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Updated Oct 25, 2024

The One Southern California Town That Transforms Into a Christmas Wonderland Each Year

Tucked inside this Southern California town you'll find a magical destination where Christmas comes to life around the holiday season.

Updated Oct 25, 2024

Written by

Angela

Oh, how we love the magic of Christmas! If you're seeking the perfect place in SoCal to experience the magic of the season, you'll want to plan a day trip to Temecula, a spectacular town that comes to life around the holidays. Here's a closer look at what you can expect to find when you visit this hidden gem in Southern California during the Christmas season. Are you ready to explore Christmas in Temecula? Let's go!

Welcome to the town of Temecula. Your very own winter wonderland in Southern California.

alt — City of Temecula California Public Welcome Sign

Located in Riverside County, Temecula Valley may best be known as Southern California's wine country, but it's also a prime destination to experience the magic of Christmas this season.

Filled with tons of winter activities the whole family will love, you are guaranteed to have a jolly good time at this California Christmas town that feels just like a magical snow globe.

From outdoor ice skating rinks to a sunset market where you can find the perfect gift, this charming destination in SoCal will quickly inch up to the top of your Christmas bucket list.

Take a stroll along Main Street and you'll be treated to dazzling Christmas decor in the many shops, boutiques, and restaurants throughout the town.

alt — A close-up portrait of a young woman smiling and looking away on a winter evening in December. She is wearing a warm winter coat and colorful winter scarf and is carrying rolls of wrapping paper with her. She is in Newcastle upon Tyne in the North East of England.Videos are available for this scenario

Even the hotels and resorts are adorned with everything that is merry and bright. From towering Christmas trees to elegant holiday displays right out of a magazine, you'll instantly be transported to a Christmas wonderland.

You may even find your favorite tasting room all wrapped up in a big red bow. And you can bet on spotting some twinkly holiday lights at all of your favorite wineries and vineyards. You may be here for the wine, but you definitely don't want to miss out on the festive decor.

Last but not least, take some time to explore Old Town, especially after dark, when this charming old-fashioned village is all aglow in lights. What a perfect place to experience Christmas. And if you visit on the weekends, you may even see Santa Claus himself. And, of course, don't forget to attend events like the tree lighting ceremony and the electric parade.

Where is your favorite town to celebrate Christmas in California? Have you ever visited Temecula, California, during the Christmas season? What are some of your things to do in Temecula, CA? It sure looks like a magical place to explore. You can learn more about specific events, including dates and times, on the City of Temecula website.

If you're seeking more Christmas activities to enjoy, plan a visit to several other Christmas towns in Southern California. And, if you plan to visit them on a road trip, make sure you are prepared with supplies for the road and delicious car-friendly snacks.

Experiences|Events

Updated Oct 25, 2024

The Most Enchanting Christmastime Main Street in the Country Is Galena in Illinois

Galena, Illinois, offers a magical Christmas experience with its enchanting main street, festive displays, and holiday events.

Updated Oct 25, 2024

Written by

Elizabeth Crozier

The shopping season is upon us and there’s a holiday town in northwest Illinois that is the place to be for all the best gifts — Galena. This Christmas town in Illinois is really something special, and it’s complete with an enchanting main street that comes to life with lights and festive displays. Don’t miss out on the Prairie State’s premier Christmas destination. Scroll on for more about the best main street at Christmas in Galena, Illinois. In my opinion, it's the one event that belongs on your list this holiday season!

Galena is a charming resort town in northwest Illinois that just about everyone in the state has at least heard of before. For those who are familiar with the town's allure, it won't be a surprise that it has the most enchanting main street in the state.

Winter, in general, is a wonderful time to visit the town as the snow turns it into a whole new world. However, there's something truly special about Galena's downtown and main street.

Even without the decorations, Galena's downtown is a stunning place to find yourself. It is very vintage and features a wealth of old-fashioned shops and restaurants that will make you smile.

alt — A close-up portrait of a young woman smiling and looking away on a winter evening in December. She is wearing a warm winter coat and colorful winter scarf and is carrying rolls of wrapping paper with her. She is in Newcastle upon Tyne in the North East of England.Videos are available for this scenario

Throughout the month of December, you can also enjoy a long list of activities in downtown Galena and the surrounding area that would put even Scrooge himself into the holiday spirit. Attend events such as the General's Christmas Ball, the annual tree lighting ceremony, and the Festival of Lights and Living Windows.

You'll also want to mark your calendars for December 7, 2024, to attend the annual Holiday Fire in the Sky fireworks show. This family-friendly event starts at 6:30 p.m. and the dazzling colors can be seen from almost anywhere in downtown Galena.

Galena, Illinois truly comes alive during the holidays. With so much to see and do, it's easy to see why Galena is one of the most amazing places to visit at Christmas in Illinois. We love this holiday town.

alt — Mark's Postcards from Beloit/Flickr

If you've ever experienced this enchanting Main Street during a Galena, Illinois Christmas season, we'd love to hear from you. Please share your experiences and photos with us. Let us know if you agree that this is the best main street at Christmas in Illinois.

For more festive fun, check out these main streets in Illinois that are positively magical this time of year. And if you need yet more doses of holiday cheer, take a look at our list of Christmas towns in Illinois — they really go all out!

Are you counting down the days to Christmas, and have you begun your shopping? If not, start with this list of cool holiday gift ideas that are perfect for your loved ones.

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The One Southern California Town That Transforms Into a Christmas Wonderland Each Year

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The Most Enchanting Christmastime Main Street in the Country Is Galena in Illinois

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All Stories

The Panoramic-View Restaurant on Lake Erie in Pennsylvania Is a Must-Visit

If You Only Have One Day to Visit This Small Town in Connecticut, Here’s Everything You Absolutely Can’t Miss

Hike the Port Penn Wetlands Trail in Delaware for an Unforgettable Adventure

The Remote Work Retreat Center in New Hampshire You Will Never Want to Leave

We Explored a Cave and a Waterfall Along this Easy Tennessee Hike