Winter 2026 – U.S. Edition

Baltimore, MD – www.baltimore.org  

Holiday celebrations kick off with the official Tree Lighting at Rash Field Park on Nov. 22, when Baltimore’s 26-foot tree comes to life alongside live performances. On Nov. 29, the Christkind Ceremony and Pyramid Lighting open the Christmas Village at the Inner Harbor, featuring Christkind’s prologue and the illumination of Baltimore’s Glühwein Pyramid. The B&O Railroad Museum adds festive magic with its Holiday Festival of Trains, which features the Reindeer Railway, the Polar Express Train Ride, and photo opportunities with Santa. Visitors can glide across the Inner Harbor ice rink, overlooking the waterfront. In Hampden, the beloved Miracle on 34th Street brightens the neighborhood with whimsical displays, including hubcap trees and bicycle wheel snowmen, beginning Saturday after Thanksgiving. 

In 2026, the Harbor Point Ice Festival transforms Central Plaza into an outdoor ice gallery, complete with live sculpting, local treats, and warm drinks. Nearby, the Mini Maker’s Winter Market at R. House showcases Baltimore’s creative energy through handmade goods from local artisans. During Martin Luther King Jr. weekend, venues like the B&O Railroad Museum and Port Discovery Children’s Museum host free programs, lectures, and family activities that celebrate history and inclusivity. Together, these experiences make Baltimore a city of warmth, creativity, and connection throughout the winter season. 

Chattanooga, TN – www.visitchattanooga.com  

Chattanooga, The Scenic City and North America’s first and only National Park City, is fast becoming one of the southeast’s most savory cities following MICHELIN Guide’s release of its first-ever Southern Guide. Chef Erik Neal received a Bib Gourmand for his popular restaurant Little Coyote in the historic St. Elmo District. He also nabbed two Recommended spots for Easy Bistro and Main Street Meats along with the popular Rosecomb.  

For seasonal celebrations, Rock City, with its nostalgic vibes, will host the 31st annual Enchanted Garden of Lights through Jan. 4. This nighttime winter wonderland has become a beloved holiday tradition celebrated by visitors and travelers alike. All aboard the Tennessee Valley Railroad for a ride on the Holiday Christmas Lights, Dec. 26 to Jan. 11, train featuring twinkling light displays, seasonal music and the charm of riding along the rails to stretch the holiday season post Santa’s delivery.  

The Waymark, a new 148-room boutique hotel and part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection, is slated to open in the next few months. Housed in the former Chattanooga Savings Bank and Trust Company, the century-old building has been repurposed for a salvaged stay with upmarket accommodations, a rooftop bar, and a speakeasy housed in the bank’s former vault. 

Johnny Morris Conservation Foundation Attractions, MO – www.visitozarks.org  

Established by Bass Pro Shop Founder Johnny Morris, the Johnny Morris Conservation Foundation is a non-profit organization whose mission is to inspire people to enjoy and conserve the great outdoors. The brand has four attractions under the foundation’s umbrella. Wonders of Wildlife (WOW), voted America’ s Best Aquarium by USA Today a record seven times, is launching a new holiday tradition this year and its first-ever holiday light experience. Sea of Lights Enchanted Christmas is an all-new immersive holiday experience that blends the beauty of marine life with the magic of the holiday season. Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, located in Lampe, Missouri, is as spectacular as any of our national parks, only this 10,000-acre preserve is privately owned with fewer crowds. During the winter, the branches extending from the majestic dogwood trees are glistening with dangling icicles, making it easy to spot soaring bald eagles. Herds of free roaming elk and bison, including a single white bison considered good luck by Native Americans, can be viewed on a guided tram tour. Lost Canyon Cave Tour at Top of the Rock is home to the seasonal Nature at Night experience where guests navigate their own electric golf cart along a 2.5 mile trail motoring past enormous light installations depicting wildlife. The experience includes admission to the adjacent Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum, featuring one of the largest private collections of Native America, Early American and Civil War-era relics, from Sitting Bull’s war vest and a lock of George Washington’s hair to a flag that was draped over Abraham Lincoln’s coffin.  

Kissimmee, FL – www.experiencekissimmee.com  

One of the most unique celebrations in Kissimmee takes place annually at the Gaylord Palms Resort, with the landmark 20,000-square-foot walk-through attraction ICE! featuring Rudolph the Red‑Nosed Reindeer™. Open Nov. 14 through Jan. 7, 2026, the event brings together 2 million pounds of hand-carved ice sculptures, cirque shows, interactive snow tubing and a giant LED light show for an unforgettable holiday experience. At SeaWorld, through Jan. 5, a holiday wonderland features festive shows, over 3 million twinkling lights, and ice‐skating. Kissimmee’s downtown and entertainment districts are stepping up the winter fun with local flair. At the Old Town Entertainment District you’ll find newly opened venues (like candy-lovers’ stop Gummy Buckets and VR experience Another World VR), plus holiday programming including the classic Friday Muscle Car Show & Cruise. Meanwhile, Historic Downtown Kissimmee hosts seasonal favorites such as the Small Business Saturday & Light Up Kissimmee tree-lighting on Nov. 30 and the festive Christmas Crawl on Dec. 12.  

The newly opened nearly 9,000-sq-ft Mystery Fun House Arcade at Westgate Vacation Villas Resort and the rebranded family-friendly voco® Kissimmee bring fresh hospitality appeal. The ette hotel in Kissimmee is partnering with the Orlando Ballet for 2025–2026 Season and together, they are introducing exclusive luxury packages featuring a one-night stay and two VIP ticket experiences, plus more. For the holiday season, the hotel will present The Nutcracker Holiday Tea, a ballet-inspired afternoon tea experience available every weekend in December, including a special seating with a meet-and-greet photo opportunity with cast members from The Nutcracker. 

Loudoun County, VA – www.visitloudoun.org  

December brings Leesburg’s official tree lighting on Dec. 6, the Fine Arts & Crafts Show at Ida Lee Park, and the beloved Holiday Parade on Dec. 13. Across the county, celebrations continue with Christmas in Middleburg, Salamander Resort’s gingerbread wonderland, ice skating at Ion International Training Center, and One Loudoun’s Grand Menorah Lighting. Quirky local events like Lucketts Holiday House and a Family Dance Party at Solace Brewing Co. abound, while holiday markets at Great Country Farms and Bluemont Vineyard invite visitors to browse handcrafted gifts with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Shoppers can also “Take Loudoun Home” by exploring local boutiques and antique shops throughout DC’s Wine Country®. 

Beyond the holidays, Loudoun’s scenic trails—like Bears Den Overlook, Algonkian Regional Park, and the W&OD Trail—offer peaceful winter walks and cycling routes through rolling farmland. History lovers can explore Oatlands, a former plantation now offering educational tours, and Morven Park, home to the groundbreaking 246 Years Project, a searchable database honoring enslaved individuals in America’s history. 

As the nation nears its 250th anniversary, Loudoun will host special events and lectures commemorating the American Revolution. Visitors can also look forward to the debut of Hotel Burg, a new luxury stay on King Street in downtown Leesburg featuring fine dining at The Hunton and a rooftop terrace overlooking the town.  

Louisville, KY – www.gotolouisville.com 

The Christmas Gift and Decor Show, the largest free event of its kind in the U.S., features over 750 booths offering handmade gifts, jewelry, apparel, toys, and decorations from vendors across the country. Families can enjoy Kentucky Kingdom’s holiday festivities, which include 1.5 million lights, 300 Christmas trees, and a 175-foot real-snow tubing hill. Paristown’s Fête de Noël Winter Festival transforms the neighborhood into a six-week celebration with Louisville’s only authentic outdoor ice rink, the Brent Street Holiday Market, and train rides. 

Looking ahead, Louisville is set to unveil one of the most innovative cultural landmarks of 2026: The Dot Experience at the American Printing House for the Blind. Named after Louis Braille’s reading system, this groundbreaking museum redefines accessibility through immersive, tactile-first exhibits, and offers a behind-the-scenes factory tour encouraging visitors to “please touch.” With 3D replicas and multisensory storytelling, accessibility is a core principle rather than an afterthought—inviting blind, low-vision, and sighted guests to engage equally. 

This visionary project reflects Louisville’s long-standing leadership in inclusion and innovation, home to the Kentucky School for the Blind (founded in 1839) and modern accessibility pioneers like GoodMaps, whose navigation technology made Louisville’s airport the first in the nation to offer turn-by-turn indoor directions for visually impaired travelers.   

Oklahoma City, OK – www.visitokc.com  

The “Downtown in December” celebration unfolds from early November through January, turning downtown into a winter playground with ice-skating at the Myriad Botanical Gardens, light displays along the Bricktown Canal, seasonal markets and the popular Safari Lights at the Zoo. The free Oklahoma City Tree Lighting Festival at Bricktown kicks off the festive season with live performances, Santa visits and holiday décor. 

When the temperatures dips, the city’s museums and indoor attractions become ideal places to explore, everything from the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum to immersive art spaces and family-friendly interactive exhibits. At First Americans Museum, visitors can explore the new FAMily Discovery Center, a 5,000-square-foot interactive space designed to immerse families in Oklahoma’s Indigenous landscapes and cultures. OKC’s neighborhoods deliver seasonal retail therapy, with local boutiques and gift-shops offering unique finds—from Made-in-Oklahoma goods to luxury pieces. Discover unique treasures at Painted Door Gift Boutique in the heart of Bricktown. Look to Plenty Mercantile for purposeful gifting, Commonplace Books for the book lovers in your life and Shop Good for die-hard OKC fans.  

Rockford, IL – www.gorockford.com  

Unlike larger cities, Rockford, Illinois, offers festive charm without the crowds or inflated prices, making it a perfect pre-holiday destination. Seasonal events kick off with the Holiday Tree Lighting on Nov. 21 and the Stroll on State on Nov. 29, featuring a parade, fireworks, music, and visits from Santa. Spectacular free displays, such as All Aglow at the Nicholas Conservatory, Festival of Lights at Sinnissippi Park, and Illuminated at the Anderson Japanese Garden, provide magical evenings for families and visitors alike. The European-style Snømarket offers a taste of Nordic tradition with glögg, æbleskiver, free horse-drawn carriage rides, games, and storytelling around the fire pit.  

Visitors can take a docent-led tour of the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Laurent House, complete with mid-century décor, holiday ornaments, Swedish cookies, hot chocolate, and unique gifts. Nearby, Belvidere Cemetery and its Petit Chapel, also designed by Wright, add a historic touch. In 2026, Rockford continues the winter celebration with its Region Restaurant Week showcasing the city’s culinary scene with prix-fixe menus and local specialties. The Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition will turn parks into open-air art galleries, while the Hot Chocolate Crawl in the North End will highlight cafés and seasonal treats.  

San Antonio, TX – www.visitsanantonio.com  

On Nov. 28, the Holidays on Houston Street initiative kicks off with a dazzling night of lighting, illuminating both Houston Street and the San Antonio River Walk during the 44th Annual Ford Holiday River Parade and Lighting Ceremony. Nearby, Travis Park will host the annual H-E-B Christmas tree lighting ceremony. 

Leading up to the holidays, five blocks of Houston Street, from Broadway to Legacy Park, turn into a captivating holiday showcase from Dec. 5-14. This year’s celebration delivers a more immersive experience, offering an entire week of events leading up to the Holiday Market Weekend on Dec. 12–14. Over 393,000 mini-LED lights will illuminate around 80 trees, creating a breathtaking canopy of holiday glow. Many Houston Street businesses are participating with special holiday offers.  

Tulsa, OK – www.visittulsa.com  

Tulsa transforms into a festive wonderland every December, offering a variety of holiday experiences. In the Arena District, Winterfest returns with a 9,000-square-foot ice rink, horse-drawn carriage rides, live entertainment, a holiday train, and one of the tallest Christmas trees in the state, adorned with over 35,000 lights. Cherry Street comes alive with Roosevelt’s Gastropub, where elaborate holiday décor and a synchronized light show set to Christmas music delight diners every 45 minutes.  

The city’s beloved Christmas parade, celebrating over 90 years of tradition, kicks off on Dec. 10 with the theme “Art Deco The Halls.” For a more romantic outing, the Tulsa Botanic Garden shines with its winter light display, perfect for date nights or unforgettable proposals. The holiday spirit continues into January with Winterfest’s sparkling ice rink, carriage rides, and dazzling light displays, providing festive fun even after the peak season. Tulsa also celebrates active living and community spirit with the Route 66 Marathon, which winds through downtown and along the Arkansas River. 

U.S. Virgin Islands – www.visitusvi.com  

The popular NCAA Paradise Jam tournament brings top college teams and fans from across the U.S. for an unforgettable week of basketball in paradise from Nov. 21-29. It’s one of the island’s signature sporting events and a lively way to experience St. Thomas. Coral Bay Thanksgiving Regatta on Nov. 29 in St. John is a community regatta tradition with a mix of seasoned sailors and casual racers celebrating Thanksgiving on the water. Visitors can watch the colorful sails from the shoreline or join festivities around Coral Bay. The Crucian Coconut Festival from Nov. 28-30 in St. Croix pays tribute to the coconut’s historical and agricultural significance in the Virgin Islands. Visitors enjoy local food, live entertainment, educational exhibits, and a true taste of Crucian culture. 

On Dec. 14, the St. Croix Christmas Boat Parade sees boats big and small decked out with lights, garland, giant inflatables, and festive revelers along the Christiansted Harbor parade route.The evening culminates with a fabulous fireworks display over the harbor. From Dec. 26 – Jan. 3, the Crucian Christmas Festival blends Crucian holiday traditions with music, dance, and pageantry. Travelers can experience everything from live music and parades to traditional food fairs and cultural performances that showcase the heart of St. Croix. 

INTERNATIONAL 

Barbados – www.visitbarbados.org  

Wellness travel continues to shape 2025 trip planning. The annual Run Barbados Marathon & Wellness Weekend (Dec. 5–7) combines scenic coastal runs, yoga sessions, recovery experiences, and nutrient-rich cuisine. This season marks ten years of nonstop JetBlue service from Boston to Barbados, a milestone that’s made the island an easy, five-hour getaway for New Englanders escaping the chill. Barbados is inviting travelers to celebrate with a dose of Caribbean warmth — from exploring Bridgetown’s UNESCO-listed history to relaxing on powder-soft beaches or enjoying the island’s renowned rum and culinary scene. Winter 2025 is all about the micro-cation: short, intentional getaways designed to maximize rest and joy. With direct flights from major U.S. gateways via American, Delta, JetBlue, and United, travelers can slip away for a three-day recharge that feels like a full vacation. Imagine landing on Friday, spending Saturday sailing Barbados’ west coast, and returning Monday fully renewed — proof that paradise doesn’t require a week off if time is a limit. 

Monaco – www.visitmonaco.com/en  

From late November through early January, Monaco transforms its waterfront into a festive wonderland filled with alpine chalets, artisanal boutiques, and twinkling lights, all against a stunning Mediterranean backdrop. The Christmas Village at Port Hercule features wooden chalets, a Ferris wheel, and an ice-rink by the sea. Events include pop-ups like the Alpine-style winter chalet Blue Gin at the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort. In 2026, Motorsport fans flock to the Monte-Carlo Rally (Jan. 19–25), one of the most prestigious rallies in the world, which kicks off in the heart of Monte Carlo and winds through legendary mountain stages. Another can’t-miss highlight is the International Monte-Carlo Circus Festival, held under the big top in Fontvieille. With cooler, but still comfortable, temperatures, the winter in Monaco invites visitors to enjoy the harbor, historic old town and scenic walks without the heavy summer crowds. It’s also easier to book top-hotels, snag prime tables at luxury restaurants and enjoy the style of Monaco without the peak-season rates.  

Scotland (Business events) – www.businessevents.visitscotland.com  

New and refurbished venues continue to make Scotland a top choice for planners. Mar Hall, Glasgow will celebrate a £15 million refurbishment, offering state-of-the-art conference, accommodation, and wellness facilities. Crossbasket Castle, South Lanarkshire finishes its own £20 million expansion with enhanced event spaces, spa, and dining experiences. New luxury property Seaton House, St Andrews is ideal for high-end corporate events and incentives. Lost Shore Surf Resort, Edinburgh combines modern accommodations with unique surfing experiences. The Hoxton Hotel Group has debuted in Edinburgh, adding stylish hospitality options for event attendees. 

Enhanced flight connections this winter include United Airlines’ return to Glasgow Airport with non-stop service to New York Newark. WestJet offers competitive flights from Canadian cities like Vancouver and Calgary to Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Inverness, and Dundee, with November and January presenting cost-effective travel windows.  

Thailand (US Midwest region) https://www.tourismthailand.org/  

In Thailand, visitors will be greeted by a series of light festivals. Through Dec. 23, Light of Siam – Mother of the Land transforms the Chao Phraya River into a radiant night-time spectacle. The 2025 experience spans 14 major landmarks from Rama VIII Bridge to Rama III Bridge, each interpreting the theme through light, sound, and storytelling. The Nasatta Light Festival also takes over this winter, running until May 3, 2026. Check the full calendar for events that draw visitors from around the world.  

Toronto (Business events) – www.destinationtoronto.com  

With major investments accelerating ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Toronto is in the midst of a transformative era, blending world-class infrastructure with executive-caliber amenities that rival New York and London—at a greater value thanks to the favorable exchange rate. At the newly opened Nobu Toronto, executives enjoy exclusive access to 36 sky-high suites, private omakase dinners, and wellness offerings designed for decision-makers seeking both productivity and reprieve. New and reimagined properties—like Le Méridien Pinnacle Toronto, the soon-to-open RIU Plaza Toronto, and the Chelsea Hotel’s multimillion-dollar renovation—further expand the city’s five-star offerings. Pair these with VIP suites at Raptors or Maple Leafs games, private harbor cruises, or Michelin-starred dinners at Sushi Masaki Saito and Prime Seafood Palace, and it’s clear why Toronto is fast becoming the preferred playground for executives curating unforgettable meeting itineraries. 

With over 200 restaurants within walking distance of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, seamless access from two airports—including downtown’s Billy Bishop—and a vibrant, safe, and walkable core, Toronto simplifies logistics while amplifying impact. For U.S. executives seeking global connectivity, inclusive leadership, and sustainable innovation—all within 90 minutes of home—Toronto isn’t just a smart choice for meetings. It’s the strategic move of the season. 

Vienna – www.wien.info/en  

A centerpiece of winter festivities is the Vienna Christmas World at Rathaus Platz, featuring over 150 decorated stalls, a children’s carousel and reindeer train, and an ice rink. Other markets showcase the city’s unique neighborhoods and architectural beauty. The Spittelberg Christmas Market winds through cobblestone streets, creating an intimate setting for artisanal goods and handmade gifts. At Schönbrunn Palace, the market offers a regal charm, complete with live traditional music, a children’s ornament workshop, and delicious treats like goulash soup, waffles, and spiced Christmas beverages. Belvedere Palace  hosts a sophisticated market framed by Baroque architecture. In early 2026, the Vienna Ice World at Rathausplatz invites skaters to glide beneath the illuminated city hall, accompanied by live music. The city’s Ball Season fills grand halls with elegance and spectacle, featuring events from the Flower Ball to the Doctors’ Ball. Additionally, the New Year’s Concert by the Vienna Philharmonic resonates throughout the city, reinforcing Vienna’s timeless reputation as a hub of music, artistry, and festive celebration. And to kick off 2026, the city will celebrate all things cuisine with the Vienna Bites campaign.  

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