Healdsburg Among 10 Best Christmas Towns In America: Newsweek

HEALDSBURG, CA — The city of Healdsburg is one of the best Christmas towns in the United States, according to Newsweek's Readers' Choice list for 2024.

Healdsburg was ranked no. 3 on a list of 1o towns.

"From tree lightings and night markets to complimentary carriage rides and photos with Santa, Healdsburg is the perfect place for a Sonoma wine country Christmas," Newsweek editors wrote. "Make your way downtown for the tree lighting ceremony, and then join a holiday wine and restaurant tour that takes you through some of the most festive—and tasty—parts of the city."

The Sugarplums, More At Merry Healdsburg Tree Lighting Celebration

In addition to horse-drawn carriage rides, the city's annual Merry Healdsburg Tree Lighting Celebration—a winter wonderland set from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. this Friday at the Plaza—features special musical guests, The Sugarplums.

Additional before-and-after festivities include a performance by the Healdsburg Chorus, photos with Santa Claus, holiday crafts for all ages throughout the night, and the holiday night market featuring over 75 vendors.

The City of Healdsburg Community Services hosts the holiday tradition in partnership with the Healdsburg Chamber of Commerce.

"Countdown and watch in amazement as we illuminate the Plaza with dazzling lights," the city website states. "See you there for a night of joy, lights and festive memories!"

10 Best Christmas Towns

Healdsburg is not the only U.S. city with oodles of holiday spirit. Here is the Newsweek Readers' Choice list of the 10 Best Christmas Towns for 2024:

1. Grapevine, TX

2. Solvang, CA

3. Healdsburg, CA

4. Fredericksburg, TX

5. Santa Claus, IN

6. Santa Fe, NM

7. Aspen, CO

8. Frankenmuth, MI

9. Leavenworth, WA

10. Prescott, AZ

ALSO SEE: Where To See Santa In Healdsburg This Christmas Season