The holiday season is upon us, meaning you now have carte blanche to enjoy as many freshly baked snickerdoodles and mugs of mulled wine as you like. But where to enjoy said festive treats? The best Christmas towns in the USA are a fine place to start. As these charming destinations begin to string up lights and trim their trees, it’s the perfect time to plan an atmospheric getaway.

The hallmarks of a Christmas town go beyond the expected decor, offering traditional markets, immersive programming, and an overall magical mood. And while powdery white snow makes for a particularly storybook feel, there are plenty of Christmas towns that can achieve that sense of wonder no matter the weather. Ahead, 19 holly jolly locales across the states to head for this season.

Woodstock, Vermont

Blanketed with snow and bedecked in festive decor, Woodstock is a quintessential New England Christmas town. The landscape is encircled by lush forests and rolling hills and looks especially charming come winter as its residents begin decorating for the holidays. Travel back in time with a visit to the Billings Farm & Museum where you can dip your own candles and make mince pies within a cheery farmhouse parlor dressed in Victorian-era decor. And don’t miss Woodstock’s Wassail Weekend complete with carriage rides, ornament making, an organ concert, an artisan and food market, and a magical horse parade.

Solvang, California