The calendar is down to its last page and you're almost down to your last bit of turkey leftovers, so that can only mean one thing: December. And the arrival of December means it's time for embracing the wintry temperatures outside and enjoying being under the colorful twinkling bulbs that bring light to the darkest nights of the year. From countless festive light displays and Christmas markets to theatrical performances and parades (some on the water), no matter where you live, you are sure to find one of the best December events in 2025 near you. Unique on the calendar, December goes out with a bang, and we've got you covered with one of the most unique December events in the country. Read below to find a cool thing to do in December near you.
Las Noches de las Luminarias – Phoenix, Arizona
The Desert Botanical Garden will once again glow with winter warmth and festive wonder during the annual Las Noches de las Luminarias event (select dates through December 30). At this event, which has become one of Phoenix's most cherished winter traditions, you'll be able to wander the garden’s winding paths alongside thousands of flickering luminarias and twinkling lights in addition to seasonal music.
The Jul Hus Christmas Store in Solvang, California (Photo via Mickey Logitmark / Wikimedia Commons)
Julefest – Solvang, California
The charming town of Solvang will once again celebrate Julefest, a monthlong holiday extravaganza that sprinkles American holiday traditions in with the town's proud Danish heritage. During Julefest (runs select dates through early January), the entire town transforms into a Scandinavian storybook setting filled with magical lights, festive shop windows, parades, candlelit tours, Nisse scavenger hunts and plenty of warming libations. Don't miss the tree lighting ceremony on December 5.
The 21st Ever Nog-Off – Little Rock, Arkansas
Little Rock’s like-nothing-else Nog-Off returns for its 21st edition on December 12, bringing the city’s finest (and frothiest) eggnog creations together at the Historic Arkansas Museum. This friendly competition invites professionals and creative home cooks alike to whip up their best versions of the holiday classic, from traditional recipes to wildly creative concoctions that compete for the winner of the "Not Your Great, Great, Great Grandfather’s Eggnog" award. Naturally, there will be plenty of sampling and also some great live tunes.
PHOTO: Festooned Boat at the Newport Boat Parade (Photo via Ramey Logan / Wikimedia Commons)
Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade – Newport Beach, California
The 117th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade and Ring of Lights will once again light up the city's harbor this December (December 17-21) with holiday cheer. This cherished tradition sees hundreds of brilliantly decorated yachts, sailboats and even paddleboards cruising through Newport Harbor in a merry and bright procession of lights. While on shore, the Ring of Lights home-decorating competition turns waterfront houses into dazzling seasonal displays.
Idaho Potato Drop – Boise, Idaho
End the year and start 2026 with a uniquely Idaho twist at the 13th Annual Idaho Potato Drop in Boise (December 31). In addition to seeing a giant spud descend at midnight, there will be live music, ski & snowboard events and tasty food trucks.
Christmas Eve bonfire in St. James Parish, Louisiana. (Photo via mtortorich / Wikimedia Commons)
Festival of the Bonfires – Lutcher, Louisiana
Lutcher will light up the holiday season with the 36th Annual Festival of the Bonfires (December 12-14), a prelude to the region’s famous Christmas Eve bonfires. See bonfires, watch live music and enjoy plenty of tasty southern Louisiana cooking at this truly unique cultural event.
The Christmas Prelude – Kennebunkport, Maine
No discussion of December events in the USA is complete without the Christmas Prelude in Kennebunkport, which returns for its 44th edition on select dates through December 14. This beloved event transforms the coastal town into a festive wonderland, with highlights including Santa’s arrival by lobster boat, a sparkling tree lighting ceremony (and the lighting of the lobster trap 'tree'), a lighthearted dog parade, and enchanting candlelight caroling.
Carolers in St Charles, Missouri (Photo via Scott Hartbeck)
Christmas Traditions – St. Charles, Missouri
Located just outside of St. Louis, St. Charles transforms into a festive wonderland during its annual Christmas Traditions event (select dates throughout December) each year, filling the cobblestone streets with the sights of Christmases gone by and sounds of carolers and roasting chestnuts. Expect atmospheric gas lamps and a glance into Dickensian traditions alongside global holiday characters and fun for the whole family.
Black Nativity – Boston, Massachusetts
Black Nativity will once again fill the Emerson Paramount Center on select dates through December 21, continuing a tradition that has thrilled audiences for 55 years now. This soulful yet vibrant retelling of the Nativity story blends powerful gospel music, dramatic dance and top-notch choreography to create a moving holiday experience for all ages. This year will feature the pulse of African drums and 75-plus voices.
Christkindlmarkt in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania (Photo Credit: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania)
Christkindlmarkt – Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Bethlehem will once again host its renowned Christkindlmarkt on select dates through December 21, bringing a true taste of European holiday tradition to the heart of the Keystone State. Visitors can browse gifts from a curated collection of artisans from across the nation, but there will also be an outlet of Germany’s famous Christmas store Käthe Wohlfahrt. Other highlights include festive photo ops, cookie decorating and live holiday music.
Las Posadas & Christmas Eve Farolito Walk – Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe will come alive this December with two beloved holiday traditions: the 49th Annual Las Posadas on December 7 and the Christmas Eve Canyon Road Farolito Walk. Las Posadas recreates Mary and Joseph’s search for a room at the inn, with candle-lit processions, caroling, and community celebration bringing the epic tale to life. On Christmas Eve, the Farolito Walk illuminates Canyon Road with thousands of glowing farolitos, creating a truly unique "only in Santa Fe" moment you'll cherish for years to come.
Giant snow globe in Park City, Utah.(photo via Visit Park City) (Photo Credit: (photo via Visit Park City))
Snow Globe Stroll – Park City, Utah
Historic Main Street will once again turn into a winter wonderland this month (runs through January 3) during the Snow Globe Stroll, which will see life-size snow globes line the streets (all designed by talented local artists), inviting you to snap a festive photo and savor the season. Keep an eye out for a silver snowflake hidden in each snow globe.
Menorah Lightings – New York City, New York
The Big Apple will once again go all out for Hanukkah, and nowhere is that more spectacular than at the city’s two massive menorahs. Both Grand Army Plaza in Midtown Manhattan and Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn will feature massive 32-foot-high, 4,000-pound steel menorahs that will light up the night each evening from December 14-21. The Brooklyn celebration offers live music, freshly made food and gifts for children.
Horse-drawn wagon during the holidays in Woodstock, Vermont. (photo courtesy of Woodstock Area Chamber of Commerce)
Wassail Weekend – Woodstock, Vermont
Once again, Woodstock will raise a glass of festive cheer during Wassail Weekend (December 12-14) a one-of-a-kind celebration that combines holiday cheer with quintessential New England charm. Just a few of the happenings that will charm your red & white striped socks off: horse-drawn carriage rides, local crafts, warming seasonal beverages and a joyous parade.
Christmas in the Valley – Yakima Valley, Washington
The wineries of the Yakima Valley will overflow with festive cheer once again this December, inviting visitors to sip, shop and give back. During the Holiday Wine & Tree Celebration,many local wineries will showcase a uniquely decorated holiday tree and partner with a local nonprofit, letting guests contribute to meaningful causes while enjoying special offers and discounts. A host of special events will also take place at venues in the bucolic region including an ornament painting class (December 4) cookie decorating class (December 11) and a holiday night market (December 17).
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