Solvang Julefest, Solvang, California
Wish you could be visiting Tivoli Gardens this Christmas? Well, instead of going all the way to Copenhagen, you can get your fix of a Nordic Christmas at Solvang Julefest, an annual celebration that takes place in California’s Danish town.
Lights and decorations only add to this European-style Christmas market’s storybook atmosphere, and Julefest is the heart of the charming town’s holiday magic.
While here, be sure to try some festive Danish delights like asæbleskiver, which are small pancakes dipped in sugar and jam, and gløgg, the Scandinavian interpretation of mulled wine.
The event also includes a parade, tree lighting ceremony, tours by candlelight, appearances from Santa, obviously, and a community-wide scavenger hunt for secret Christmas elves.
Carmel Christkindlmarkt, Carmel, Indiana
It’s definitely much colder in Carmel during the winter months. So begin your festivities by grabbing a mug of glühwein or hot chocolate when you visit this European-style Christmas market.
Located roughly 30 minutes away from Indianapolis in the heart of Carmel City, this Christmas market has 50 vendors selling nutcrackers, Christmas decorations, cuckoo clocks, and authentic German food from wooden stalls adorned for the holidays.
After shopping at the market, embrace the winter weather with a quick skating excursion on The Ice at Carter Green. The Carmel Christkindlmarkt operates annually from the weekend before Thanksgiving all the way through Christmas Eve.
