Enchanting holiday wonderlands
Christmas is unlike any other holiday in the world. It’s the most widely celebrated because it brings together people in a shared spirit of joy, warmth, and celebration. Beyond religious importance, it fosters the most festive of spirits, completely transforming many places into holiday wonderlands.
Christmas villages become some of the most popular destinations during the holidays. They are often small-scale villages that bedazzle with their beautiful decor and glittering lights.
Here are some destinations famed for their activities and attractions come Christmastime.
Winter Village
Toronto, Canada
Enjoy charming vendor cabins, unique holiday shopping, delicious and festive restaurants, and unforgettable activities in one magical place—at Winter Village at the Distillery Historic District in downtown Toronto.
This picturesque holiday spot is a favorite among locals. Friends and family gather to bask in the timeless romance and beauty of Christmastime celebrations as they stroll the cobblestone streets under canopy lights and festive sounds. Celebrate Christmas the traditional way with the lighting of the tree, the centerpiece of the entire Winter Village. Guests get to meet Santa Claus, spot roaming elves, sing along with the carolers, as well as shop the finest local crafts at one-of-a-kind shops and vendor cabins.
Step up your celebration with a visit to the Illuminarium, a wintry immersive experience that transports visitors to the snow-capped hills of the North Pole. See cozy cabins, reindeer, and other holiday delights in this amazing cinematic experience by Winter Village.
Rovaniemi
Lapland, Finland
Take Christmas celebrations to another level by visiting the official hometown of Santa Claus at Rovaniemi, Lapland, Finland.
According to the official website, Santa’s original home lies in the mysterious Korvatunturi (or “Ear Fell”) in Lapland. However, since its exact location is a secret known to a chosen few, Santa decided to establish an office in Rovaniemi in 1985.
Visitors get to meet Santa Claus at the Arctic Circle, where visitors also witness the majestic aurora borealis, or the Northern lights, from August to April, the golden midnight sun in summer, and Polar Nights in wintertime.
Come Christmas, Rovaniemi comes to life at the grand opening, a countdown to Christmas that starts early November. This annual celebration honors the traditions of sharing the Christmas spirit and goodwill, marked by an event at the central square of Santa Claus Village filled with musical performances that culminate in Santa’s arrival and speech.
Tivoli Gardens
Copenhagen, Denmark
In the heart of Copenhagen, Denmark’s capital city, is Tivoli Garden—the world’s second oldest amusement park. Since 1843, it has welcomed guests to a world of enchanting experiences, especially during Christmas. Here, you get to step into a Christmas wonderland where magical experiences await all ages.
With over 30 amusement rides—like the dizzying Aquila, the classic carousel, and the charming ice skating rink—as well as restaurants, stalls, and even arcade games, Tivoli Gardens is the perfect place to be during the holidays.
You can shop for gifts as well as Tivoli Christmas delights like pretzels, mulled wine, handmade wool felt shoes, fresh chestnuts, and more. There are also captivating performances, such as stagings of the classic Christmas ballet “The Nutcracker.”
Sources: Inquirer Archives, thedistillerywintervilage.com, visitrovaniemi.fi, tivoli.dk
