The Christmas Spirit Lives Year-Round in These US Towns

North Pole, Alaska

What can you expect from the place that claims to be St. Nick’s hometown? Nothing less than a hefty dose of the Christmas spirit, no matter the season. North Pole, Alaska, maintains a year-long Christmas countdown on its website. And don’t try to tell locals that the holiday season only comes once a year. They keep red and green decorations and holiday lights up 24/7/365.

CC: Dylan Avery via Wikimedia Commons

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Known as Christmas City, USA, Bethlehem also takes its name and its role in continuous Christmas festivities seriously. The town’s primary attraction remains the “star of Bethlehem.” A collection of LED lights mounted on the top of a hill, this “star” lights the way, providing a recognizable landmark all year long.

Santa Claus, Indiana

Once upon a time, this small town in Indiana was known as Santa Fe. When they learned New Mexico had already laid claim to this name, they decided to act, renaming their town “Santa Claus.” But this name change came with unforeseen consequences once children learned about the town’s updated moniker. Soon, the letters started pouring in.

In 1914, a postman began replying to the letters, and a time-honored tradition was born. Kids who write to Santa Claus, Indiana, still receive replies to their letters. What’s more, the city has a Holiday World theme park, countless Christmas stores, and a Christmas Village. If you’re jonesing for a little more from everybody’s favorite jolly elf, Santa Claus, Indiana, is the place to be.

Midland, Michigan

Many people wonder what Santa and his many helpers do during the off-season. While we can’t speak on behalf of the “Big Guy,” we do know about a special Santa Claus training center in Midland. Here, Santas-in-training gather from all over the world to learn the craft of embodying the Christmas celeb. They hone their craft, perfecting their “ho ho ho” and their bowl-full-of-jelly belly laughs.

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Frankenmuth, Michigan

The Christmas lights and decorations never come down in Frankenmuth. Not only will a drive through this charming town put you right back in the holiday spirit, but it also comes with a hidden treasure. Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland. This 98,000-square-foot store claims the title of the largest Christmas store in the world. You’ll find everything your holiday-loving heart could desire.

CC: Dustin M. Ramsey via Wikimedia Commons

North Pole, New York

Located in Upstate New York, the village of North Pole claims the title of being Santa’s Workshop. It boasts an outdoor theme park, complete with reindeer, sleigh bells, and Christmas lights. Special events include storytime with Santa’s helpers, the North Pole Jamboree, and a Nativity Pageant. There are also regular Santa Claus Parades and Santa’s Daily Proclamation during which he gives his elves their marching orders for the day.

Santa’s Workshop, North Pole, New York || CC: Mwanner via Wikimedia Commons

Year-Round Christmas Spirit

If you can’t imagine waiting another year to get your holiday spirit back on, consider a trip to one of these Christmas-infused locations. You’ll find plenty of like-minded individuals who keep the spirit of the season going year-round. Just don’t be surprised if you run across Santa during the off-season.

By Engrid Barnett, contributor for Ripleys.com

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