Leavenworth, Washington, one of the most festive towns in the U.S.(Photo: George Dodd/Getty; Canva illustration)

I’m prone to chasing after winter wonder. I spent time as a kid in North Pole, Alaska, after all. And I grew up a quick car ride away from one of the most magical Christmas towns in the country: Leavenworth, Washington.

Nothing beats a beautiful mountain town around the holidays. If you aren’t in the Christmas spirit when you arrive, you will be once you leave. From enchanted ski slopes to brilliant lights displays, cozy holiday shops to cheer-filled festivals, the Christmas charm in these ten places is just as remarkable as the outdoor recreation they provide.

Here are 10 mountain towns that truly take Christmas to another level.

1. Big Bear Lake, California

Big Bear Lake, a glistening gem nestled in the heart of the mountains, takes on a whole new beauty during Christmas. It’s only a couple of hours from Los Angeles and it’s a perfect getaway for the whole family. The village is a cool place to walk around at night as the streets are lined with lighted trees and festive decors. 📍The Village at Big Bear Tag someone you would come here with. 🫶 . . .#christmasgetaway#bigbearlake#thevillageatbigbear#californiaroadtripHoliday getaway in California | Christmas in Big Bear, California |

Not a fan of the cold? Big Bear Lake in California is tolerable through the winter, but snuggled in at 6,700 feet, it’s also one of the few places in Southern California to get snow. Big Bear’s walkable downtown, the Village, gets completely decked out for the holidays with lights displays, big wreaths, lit archways, decorated storefronts, and a massive community Christmas tree.

Outdoor rec:Purchase anight session lift ticketand ski under the lights and stars at Snow Valley or Snow Summit, neighboring resorts. Gotubingor sledding, snowshoeing or hiking, or hit the ice rink in town. TheAlpine Slideat Magic Mountain is still open during winter months.

Holiday fun: The Village hosts multiple Santa meet-and-greets, Christmas markets, and holidays concerts. Take a sleigh ride through the Village after a long day of shopping.

• Alpine Zoo Wild Lightsruns from now until January 4. Walk with your family under the glow of two million sparkling lights. Children under five are free! • The Best Christmas Pageant Everis a holiday theater night to remember, taking place on December 11. • Christkindlmarkt, a German-American celebration in Big Bear will be held on December 20 and will feature last-minute shopping, food vendors, Gingerbread cookie decoration, ornament making, live music, and more.

2. Leavenworth, Washington

In just a few short weeks, the holiday festivities and decorations make this an even more special place🎄 🎥: @bossybrittany @itsfestiveallyear @ani__mel#leavenworth#leavenworthwashington#washingtonstate#holidaydestinations#christmas#holidays#december#uniqueplaces#coolplaces#travelbucketlist#bucketlisttravel#christmastown#bavarianvillage#wintertravel#holidaytravel#skitrip#mountaintrip#mountainhotels#skihotels#uniquedestinations#novembertravel#decembertravel#januarytravel

Leavenworth, Washington, also known as “Christmastown,” doesn’t feel real. I stand there stunned each time I visit. There are lights strung over Gingerbread-like buildings, European holiday markets, and festivals every weekend through January. You can sled in the streets, smell the goods from German bakeries as you walk, and hear the sound of singing anywhere you decide to explore.

Outdoor rec:Glide downLeavenworth Ski Hillon skis or a snowboard. There are many trails perfect for snowshoeing, including those atWenatchee State Park. And don’t forgetwinter zip-lining.

Holiday fun:Walk theVillage of Lightsthrough January or visit theReindeer Farm. Explore theNutcracker Museumand savory German foods and treats.

• Photos with Santarun the month of December. • EnjoyHoliday musicat the Gazebo and weekly shows. • Make your own glass, wreaths, and more—view theweekly craftscalendar for details. • Leavenworth’sWinter Karnevalruns every weekend in January. Watch fire dancers, fireworks, and join in on some ice sculpting.

3. Park City, Utah

The most beautiful entrance leading up to the Montage in Deer Valley, Utah 🔥❄️🎄#snow#parkcity#utah#christmas#ski

Park City, Utah, earns the reputation of “Christmas town” for its blend of historic charm, winter adventure, and classic holiday traditions. Santa literally skis down the slopes at Park City Mountain each year to hand out treats to families. From decorated storefronts to the lit-up peaks rising above the streets, Park City is a hot spot for holiday fun.

Outdoor rec:There are three incredible places to ski and snowboard in Park City:Park City Mountain,Deer Valley Resort, andWoodward Park City.Fat biking,snowmobiling,snow tubing, andcross-country skiingare available, too.

Holiday fun:Take asleigh ridethrough town. Trysnowshoeing,dog mushing, orice skating.

• Santa’s Trip Down Town Lift occurs on December 20. • The Park City Mountain Torchlight Parade is on December 24. • TheTorchlight Paradein Deer Valley Resort takes place on December 30. • TheSnow Globe Stroll,where folks can view beautifully crafted snow globes made by local artists, runs through January 3. • TheSundance Festivalkicks off on January 22. (This is the last year Park City will host the iconic film event.) • An iteration of Main Street’s Snow Globe art tour also takes form in aGondola Art Strollthat runs through winter.

4. Jackson, Wyoming

Jackson Hole is straight up a hallmark movie set at Christmastime! Add this western mountain to your holiday bucket list.#hallmarkmovies#mountaintown#jacksonhole#jacksonwyoming#usatravel#travelinspo#jacksonwy#christmastravel

Jackson hasn’t had to try hard to earn its spot as a dreamy Christmas town. Located in a large mountain valley and dominated by the Teton and Gros Ventre Ranges, Jackson’s snowy setting surrounding its glowing town square creates a holiday vibe that feels cinematic.

Outdoor rec:Ski after darkat Snow King Mountain, or ski, snowboard, or tube atJackson Hole Mountain Resort.Book awinter wildlife safariin Grand Teton National Park, or experience aNational Elk Refuge Sleigh Ride. There are snowshoeing and cross-country skiing options all over Jackson.

Holiday fun:Jackson’s Town Square is the heart of its holiday identity with its four massive elk-antler arches wrapped in glowing white lights, along with every tree surrounding them. There are winter markets, holiday art displays, and sledding options nearby.

• Winter Windfall: shop local and win big through December 22. • MeetSantaeach evening through Christmas Eve in the town square.

5. Whitefish, Montana

whitefish was magic. pure magic.#whitefish#whitefishmt#montana#montanamagic#travel#traveling#christmastown#christmastime#winter#winterwonderland

Central Avenue in Whitefish, with its garland-wrapped lampposts, glowing lights, and wreaths, gives off old-fashioned holiday radiance. Montana is dreamy around Christmas no matter where you are, but Whitefish, with its many fire pits and horse-drawn sleighs throughout town, radiates the warmth of a cozy, alpine village.

Outdoor rec:Whitefish is aski townwith night skiing available and festivetorchlight paradeson the slope on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Cross-country ski, snowshoe, or fat bike atGlacier Nordic Center. Explore the wilderness in winter throughGlacier Adventure Guides.

Holiday fun:TheChristmas Stroll, set for December 12, Whitefish’s annual event, brings with it a tree lighting ceremony, holiday music, vendors, time with Santa, and so much more.

• Whitefish’sChristmas Strollis set for December 12. • Check out the Christmas Eve and New Year’s Evetorchlight parades. • TheWhitefish Winter Carnivalwill kick off in early February.

6. Breckenridge, Colorado

Brackenridge, Co is a Winter wonderland in December ❄️#colorado#breckenridgecolorado#winterwonderland#christmastown#fyp

Breckenridge used to be a mining town. The charm of its 1800s architecture, matched with thousands of lights, garland-wrapped lampposts, and decorated balconies, makes it pretty darn perfect at Christmas. Not to mention the town hosts one of the most popular holiday events in the Rockies:the Race of the Santas.

Outdoor rec:There are plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities to be had, from skiing and snowboarding atBreckenridge Ski Resortto snowshoeing and Nordic skiing atBreckenridge Nordic Center.Not into skiing? Exploresnowmobiling and fat bikingoptions.

Holiday fun:Whip out asledand hit the hills. Enjoy asleigh ride. Try outdog sledding,or explore Breck’sHandmade Holiday Market.

• Breckenridge Ullr Festis a three-day event with many wild and fun things to do, including a party on Main Street, a communal bonfire, ice skating, concerts, the Breckenridge Distillery Shotski challenge, and more. • TheInternational Snow Sculpture Championshipskick off on January 24.

7. Taos, New Mexico

A Beautiful Taos Christmas. Thank you @augustinemorgan for the amazing content.#TheRealPussinBoots#taosnewmexico#newmexico#landofenchantment#newmexicotrue#albuquerque

Taos stands out on this list for its Southwestern culture and New Mexican holiday rituals wrapped up in ancient traditions and a snowy scenery, unique to the area. A signature around the holidays is its soft farolitos glowing around town on rooftops and in pathways.Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, lights bonfires on Christmas Eve. The contrast of firelight against ancient adobe is stunning.

Outdoor rec:Ski or snowboard atTaos Ski Valley.Snowshoe, backcountry ski,snowmobile, or explore winter trails in wilderness areas like Columbine Canyon and Wheeler Peak Wilderness, or relax in one of Tao’snatural hot springs.

Holiday fun:Enjoy a holiday concert, explore the winter markets, and more,downtown.

• Bonfires on Bent Streetwill take place on December 13 this year. • TheTown of Taos Holiday Celebrationis on December 19. • TheTaos Pueblo Winter Marketwill run on December 20 and 21. • Torchlight parades and fireworkswill occur on December 20, 24, 27, 31, and through the month of January. • Ski and ride with Santaon December 25. • Check outNew Year’s Eve eventsat Taos Ski Valley.

8. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

5 things you must do when visiting the Great Smoky Mountains around Christmas ⛄ This is one of the most festive places I've visited at Christmas and these 5 things are just scratching the surface of things to do! The Christmas Place- this store is open all year round and has so many Christmas items to shop for. The Winterfest Wanders of Light trail. This Christmas light trail is located next to The Island and is 2 miles long (it's also free!). The Titanic Museum- this is one of my favorite museums in the area. It houses one of the largest permanent collections of Titanic artifacts and memorabilia. You'll find Christmas trees and decorations through the museum this time of year. The Village Shops- my favorite shops in Gatlinburg are located in this area. Stay in a cabin decorated for Christmas! We stayed in @onwatersedge and loved it!#smokymountains#gatlinburgchristmas#visitgatlinburg#christmastrip#tennessee#gatlinburgtennessee#greatsmokymountains#christmasmagic🎄#christmasbucketlist#cozyplaces

Gatlinburg is famous for itsSmoky Mountain Winterfest, which is the start of the town glowing with millions of LED lights, giant light tunnels, light-up bridges and riverwalks, magical holiday displays and sculptures, and more. It’s bright and festive, but still cozy, tucked into the Smoky Mountains and on the edge of the national park.

Outdoor rec:Hit upOber Mountainfor skiing, snowboarding, and tubing options. Check out winter hiking options like the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail and scenic routes throughGreat Smoky Mountains National Park.

Holiday fun:Enjoy indoor and outdoorskatingor visit theFamily Zoneat Ober Mountain. (The Family Zone is a great place for young kids to experience some winter magic, like making snow angels, building a snowman, and getting used to sliding down some miniature slopes.)

• Have anEnchanted Christmasat Anakeesta, Gatlinburg’s award-winning adventure park. Multiple events and activities run through January 4. • TheFestival of Christmas Past, Present, and Futurewill take place on December 13. • Mingle and Jingle with Kris Kringleon December 20 at Ober Mountain. • New Year’s EveLights of Wonderevent will be on December 31 at Gatlinburg Sky Park.

9. North Conway, New Hampshire

Christmas getaway in New Hampshire 🎄#christmas#newenglandchristmas#newenglandthingstodo#newhampshirechristmas#newhampshirethingstodo#newhampshire#santasvillagenh#northconwaynh

Many travelers are gatekeeping this true snow globe setting in the White Mountains. North Conway, a postcard-perfect New England town, is charming in the winter with its historic storefronts, garland-wrapped lampposts, and holiday-lit main street. The centerpiece of its magic is its holiday-themed train rides andSanta’s Holiday Express.

Outdoor rec:North Conway has a breadth of options for outdoor fun like skiing and snowboarding atCranmore Resort, skiing atBlack Mountainor Shawnee Peak, and snowshoeing or hiking atDiana’s Bath,Echo Lake State Park,Boulder Loop Trail, orCathedral Ledge.

Holiday fun:Take your little ones on aJourney to the North Poleon the Conway Scenic Railroad on weekends leading up to Christmas. Spend a day in North Conway village browsing shops and joining in on holiday fun.

• Buy a ticket toA Christmas Carol,which runs through December 18. • Take aphoto with Santauntil December 14. • Don’t miss theNew Year’s Eve Glo Partyat Cranmore Resort.

10. Stowe, Vermont

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With a frosting setting in the Green Mountains, Stowe is one of New England’s most iconic Christmas towns with its old church steeples, glistening evergreens, and historic village center lit up for the holidays. Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, creates a dramatic backdrop, and all its holiday events have a small-town, communal feel.

Outdoor rec:Stowe Mountain Resortoffers skiing, snowboarding, and scenic gondola rides. Cross-country ski or snowshoe at VonTrapp Family LodgeorStowe Recreation Path.

Holiday fun:Ice skate at theSpruce Peak Village Center.Join the community for some tubing at Stowe Elementary School. Hop on a dog sled or sleigh ride through town (booked through the Von Trapp Family Lodge).

• TheStowe Winter Carnivalkicks off in January. • TheFestival of Lightson December 13 will include photos with Santa, horse-drawn wagon rides, s’mores over a campfire, and bell choir performances. • AttendScrooge’s Christmasat Hyde Park Opera House on December 12 and 13. • Join the town’swinter solstice partyon December 19. • Spruce Peak’s Lights Festivalkicks off December 20 with a day filled with ice dancing performances and family-friendly activities, capped with a tree and village lighting celebration and fireworks display. • Carolmania, an immersive Christmas concert sing-along night, will take place on December 21. • Join thedog sled meet and greetin the village on December 29. • Browse the town’sNew Year’s Eve partieson December 31 and January 1.