Chicago Named Best Place For Christmas Celebrations In Country

CHICAGO, IL — Chicago has been named the "best place to celebrate Christmas" by a WalletHub study released Tuesday. The report compared 100 cities across the United States, based on factors such as holiday affordability, generosity, festivities, traditions and shopping. The study also took Google search interest in local holiday events, markets and charities into consideration.

"Beyond ensuring its affordability, a successful holiday also hinges on a location’s Christmas-friendliness," WalletHub stated on the report's web page. "Typical Christmas activities include shopping, dining out and attending holiday events, so the availability of such options can make all the difference."

The report compared 29 key indicators of a festive and affordable Christmas, such as holiday parties and events, ice skating rinks, size of charitable donations, Christmas markets, gift shops, and the average price for holiday party tickets and restaurant meal costs.

Chicago came in 1st place with a score of 64.44; San Francisco pulled in close behind with 63.76. Pittsburgh (63.72) and New York (63.60) were also close behind.

Photo by Amber Fisher