Frankenmuth, Michigan
Known as Michigan’s “Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth stays on brand with its architecture, Christkindl market, and family-style chicken dinners at rival restaurants Zehnder’s and the Bavarian Inn. The town only has 5,000 residents, but it welcomes 1 million tourists every year, many of whom flock to Frankenmuth during the holiday season to shop at the sprawling 2.2-acre Bronner’s, which stakes its claim as the world’s largest Christmas store. During the holiday season, travelers can rock around the musical Christmas tree downtown, go ice skating, and visit a reindeer farm.
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Fredericksburg, Texas
Rich with German heritage, Fredericksburg goes all out during Weihnachtszeit (or the Christmas season). The Hill Country locale pops up an ice skating rink and lights up its Christmas Pyramid, a 26-foot tall, spinning carousel-like creation. These wooden German decorations date back to the 16th century, and some believe they inspired our modern-day Christmas tree traditions. During the holiday season, Fredericksburg visitors can stop by the Marktplatz at 6 p.m. to hear an audio presentation about the town’s history and holiday carols and participate in a countdown as the marketplace lights up for the night. Then, hit up Main Street, which has boutique shops, wine tasting rooms, and restaurants.