“The Most Beautiful Small Town in America” is even more charming around the holidays, and one small town holiday market draws a quarter million visitors each year and features a Glühwein Pyramid.

From small towns that sparkle like snow globes to coastal cities glowing with boat parades, these destinations treat December as a season-long welcome. Expect heritage markets, candlelit strolls, ...

Small towns within an easy drive of D.C. celebrate the season with holiday markets, Christmas parades and Main Street charm. Why it matters: Nothing says Christmas like a big small-town celebration.