In California’s holiday travel economy, the “Christmas trip” is increasingly being sold as a driveable, walkable, event-centered weekend—less about itinerary overload and more about a town that can convincingly play the part of “winter.” National lifestyle coverage has helped push this shift, spotlighting places that can deliver a coherent seasonal aesthetic—lights, markets, parades, and a distinct local food tradition—without the friction of major metro crowds.
What follows are five small-town contenders drawing outsized attention this season, each with a clear holiday signature—and enough off-program substance (wine country, redwoods, coastline, mountain air) to justify more than a single photo stop.
Solvang for a California-built “European Christmas market” atmosphere
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