's efforts to go above and beyond year after year, there's no denying Naples' worthiness of a spot on this list.

Visitors to Third Street South and the Avenues Shopping District can take part in a nightly celebration of lights and snowfall through Nov. 26 and stop by Fifth Avenue South for a tree lighting ceremony Dec. 1. The Naples Christmas Parade is scheduled for Dec. 6, followed by the Naples Bay Christmas Boat Parade Dec. 10.


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Patrick Clarke

Patrick Clarke

Senior Editor

A Maryland native and wanderer who has lived across the U.S. from North Carolina to SoCal, Patrick Clarke graduated from Towson University with a B.S. in journalism. He previously worked for Bleacher

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