Published on December 7, 2025
This year, Manchester, New Hampshire, teams up with Jersey City, New Jersey, Wilmington, Delaware, Newark, New Jersey, Frederick, Maryland, and Worcester, Massachusetts to deliver an unrivalled, jaw-dropping Christmas experience that will leave you in awe. These cities, each brimming with holiday cheer, dazzling light displays, and heartwarming traditions, are setting the stage for the most unforgettable Christmas celebrations America has ever seen! From spectacular parades and enchanted light shows to winter sports, Christmas markets, and magical tree lightings, this year’s holiday season is about to become legendary in these festive hotspots. Don’t miss out on this ultimate Christmas adventure that promises to outshine every other holiday destination!
Manchester, New Hampshire, is quickly becoming a Christmas favourite, and for good reason. This charming city offers a festive spirit that’s rooted in community traditions and family-friendly events.
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One of the highlights of Manchester’s holiday season is the Holiday Parade and the Christmas Tree Lighting. This annual event marks the start of the festive season, drawing families, friends, and visitors from near and far. The parade features floats, music, and holiday cheer, while the tree lighting ceremony adds that magical touch that sets the tone for the rest of the season.
With its Christmas lights display and stunning decorations around town, Manchester truly transforms into a winter wonderland. From the heart of the city to its charming neighbourhoods, you’ll find yourself immersed in the festive atmosphere that feels warm and inviting. Whether you’re strolling through Belgrade Street’s Christmas Light Show or enjoying the McIntyre Ski Area for winter sports, Manchester promises a Christmas experience that’s both active and enchanting.
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When it comes to cities that truly embrace the Christmas season, Jersey City stands at the top. With over 1,460 holiday events and 69.4 events per square mile, Jersey City is a Christmas powerhouse that offers something for everyone.
Jersey City’s Christmas celebrations are not just about the big events — it’s about the sheer variety of activities that bring people together. From Christmas markets to holiday concerts, the city is buzzing with seasonal cheer. The holiday lights in downtown Jersey City are a sight to behold, making it one of the most picturesque places to visit during the season.
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Whether you’re walking through the waterfront Christmas markets, taking part in festive performances, or simply enjoying the atmosphere with family and friends, Jersey City is a dream destination for anyone looking to fully immerse themselves in the Christmas spirit. The city’s proximity to New York also makes it a perfect base for those who want the charm of Jersey City with easy access to the iconic NYC holiday celebrations.
Wilmington, Delaware, might be smaller compared to some of the other cities on this list, but it more than makes up for it with its festive charm. The city’s Christmas light displays and holiday events are well-known across the region, making it a must-visit destination for holiday lovers.
Wilmington’s Longwood Gardens is a seasonal gem, known for its incredible Christmas light displays and beautifully decorated gardens. Visitors can wander through acres of holiday displays, enjoy performances, and revel in the breathtaking winter landscape. The annual A Longwood Christmas event brings the garden to life, drawing thousands of visitors each year.
In addition to Longwood Gardens, Wilmington’s historic district is transformed into a festive haven with decorated streets, Christmas markets, and special events throughout the month of December. With its small-town charm and big holiday spirit, Wilmington is a Christmas destination that feels intimate and special.
While it might not have the same reputation as nearby Jersey City, Newark is a hidden holiday gem in its own right. The city offers a variety of holiday events and Christmas markets, perfect for those who want to experience the festive season without the crowds.
Newark’s Winter Village is one of the city’s top Christmas attractions. Here, visitors can enjoy ice skating, holiday shopping, and a variety of Christmas events that bring people together. The annual Christmas tree lighting in downtown Newark is another highlight that draws crowds each year, bringing a festive atmosphere to the heart of the city.
Newark’s historic architecture, combined with holiday décor, makes it an ideal destination for those looking to explore a city steeped in both Christmas spirit and cultural history. While smaller in scale compared to other cities, Newark’s holiday celebrations are a delightful mix of urban energy and traditional holiday cheer.
Though Dover might not be the first place you think of when it comes to Christmas, this small Delaware city offers charming holiday events that will make you fall in love with its festive spirit.
Dover’s historic downtown district is beautifully decorated for the holidays, with Christmas lights and festive displays lining the streets. The annual Christmas parade is a major highlight, drawing crowds of families to celebrate the season. In addition to the parade, Dover hosts several holiday festivals and shopping events, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a low-key Christmas experience without missing out on the holiday fun.
Dover’s holiday celebrations are often coupled with its quaint, small-town charm, making it a perfect spot for families and couples looking to unwind and enjoy the festivities in a more relaxed atmosphere.
Frederick, Maryland, is a city of charm — and that charm only grows when the holiday season arrives. Known for its historic downtown area, Frederick becomes a Christmas wonderland each year, with festive events that highlight the city’s unique character and sense of tradition.
One of the most cherished traditions in Frederick is the Candlelight House Tour, where visitors can walk through beautifully decorated homes, learn about local history, and enjoy the holiday ambiance. The city’s holiday lights in the downtown area are stunning, and the annual Christmas parade adds to the holiday magic.
Beyond these events, Frederick also offers seasonal shopping, local restaurants serving up festive fare, and traditional Christmas activities, making it a well-rounded destination for a Christmas getaway that combines history, charm, and festive cheer.
Located in central Massachusetts, Worcester is another top destination for Christmas lovers. The city is known for its Festival of Lights, which is one of the most celebrated events of the holiday season in the region.
Worcester’s Festival of Lights brings the downtown area to life with a massive Christmas tree, ice skating, holiday performances, and light displays. The city’s ice-skating rink at the Worcester Common is a popular spot for families and visitors to enjoy some winter fun. In addition to the Festival of Lights, Worcester also hosts a variety of other Christmas-themed events, including holiday markets and seasonal concerts.
Worcester’s celebration of Christmas is a festive mix of family-friendly activities, outdoor fun, and traditional holiday charm, making it a must-visit spot for anyone looking to enjoy a classic New England Christmas.
Nashua, New Hampshire, is another hidden gem when it comes to Christmas celebrations. The city offers a cozy, small-town feel, with plenty of events and activities to get you in the holiday spirit.
Nashua’s annual Christmas Stroll is a beloved event where visitors can enjoy festive lights, holiday shopping, and street performances. The city also hosts several Christmas markets and winter festivals, making it a perfect destination for those looking for an authentic holiday experience without the crowds.
Nashua’s smaller size means you can experience the charm of a traditional Christmas, with all the warmth, spirit, and joy of the season.
As we’ve seen, cities like Manchester, Jersey City, Wilmington, Newark, Dover, Frederick, Worcester, and Nashua are truly the top Christmas destinations in the U.S. They offer unique Christmas experiences, from holiday parades and tree lightings to festive light displays, winter recreation, and small-town charm.
These cities may not be as famous as some of the larger holiday destinations, but they offer a more intimate, authentic experience that’s perfect for those who want to enjoy Christmas without the crowds. So why not make one of these cities your holiday destination in 2025? Whether you’re looking for traditional celebrations or winter fun, these Christmas hotspots will make your holiday season truly unforgettable.
Source: New York Post
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