From sun or snow or beaches to skiing, Christmastime is all about family, fun, and beautiful trees with decorations.

“Every decoration has a story to tell,” said religion teacher Ms. Rosanne Coury, “Christmas is a time of hope rekindled, promises proclaimed, relationships remembered and renewed.”

Along with elaborate decorations, another staple of the holiday season is travel. Although Condé Nast has a list of The World’s Most Festive Cities which includes places from Finland to Japan, there are countless popular holiday destinations within the United States.

Beginning on the East Coast, Kennebunkport, Maine is popularized as one of the most festive cities along the Atlantic. Kennebunkport’s festivities start with what the state does best: Lobster. Not only is the Christmas tree made out of Lobster traps, but the town Santa also arrives on a lobster boat. Moving down the coast, New York is world renowned for their Christmas celebrations. From carriage rides to ice skating at Rockefeller Center, the festivities are endless. Further southwest, the mountainous city of Helen,Georgia features brilliant decorations and a traditional Christmas market. Further west lies the ski town of Park City,Utah. Apart from skiing, the quaint village has shops and parades which attract thousands of visitors. Snowfest, a festival that is meant to lift all holiday spirits, is also held in Park City.

While there are many more festive cities in the U.S., Canada also holds extensive Christmas celebrations. In Quebec City, Quebec, visitors and locals alike find their christmas joy in the Toboggan Run; an ice track that overlooks the city giving off views and fun all together. On the other side of the Atlantic, traditional Christkindl Markets attract many to the city of Cologne, Germany. Along with the artisans of the city and locals, travelers experience this holiday joy too. Cologne attracts 4 million visitors each year.

Whether it’s in the United States or around the globe, the holiday and spirit of Christmas unites millions of people together every Christmas season through special traditions held and unforgettable memories made.