The holiday season is in full swing and some destinations stand out for their unique festivities this year.
Here are some of the best places in the U.S. to celebrate the season and ensure a bright and merry getaway.
Solvang, California
Not far from Santa Barbara, California, Solvang offers travelers an exciting Danish-style village experience that raises the bar around the holidays.
Solvang recently kicked off its annual Julefest celebration extraordinaire. Festivities include seasonal music, lights, parades, unique shopping and dining opportunities at a traditional European night market and various celebratory events that will continue into the new year.
Solvang, California. (Photo Credit: Kim Banocy)
New York, New York
New York City is a no-brainer when it comes to getting into the holiday season spirit. From the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to touring unmistakable sites like Central Park and Times Square, the Big Apple is second-to-none when it comes to making the season magical.
December visitors may even be lucky enough to get some snow during their stay.
People ice skating in Central Park, New York City. (Photo Credit: travnikovstudio/Adobe)
St. Augustine, Florida
For those travelers looking to escape the winter chill without sacrificing the joyful vibes, St. Augustine, Florida, is an easy choice.
Visitors can take in more than three million lights at the Nights of Lights spectacular, taking place all December long, and spectate exciting parades on both land and sea. Seasonal tours and a Christmas market are also among the many highlights in this historic locale.
Nights of Lights in St. Augustine, Florida. (Photo Credit: St. Augustine, Florida)
Branson, Missouri
There's a lot to love about Christmas and the holidays in Branson, Missouri. Visitors can take in eye-popping light displays from attractions like Silver Dollar City to Branson Landing, and enjoy a Polar Express train ride through the Ozarks this time of year.
Also, be sure to check out the festive Christmas-themed store at Kringle's as well as the gingerbread village and nativity scene at the sprawling Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa & Convention Center.
Aerial view of Santa Fe, New Mexico during Christmas time. (Photo Credit: Jacob/Adobe)
Santa Fe, New Mexico
If you find yourself in the Southwest, the historic Santa Fe Plaza is the place to be for the holidays as visitors can experience dazzling light displays set upon the city's one-of-a-kind architecture.
Travelers can also check out Santa Fe's special winter concert series, test their skills on a wide range of nearby ski slopes and embrace the season through a unique blend of Spanish, Native American and Old West traditions and culture.
Vacation homes and hotels lay under ski hills in Park City, Utah. (Photo Credit: Ryan Tishken / AdobeStock)
Park City, Utah
Cheerful travelers can head to Park City, Utah, for world-class skiing, vibrant Christmas lights and, most importantly, breathtaking snow-covered landscapes.
Visitors can look forward to multiple torchlight parades and opportunities to see Santa Claus, as well as shop and dine in the city's charming historic downtown.
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