Rachel Pearson 
Christmas is such a special time of year for many people and everyone should have a special place to visit during Christmas. But not everyone in the world celebrates this holiday the same way. Remember that Christmas is not a time to be greedy, selfish or mean, but a time to give back to the community and be joyful. Instead of buying ugly sweaters as Christmas gifts, reward yourself and your family a winter wonderland vacation at one of the places on the list below. You can check out some of the best Christmas markets and create long-lasting memories of this holiday.
1. Disney World: Orlando, Florida
Disney World puts on a huge show and celebration during the Christmas season. You can see the parks transform into a winter wonderland, while the Disney Characters dress up for the holiday season.
2. Vatican City, Italy
Since Christmas is a day that is celebrated mainly by the Christian religion, what better way to spend it than in the Vatican City. Head to midnight mass on Christmas and watch the Pope address the public with respect and happiness.
3. Bethlehem, Palestine
Bethlehem is the supposed birthplace of Jesus Christ. Without him, there would be no Christmas to celebrate. Therefore, visiting this city is a must!
4. Valkenburg, Netherlands
Valkenburg hosts a Christmas market every year that is filled with joy and excitement. This market is the oldest and largest underground market in Europe during the holiday season.
5. Santa Claus, Indiana
The name of this city screams Christmas spirit. You can visit Santa Claus, Indiana anytime of the year and Christmas lights will still be on display. But it’s best to wait until the actual holiday to stop by this little town.
6. Dresden, Germany
Dresden completely transforms into a Christmas paradise during the holiday season. A tradition that dates back to the early 15th century is to eat a slice of German Christmas cake while walking the streets of the Christmas market.
7. Glasgow, Scotland
During Christmas time, Glasgow becomes a great place that houses festivals, markets, and shopping excursions. This city comes to life during Christmas.
8. Graz, Austria
Graz holds an annual Ice Sculpture contest during the weeks of advent. The most popular sculptures are that of the nativity scene. Don’t miss an opportunity to see what Graz has to offer.
9. Aspen, Colorado
When you are in Aspen, you cannot miss the chance to go skiing. Some of the best ski resorts are located in Aspen and you should take advantage during the holiday season.
10. New York City, New York
There is so many activities to choose from when you are in NYC during Christmas time. You can see the world famous ballet, The Nutcracker or watch the Christmas tree lighting at Rockefeller center.
11. Salerno, Italy
Each year, the city of Salerno presents the best Christmas Lighting extravaganza to its people. These lights stretch out for miles and are hung throughout the city.
12. Lapland, Finland
The Santa Claus Village and Santa Park in Lapland is one of the best villages in Europe. You can visit Santa’s workshop and watch his helpers prepare toys for tots.
13. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is a beautiful place to experience the holiday season. You can grab a cup of the city’s best hot chocolate while talking a stroll in the Boston Commons. Trade in your boots for ice skates and go skating at Frog Pond.
14. Strasbourg, France
It doesn’t matter if you are a solo traveler, with friends or family, Strasbourg is a great place to visit during Christmas. The Christmas market is open right up until Christmas Eve and you can check out the most precious statues from the Nativity scene.
15. Bernville, Pennsylvania
Kozoar’s Christmas village is famous in Bernville. You cannot speak of Christmas without including this village. You can write Santa Claus a letter and mail it in their special North Pole mailboxes.
16. Las Vegas, Nevada
Even though Las Vegas is in the desert, Christmas is still celebrated there. The city does a complete makeover and decorates every inch of the Vegas strip for the holiday season.
17. Budapest, Hungary
The sight of Budapest during Christmas is so astonishing that you will want to snap photos everywhere you look. Take a local cruise on the harbor and get a good look of the city from all angles.
18. Miami, Florida
If you want to enjoy Christmas time but in warm weather, then you should visit Miami. Stop by one of the shopping malls and take a picture with Santa. The local zoo puts up decorations that are a rare sight to see.
19. Prague, Czech Republic
In the Old Town Square of Prague you can see Christmas Carolers go from door to door to greet people with their joy. Bringing joy to others is what the holiday season should be about.
20. Moscow, Russia
Moscow is such a remarkable city to visit during Christmas time. Snowfall is a regular occurrence in Moscow, but it only adds to the natural beauty of the city during the holidays.
21. Naples, Italy
Naples is best known for making the most beautiful Nativity scenes in all of Europe. The best hand-crafted statues of the nativity scene are found at Via San Gregorio Armeno in Naples.
22. Lille, France
Christmas markets are all the rage among Europe and the city of Lille is no exception. You can pick out perfect gifts for you family and friends at these amazing markets.
23. London, England
London can get pretty chilly in the winter but with a cup of cocoa in hand, you are sure to warm up quite quickly. Visit Hyde Park as they host a spectacular Winter Wonderland party.
24. Taos, New Mexico
No one does Christmas better than Taos. This religious holiday is celebrated throughout the city with such joy and happiness that you cannot miss it.
25. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio de Janeiro hosts the best fireworks celebration on Christmas Eve. With all the stores closing early for the holiday, you will want to pick out a good spot to catch the fireworks show.
