If you’ve started making your list and checking it twice, remember to add your fur babies! Since they’ve been our ride or die throughout the pandemic, our pets deserve some holiday love.
Target has every cat parent covered this year with a slew of new cat scratchers that will keep those kitty claws in check. Coming in at $40 and under, you can even afford to spoil your feline a little more than usual this holiday.
After the year and a half we’ve all had, we’re ready to go big this year when it comes to celebrating the holidays. Thankfully, hotels around LA are feeling the same and are putting their best twinkling lights, ornaments and over-the-top holiday decor on display for our maximum viewing pleasure. Check out all the best spots to see hotel holiday displays that will get you into holiday spirit from your head to your toes—maybe even check in for a night or two to really maximize that holiday joy.
This article is sponsored by Terranea Resort, the perfect way to create a memorable holiday experience on the Southern California coast. Whether you’re looking for relaxation at The Spa, fun-filled activities or meaningful family moments, Traditions at Terranea Resort has something for you. Learn more.
In addition to being decked out for the holidays from the front all the way to the ocean, Terranea Resort is hosting its annual seaside event, Traditions, featuring festive offerings beginning with Thanksgiving and continuing through New Year’s Day. Experiences include signature holiday events, family activities and adventures like Postcards to the North Pole, Winter Solstice Coastal Hikes, Kids Club Family Gratitude Boxes, and Mandala Painting, Stargazing and S’mores—perfect for enjoying around one of the resort’s 228 fireplaces.
In December, you'll find elves reading stories to kids by the lobby fireplaceor being searched for—daily clues at the Experience Center will help kids search high and low for Terra, the resident Elf on the Shelf.
And on New Year’s Eve, Terranea invites guests to ring in the New Year with two grand events. At the Winter Wonderland Family Dinner, guests are transported into a magical winter wonderland countdown for a family celebration, three-course meal, Champagne toast and live entertainment. The New Year’s Eve Neon Extravaganza offers a dazzling adult-only celebration, including an open bar with optional VIP bottle service, a variety of food stations, live entertainment and DJ. Terranea’s award-winning culinary team also creates specialty menus and experiences in each of the resort’s restaurants including mar’sel, bashi, Nelson’s, and catalina kitchen.
100 Terranea Way Rancho Palos Verdes Online: terranea.com
Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel
Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel
A trip to the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel will help even the grouchiest Grinches get into the holiday spirit. Not only will the hotel update its awnings from a yellow and white color to green and red, this year, the lobby decorations will be over-the-top! The hotel's in-house floral team, Square Root Designs, was inspired by a classic Christmas theme for this year’s festive installation, which features live Christmas trees, glittering lights with red and gold garlands, holiday florals, oversized Christmas ornaments and welcoming Nutcracker statues. An added bonus? The Beverly Hills High School Choir will perform carolers on Nov. 18th and Dec. 18th in the evening to get guests into the festive spirit.
The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa welcomes the holiday season with its six-week-long Annual Festival of Lights celebration, featuring one of the nation's most adored light displays that will wow both children and parents alike. Though the lights are the main attraction here, the experience is enhanced by “Dickens carolers, appearances by Santa, the world’s largest man-made mistletoe, horse-drawn carriage rides, freshly fallen snow, elaborately decorated Christmas trees; and delectable holiday confections at the famous Casey’s Cupcakes.”
Outside the hotel, the North Pole walkway will take you down the main pedestrian thoroughfare, lined with Santa’s elves filling his sleigh full of toys, a life-size gingerbread house, window displays, and more. Visitors have numerous opportunities to spend time with Santa, including breakfasts accompanied by a performance from the Inland Pacific Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker, and champagne brunches on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas.
Throughout rest of the resort’s holiday season, you can take horse-drawn carriage rides, check out the live reindeer milling around the grounds, or snap a couples selfie under the world’s largest man-made mistletoe. The Mission Inn feels so much like Christmas, we wouldn’t be surprised if this were Santa’s secret hideaway!
During the holidays, this world-renowned Palm Springs resort transforms into a quaint Christmas village, very much like the famous town of Bedford Falls (from the movie It's a Wonderful Life that was written on these very grounds by Frank Capa). Everything is adorned with twinkling lights and festive scenery. No matter where you find yourself in the resort, it feels, smells and looks so much like Christmas, you'll almost forget you're in the desert. From the spectacular tree to the aroma of roasting chestnuts in the lobby, the holiday spirit here is palpable.
L’Ermitage will transform their lobby into a winter wonderland—courtesy of Love Actually's Emmy award-winning set designer Matthew Steinbrenner. And if that's not enough for Love Actually fans, you can book an exclusive Love Actually Live package from now through the end of Dec. with the hotel that includes two tickets to the show, travel to and from the theater, a signed playbill and eggnog truffles.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year for crafters! Mini makers (and their parents) can get in on DIY holiday fun with these at-home projects. From embroidering a Christmas ornament to assembling the perfect gingerbread house, these take-and-make kits are a quick cure for cabin fever or the perfect boredom buster on a cold day or. The best thing about these crafts? Once you pick up a few simple supplies, you can spend quality fam time creating at home – no masks or distancing required!
Who doesn’t love a beautiful gingerbread house at Christmas? But baking and building one from scratch can be frustrating. So save yourself the stress and buy this kit from the Gingerbread House Queen herself, Randi Brecher of Creative Cakes, and use her tips for building a classic (and sturdy!) house out of gingerbread. The kit is $65 and comes complete with all the gingerbread pieces, icing mix, an icing bag, and a bag each of sugar decorations, candy, and plastic decorations. This craft is best for kids who have a lot of patience because you do need to allow plenty of time between steps to ensure the house stands up to the chilly winds of winter.
Holiday baking and decorating is a time-honored tradition. But who has time for all that baking? Save some time and get straight to the fun part – decorating – by ordering these cookie decorating kits from Cake Time. You can order a kit with a dozen cookies, three colors of Royal icing, sprinkles and instructions for $25. Prefer cake over cookies? They have Christmas cake decorating kits for $45! You can place your order online and pick it up or have it delivered. Outside the DC area? They ship too!
Cake Time 4300 Chantilly Shopping Center, Ste #1H Chantilly, VA 20151 (703) 657-0999
Let each kid choose their favorite design and Susan at The Point of It All will provide the canvas and fibers needed to produce it. Once everyone has stitched their canvas, return it to Susan and it will be sent off to make a beautiful (and memorable) pillow. You can also opt to have it turned into an ornament if you’d prefer! While the shop is closed to walk-in shopping, you can make your selections online and arrange for pickups/drop-offs at Susan’s home.
The Point of It All 5232 44th Street, NW, Suite 1 Washington, DC 20015 (202) 966-9898
Love the cozy feel of a Christmas Village decoration but no time to put it out (and keep little hands from grabbing it?). Get the same feel with this easy-to-make, kid-friendly Holiday Houses craft kit. All you need is the kit and a glue stick or some double-sided tape. Each kit contains eight houses, so you can get one kit for the whole family or let each kid make their own kit. Perfect for kids ages 6+, this is super easy to assemble and doubles as adorable and cozy Christmas décor.
Paper Source 3019 M Street Northwest Washington DC 20007 (888) 727-3711
All Fired Up has two holiday pottery bundles available for home crafting. Their Christmas Bundle includes a Santa Bag, two flat ornaments of your choice, six pre-selected paint colors (with additional colors for $1/each), and brushes. The Winter Bundle contains a Snowman bag, Snowman dish, four pre-selected paint colors (additional colors $1/each), and brushes. When you place your order, you can choose to pick it up at one of their two locations or have it delivered for a $20 delivery fee. This is a simple yet fun craft that any kid will love.
All Fired Up
Cleveland Park 3413 Connecticut Ave. Washington, DC 20008 (202) 363-9590
Bethesda 4923 Elm Street Bethesda, MD 20814 (301) 654-3206
Got a little one who loves Frozen and Elsa? Then they’ll love this water sensory bottle that’s reminiscent of Elsa’s frozen castle with silver and blue glitter! The instructions are super simple and it uses materials you can get anywhere – and you might even have some of them in the house already. And you can make this water sensory bottle with anything you want, so if your kiddo’s not a fan of silver and blue or you want to skip the glitter, there are plenty of other options. Check out the video for complete instructions.
Swing by Shop Made in DC for a complete kit to make your own embroidered holiday ornament. The $30 kit has everything you need to make one ornament that will eventually be a cherished memory for both you and your kiddo. Unable to go out and pick it up? That’s okay – they deliver too!
Shop Made in DC- Dupont Circle 1710 Connecticut Ave NW Washington, DC 20009 (202) 270-4065
Shop Made in DC - Wharf 10 District Square SW Washington, DC 20024 (202) 270-1529
Shop Made in DC - Georgetown 1533 Wisconsin Avenue NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 905-5799
Shop Made in DC - ROOST 1401 Pennsylvania Avenue Washington, DC 20003
You don’t have to go far to keep your little ones enchanted this holiday season. These festive events prove just how much adventure one family can fit into a short road trip, with everything from personal shopping with elves to indoor snow showers and every stop full of twinkling lights. Scroll through to find your next merry holiday destination near Washington, DC.
Legendary Santa
Children's Museum of Richmond
As Richmond legends since 1936, Legendary Santa and the lovely Snow Queen have been delighting families for 84 years. Families come from across the country and even across the ocean to participate in this magical tradition. See Santa in person or virtually if you'd prefer to keep your distance. Register for Sensitive Santa if your little ones have sensory or special needs.
Editor's note: While most events are now sold out, you can still register for Sensitive Santa, held on Dec. 2, or a virtual Tea with Santa, held on Dec. 12, 13, 19, 20.
Children's Museum of Richmond 2626 West Broad St Richmond, VA 23220 540-656-2233 Online: childrensmuseumofrichmond.org
Where to Stay: If you are going to go all out for Santa, why not do the whole celebration in style? The Jefferson Hotel in downtown Richmond is an elegant, but surprisingly, family-friendly getaway. The holiday decorations alone are worth the reservation.
The Jefferson Hotel 101 W Franklin St. Richmond, VA 23220 888-918-1895 Online: jeffersonhotel.com
Where to Eat: Check out the New York Deli, and you'll find yourselves amid a fun history lesson. Opening in 1929 and in its present location since 1934, the New York Deli is Richmond's oldest (any maybe yummiest) restaurant. Stop at the 50-year-old photobooth for an epic photo op.
New York Deli 2920 W Cary St. Richmond, VA 23221 804-358-3354 Online: ny-d.com
Koziar's Christmas Village
Koziar's Christmas Village
Step inside an enchanting village and soak in the beauty of a valley glowing with over a million twinkling lights. Santa and his elves have been the sparkling center of this event since 1948. You and your crew won't want to miss this holiday spectacular.
COVID-19 Update: Timed Entry passes are required on prime nights.
Where to Stay:Homewood Suites by Hilton Reading is less than 10 miles from Krozier's Christmas Village, and your family will enjoy the full kitchen and two-bedroom suite. You'll have room for everyone to spread out and free, hot breakfast.
Where to Eat: Blue Mountain Family Restaurant offers good old fashioned homestyle cooking and a few delicious Greek specialties. The portions are generous so that you might have leftovers for the next day, or a late-night snack, at least.
Experience the splendor and tradition of Christmas in Old Town Warrenton with the award-winning Gum Drop Square. Your kids can shop for family gifts with festive elves in Santa's Secret Shop. Shopping with elves? Yes, please! Presents are wrapped and ready to go when your kiddo leaves the Workshop and can be purchased for only $2 each.
COVID-19 Update: Masks are required while standing in line.
Cost: $2 to enter Santa's Secret Shop; $1 per gift (includes wrapping). When: Dec. 5-19
VonCanon General Store 92 Main St Ste 102 Warrenton, VA 20186 540-216-3742 Online: oldtownwarrenton.org
Where to Stay: Make the 45-minute drive to stay at The Inn at Evergreen. Book one of their family-friendly suites, and you will all enjoy the sprawling property and views. A visit to this manor on the National Register of Historic Places won't disappoint.
Inn at Evergreen 15890 Berkeley Dr. Haymarket, VA 20169 703-743-4711 Online: innatevergreen.com
Where to Eat: Black Bear Bistro & Brick Oven has a fun vibe and a huge menu. Combining the best of farm-fresh local and organic ingredients with old-fashioned family value, the restaurant serves up generous portions of great food at very reasonable pricing.
Black Bear Bistro & Brick Oven 32 Main St. Warrenton, VA 20186 540-428-1005 Online: blackbearbistro.com
Check into Great Wolf Lodge for a fun place to stay and enjoy the holiday festivities. Your family can soak up the holiday spirit with daily snow showers in the Grand Lobby, seasonally themed crafts, fun stories and songs, and new this year: a Cocoa Trolley. Decked out with oversized snowflakes, twinkling garland, decorative shimmering trees, and more, your whole gang will love this whimsical winter wonderland.
COVID-19 Update: Guests are required to wear masks in public spaces.
When: Now-Jan. 2
Great Wolf Lodge 549 E Rochambeau Dr. Williamsburg, VA 23188 800-551-9653 Online: greatwolflodge.com
Where to Stay: Why leave the lodge when it is the perfect family getaway? In addition to unlimited access to the water park, all the family activities offered during Snowland are included. Book a themed suite for a fun outdoor or wildlife motif your littles will love.
Where to Eat: Food for Thought Restaurant features biographical pictures of inventors, scientists, and social leaders while the walls display thought-provoking quotes. While you're perusing the walls, your family will love the foodie options for all ages.
Tickets to the perennially popular Breakfast with Santa are sold out, but you can still catch the holiday spirit on the Reindeer Railway. Explore Santa's Winter Village, take a spin on the Roundhouse carousel and hop aboard the Reindeer Railway where children wear light-up reindeer antlers to help light Santa's way. Kids are served cookies and juice while adults can enjoy a spiked hot cider.
Cost: $10-30 When: Now-Jan. 3
B&O Railroad Museum 901 W Pratt Street Baltimore, MD 21223 410-752-2490 Online: eventbrite.com
Where to Stay: The Baltimore Marriott Waterfront has excellent views, an indoor pool and water taxi access to tons of local activities. Downtown is always decked out in its holiday finest, and there is a unique German Christmas Village in the Inner Harbor.
Where to Eat: Don't miss build-your-own pasta at Amicci's in Baltimore's Little Italy. This casual spot is perfect for pasta-loving little ones. If you prefer to take dinner back to your hotel room, they offer a $20 three-course carryout menu.
Ammicci's 231 S High St. Baltimore, MD 21202 410-528-1096 Online: amiccis.com
Start a new holiday tradition and cruise the Cape Fear River in Wilmington, NC, while your gang enjoys the sights, sounds and yumminess of the holidays. Enjoy the views of magical lights while cruising along the historic Wilmington Riverwalk aboard the 46′ catamaran, the Wilmington. Want more fun on the water? Head to the near-by Carolina Beach for the Island of Lights Christmas Parade on Dec. 6 (pictured above).
Wilmington Water Tours 212 South Water Street Wilmington, NC 28401 Online: wilmingtonwatertours.net
Where to Stay:Embassy Suites Wilmington Riverfront Hotel is right across from the Wilmington Railroad Museum and just across the water from the Battleship North Carolina, both fun and educational stops. Ask for a room with a water view when you make your reservation. It is epic.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilmington Riverfront 9 Estell Lee Pl. Wilmington, NC 28401 910-765-1131 Online: hilton.com
Where to Eat: Go off-the-beaten-path to a delicious lunch stop, Savorez, a Latin American spot with amazing flavors. The Churrasco Tacos and yucca fries are mouth-watering. Ask the chef to make grilled chicken and coconut rice for your kiddos. They'll love it.
This year’s holiday gatherings might look a little different from in years past, which makes it a great time to try something new. Whether you’re looking for a remote getaway or a well-known destination that’s taking its Covid precautions seriously, there are plenty of places to go on one or two tanks of gas from Atlanta. Keep reading for ideas on where to take your holidays on the road.
Photo: iStock
The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island
The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island welcomes resort guests to extended stay discounts for five or longer days, up to 20% off room rates for guests driving in, and even has a distance learning program that will have your kids exploring this barrier island for families travelling with Chrome Books in tow. For Thanksgiving and Christmas, there will be a festive meal in one of the hotels signature restaurants, in addition to menus with holiday-inspired favorites throughout the season. Restaurant reservations are available exclusively for resort guests on Nov. 25 & 26 and Dec. 24, 25, & 31. Additionally, you’ll find Gingerbread House build workshops, a Holiday Pirate Hunt, Santa Storybook Teas and photos, as well as the option to arrange private gatherings for your family.
Rates vary based on room selections and dates, but check here for specials.
4750 Amelia Island Pkwy.
Amelia Island, FL
904-277-1100 Online:ritzcarlton.com
Sea Island
If you don’t mind a splurge, you can guarantee a splendid rendition of all holiday traditions at Sea Island. Kicking things off for Thanksgiving is a Turkey Tie-Dye Wednesday afternoon, followed by a Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot Family Fun Run Thursday morning and a special service in The Cloister Chapel. Then, traditional Thanksgiving feasts are offered across the resort, ranging from casual to formal and traditional to new-and-exciting. For Christmas, you can expect storytime with Santa’s elves, a lifesize Gingerbread Cottage, Reindeer Dash fun run, Reindog Parade, and a special The Polar Express Extravaganza at Sea Island Kids—a night of festive fun, including a trip down Sea Island Drive in search of Christmas lights. While the kids are in great hands, adults can take a culinary 6-course trip in The Cloister Wine Cellar, the perfect setting as dinner is paired with some of our favorite holiday wines. Additional programming for both Thanksgiving and Christmas are detailed here.
Prices vary based on accomodation selections, which range from rooms at The Lodge or The Cloister to home rentals. View specials here, and accomodation descriptions here.
100 Cloister Drive
Sea Island, GA
855-572-4975 Online:seaisland.com
Photo: iStock
Palmetto Bluff
Head to the Lowcountry for a catalogue of holiday offerings at Montage Palmetto Bluff, starting with an annual Turkey Trot, Tree Lighting with a holiday band, carolers, food trucks, and shopping, Cocktails and Carols around the resort’s backyard fire pit on Friday and Saturday evenings from Dec. 6-21, and Saturdays with Santa for children, with breakfast on Dec. 7, 14 and 21. You’ll also find the Moreland Holiday Gathering on Christmas Eve, with an oyster roast, Lowcountry boil, and gorgeous waterfront views from the five-story tree house.
Prices vary based on dates of travel and accommodation selections, but you can learn more here.
For a megawatt holiday experience, head to Callaway Gardens, where Fantasy in Lights—a National Geographic’s Top 10 Light Displays in the world event—will dazzle, along with a Christmas Village and an illuminated forest. Fantasy in Lights begins on Nov. 20, so guests staying at Callaway during Thanksgiving will get a jump start on the holidays with early access to the 2,500 acres of the resort’s stunning natural landscape.
Prices vary, but explore overnight packages and specials here.
Always wanted to spend the holidays at an English country home at the turn of the 20th century but not quite ready to commit to an international flight? Head to Barnsley, where the resort’s pedestrian-friendly, English-inspired village with an Inn and cottages will have you feeling like you just declared a victory over jet lag. Thanksgiving activities include live music, the lighting of the ruins, a traditional feast, and a family fun day with and introduction to archery, farm animal feedings, painting, crafting, and gingerbread house building. Christmas brings with it lights, feasting, and more fun.
Rates vary, check here for details, including discounts on 3 or more night stays.
597 Barnsley Gardens Rd.
Adairsville, GA
770-773-7480 Online:barnsleyresort.com
The Dillard House
Explore the North Georgia mountains from a base camp at The Dillard House, which offers rooms that are within walking distance to the restaurant, stables, and pond. Meals at Dillard House are served family-style, and are made from scratch. During the days, go for a hike, cast a line, or take a horse ride through some of the prettiest mountains in Georgia.
If you’re looking to add a little holiday cheer to your calendar, this list is for you! You’ll find all the places to see Christmas lights around Orlando, places to visit with Santa and all your favorite amusement park events reimagined for 2020. There are tons of things to do with kids this holiday season all over Orlando, we know you’ll love it!
I Love Christmas Movies at the Gaylord Palms
iStock
I Love Christmas Movies presents a fully immersive exhibit featuring key moments from some of the most iconic Warner Bros. Pictures Christmas movies including THE POLAR EXPRESS™, A CHRISTMAS STORY™, ELF™, NATIONAL LAMPOON’S CHRISTMAS VACATION™, and THE YEAR WITHOUT A SANTA CLAUS™. As guests young and young at heart navigate the multi-sensory exhibits, they will enjoy over 13 fully immersive scenes complete with replicas of film props, audio clips and more, making participants feel as if they have stepped into part of the actual story. Nov. 13-Jan. 3. Event details.
Night of a Million Lights Walk-Through
iStock
For the first time ever, guests can experience the childlike wonder of this magical, whimsical Village during a walk-through, fully immersive holiday light spectacular. Stroll the Avenue of Angels, aglow with more than three million lights; savor delicious treats; and enjoy the accessible rides and storybook attractions that have brought happiness and hope to critically ill children and their families from around the world for 34 years. Nov. 13-Dec. 19. Event details.
Gather your family and join all of your festive friends at SeaWorld®’s Christmas Celebration™. SeaWorld transforms into a winter wonderland sparkling with holiday cheer, excitement, and over 3 million beautiful lights. Experience award-winning entertainment like the show-stopping ice-skating extravaganza Winter Wonderland on Ice. Nov. 14-Dec. 31. Event details.
Winter Wonderland Spectacular at Celebration Town Center
Now Snowing, Central Florida’s original and premier “Snowing” event, offers one of the area’s only synthetic ice rinks, special community performances by some of the area’s top young talent, and special concert events throughout the season. Daily through Dec. 31. Event details.
Universal Orlando Resort™ Holiday Celebration
Nicholas B. via Yelp
Put a little mischief in your merry when Universal Orlando unwraps a resort-wide celebration that will elevate your season. Guests will find a winter “fun”-derland that the entire family will enjoy with incredible holiday experiences across the entire destination that put a twist on the traditional. Nov. 14-Jan. 3. Event details.
Head to Zoo Lights
Oona Cooperhill
You'll get to celebrate the holiday season with visits with Santa, river boat rides, animal encounters, holiday shopping and more. Various dates Nov. 28-Dec. 27. Event details.
Santa’s Wonderland returns to Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s and families are invited to enjoy this magical Christmas village with a few changes for 2020. You'll need to book your free reservation in advance. You'll get a "contactless Claus" visit when you arrive and free craft kits. Make sure to wear your holiday mask! Event details.
Visit Bayfront Holiday Village
Bayfront Holiday Village will transform Bayfront Park into a shopping and entertainment destination for locals and tourists alike. The Village will become one of Miami’s most iconic offerings during the holiday season. Event details.
Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail
Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail
This year, you can discover Christmas around every corner, as you come across a collection of elaborately decorated Disney Christmas trees spread throughout the neighborhoods of Disney Springs. Nov. 27-Dec. 27. Event details.
Kick the holiday season off right. We gathered up our favorite holiday events around Denver and you’ll want to mark your calendars for all the festivities. From Christmas light displays to Polar Express holiday trains to places to see Santa, we’ve got them all and MORE!
All Aboard the Polar Express Train Ride
Guy Rhodes
The story of The Polar Express is being theatrically re-created so you and your family can be immersed in the sights, sounds and intrigue of this classic children’s tale. Prepare to be surrounded by the magic and wonder of the holiday season! Select dates through Dec. 21. Event details.
I Love Christmas Movies at the Gaylord Rockies
iStock
I Love Christmas Movies presents a fully immersive exhibit featuring key moments from some of the most iconic Warner Bros. Pictures Christmas movies including THE POLAR EXPRESS™, A CHRISTMAS STORY™, ELF™, NATIONAL LAMPOON’S CHRISTMAS VACATION™, and THE YEAR WITHOUT A SANTA CLAUS™. As guests young and young at heart navigate the multi-sensory exhibits, they will enjoy over 13 fully immersive scenes complete with replicas of film props, audio clips and more, making participants feel as if they have stepped into part of the actual story. Nov. 20-Jan. 3. Event details.
Celebrate Mile High Holidays
Stan Obert/Denver Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau
Create a new family tradition and join in the free nightly festivities at Denver’s newest holiday attraction, including a dazzling lights and music show every 30 minutes throughout the evening. Daily through Jan. 2. Event details.
Visit Denver Christkindl Market
This annual event brings authentic German and European holiday traditions to Denver! Guests can find delicious cuisine, festive German drinks, handmade jewelry, toys, clothing, gifts and much more. Make note of the new location for 2020. Nov. 20-Dec. 23. Event details.
Check Out the Holiday Lights in Golden
Plan to visit Golden during the holiday season for the thousands of lights that decorate the City! Nov. 27-Feb. 15. Event details.
Santa’s Wonderland returns to Bass Pro Shops and families are invited to enjoy this magical Christmas village with a few changes for 2020. You'll need to book your free reservation in advance. You'll get a "contactless Claus" visit when you arrive and free craft kits. Make sure to wear your holiday mask! Daily through Dec. 24. Event details.
Blossoms of Light
Denver Botanic Gardens
Denver Botanic Gardens is proud to host Blossoms of Light, an annual family-friendly event that has become a tradition for people across Colorado. Come interact with incredible light displays—a large field of sound-reactive, animated LED lights—plus sip warm drinks and nibble on tasty treats as you stroll. Nov. 20-Jan. 16. Event details.
The Denver Theatre District's ongoing, year-round projection mapping installation will be projected on the Arapahoe Street side of the Daniels & Fisher Tower every Thursday through Saturday evening. Night Lights Denver will include rotating content, designed by artists and the community, featuring a wide range of art. Thurs.-Sat. at 5:30 p.m. Event details.
It's official: Zoo Lights has been making magic, memories, and even marriages for 30 amazing years! Presented by Your Hometown Toyota Stores, this illuminating annual event transforms Denver Zoo into Colorado's WILDEST winter wonderland. Don't miss this year's historic celebration, with more than a million lights sparkling over 80 acres—plus a host of special measures to keep your family safe and healthy. Nov. 23-Dec. 30. Event details.
Spread throughout Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms, Trail of Lights offers visitors a choice of paths; a shorter route takes visitors directly through the children’s play area, while an extended path allows visitors to explore the outside area of the Green Farm Barn and silo before continuing through the children’s area and 1880s homestead. Various evenings through Jan. 3. Event details.
If you are looking for all the Austin holiday events to add to your calendar, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve found Christmas light displays, holiday shopping experiences and even a few spots where you can see Santa. Get ready for some holiday cheer!
Christmas Light Show at Mozart's Coffee
This Christmas Light Show has become an annual tradition for many Austinites. Every year, we decorate the deck with over 1 million LED lights and set up a show to our favorite holiday tunes. For 2020, you'll need to book your table in advance and pre-order any food you'd like to enjoy. This will ensure proper social distancing. Daily through Jan. 6. Event details.
Santa’s Wonderland returns to Bass Pro Shops and families are invited to enjoy this magical Christmas village with a few changes for 2020. You'll need to book your free reservation in advance. You'll get a "contactless Claus" visit when you arrive and free craft kits. Make sure to wear your holiday mask. Daily through Dec. 24. Event details.
Bring your friends and family and enjoy one of the best holiday light exhibits in the state! You’ll take a drive through over a mile of winding country roads while taking in the beautiful lights, animated Christmas displays, and enjoying homemade hot cocoa, kettle corn and snacks. Daily through Jan. 3. Event details.
Located within one of the most beautiful places for holiday shopping, visitors will lose themselves in decorated walkways featuring local artisan vendors of art, jewelry, home goods, and holiday fare. Experience the winding walkways filled with holiday cheer and an abundance of family photo opp. Nov. 23-Dec. 24. Event details.
Shop at the Blue Genie Art Bazaar
This Austin holiday shopping experience returns with four shopping options to ensure all guests can participate safely. Not only will they have in-person shopping but you can have a personal shopper experience and more. Through Dec. 24. Event details.
The Christmas Walkway of Lights Is On!
Oona Cooperhill
Enjoy over a million lights that light a self-guided walk with over 130 light sculptures and a spectacular light tunnel made up of over 12,000 clear lights. Nov. 20-Jan. 2. Event details.
All Aboard the North Pole Flyer
Our special 2 hour excursion on a real train features a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, all-you-can-drink hot cocoa and a locally baked holiday cookie. Each car is decorated for the season where passengers enjoy a live reading of the North Pole Flyer book-our railroad’s own Christmas Story! Our professional Santa will spend time in each car to “check your list twice”, and pose for photographs before handing out a gift to each child to remember this special ride! Nov. 28-29 and Dec. 5-6. Event details.
Austin Drive-Thru Trail of Lights
iStock
One of Austin’s most anticipated events is back this year for a drive-through experience! Millions of holiday lights and displays line the trail, creating a fun experience for the whole family. Purchase special “ZIP” passes online to get in a full 45 minutes earlier than everyone else! Nov. 28-Dec. 23. Event details.
Check out the Bastrop River of Lights
iStock
Take in the River of Lights, numerous lighted displays in a variety of seasonal themes lining Bastrop's scenic June Hill Pape River Walk. To access this one-half mile promenade, come down the stairs west of the intersection of Main and Pine Streets or select the fully accessible entrance at Fisherman's Park on Farm Street. Nov. 28-Jan. 3. Event details.
Christmas at the Caverns
istock
At Natural Bridge Caverns, we celebrate Christmas unlike anywhere else in the world! Nestled in the scenic Texas Hill Country, we kick our holiday festivities up a notch. Hear your favorite carols echo through Texas’ largest underground cavern. Visit with Santa "Spelunker" Claus, then round up his reindeer in our 5000 square foot outdoor maze. As the sun sets behind our 30-foot Christmas tree, take a stroll through our 1/3 mile trail of lights. Don't forget to roast s'mores, enjoy live music, and shop for your holiday gifts! Select dates Dec. 5-23. Event details.
If you are looking to keep the kids busy this month, we’ve got the list for you! December is full of free and cheap things to do with your family around Orlando, Florida like food truck gatherings, Christmas light displays and even more. Get your calendar out and block off your days for the best family events and kids activities this month!
Winter Wonderland Spectacular at Celebration Town Center
Now Snowing, Central Florida’s original and premier “Snowing” event, offers one of the area’s only synthetic ice rinks, special community performances by some of the area’s top young talent, and special concert events throughout the season. Daily through Dec. 31. Event details.
Friday Farming on South Street
Maggie Zhao via Pexels
Every Friday morning, you are invited to this 1/4-acre urban farm plot in West Orlando to learn about how our food is grown and to help with the endeavor. Event details.
Museums on Us Weekend
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Bank of America cardholders can get free admission to many museums the first full weekend of the month, including the Orlando Museum of Art. Dec. 7-8. Event details.
Build a Christmas Countdown Calendar at Home Depot
Home Depot
Create your own countdown to the holidays, and have a blast with your child while doing it. Kids develop hands-on skills with sanding, nailing and applying stickers. With help from parents and store associates, your child will make a merry memory this holiday season. Dec. 7. Event details.
Insect Safari at the Oakland Nature Preserve
Lindsay Wildlife Experience
Led by entomologist Christy LeDuc, this is a fun program where attendees will learn about different native insects of Florida. The Program will start with a brief classroom presentation, following by a guided hike on the Preserve, where attendees have the opportunity to see bugs up close and personal! Dec. 7. Event details.
Little Artisans on Sundays
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Drop by the Hamlin Artisan Market every Sunday and enjoy a free, new "LITTLE ARTISANS" craft project perfect for the whole family. Event details.
Museum of Osteology celebrates vertebrate life by providing guests with an engaging adventure full of discovery, with the hopes that through education, we will help cultivate an appreciation of the natural world and ultimately lead to conservation for the future. Event details.
Mother Goose y Amigos Bilingual Story Time
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Bienvenido to Mother Goose y Amigos! Journey with us as we explore the Spanish language in this unique bi-lingual Mother Goose Storytime. Event details.
Free Family Funday at Mennello Museum of American Art
Every second Sunday of the month is Free Family Funday! Join us at the museum for free admission, a free miniature fine art project and free docent touring. Dec. 8. Event details.
Art & Music in the Park, Plus Food Trucks
While listening to the music, guests will be able to stroll through the park and shop at more than 15 local businesses and artisan booths selling jewelry, photography, paintings and an assortment of other unique gifts and services. Also, there will be 12 gourmet food trucks from The Food Truck Bazaar, offering delicious culinary delights that range from savory to sweet to spicy and everything in between. Dec. 13. Event details.
Santa’s Wonderland returns to Bass Pro Shops and families are invited to enjoy this magical Christmas village offering free photos with Santa and free family holiday activities including fun crafts and games. Features include rustic Christmas cabins, holiday characters and live elves set amongst a dazzling backdrop of snow-covered hills and illuminated Christmas trees. The Santa’s Wonderland Christmas village offers remote control trucks, laser/foam toy arcade, Lincoln Logs building area and much more. Kids can also spend time at one of the activity tables where they can write a letter to Santa, color and do fun crafts, all for free. Event details.
See Elf at Popcorn Flicks in the Park
This Popcorn Flicks in the Park series features classic films for the whole family. These films are usually held on the second Thursday of each month in Winter Park’s beautiful Central Park and they are FREE and open to the public. Dec. 6. Event details.
Ride the Polar Express
This magical experience takes you and your children to the North Pole on board an actual train ride that recreates THE POLAR EXPRESS™ movie. You will have your golden ticket punched by the conductor, experience the dancing chefs who will serve cocoa and a tasty treat, interact with the hobo and other characters from the movie, along with enjoying a reading of the classic children’s book THE POLAR EXPRESS™ by Chris Van Allsburg. Upon arrival at the North Pole, Santa Claus and his elves will climb aboard and visit each family. Each child will receive a silver bell from Santa’s sleigh as the first gift of Christmas. After a rousing series of Christmas caroling, you will return to Tavares and reality with a renewed sense of Christmas joy. Event details.
Every fourth Friday the Town of Windermere Downtown Business Committee hosts Family Food Truck Night. The event is held on brick main street in front of Town Hall located in the heart of Downtown Windermere. Dec. 27. Event details.
Kids See The Wizard of Oz for Free
The Wizard of Oz
Our Peanut Butter Matinee Family Film Series usually occurs on the fourth Sunday of the month. It is always family friendly and FREE for kids 12 & under. A special Kid’s Menu is also offered! Dec. 22. Event details.
Get ready to fill up the calendar with loads of free and cheap things to do with your family this December! We’ve got tons of family-friendly events around Miami, Florida like Christmas light displays, free museum days and loads more. Scroll through to discover the best things to do with your kids this month in Miami.
Visit Bayfront Holiday Village
Bayfront Holiday Village will transform Bayfront Park into a shopping and entertainment destination for locals and tourists alike. The Village will become one of Miami’s most iconic offerings during the holiday season. Event details.
Free First Saturday at the Gold Coast Railroad Museum
The Gold Coast Railroad Museum is dedicated to preserving, exhibiting, and operating historic equipment. It houses over 40 historic rail cars including Presidential Rail Car 'Ferdinand Magellan,' and Florida East Coast Steam Locomotive #153. Visit on the first Saturday of the month for free days. Dec. 7. Event details.
Christmas is in the air in Santa's Enchanted Forest, Miami's holiday theme park. This venue has been a South Florida holiday tradition for more than 30 years. The whole family will enjoy the holiday light show, Christmas karaoke, holiday displays, Mistletoe Lane, and the tallest Christmas tree in South Florida. There are also magic shows, a freestyle motocross event, an aerial performance, a circus, thrill rides for big and little kids, animal shows, and a carnival. Event details.
Enjoy having hundreds of butterflies from all over the tropical world fluttering around you. Want to learn everything there is about these winged wonders? Then come to the Wings of the Tropics exhibit at the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden for an exciting and interactive learning experience that will make your kids beg you to bring them back. Event details.
Museums on Us Weekend
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Bank of America cardholders can get free admission to many museums the first full weekend of the month, including the Miami Children's Museum. Event details.
Ride the North Pole Limited
Come to the Gold Coast Railroad Museum to kick off the holiday season in a very special way. See Santa's Magical Toy Workshop come to live and then mingle with the Kringles before you board the train to the North Pole. Event etails.
Free Art Making at PAMM
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Every first Thursday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., visit the Perez Art Museum Miami for this free monthly program featuring art-making sessions in the galleries, inspired by works on view. Dec. 5. Event details.
North Pole Pajama Party at the Museum of Discovery and Science
Start a family tradition and wear your pajamas or elf costumes for this festive event! Enjoy all Museum exhibits and a holiday science show, sip hot chocolate, concoct elf slime and decorate holiday ornaments. Your Pajama Party ticket also includes an invitation to journey to the North Pole in our IMAX theater. Dec. 1, 7-8, 14-15, 21-22. Event details.
Pinecrest Gardens transforms into a winter wonderland dotted by thousands of twinkling holiday lights that go up, through and around the whimsical botanical landscape. Dec. 13-Jan. 1. Event details.
Santa’s Wonderland returns to Bass Pro Shops and families are invited to enjoy this magical Christmas village offering free photos with Santa and free family holiday activities including fun crafts and games. Features include rustic Christmas cabins, holiday characters and live elves set amongst a dazzling backdrop of snow-covered hills and illuminated Christmas trees. The Santa’s Wonderland Christmas village offers remote control trucks, laser/foam toy arcade, Lincoln Logs building area and much more. Kids can also spend time at one of the activity tables where they can write a letter to Santa, color and do fun crafts, all for free. Event details.
Night Hike & Campfire at the Deering Estate
Jessica Ruscello on Unsplash
Explore the woods and it’s wildlife as it comes to life at night! After the guided hike, gather around a campfire and enjoy complementary s’mores. Ages 4+. Dec. 11. Event details.
Little Lizards Program at Pinecrest Gardens
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This drop-in, informal program will feature new activities every Wednesday relating to a monthly theme. Lizards will read, explore, create and imagine while learning about the wonders of nature. No prior registration necessary. Weather permitting. Ages 3-10. Event details.
The NightGarden 2019 will feature more lights, new fun and interactive surprises, an expanded footprint that is 3X larger than last year, expanded parking, and an all-new, free AR augmented reality Fairy Quest challenge. Plus, The NightGarden is bringing back last year’s crowd favorites, including Archimedes, the Talking Tree, the flying fairies, the New Year's Eve fireworks spectacular, Miami’s finest food and beverage, and a new and more challenging lost fairy puzzle. Event details.
Check out what's new at this awesome kids' museum for FREE on the third Friday of the month. Due to large crowds, it is suggested that strollers be left at home. Dec. 20. Event details.
Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, passengers will relive the magic of the classic story as they are whisked away on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ for a magical one-hour trip to meet Santa. Once on board, your hosts will work their way through the car and punch your golden ticket before hot chocolate and a delicious cookie are served by dancing chefs. Passengers then read along with the classic children’s book, The Polar Express, by Chris Van Allsburg. Event details.
Build a Christmas Countdown Calendar at Home Depot
Home Depot
Create your own countdown to the holidays, and have a blast with your child while doing it. Kids develop hands-on skills with sanding, nailing and applying stickers. With help from parents and store associates, your child will make a merry memory this holiday season. Dec. 7. Event details.
