Austin Joins Washington, D.C., Seattle, Denver, Charlotte, Indianapolis, San Francisco, and More as Must-Visit US Destinations for Holiday Fun This Christmas and New Year

Published on December 6, 2025

Austin joins Washington, D.C., Seattle, Denver, Charlotte, Indianapolis, San Francisco, and more as must-visit U.S. destinations for holiday fun this Christmas and New Year, thanks to its vibrant mix of festive lights, unique local events, and warm-weather charm that make it a standout choice for travelers looking for an unforgettable holiday experience. Whether you’re driving through the dazzling Peppermint Parkway, enjoying the sounds of live holiday music at the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar, or taking in the Mozart’s Holiday Light Show by the lake, Austin offers something for everyone. Alongside these attractions, cities like Washington, D.C., and Seattle provide timeless traditions and events, while Denver and San Francisco offer snow-capped magic and iconic festive shows. With so much to offer, these cities ensure that your holiday season will be filled with joy, wonder, and plenty of festive cheer.

The holiday season is a magical time of year when U.S. cities come alive with sparkling lights, festive markets, and heartwarming events. Whether you’re looking for outdoor winter fun, captivating light displays, or a rich cultural experience, cities like Austin, Texas, Washington, D.C., Seattle, Denver, Charlotte, Indianapolis, and San Francisco are some of the best places to be this Christmas and New Year. These cities combine the spirit of the holidays with local traditions, unique attractions, and events that promise to make your holiday experience unforgettable.

If you’re planning a holiday getaway, look no further than these vibrant U.S. destinations, where every street corner, park, and plaza offers something special to help you embrace the season of joy.

Austin, Texas: A Light-Filled Wonderland

Austin, known for its eclectic music scene and outdoor lifestyle, adds an extra dose of holiday cheer with dazzling light displays, festive markets, and unique events. The city’s warm weather and laid-back vibe provide a refreshing contrast to typical winter destinations, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a combination of outdoor fun and holiday spirit.

Key Attractions in Austin

• Peppermint Parkway at Circuit of The Americas: Known as one of the largest holiday light displays in Texas, Peppermint Parkway features millions of twinkling lights that illuminate the venue. The experience includes themed zones such as “Candy Cane Lane,” “Enchanted Forest,” and “North Pole,” all wrapped up in a drive-thru format that makes it convenient for visitors of all ages.
• Mozart’s Holiday Light Show: Set along the shores of Lake Austin, this breathtaking light show is synchronized with holiday music, creating a sensory feast that visitors can enjoy free of charge. It’s a magical way to kick off the holiday season.
• Armadillo Christmas Bazaar: This holiday market offers a mix of local artists, live music, handmade goods, and plenty of delicious food. It’s an essential stop for those looking to do some last-minute shopping while soaking in Austin’s vibrant arts culture.

Must-See Events in Austin This Holiday Season (December 2025 – January 2026)

Must-Visit Spots in Austin

• Barton Springs Pool: A natural spring-fed pool that remains a popular spot year-round, offering a refreshing swim in the warm Texas weather.
• Zilker Metropolitan Park: Perfect for a winter stroll or picnic, this park hosts the iconic Trail of Lights, a holiday light display that attracts locals and tourists alike.

Washington, D.C.: A Historic Holiday Escape

Washington, D.C. is a city steeped in history and tradition, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a festive holiday experience rooted in the nation’s cultural heritage. From iconic monuments to elegant holiday events, the capital city offers something for everyone during the Christmas and New Year season.

Key Attractions in Washington, D.C.

• National Christmas Tree Lighting: One of the most famous holiday traditions in the U.S., the National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at President’s Park marks the beginning of the holiday season. With live performances and breathtaking views of the tree, this event is a must-see for visitors.
• Ice Skating at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden: The museum’s outdoor ice rink is a picturesque winter wonderland where visitors can skate under the shadow of beautiful sculptures while enjoying the crisp D.C. air.
• Smithsonian Museums and Winter Markets: Washington’s famed museums, like the Smithsonian Institution, offer incredible exhibits throughout the holiday season. Additionally, festive markets pop up across the city, offering unique gifts, crafts, and seasonal food.

Holiday Events and Festivities in Washington, D.C. (December 2025 – January 2026)

Must-Visit Spots in Washington, D.C.

• The U.S. Capitol and National Mall: A must-see for any visitor to Washington, the National Mall is beautifully adorned with holiday decorations and offers the perfect backdrop for seasonal photographs.
• Georgetown: This charming neighborhood is known for its cobblestone streets, upscale shops, and festive window displays, making it an ideal place to do some holiday shopping.

Seattle, Washington: A Winter Wonderland by the Sound

Seattle’s waterfront setting and rich cultural scene make it a captivating destination during the holiday season. With festive lights, outdoor skating rinks, and captivating performances, the Emerald City is a fantastic choice for holiday travelers.

Key Attractions in Seattle

• Seattle Center Winterfest: A long-standing holiday tradition, Winterfest at Seattle Center transforms the area into a magical holiday village complete with light displays, model train exhibitions, live performances, and an ice rink.
• The Seattle Christmas Market: This authentic European-style holiday market offers local artisans’ wares, food vendors, and plenty of festive cheer.
• Pathway of Lights at Green Lake: A serene lantern walk through one of Seattle’s most iconic parks, this enchanting display of lights creates a peaceful atmosphere perfect for a family outing.

Must-See Events in Seattle During Christmas and New Year 2025

Must-Visit Spots in Seattle

• Space Needle: Enjoy panoramic views of the city and its festive surroundings from one of Seattle’s most iconic landmarks.
• Pike Place Market: This bustling market offers a variety of local foods, handmade crafts, and street performances, all set to a festive backdrop of lights.

Denver, Colorado: Snowy Fun in the Mile-High City

Denver is an ideal location for those who enjoy the holiday season with a bit of snow and a lot of excitement. The city’s mountain views, combined with its festive spirit, create a truly magical atmosphere.

Key Attractions in Denver

• Larimer Square Lights: This charming historic district is transformed into a winter wonderland, with twinkling lights, boutique shops, and delicious holiday treats.
• Mile High Drone Shows: Each evening, drones take to the skies for an incredible light show over Civic Center Park, offering a modern twist on holiday lighting.
• Denver Parade of Lights: A highlight of Denver’s holiday season, this parade features elaborate floats, marching bands, and performances by local artists, all set against the backdrop of Denver’s downtown skyline.

Top Events in Denver for Christmas and New Year 2025-2026

Must-Visit Spots in Denver

• Denver Union Station: Known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant atmosphere, this historic station becomes even more festive during the holiday season with seasonal decorations and events.
• Denver Botanic Gardens: Explore the gardens as they are transformed for their annual Blossoms of Light event, offering a dazzling display of color against the city’s winter landscape.

Charlotte, North Carolina: A Southern Holiday Celebration

Charlotte is the perfect combination of southern charm and holiday spirit, offering a variety of events that are both festive and fun. Known for its warm hospitality, the Queen City comes alive with Christmas lights, family-friendly activities, and plenty of cheer.

Key Attractions in Charlotte

• Light the Knights Festival: This fun-filled festival takes place at Truist Field and features ice skating, snow tubing, and holiday-themed activities perfect for the entire family.
• WinterFest at Carowinds: A holiday celebration inside the Carowinds amusement park, featuring Christmas-themed rides, shows, and live entertainment that will delight visitors of all ages.
• Southern Christmas Show: One of the largest Christmas shows in the region, it offers a wide range of holiday-themed entertainment, shopping, and dining opportunities.

Must-See Events in Charlotte This Holiday Season (Dec 2025 – Jan 2026)

Must-Visit Spots in Charlotte

• Uptown Charlotte: The city’s downtown district is known for its festive tree lightings, holiday parades, and seasonal shopping opportunities.
• NASCAR Hall of Fame: An exciting and unique place to visit for those interested in motorsports, this museum celebrates the history of NASCAR and offers a fun experience for visitors.

Austin, Washington, D.C., Seattle, Denver, Charlotte, Indianapolis, and San Francisco offer some of the most enchanting holiday experiences in the United States this Christmas and New Year. Each city brings its unique charm to the season, from Austin’s sparkling light displays and outdoor festivities to Washington, D.C.’s historic holiday traditions and Seattle’s magical waterfront events. Whether you’re enjoying the Mile-High drone shows in Denver, the Southern Christmas charm in Charlotte, or the festive markets and iconic sights in San Francisco, these destinations are brimming with activities that are sure to make your holidays unforgettable.

These cities not only offer dazzling holiday displays and exciting events but also provide a warm welcome for travelers looking to embrace the spirit of the season in different ways. Whether you’re seeking a festive city filled with lights, a place to enjoy winter sports, or a culturally rich destination full of seasonal traditions, you’ll find it all in these vibrant cities.

Austin joins Washington, D.C., Seattle, Denver, Charlotte, Indianapolis, San Francisco, and more as must-visit U.S. destinations for holiday fun this Christmas and New Year due to its dazzling light displays, festive markets, and unique seasonal events that bring holiday magic to life. From Austin’s Peppermint Parkway to Washington, D.C.’s historic tree lighting, these cities offer unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

No matter where you decide to celebrate, Austin and its fellow destinations prove that the U.S. is the perfect place to experience the joy, wonder, and excitement of the holiday season. So, pack your bags and get ready to create cherished memories as you explore these top U.S. cities during this magical time of year.