Survey of 3,000 to determine America’s 75 most ‘Christmassy’ towns.
Mammoth Lakes emerged in 16th place.
Infographic included.
Each year, top 10 rankings of the quintessential American towns that exude Christmas charm are published, with North Pole, Alaska consistently clinching the top spot. This Alaskan town is a Christmas haven year-round, especially noted for its festively named thoroughfares such as Santa Claus Lane. The festive mood intensifies during the holiday season. Other towns that capture the holiday essence include Leavenworth, Washington, with its Bavarian village flair and 21 miles of twinkling Christmas lights, and Mystic, Connecticut, celebrated for its Christmas market, numerous local Christmas tree farms, a lantern light tour, and boats adorned with holiday lights.
Mixbook, a #1 rated photo book brand, embarked on a deeper exploration, crafting a comprehensive list of 75 American towns with the strongest Christmas vibes, as chosen by 3,000 families who were polled.
#1 Pigeon Forge, TN.
Emerging unexpectedly at the top is Pigeon Forge. Despite its southern location, it captures the holiday spirit with its festive allure and Appalachian warmth. During the holiday season, this picturesque town transforms into a winter wonderland, draped in millions of twinkling lights and festive decorations. The town hosts an array of Christmas-themed events, including parades, shows, and the renowned Winterfest, showcasing stunning light displays and live entertainment. Additionally, Pigeon Forge is home to Dollywood, Dolly Parton’s famed theme park, which features its own spectacular holiday celebrations, complete with seasonal music, performances, and traditional crafts.
#2 Durango, CO.
In second place is Durango celebrated as one of America’s most charming holiday destinations, offering a unique and enchanting Christmas experience. What sets Durango apart during the festive season is its blend of natural beauty and historic charm. The town is adorned with festive lights and decorations, reflecting its rich heritage and creating a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. A highlight of the season is the famous Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Polar Express train ride, which brings to life the magic of the classic Christmas story, delighting both children and adults. The journey through the snow-covered landscapes, complete with hot chocolate and carols, is a quintessential holiday experience.
#3 Lake Placid, NY.
The charm of Lake Placid in winter lies in its stunning natural setting amidst the Adirondack Mountains, blanketed in snow, offering a picturesque backdrop for the holidays. The town embraces the spirit of the season with a warm, small-town ambiance, adorned with twinkling lights and elegant decorations that line its streets and shops, creating a storybook-like setting. A significant draw is the outdoor winter sports activities available, such as skiing, skating, and bobsledding, allowing visitors to indulge in the same grounds used by Olympic athletes. Lake Placid’s holiday festivities are further enhanced by its unique events, like the Holiday Village Stroll, featuring carolers, horse-drawn carriage rides, and festive markets.
#4 Stowe, Vermont.
Stowe, Vermont, in 4th position with its postcard-worthy landscapes and quintessential New England charm, is a beloved destination during the holiday season, often regarded as a picture-perfect Christmas town. The essence of Stowe’s holiday appeal lies in its idyllic setting amidst the Green Mountains, coupled with a picturesque village that seems to leap out of a Christmas card. The town is adorned with festive lights and decorations, and the air is filled with the scent of fresh pine and warm treats, enhancing its cozy, inviting atmosphere. A key feature of Stowe’s holiday season is its vibrant Christmas markets and local craft fairs, which showcase Vermont’s rich artisanal heritage and offer a plethora of unique, handcrafted gifts.
#5 Alexandria, Virginia.
Alexandria, voted as America’s fifth most Christmassy town, embodies the spirit of the holiday season with its unique blend of history and festive charm. The town’s picturesque streets, lined with historic brick buildings, are transformed into a winter wonderland adorned with twinkling lights and holiday decorations. Alexandria’s rich colonial history adds to its allure, offering a nostalgic backdrop to modern holiday celebrations. The town hosts a variety of seasonal events, such as traditional candlelight tours, and the iconic Scottish Christmas Walk Parade, showcasing its vibrant community spirit. The bustling holiday markets, local artisan shops, and cozy cafes create an inviting atmosphere, drawing visitors from near and far.
California had two towns included in the top 75 most ‘Christmassy’ towns:
#11 Truckee
Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, its picturesque setting is straight out of a holiday postcard, with snow-capped peaks and pine trees blanketed in white. During Christmas, Truckee transforms into a magical scene, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. The town exudes a warm, welcoming atmosphere, with local shops and restaurants embracing the holiday cheer. The historical charm of its downtown, coupled with a range of winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, and sleigh rides, offers a unique blend of adventure and traditional holiday merriment.
#16 Mammoth Lakes
This picturesque mountain town transforms into a snowy paradise during the holiday season, offering a quintessential winter wonderland experience. One of the main attractions in Mammoth Lakes is its world-class ski resort, which provides an exhilarating backdrop for Christmas festivities. The snowy peaks and pine forests covered in a blanket of white create a stunning setting for a range of winter activities, from skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and ice skating. The town itself sparkles with holiday lights and decorations, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Infographic showing America’s 75 Most Christmassy towns
“We hope our guide inspires families to experience these wonderful destinations that celebrate the essence of Christmas. Visiting these festive towns provides a unique opportunity to create lasting memories, connect with loved ones, and celebrate the spirit of the season” says Leslie Albertson, Director of Brand at Mixbook.
