Sleigh bells ring, are you listening? That's right! It's time to start hanging up the wreaths and stringing those lights. However, properly decorating for the holidays can be an elaborate process, so why not visit one of the best Christmas towns in Kentucky for some inspiration? Their decorations and celebratory events will no doubt get you in the holiday spirit.

1. Ashland

Every year, Ashland puts on a huge holiday festival that spans nearly all of November and December. Their amazing light display in Central Park and downtown sparkles and shines -- if this doesn't get you in the holiday spirit, nothing will! Other events in their holiday festival include a parade, breakfast with Santa, and train rides. For a full list of activities, including dates, times and pricing, visit the Ashland Wonderland of Lights website.

2. Louisville

A city the size of Louisville is guaranteed to have plenty of holiday events to choose from. The biggest event is Light Up Louisville, which never ceases to amaze visitors. A spectacular light display will be lit by Santa, and afterwards you can enjoy a fireworks show or go ice skating on their pop-up rink. Before the illumination, there is a Christmas parade and the Run, Run Rudolph 5k. The Galt House Hotel transforms itself into a holiday wonderland every year, with tons of activities for adults and children alike. Read our feature article about Christmas at the Galt House for a full schedule of events, prices, and to purchase your tickets. The Galt House Hotel is located at 140 N. 4th Street, Louisville, KY 40202. Other great holiday events in Louisville include Lights Under Louisville and the Mega Cavern and Bardstown Road Aglow.

3. Lexington

Another big city, Lexington has plenty to offer as well. Every year, the town hosts the annual Luminate Lexington festival on Main Street in between Midland Avenue and Mill Street. Another popular attraction is the Southern Lights Holiday Festival at the Kentucky Horse Park. This driving tour of twinkling lights is one of the best holiday events in Kentucky, and you have to see it to believe it. Best of all - tickets are affordable and it's fun for the whole family. The Kentucky Horse Park is located at 4089 Iron Works Pike, Lexington, KY 40511.

4. Maysville

The quaint town of Maysville holds a holiday parade every year. You can find the Twilight Christmas Parade at E. 2nd Street and Bridge Street. Make sure to get there early to assure you get a premiere viewing spot.

5. Bardstown

Light Up Bardstown will showcase a decorated and bright downtown area that's full of joy and magic. Many of the shops will remain open late to accommodate people who came to see the lighting of the Christmas tree. Be sure to visit the historic mansion at My Old Kentucky Home State Park for some unique Christmas activities. Past events have included: live productions of Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol," tours of the mansion, and a plethora of stunning holiday lights. Visit My Old Kentucky Home State Park's website to see a full calendar of events and ticket prices. My Old Kentucky Home State Park is located at 501. E. Stephen Foster Avenue, Bardstown, KY 40004.

6. Newport

Be sure to visit Newport on the Levee to see Light Up The Levee kick off. These stunning displays will make your inner child dance for joy. Another unique and fun thing to in Newport around Christmas is visiting the Newport Aquarium. In previous years, guests could see Santa go scuba diving in his "Water Wonderland." Keep your eye out for their special Scuba Santa Breakfast where kids will get to make their own ornament and of course meet Scuba Santa. Tickets to the breakfast are reasonably priced for general admission and even more affordable if you're a special pass holder. Visit the Newport Aquarium website for the most up-to-date information. Newport Aquarium is located at One Aquarium Way, Newport, KY 41071.

7. Burnside

Burnside is unique in that it is the only town located on Lake Cumberland. Every year, the town hosts their annual Magical Christmas in Burnside Parade and the Christmas Crafters Village. The parade starts in the afternoon, and the Village will feature great and unique gift options, and Santa will be there to take pictures with kids and listen to them tell him what they want for Christmas.

8. Harrodsburg

Harrodsburg is home to the historic Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, which hosts delightful holiday celebrations. One of the most popular activities is Children's Tea Time with Mrs. Claus. But take note -- this popular event often sells out in advance. For a full list of this year's events, visit the Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill website. This lovely destination is located at 3501 Lexington Road, Harrodsburg, KY 40330.

9. Patti's Festival of Lights

Grand Rivers puts on an amazing holiday light show every year called Patti's Festival of Lights. It's located at a popular local restaurant called Patti's 1880's Settlement, and features thousands of twinkling lights. The Festival of Lights belongs on everyone's bucket list, and best of all, it lasts all holiday season! Patti's is located at 1793 J H O'Bryan Avenue, Grand Rivers, KY 42045.

10. Leitchfield

Enjoy the warmth of your car as you drive through Leitchfield's City Park, which will be aglow with thousands of lights all season long. The park is located on East Lake Drive in Leitchfield. Enjoy the Hometown Christmas Parade and feel the holiday magic all around you. There's a different theme every year, so you never know what kind of spectacle you're going to get.

11. Carrollton

Every year, the city of Carrollton turns into a holiday wonderland. Past events have included breakfast with Santa at Two Rivers Restaurant and jolly carolers. For more fun, head over to General Butler State Park for the Festival of Trees. For the whole month of December, come see a variety of Christmas trees decorated by various local businesses, schools, and churches.

12. Petersburg

The Creation Museum hosts this free event where you can take a walk through "Christmas Town." The botanical garden at the museum will be glowing and decorated for the holidays. Christmas Town is open all season long!

The 12 best Christmas towns in Kentucky are sure to get you and your family ready for the holidays. For even more dazzling Christmas events, check out our article on the most magical light displays in Kentucky. Has anyone ever celebrated the holidays in these towns before?