The Best Christmas Towns in the South

If you’re looking to ditch the typical hustle and bustle of the holiday season or find a festive place to travel in early 2025, the South offers plenty of charming towns to get you in the spirit. Whether you’re looking for traditional celebrations, family-friendly activities, or a mountaintop getaway, here’s a rundown of the best Southern towns to visit during the holidays and through the winter!

Table of Contents

ALABAMA
GEORGIA
KENTUCKY
NORTH CAROLINA
SOUTH CAROLINA
LOUISIANA
MISSISSIPPI
TENNESSEE
VIRGINIA
FLORIDA

ALABAMA

Cullman

The Cullman Christkindlmarkt brings authentic German holiday charm to Depot Park from November 20 through December 23. Stroll through festive huts filled with handcrafted ornaments, delicious treats, and warm Glühwein, then enjoy ice skating, a 108-foot Ferris wheel, and a classic double-decker carousel. Little ones can stop by Kinderplatz for crafts, toy making, and Santa visits. As night falls, the towering Christmas pyramid and cheerful carols create a warm, family-friendly holiday glow.

A Ferris wheel and carousel at an outdoor fair during sunset, with people gathered nearby and a wooden fence in the foreground—capturing the charm found in the best Christmas towns in the South. — Visitors come from far and wide for Cullman’s annual Christkindlmarkt! Image: Visit Cullman

GEORGIA

Helen

For a traditional seasonal escape, visit the Alpine Bavarian town of Helen. Full of spirited charm and gingerbread-trimmed buildings, walking through the city feels like a scene straight out of a snowglobe. On November 28, the annual Lighting of the Village transforms the town, as thousands of twinkling lights adorn every corner. From 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Riverside Park hosts Santa Claus and live music, marking the start of the holidays and lasting through mid-February.

People gather around a large decorated Christmas tree in a town square with Bavarian-style buildings at dusk, making it one of the charming winter destinations perfect for holiday travel. — Helen’s Bavarian aesthetic shines brightest during its seasonal celebrations, with every corner dressed in finery. Image: Alpine Helen/White County CVB

Golden Isles

While the Golden Isles are a sought-after destination year-round, they’re especially unique during December. Thanks to the year-round temperate weather, you can still enjoy outdoor fun in wintertime, making the area feel like an “endless summer.”

Don’t miss popular events like Holly Jolly Jekyll (November 29-January 5), the annual Hofwyl-Broadfield Christmas Tour (throughout December), and the Brunswick Christmas Parade (December 14). In between events, be sure to visit some of the local restaurants — many of which offer holiday-inspired dining experiences.

A paved pathway lined with trees decorated with colorful, illuminated holiday lights in various shapes—snowflakes, bells, and stars—creates a festive scene often found in Southern towns, making them charming winter destinations for holiday travel. — A coastal twist on holiday magic awaits in the Golden Isles. Image: Golden Isles CVB

KENTUCKY

Bardstown

Bardstown truly shines during the cooler months, earning its nickname as the “North Pole of Kentucky.” The town becomes a real-life movie scene with shimmering

lights, enchanting decor, and more than 20 holiday-inspired creations. From Light Up Bardstown and the Christmas Parade to the Christmas Carnival in the Park, there’s fun for all ages. Be sure to stroll through downtown, where sweet boutiques and one-of-a-kind shops turn gift hunting into a delight — without the hassle of mall crowds.

A festive holiday parade at night on a city street in charming Southern towns, with crowds, green balloons, floats, Christmas lights, and decorations. Snow appears to be falling—a magical scene for winter destinations and holiday travel memories. — Downtown Bardstown comes alive with floats, music, and more during its Christmas Parade. Image: Grizzly Media

Berea

Nestled in the Appalachian foothills, Berea turns into a handmade Christmas wonderland every year. Kick off your adventures at the Mayor’s Merry Mingling, a beloved annual celebration with music, radiant decor, and holiday cheer. Explore Berea’s renowned folk arts and craft shops, where local artisans fill store shelves with unique gifts and fun creations. From charming downtown streets to creative workshops, Berea blends tradition, artistry, and community spirit for a seasonal experience that’s warm and unforgettable.

Room decorated for Christmas with blue, gold, and red ornaments, trees, wrapped gifts, golden reindeer statue, and festive decor on blue and white tables—perfect inspiration for holiday travel to charming Southern towns or cozy winter destinations. — Discover one-of-a-kind gifts and creations at Berea’s handmade arts and craft shops. Image: Courage Media

Elizabethtown

Experience the holiday spirit in Elizabethtown. Festivities begin November 26 with Christmas in the Park, a 35-year tradition featuring over 100 light displays at Freeman Lake Park. On December 5, Light Up Etown brings a lively parade, tree lighting, live music, and holiday treats downtown. Don’t miss seasonal showings of White Christmas and more at the beautifully restored Historic State Theater, where the magic of the season shines on the big screen.

Two women shop in a decorated store in one of the charming Southern towns, surrounded by candy booths, holiday plants, gift items, and string lights—capturing the magic of holiday travel and winter destinations. — Downtown Elizabethtown offers plenty of opportunities for shopping and local finds during the holiday season. Image: Elizabethtown Tourism & Convention Bureau

Shelby County

In Shelby County, holiday shopping comes with plenty of charm. For example, Wakefield-Scearce Gallery is a former girls’ school-turned-antiques destination. During the cooler months, it converts to a Christmas bazaar full of everything from decor to ornaments and even mint julep cups crafted by the makers of the Kentucky Derby Trophy. Beyond the gallery, more than a dozen unique boutiques across Shelby County offer everything from fashion to keepsakes. For a bigger shopping spree, The Outlet Shoppes of the Bluegrass boasts over 90 retailers.

Outdoor shopping center at night with a large decorated Christmas tree, toy soldier statue, and people strolling by storefronts—a festive scene perfect for holiday travel in charming Southern towns and top winter destinations. — Find everything on your shopping list (and maybe something for yourself) at The Outlet Shoppes of the Bluegrass. Image: ShelbyKY Tourism

Maysville-Mason County

When the holidays come around, Maysville shines. Downtown glows with lights and sparkling storefronts, the Twilight Christmas Parade (December 5) dazzles with festive floats and Santa Claus, and Old Washington’s Frontier Christmas (December 6) transports you back to candlelit pioneer days.

The Washington Opera House also hosts a themed show the second weekend of December, while Holiday Trolley Light Tours runs throughout the month. From history to music to glowing displays, Maysville is a small town that lives big.

A charming Southern town street decorated with holiday garlands, red bows, and wreaths hangs above parked cars, with buildings and wooded hills in the background—an inviting spot for winter destinations and holiday travel. — From decorated storefronts to parades, Downtown Maysville is full of Yuletide joy. Image: Nicholas Reece Photography

Bowling Green

Bowling Green sparkles with fun all season long. At The Reindeer Farm — the southernmost of its kind — visitors can meet real reindeer, enjoy holiday activities, and catch special demonstrations like ice carving by Food Network’s Danny Kissel.

Families love Santa’s Lookout, where a whimsical train ride leads to Santa’s Workshop amid dazzling lights. Downtown, the annual Lights Up event kicks off the festivities, while the SoKY Ice Rink offers skating and even cast-iron curling through January.

Two reindeer lock antlers on a snowy field, both wearing harnesses around their heads—a playful scene that captures the spirit of holiday travel to magical winter destinations. — Get up close with Santa’s reindeer at The Reindeer Farm in Bowling Green. Image: The Reindeer Farm

NORTH CAROLINA

Mooresville

Mooresville shines as a holiday destination, feeling like a town right out of your favorite Christmas movie. Twinkling lights set the scene downtown, where decorated shops brim with treasures, music drifts through the crisp night air, and the annual A Classic Christmas event hosts carriage rides and carolers. From cozy restaurants to unique shopping opportunities and unique performances, Mooresville offers one-of-a-kind moments to cherish and traditions that bring visitors back year after year.

Storefront decorated with string lights at dusk in one of those charming Southern towns, displaying signs for vintage records and CDs, with a t-shirt and table outside—perfect for your holiday travel or winter destinations list. — Downtown Mooresville offers plenty of wonderful shops and boutiques for all of your holiday gift shopping needs. Image: Visit Mooresville

SOUTH CAROLINA

Old 96 District

Step into a magical holiday scene in South Carolina’s Old 96 District, where small-town charm shines across five counties. In Trenton, Sara’s Farm Adventure hosts Santa’s Southern Lights from November 20 through January 3, while Laurens invites shoppers to its Merry Market on November 28 and 29. Greenwood glows with the Connie Maxwell Lights Display from December 4 through 6, and Abbeville’s Victorian Christmas offers timeless decor on December 5 and 6. McCormick also dazzles with its Festival of Trees on December 5, 6, 12, and 13.

A group of people in period costumes sing in front of a large decorated Christmas tree in a town square, capturing the festive spirit often found in Southern towns and popular winter destinations during holiday travel. — Visiting South Carolina’s Old 96 District during the holiday season is downright enchanting. Image: Old 96 District

LOUISIANA

Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge comes alive with glowing lights, festive music, and family-friendly fun during the winter season. Stroll through Louisiana Lights at Burden Gardens, featuring illuminated garden rooms and a sparkling light tunnel, then head downtown for the Festival of Lights with its 25-foot tree, fireworks, and Santa. Enjoy ZooLights at BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo, catch The Nutcracker by Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre, and glide across the ice at Ice Skating on the River.

Three people stand under a tunnel of bright holiday lights, smiling and taking a selfie together in one of the best Christmas towns in the South. — Louisiana Lights brings the holidays to life with themed light displays and magical pathways. Image: Collin Richie

MISSISSIPPI

Canton

The Canton Christmas Festival is a beloved Mississippi tradition that dazzles the town’s historic square. Visitors can explore the whimsical Christmas Animation I-Spy Museum, watch seasonal favorites at the Canton Movie Museum, and snap photos at sparkling light displays. Sweet treats await at Santa’s Cookie Stop, and little ones will enjoy hearing Mrs. Claus telling stories in her living room. With nostalgic charm and festive flair, Canton offers a holiday experience that captures the warmth and wonder of the season.

An older woman dressed in a festive Santa outfit reads a colorful book to a young child in a winter hat indoors, capturing the cozy spirit often found in Southern towns during holiday travel and winter destinations. — Mrs. Claus delights with holiday tales the annual Canton Christmas Festival. Image: Canton Tourism

DeSoto County

Celebrate the holidays in DeSoto County, MS, which hosts a variety of light displays, including Southern Lights in Southaven (November 27-December 31), Cedar Hill Farm Christmas Traditions in Hernando (November 28-December 23), and Light Garden in Olive Branch (November 28-January 1).

Don’t miss Silo Square’s Christmas Open House (November 6-8, pictured below) or Hernando’s Dickens of a Christmas (November 21 and 22), a Victorian-themed event that transforms Courthouse Square into a nostalgic winter wonderland. With over 50 hotels across the county, including Fairfield Inn & Suites at Silo Square, it’s easy to stay and savor the season.

A large crowd gathers around a brightly lit Christmas tree at night in a charming Southern town square, with decorated buildings and streetlights in the background—a perfect scene for holiday travel seekers and winter destinations enthusiasts. — Before or after attending one of DeSoto County’s festive events, stop by any of the local boutiques to knock out some Christmas shopping. Image: Savannah Smith Photography

Corinth

Corinth’s Holiday Festival of Lights transforms its downtown district, complete with 20,000 illuminated lights, a 30-foot Christmas tree, and a holiday village. Highlights include Coca-Cola’s nostalgic light show, the Frazier family’s enchanting lawn display that draws thousands of cars, and the beloved Christmas parade, which draws record crowds. What began as a modest lighting effort has blossomed into a citywide tradition, welcoming over 36,000 visitors and boasting plenty of shopping.

Large decorative gift boxes wrapped in string lights sit on the ground, with colorful blurred holiday lights in the foreground, capturing the festive winter spirit found in charming Southern towns. — From Coca-Cola’s nostalgic light show to the beloved Christmas parade, Corinth’s Holiday Festival of Lights is a winter extravaganza. Image: Visit Corinth

Meridian/Lauderdale County

Meridian brings holiday magic to life with events for all ages. Don’t miss Merrehope’s Trees of Christmas (November 23-December 31), featuring over 60 decorated trees in a historic home. The weekend of December 6 and 7 also sparkles, hosting the City of Meridian Christmas Parade, Symphony’s Peppermint Pops at MSU Riley Center, and Cocoa & Cookies at Merrehope. Additional fun includes Winter Wonderland at the Children’s Museum (November 22-January 4), Lazy Acres in Lights, and the Inaugural New Year’s Eve celebration that features live music, fireworks, and a ball drop at midnight.

A decorated Christmas tree with red, white, and silver ornaments is in the foreground; more illuminated trees and festive lights evoke the charm of Southern towns—perfect inspiration for holiday travel or exploring winter destinations. — Step inside Merrehope and be dazzled by over 60 beautifully decorated Christmas trees in a historic Meridian home. Image: Visit Meridian Tourism

Natchez

Known as the “Hallmark Movie Capital of the South,” Natchez glows with merriment atop the Mississippi River bluff. Historic homes, stunning architecture, and warm Southern hospitality set the stage for a month-long celebration. The month-long celebration kicks off with the lighting of the tree on November 29.

Festivities include the lighting of a 34-foot tree on Main Street, displays in Memorial Park, live music, food trucks, kid-friendly rides, a European-style shopping village, a Christmas parade, and visits from Santa Claus. Natchez offers an unforgettable experience that’s lovely, lively, and unforgettable.

A large, decorated Christmas tree is illuminated at night with fireworks and colored lights, as a crowd watches and takes photos—capturing the festive spirit of Southern towns during holiday travel. — The centerpiece of Natchez’s holiday celebrations is its 34-foot Christmas tree. Image: Visit Natchez

Greenwood

Find your holiday beat in Greenwood, where Southern charm meets festive cheer in the heart of the Delta. Lit-up streets, Victorian decor, and family-friendly events like carriage rides, skating, and the Roy Martin Delta Band Festival (December 5) make the season truly magical. Shop unique boutiques, savor world-class Southern cuisine, and explore local history at the Museum of the Mississippi Delta. Offering boutique hotels, lively festivals, and cozy cafés, Greenwood is a can’t-miss escape full of culture and character.

A view through falling water of a courtyard in Southern towns, with potted trees, empty chairs and tables, and warm lights reflecting on wet stone tiles at night—a perfect scene for holiday travel. — The Alluvian Hotel is the perfect home base during your Greenwood getaway, offering well-appointed guest rooms and luxe amenities. Image: Greenwood CVB

TENNESSEE

Brownsville

Experience a soulful Southern Christmas in Brownsville, where lights, local flavors, and holiday traditions abound. Drive through the dazzling Markowski Christmas Lights, with over one million glimmering lights across eight acres, or follow the Holiday Trail of Lights past creatively decorated homes and businesses.

Downtown celebrations include a parade, tree lighting, and boutiques filled with one-of-a-kind gifts. Families can also enjoy the Tina Turner Museum as well as Santa, Snow & Cocoa at the West TN Delta Heritage Center. Check the Brownsville website for specific dates and times.

A nutcracker statue decorated with string lights stands in front of a tunnel illuminated by colorful holiday lights at night, capturing the festive charm often found during winter vacation in Southern towns. — Drive through stunning lights at Brownsville’s Markowski Christmas Lights. Image: Visit Brownsville TN

Pickwick Lake

Experience holiday cheer at Christmas on Main in Savannah, TN, held December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, and 20 from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. each night. Enjoy free family-friendly activities, including an open-air ice-skating rink with complimentary skates, traditional horse-drawn carriage rides through downtown to Cherry Mansion, and nightly Christmas movies at the historic Savannah Theater. New this year, a classic antique carousel at Tennessee Street Park adds extra holiday charm. Thousands gather each year to celebrate this beloved seasonal tradition.

The town square at night features a large lit Christmas tree, a decorated gazebo, and people strolling along paths; holiday lights adorn nearby buildings in one of the best Christmas towns in the South. — Festive decorations adorn Savannah’s downtown square, welcoming families and visitors to enjoy Christmas on Main. Image: Explore Pickwick Lake

Southwest Tennessee

Experience the magic of the season along Southwest Tennessee’s Jingle Bell Trail! From
Hallmark-worthy charm in Collierville to twinkling parades in Brownsville, Parsons, Savannah, Jackson,
and Henderson, each festive stop offers small-town cheer, twinkling lights, and plenty of Southern
hospitality. Sip hot cocoa, browse local shops, and celebrate the sights and sounds of Christmas across
the region — a joyful holiday adventure for families, friends, and festive travelers alike.

A horse-drawn carriage waits outside the Savannah Market at night, with a large illuminated Santa face and wreath displayed on the brick building—capturing why Savannah is among the best Christmas towns in the South. — There’s no better way to take in the holiday sights than from a cozy
horse-drawn carriage ride! Image: Christmas on Main Savannah Main Street

VIRGINIA

Eastern Shore

Virginia’s Eastern Shore sparkles during the holidays. Cape Charles’ Festive Fridays (November 28-December 19) hosts live music and shopping specials, while Onancock’s offers historic homes and waterfront fun, including Santa’s annual boat arrival at the town wharf. Chincoteague Island celebrates Christmas by the Sea, which includes a tree lighting after Thanksgiving and a Polar Pony Plunge on New Year’s Day. Art lovers will also love exploring the Holiday Studio Tour for local crafts.

A two-story house in one of the charming Southern towns, decorated with holiday lights and greenery, featuring a front porch, brick steps, and large planters, photographed at dusk—a perfect inspiration for holiday travel. — Historic homes along the Eastern Shore sparkle with garlands, wreaths, and bows. Image: Facebook

Roanoke Region

The Roanoke Region in Virginia’s Blue Ridge offers small-town charm across downtowns like Roanoke, Salem, Rocky Mount, Fincastle, and Vinton. A must-visit is Illuminights at Explore Park, where over 600,000 lights transform a half-mile trail into a magical nighttime walk, complete with an artisan Christmas market. Downtown Roanoke hosts the beloved Dickens of a Christmas on the first three Fridays in December, bringing Victorian decor, entertainment, and local vendors to the heart of the city.

A group of people walk along a forest path decorated with hanging string lights and illuminated trees at night, capturing the festive charm often found in Southern towns during holiday travel and winter destinations. — Explore a sparkling wonderland at Illuminights, where every turn is filled with holiday magic. Image: Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge

FLORIDA

Seaside

For 45 years, Seaside has been a town made for celebrating, where pastel cottages, twinkling lights, and Gulf sunsets create a naturally festive backdrop. Families and friends return year after year, enjoying the town’s welcoming, walkable streets. Christmas takes center stage with an extended holiday season and the longtime tradition of the 30A Parade (November 29), featuring golf carts, bikes, and even a supersize dachshund float, culminating with Santa’s arrival at Turn on the Town. In Seaside, holiday moments feel bigger, brighter, and unforgettable.

Outdoor plaza with palm trees wrapped in holiday lights, a decorated Christmas tree in the center, and people gathered around at dusk—capturing the festive spirit found in the best Christmas towns in the South. — Seaside comes alive during the holidays, with sparkling palm trees, cheerful decorations, and a joyful coastal atmosphere. Image: SEASIDE®

Happy holidays!

This article is sponsored by Visit Cullman, Helen/White County CVB, Golden Isles CVB, Bardstown/Nelson Co. KY Tourism & Convention Commission, Visit Berea KY, Elizabethtown Tourism & Convention Bureau, ShelbyKY Tourism, Maysville-Mason County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Visit Bowling Green KY, Visit Mooresville, Visit Baton Rouge, Old 96 District, Canton Tourism, DeSoto County Tourism, Visit Corinth, Visit Meridian Tourism, Visit Natchez, Greenwood CVB, Visit Brownsville TN, Explore Pickwick Lake, Southwest TN, Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce, Visit Viriginia’s Blue Ridge, and SEASIDE®.

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The Best Southern Towns to Visit This Holiday and Winter