While big cities like New York and London get all the attention during the holiday season, America’s small towns often put on the most magical Christmas celebrations.
These hidden gems transform into winter wonderlands that rival anything in New York or Chicago – without the crowds or inflated prices.
Leavenworth, Washington: Bavaria in the Pacific Northwest
While this may not be the biggest secret, this small town is famous for Christmas fun.
Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, this former logging town reinvented itself as a Bavarian village in the 1960s. During December, over half a million LED lights illuminate the Alpine-style buildings, while the surrounding snow-capped peaks complete the fairytale setting.
Don’t miss the Christkindlmarkt, where locals serve traditional German mulled wine and handcrafted ornaments. Weekend ceremonies feature traditional alphorn players announcing the lighting ceremony.
McAdenville, North Carolina: Christmas Town USA
Photo byMcadenville.com
This tiny textile town of just 650 residents earns its nickname every December when nearly every home and building participates in a spectacular light display.