Few things are more fun than decorating an apartment for the holiday season. Lights, decorations and candles help make it so cozy that even Santa himself would want to stick around for an extra cookie. But when it comes to extravagant holiday celebrations, apartments can be a bit limiting. Luckily, there’s plenty of holiday cheer just outside your door. Here are some cities that do winter holiday parties right!
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Also known as “Christmas City, USA,” Bethlehem is a clear choice for one of the best places to celebrate the winter holidays. Beyond the name, one of the main draws to Bethlehem is the German-style Christkindlmarkt. It’s a market with more than 150 vendors selling holiday-themed gifts, decorations and food. There’s a party almost every day, with activities ranging from holiday movies to breakfast with St. Nicholas to a Holiday Cocktail Trail!
Los Angeles, California
If you can handle crowds, The Grove Tree Lighting show and party is quite a spectacular. This televised event is chock full of celebrities, musical guests, a 70-piece orchestra and a tree lighting ceremony. The grand finale includes “snow” and fireworks. This year, the event is hosted by Seth Macfarlane with special guests Meghan Trainor and Katharine McPhee.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Vegas is a year-round, never-ending party, and the holidays are no exception. There is a friendly competition among casinos to sport the most holiday spirit. The Bellagio Fountains dance to holiday music, The Cosmopolitan adds an ice rink and at Mandalay Bay, you can meet Santa and his shark elf. For a rocking party, head on over to Hard Rock for Holiday Havoc’s seasonal music with a harder edge.
Durango, Colorado
If you’re a fan of the Polar Express — or trains and fun — this party is for you. The good folks in Durango transform the Durango & Silverton into The Polar Express. Actors perform the opening scenes of the movie before boarding. Once on the train, personal chefs serve passengers hot chocolate, and Santa visits each car. If you have kids or are a kid at heart, this is a party you can’t miss.
New York City, New York
When people call NYC the greatest city in the world, there’s a chance they’re referring to the city specifically during the holiday season. Simply put, they do it the best. It’s a non-stop party of holiday cheer. Whether it’s ice skating in Bryant Park, watching the window displays on Fifth Avenue or seeing the Rockettes at Radio City, this town will win over even the grumpiest Grinch. The biggest party of the year (literally) is the lighting of the giant Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center. This televised event is one for the ages.
Be sure to check your local listings for all the fun winter parties happening in your town, and take a look at ForRent.com for helpful DIY tips and ideas on how to decorate your apartment this holiday season.