Frederick Unites Newark, Jersey City, Dover and Wilmington to Create America’s Christmas Superstars: Prepare to Be Amazed in this Holiday Season!

Published on December 7, 2025

This holiday season, Frederick has teamed up with Newark, Jersey City, Dover, and Wilmington to bring you some of the most spectacular Christmas celebrations in America. These Christmas superstars are set to deliver unforgettable experiences with their magical holiday events. From historic house tours in Frederick to snowy parades in Newark, each city offers its own unique charm. Jersey City dazzles with light displays, while Wilmington surprises visitors with stunning holiday markets. As Dover adds its festive cheer, these cities unite to create a truly amazing holiday season that will leave you in awe. Prepare to be mesmerized as you explore the ultimate festive destinations in the U.S. The magic of Frederick, Newark, Jersey City, Dover, and Wilmington is waiting – so don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind Christmas adventure!

Why Frederick, Maryland, is a Rising Star in US Christmas Tourism

Frederick, located in northern Maryland, is often overshadowed by larger, more commercialised cities when it comes to holiday tourism. However, this hidden gem is making waves for its unique ability to create a festive atmosphere while staying true to its historical roots. With its historic architecture, local businesses, and family-friendly activities, Frederick offers an authentic holiday experience that bigger cities just can’t match.

Located at the crossroads of major highways, Frederick is easily accessible from cities like Washington, D.C., and Baltimore. This makes it the perfect destination for both a quick getaway or a longer holiday retreat. The city’s proximity to these major hubs ensures that it is becoming a popular choice for tourists, and its place in the 2025 holiday rankings reflects this rising popularity.

A Rich Tapestry of Holiday Activities in Frederick

Frederick is the perfect blend of tradition and modern holiday fun. The city’s festive activities go beyond the typical commercial Christmas scenes, offering visitors a genuine holiday experience. The charm of Frederick is evident through its many holiday events and activities that bring the local community together.

Candlelight House Tour

One of the most popular events in Frederick during the holiday season is the Candlelight House Tour. This self-guided walking tour takes visitors through private homes in the city’s historic district, each beautifully decorated for the holidays. The glow of candles in the windows and the scent of Christmas trees fill the air, creating a magical atmosphere that transports you back in time. It’s an event that captures the essence of a cosy, traditional holiday season.

Carols by Candlelight

Another favourite is the Carols by Candlelight event. Held in the heart of downtown Frederick, this event brings together locals and visitors to sing Christmas carols under the stars. With local choirs leading the way, this event creates a sense of community, where people of all ages can join together to celebrate the season. The festive spirit is contagious as carolers gather around historic buildings, their voices echoing through the streets of this quaint city.

Kris Kringle Procession

Frederick’s Kris Kringle Procession is a unique and colourful holiday tradition. The procession features people dressed in festive attire, marching through the streets, celebrating the joy of Christmas. This parade draws both locals and visitors, making it one of the key events to experience in Frederick during the holiday season. The procession is a symbol of the city’s commitment to keeping its holiday traditions alive while also welcoming new ones.

Museums & Historic Sites by Candlelight

Frederick’s historical charm extends to its museums and houses of worship. During the holiday season, several of these sites open their doors for candlelight tours. Visitors can experience the history of the city while also soaking in the holiday atmosphere. The mix of historical landmarks, seasonal decorations, and warm candlelight creates a festive yet educational experience that is perfect for families and history enthusiasts alike.

Holiday Lights & Shopping in Downtown Frederick

The heart of Frederick’s holiday season lies in its downtown area. More than 200 locally owned shops, restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques fill the streets, each decked out in festive holiday decorations. The city’s commitment to shopping local means that visitors can support small businesses while getting into the holiday spirit. Whether it’s picking up unique gifts, enjoying a festive meal, or simply strolling through the holiday-lit streets, downtown Frederick is a must-see destination during the Christmas season.

The Economic Impact of Christmas Tourism in Frederick

Frederick’s rise in popularity as a holiday destination isn’t just a win for tourists — it’s also a boost for the local economy. In 2024, Frederick County welcomed 2.1 million visitors, with tourism spending reaching a record $564 million. This growth has been evident in the tourism sector, where lodging and restaurant revenues have seen a significant increase. In fact, the hotel rental tax revenue alone reached $65.5 million in 2025, showing just how much visitors are willing to invest in their stay in Frederick.

The holiday season, in particular, plays a vital role in the county’s tourism performance. According to local data, December accounts for over 11% of the total annual visitor traffic to Frederick’s Visitor Center. This means that visitors flock to the city not just for a one-day stop but for longer stays, contributing to the overall economic growth of the region.

These numbers suggest that Christmas tourism is not just a fleeting moment for Frederick — it’s a key economic driver that supports jobs and businesses across the city. With many holiday visitors coming for the Christmas events, Frederick’s festive offerings have a lasting impact on its economy, helping to sustain the local tourism infrastructure year-round.

What Makes Frederick Unique Among Other Christmas Destinations

While cities like New York and Washington, D.C., are renowned for their grand holiday spectacles, Frederick stands apart by offering a more intimate, community-focused experience. The city’s historic downtown area is a huge part of what makes it so special. Visitors can explore the cobblestone streets, visit locally owned shops, and enjoy the charm of centuries-old buildings, all while soaking in the Christmas decorations and events. Frederick’s ability to blend its rich history with modern holiday traditions is what truly sets it apart.

Unlike other holiday hotspots, Frederick’s focus on local businesses and community events means that visitors feel welcomed in a more personal way. The city’s intimate atmosphere fosters a sense of warmth and connection that larger cities just can’t replicate. Whether you’re sipping hot cocoa at a local café or shopping for one-of-a-kind gifts at a boutique, Frederick offers a truly authentic holiday experience that is hard to find elsewhere.

Other Top Christmas Hotspots in the USA

While Frederick shines brightly as a Christmas destination, there are several other cities across the U.S. that also offer remarkable holiday experiences. From the snowy streets of Buffalo to the twinkling lights in Wilmington, here are a few other cities that rival Frederick in their festive charm.

1. Jersey City, New Jersey

Jersey City has earned its spot as one of the top Christmas hotspots in the U.S., ranking first for Christmas activities per square mile. The city is known for its vibrant holiday events, including festive markets, outdoor ice skating, and beautiful light displays that line the streets. Its proximity to New York City allows visitors to enjoy a smaller, more manageable holiday experience without missing out on the big city’s iconic Christmas offerings.

2. Wilmington, Delaware

Wilmington takes second place in the holiday rankings, offering a dazzling display of lights and seasonal festivities. Visitors can enjoy shopping at local markets, watching the annual holiday parade, and taking part in a variety of community events. The city’s holiday charm is further enhanced by its beautiful parks, historic streets, and cosy atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for a Christmas getaway.

3. Newark, New Jersey

Newark, another gem in New Jersey, ranks third with over 1,400 holiday activities throughout the season. From ice skating rinks to Christmas concerts and holiday markets, Newark offers something for everyone. The city is also home to beautiful historic buildings and green spaces, which are beautifully lit up during the holiday season.

4. Dover, Delaware

Dover, Delaware, rounds out the top five Christmas hotspots, offering its own set of unique holiday experiences. Visitors can explore the city’s historical landmarks, enjoy the charm of its decorated streets, and attend various festive events, including concerts and parades. The small-town feel of Dover makes it an ideal place to enjoy a peaceful Christmas with family.

5. Frederick, Maryland

Frederick continues to be a rising star, boasting a rich tradition of Christmas events and activities. With its historic charm, local businesses, and festive atmosphere, Frederick stands as one of the top destinations for a wholesome holiday experience.

More Than Just Christmas: Year-Round Appeal

While Frederick’s Christmas season is a huge draw, the city offers plenty to do year-round as well. Frederick is home to a range of museums, art galleries, and outdoor spaces, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking more than just holiday fun. The city is also a great base for exploring nearby attractions like Gambrill State Park, which offers hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and nature views year-round. For visitors who enjoy wine, Frederick County is home to a thriving wine region, with several vineyards offering tastings and tours.

Additionally, Frederick hosts a range of events throughout the year, from arts festivals to cultural exhibitions. This makes Frederick a great place to visit no matter the season, as there’s always something happening in the city. The city’s central location also makes it easy to explore nearby cities like Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, offering even more options for tourists looking to expand their travel experience.

How Frederick is Building a Sustainable Future for Tourism

As tourism continues to grow in Frederick, the city is working hard to ensure that this growth is sustainable. Local officials are focusing on improving infrastructure and enhancing the visitor experience to support long-term tourism development. Initiatives like improving downtown accessibility, promoting eco-friendly practices in tourism, and supporting local businesses are key to ensuring that Frederick remains a thriving and sustainable destination.

Frederick’s commitment to sustainable tourism is evident in its focus on preserving the city’s historical sites, promoting local culture, and supporting small businesses. By focusing on these aspects, Frederick is creating a tourism model that will continue to benefit both visitors and the local community for years to come.

Why Frederick Should Be on Your Holiday Travel List

Frederick, Maryland, is proving that it doesn’t take grand spectacles or massive crowds to create the perfect holiday atmosphere. With its charming downtown, historical sites, and a calendar full of festive events, Frederick offers an unforgettable holiday experience for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of bigger cities. From candlelit house tours to local shopping, Frederick provides a unique and intimate Christmas experience that’s perfect for families, couples, and solo travellers alike.

This holiday season, skip the overcrowded tourist hotspots and head to Frederick, where you’ll find not just Christmas cheer, but a warm, welcoming community ready to share in the spirit of the season.

Source: New York Post