There’s that certain chill in the air—the kind that accompanies the sound of bells ringing, the scent of pies cooking, the sight of bright lights twinkling, and the feel of everything that is holiday cheer. Ah, wintertime.
The holiday season brings festivities and tidings galore. This winter, instead of the humdrum prepackaged gift—give the gift of memories.
Trips to local holiday hotspots are ideal for family members and friends alike. Time spent together can be worlds more rewarding than the traditional gift. Good times come with all the trimmings, serves everyone, and best of all, no assembly required!
There are many ways to wish Happy Holidays this winter. Whether you say Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah or Happy Kwanzaa—however you celebrate the holiday season, be sure it is with good memories that will last throughout the coming year.
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| Ruby Falls lighted display. Tennessee department of Tourism |
Holiday Merrymaking
It’s easy to enjoy the holly-days this winter. To create holiday cheer: Combine loads of season’s greetings. Mix in best wishes for the coming year. Sprinkle with laughter. Garnish with a mistletoe. Enjoy and repeat!
Deck the Falls
Ruby Falls, Chattanooga
For a truly unique holiday celebration, why not celebrate 1,120 feet underground! Bring the family to Ruby Falls for a holiday fete like none other. The sounds of holiday music fill the air as you tour Ruby Falls. A Holiday Light Show is also yours to enjoy at the waterfall. And on select nights in December, Ruby Falls will feature Ruby Red Christmas—where the falls are transformed into a 1928 Christmas. Costumed characters roam the Falls greeting guests, and horse and carriage rides are also available. A North Pole Workshop featuring fun activities for kids rounds out the fun.
Select dates in November-January.
Smoky Mountain Christmas
Dollywood, Pigeon Forge
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| © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. and Dollywood |
It’s a true wintertime delight in the Smokies. A spectacular light display accompanies a live lineup of Christmas shows and much more. Under the backdrop of four million shining lights is a bash that celebrates the true meaning of Christmas. Don’t miss Santa’s Workshop, which features fun activities and larger-than-life sized toys. A Parade of Lights sparkles in the sky, while The Polar Express 4-D Experience delivers a real holiday treat.
Select dates in November-January.
Christmas at Graceland
Memphis
Decked out in holiday décor, Graceland is the ideal place to visit this winter. The entire mansion is decorated inside and out with traditional lights and decorations, including hundreds of blue lights along the driveway, a life-size Nativity scene, Santa and his sleigh, and many more decorations that were originally displayed by Elvis. Inside, the mansion will also feature Elvis’ holiday decorations, including his traditional red velvet drapes and Presley family artifacts. Jan. 7-10 includes a special celebration for Elvis’ birthday.
Select dates in November-January.
Christmas in Hershey
Hershey, PA
Make time this winter for a very merry celebration. The town of Hershey will be illuminated with over three million lights. “Hershey Sweet Lights” is a 2.3-mile drive featuring almost 600 light displays, all set to the tune of holiday favorites. “Holiday with Dickens” will be a treat for all ages, a spin on Charles Dickens’ tale A Christmas Carol. And be sure to stop by Hersheypark for Hersheypark Christmas Candylane. The park will be transformed into a holiday village with over 30 rides, Santa and his reindeer, live entertainment and much more. A special highlight will be a new light show choreographed to high-energy holiday music.
Select dates in November-December.
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| Nashville Ballet. Tennessee Department of Tourism |
The Nutcracker
Nashville
The Nashville Ballet presents a classic tale for all generations. The Nutcracker tells the story of Clara and her magical nutcracker that comes to life. This breathtaking performance features dazzling stage sets and beautifully designed costumes, all coming together to create a new holiday tradition for your family.
Select dates in December.
Christmas Express
The Three Rivers Ramblers, Knoxville
All aboard for a fun-filled Christmas celebration. Experience the magic of the holiday season with a seat on a classic passenger train. Enjoy Christmas cookies and refreshments as storytellers read a new holiday book, The Christmas Lantern. An exciting treat for kids, Santa Claus will board the train at the halfway point for a visit and to pass out gifts.
Select dates in November-December.
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| Radio City Music Hall |
Radio City Christmas
Spectacular
Grand Ole Opry House, Nashville
Kick your holiday festivities into high gear with a performance from the world-famous Rockettes. Don’t miss this entertaining production, complete with stunning scenery, beautiful costumes and sparkling lighting. With nearly 100 members of the cast and crew, the show-stopping performance features such acts as 12 Days of Christmas, Parade of Wooden Soldiers, and Living Nativity.
Select dates in November-December.
Victorian Christmas: “A Celebration of a Century…1899”
Belle Meade Plantation, Nashville
Take a journey back in history this holiday season at the Belle Meade Plantation. An elegant celebration commemorating the end of the 19th century, gives visitors the chance to experience the optimistic outlook Americans had in 1899 as they entered a new century. The house will also be festively decorated with lavish Victorian accents.
Select dates in November-December.
Before you go, be sure to visit AAA.com/Fun or your local AAA office for discounts on select attraction tickets.