Top 10 Places to Celebrate Christmas around the World
1. Christmas in New York City:
Rockefeller Plaza, New York City, New York, USA
Celebrating Christmas in New York City is an unforgettable experience! There’s so much to see and do, from attending world-famous holiday events like the Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting and the Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular to visiting iconic attractions like the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. You can also explore the city’s festive holiday markets, take a holiday-themed cruise around Manhattan, explore the city’s Christmas lights and decorations, and shop for unique gifts at department stores like Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, and Saks Fifth Avenue. And don’t forget to take in the iconic ice skating rinks, like the one at Rockefeller Center or Bryant Park. To top it all off, there are plenty of amazing restaurants to enjoy a festive dinner. No matter how you choose to celebrate Christmas in New York City, it’s sure to be a magical experience.
2. Quebec City, Canada
Vieux-Québec, La Cité-Limoilou, Québec, QC, Canada
Christmas in Quebec City is a magical experience. The city is transformed into an enchanting winter wonderland with its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and festive decorations. You can find a variety of activities to enjoy, like caroling in the streets, ice skating at Place d'Youville, and checking out the beautiful Christmas market. There are also plenty of delicious treats to sample, like sugar pie, poutine, and tourtière. You can also explore the city’s many churches and cathedrals, where you can attend special Christmas services and hear traditional carols. Make sure to visit the iconic Château Frontenac, which is illuminated with thousands of Christmas lights, and of course, no trip to Quebec City would be complete without a visit to the famous ice hotel. Lastly, don’t forget to take in the spectacular views of the St. Lawrence River and the Laurentian Mountains. With so many things to do, Christmas in Quebec City is sure to be a memorable experience.
3. Christmas in Basel, Switzerland
Basel, Switzerland
Basel, Switzerland is a beautiful city that celebrates the holiday season in style. There are a variety of activities and events that take place throughout the month of December. The Christmas markets are one of the most popular attractions. You can find a variety of handcrafted items and delicious treats at the markets. There are also many concerts and performances on offer, and visitors can enjoy a ride on the Christmas Express. The Christmas Parade is another highlight of the season. It takes place on the first Sunday of December and features floats, marching bands, and street performers. The city comes alive with decorations and lights during the holiday season, so it is the perfect time to explore. There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars offering festive menus and special seasonal drinks. Finally, don't miss out on the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. This is held on the last Sunday of December and is followed by a fireworks display.
4. Nuremberg, Germany
Nuremberg, Germany
Christmas in Nuremberg, Germany is a magical time of year. From the end of November, the city is illuminated with Christmas lights and decorations. The market stalls in the Hauptmarkt, the main square, are stocked with festive items, including handmade wooden toys and traditional Nuremberg gingerbread. During the Christmas season, the city comes alive with a range of events and activities. Every evening, a Christmas parade with marching bands and floats passes through the city streets. In addition, there are carol concerts, choirs, and traditional dancing in the city’s churches and squares. There are also plenty of opportunities for shopping for gifts and souvenirs in the city’s many stores and markets. On Christmas Day, the city’s churches hold special services, and on Christmas Eve, the city’s Christmas tree is lit up in the Hauptmarkt. On New Year’s Eve, there is a special fireworks display in the city.
5. Rome And Vatican City
Christmas in Rome and Vatican City is a special time of the year. The city is adorned with festive decorations and lights and there are many events to enjoy. Christmas Mass is celebrated in St. Peter’s Basilica and the Pope’s Christmas message is broadcast worldwide. The Christmas season begins with the lighting of the Christmas tree and the Nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square. Rome’s main Christmas market runs from mid-November to just before Christmas Eve. The market offers a variety of traditional Christmas items as well as local crafts and gifts. Vatican City also celebrates the holidays with special events. On December 8, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception is celebrated with a special Mass and procession to the Basilica of St. Peter. On Christmas Eve, the Pope leads a special Mass and blessing in St. Peter’s Square. Rome also celebrates the traditional Italian holiday of Epiphany on January 6. The day is marked with a parade of the magi and a special Mass. At the end of the Mass, the Pope throws coins from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica for the children. Christmas in Rome and the Vatican City is a magical
6. Sydney, Australia
Christmas in Sydney, Australia is a festive time of year filled with holiday cheer. Christmas lights, decorations, and carols fill the air. Christmas in Sydney is a great time for family activities and sightseeing. Sydney is home to some of Australia's most iconic attractions, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Opera House, and the Royal Botanic Gardens. Christmas in Sydney is the perfect time to explore the city. The Christmas markets, located at the Rocks and Darling Harbour, are the perfect places to find unique gifts and souvenirs. On Christmas Day, enjoy a traditional roast lunch with all the trimmings. Take a ferry ride around the harbor to admire the decorations. The iconic Christmas lights of the Sydney Harbour Bridge will light up the night sky and signal the start of the holiday season.
On New Year's Eve, the city is lit up with fireworks and festivities. Join in the celebrations at the Sydney Opera House or the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Enjoy a meal at one of the city's many restaurants or enjoy the festivities in the city center. Christmas in Sydney is a magical time of year and a great time to experience the best of what Australia has to offer. Have a merry Christmas and a happy New Year!
Read More: