Top Christmas Markets in the South: Best Holiday Destinations for 2025

The South turns into a winter wonderland every holiday season. Christmas markets seem to pop up everywhere, filling towns with lights, music, and a little bit of magic.

You’ll find markets that have everything from handmade ornaments to classic German treats, dazzling light shows to live music. Cities like Charleston, Atlanta, Nashville, and Mobile all host their own versions, each with a unique spin that makes December travel in the South genuinely memorable.

Locate Your Perfect Holiday Lodging

Essential Points to Remember

Southern Christmas spots offer all kinds of places to stay, whether you’re on a budget or looking to splurge. Hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals usually get high marks from travelers during the holidays.

If you’re traveling with kids, some places go all out with special amenities just for families. Quite a few hotels put up holiday decorations and organize seasonal activities right on site.

Boutique hotels show off regional flair, while big resorts pull together full-on holiday packages. Booking early is your best bet for good prices and open rooms—these places fill up fast in December.

Property Type	Average Rate	Family Features	Holiday Amenities
Resort Hotels	$200-400/night	Kids’ clubs, pools	Special dinners, decorations
Boutique Inns	$150-250/night	Family suites	Local holiday events
Vacation Rentals	$100-300/night	Full kitchens, space	Proximity to markets

You can search for places to stay near Christmas markets in the South on most booking sites. Lots of hotels team up with local attractions for package deals.

Guest reviews often point out which hotels really deliver on the holiday experience. Look for mentions of Christmas activities and festive decor in the property descriptions.

Charleston Historic Holiday Village, Charleston, South Carolina

Origins and Cultural Importance

Charleston’s historic holiday village stands out as a true centerpiece among South Carolina Christmas markets. The market takes over the historic district, and those centuries-old buildings set the scene for a classic Southern Christmas.

Local artists and vendors set up shop here to celebrate Charleston’s cultural legacy. When you walk these streets in December, the city’s history feels alive. The village brings locals and visitors together to share in the holiday spirit.

The market keeps Southern holiday customs alive and helps local makers show off their work. You’ll come across handmade goods that reflect Charleston’s artistic roots.

Distinctive Holiday Elements

Organizers go all out with seasonal displays and interactive attractions. Festive lighting covers the historic buildings and walkways, giving the whole area a warm glow after dark.

A giant decorated tree sits in the main square, drawing visitors for photos and meet-ups. Interactive stations pop up for kids, with holiday crafts and themed displays to keep families busy.

Live entertainment happens throughout the market, with local musicians and singers performing holiday music. You can plan your visit around the shows you want to catch.

The market isn’t just about shopping—there’s plenty to do and see.

Essential Visitor Destinations

Don’t miss the artisan marketplace. Local craftspeople sell holiday gifts and regional specialties, so you’re bound to find something unique.

Family activity zones keep kids entertained with crafts and seasonal games. These areas usually run during set hours, so check the schedule.

Nearby restaurants serve up special holiday menus with Charleston’s signature flavors. You can try regional holiday dishes you won’t find anywhere else.

Historic home tours open up during market days, showing off how Charleston families decorated in different eras.

Detail	Information
Dates	December weekends 2025
Times	10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Location	Historic District, Charleston, SC 29401
Cost	Free admission
Nearby Hotels	Historic downtown accommodations
Website	Christmas in Charleston

Holiday Celebration at Piedmont Park, Atlanta, Georgia

Origins and Cultural Impact

Piedmont Park turns into a winter celebration that started over a decade ago. You can see how a simple neighborhood event grew into Atlanta’s biggest holiday gathering.

Every December, thousands of people show up. For many Atlanta families, this event is a holiday must-do. The celebration brings the community together and gives local artisans and small businesses a boost.

This event shows how much Atlanta values holiday traditions. You feel the city’s festive spirit in the activities that bring everyone together.

Distinctive Holiday Elements

Lights cover the park’s trees and walkways, creating a magical atmosphere. You’ll walk through displays that really light up the night.

Live music keeps things lively. Local groups sing and play holiday classics in the evenings. The schedule features choirs and bands, so there’s always something to hear.

Vendors set up an artisan market with handmade gifts and decorations. You can browse for ornaments or grab a snack—think hot chocolate and roasted nuts.

Key Attractions:

• Ice skating rink for some winter fun
• Live music and performances
• Handcrafted gift stalls
• Seasonal snacks and drinks

Essential Visit Destinations

The Christmas Village sits at the heart of the event. You’ll find gift vendors, food, and plenty of decorations in this area.

The live nativity brings the Christmas story to life with actors and animals. It’s a popular stop for all ages.

Kids can get hands-on in the children’s activity area, making crafts or playing games. Santa stops by for photos and chats.

Event Details	Information
Dates	December 2025 (specific dates vary)
Times	5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location	Piedmont Park, 1071 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
Cost	Free admission, activities priced separately
Nearby Hotels	Book accommodations in Midtown Atlanta
Website	Contact Atlanta Parks Department for current information

Nashville Christmas Market, Nashville, Tennessee

Origins and Cultural Impact

The Nashville Christmas Market has become one of Tennessee’s favorite holiday traditions. Christmas Village has run for over 60 years at the city fairgrounds. It started as a way for locals to support artisans and connect with neighbors during the holidays.

The event opens in November and keeps going through December. These days, it’s a core part of Nashville’s holiday scene. Families come back year after year, making it a multi-generational tradition.

The market brings the community together and gives local vendors a great platform. You’ll see how this tradition helps people connect—whether they’re locals or just visiting.

Distinctive Characteristics

Music is everywhere at this market, which feels right for Nashville. Local bands and choirs perform as you wander through the stalls. Shopping with a live soundtrack makes the experience even better.

More than 250 merchants show up each year. You’ll find everything from handmade ornaments to custom jewelry and unique gifts. The lineup changes every year, so there’s always something new.

Food stalls serve up Tennessee favorites and sweet holiday treats. Hot cider, fresh cookies, and regional snacks are all on the menu. Honestly, the food alone is worth the trip.

The fairgrounds have plenty of space, so you can browse comfortably. After dark, over a million lights make the whole place sparkle.

Essential Destinations

Head to the artisan crafts section first. You’ll find hand-knitted scarves, ornaments, and other one-of-a-kind gifts.

The food area is a must, especially for the hot cider and cookies that everyone raves about. Seasonal specialties rotate, so it’s worth coming back for seconds.

The music stage keeps things lively with performances all day. Local musicians play holiday favorites and even some originals.

Dickens on the Strand, Galveston, Texas

Origins and Cultural Impact

Dickens on the Strand kicked off in the 1970s to celebrate Galveston’s Victorian roots. The festival hits its 52nd year in 2025. Organizers turn the historic Strand District into a Victorian Christmas straight out of Dickens’ stories.

The event draws inspiration from Charles Dickens’ books, and Galveston’s old architecture sets the perfect scene. People come from all over each December to join the fun.

Organizers keep things historically accurate with costumes and activities from the Victorian era. You’ll see how the city honors its past while creating new holiday traditions.

Distinctive Elements

Live entertainment spills into the streets. Carolers, bagpipers, and street performers pop up everywhere. Musicians and jugglers add to the Victorian vibe.

The festival hosts quirky events like Victorian bed races and costume contests. Vendors line the streets with handmade gifts and decorations. You can even join a parade or catch a play on an outdoor stage.

Rain or shine, the event goes on—so you can count on it, whatever the weather.

Essential Locations

The main stage is where you’ll catch the biggest shows and performances. This area stays busy with music and theater all day.

In the artisan marketplace, local vendors sell crafts and gifts inspired by Victorian style. You’ll find booths along the historic streets.

Maps and info booths help you get around. Staff can give directions or help with accessibility. For families, there’s face painting and games for the kids.

Event Details	Information
Dates	First weekend in December 2025
Times	Friday-Sunday, specific hours vary
Location	Historic Strand District, Galveston, TX
Cost	Free admission
Nearby Hotels	Various options available on Booking.com
Website	galvestonhistory.org

Asheville Holiday Market, Asheville, North Carolina

Origins and Cultural Impact

The Asheville Holiday Market kicked off as a small gathering for regional craftspeople to show off their handmade goods. Over the years, this little event turned into one of North Carolina’s top holiday destinations.

During the 2025 holiday season, the market runs across several venues in Asheville. Each spot transforms into a festive shopping area that pulls in visitors from all over the Southeast.

The market really boosts the local creative economy. Regional artists, craftspeople, and small business owners rely on holiday sales to keep things going all year. The economic benefits spill over to restaurants, hotels, and all kinds of tourism businesses nearby.

Distinctive Characteristics

The Asheville Holiday Market grabs attention with its focus on locally-made products and regional specialties. You’ll spot handcrafted jewelry, pottery, textiles, and woodwork by Blue Ridge Mountain artisans.

Food vendors serve up regional favorites like apple cider, local honey, and mountain-made preserves. Hot drink stations hand out coffee, cocoa, and seasonal sips that help everyone stay cozy in December.

Live entertainment fills the market throughout the season. Local musicians play holiday tunes, bluegrass, and acoustic sets. Some venues even have covered spots to keep folks dry if the weather turns.

Lighting displays set the mood after dark. String lights, lanterns, and glowing decorations turn the markets into magical evening hangouts for families and couples.

Essential Destinations

Definitely swing by the WNC Farmer’s Market—it hosts a huge collection of holiday vendors. This indoor-outdoor spot gives plenty of room for dozens of craftspeople and food sellers.

The North Asheville Tailgate Market offers a quieter vibe. Fewer crowds mean you can actually chat with artisans about their craft.

Downtown Asheville markets pop up in Pack Square and nearby streets. These city locations put you steps from restaurants, breweries, and hotels.

Detail	Information
Dates	December 7-23, 2025
Times	10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (weekdays), 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (weekends)
Location	WNC Farmer’s Market, 570 Brevard Rd, Asheville, NC 28806
Cost	Free admission, parking $5
Nearby Hotels	Hampton Inn Asheville, Holiday Inn Express Asheville
Website	Shop holiday markets in Asheville

Christmas on 5th Street, Waco, Texas

Background and Community Impact

Christmas on 5th Street at Baylor University began as a small campus get-together and grew into a big holiday tradition for central Texas. Every December, university students, Waco locals, and visitors from nearby towns gather for the event.

This celebration pretty much kicks off Waco’s holiday season. Local families come back every year, making memories and strengthening community ties. Baylor University uses the event to connect the campus with the neighborhoods around it.

Distinctive Event Elements

When you visit Christmas on 5th Street, you’ll see illuminated pathways winding across the Baylor campus. These lights make for great photos and guide you through all the activity spots.

You can hop on horse-drawn carriage rides that pass snow zones and vendor stalls. The event lines up family-friendly activities like face painting, craft stations, and interactive displays. Local food trucks serve everything from classic holiday treats to Texas favorites.

Essential Event Locations

Start your Christmas on 5th Street at the main tree lighting ceremony on 5th Street. This is where the big entertainment and announcements happen.

Check out the holiday marketplace near the Bill Daniel Student Center. Local vendors sell handmade crafts and gifts, and the Santa photo station offers free pictures for families.

Make sure you see the live nativity display with animals and costumed folks. The make-and-take craft areas inside campus buildings let you create your own holiday decorations.

Detail	Information
Dates	December 2025 (specific date TBA)
Times	Evening hours, typically 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location	5th Street, Baylor University Campus, Waco, TX 76798
Cost	Free admission
Nearby Hotels	Search accommodations on Booking.com
Website	Christmas on 5th Street

Mistletoe Market, Raleigh, North Carolina

Origins and Community Impact

The Mistletoe Market Holiday Fair happens every November at Wakefield High School. The PTSA started it over ten years ago to raise money for school programs.

What began as a small fundraiser has turned into one of the school’s biggest events. These days, thousands of people from across the Triangle area show up. For one weekend, the whole school becomes a holiday shopping destination.

This market gives a big funding boost to Wakefield High School activities. The PTSA puts the money toward sports teams, clubs, and improvements around campus. Local families have woven the market into their holiday traditions.

Special Attractions and Offerings

You’ll find about 200 vendors selling handmade goods throughout the school. Each classroom and hallway becomes a mini shopping area filled with local craftspeople and small businesses.

Live music fills the main areas. Local musicians play holiday songs while you wander the vendor booths. Food trucks outside offer lunch and snacks.

Christmas trees, wreaths, and garlands fill the gym. Local tree farms bring in fresh-cut options for sale. The art department puts student artwork on display next to pieces by professional artists.

In several classrooms, you can watch craft demos. Vendors often show how they make jewelry, candles, or decorations. This hands-on vibe really sets the market apart from regular shopping.

Essential Vendor Areas

The main gym houses the largest vendors—expect to see furniture, home decor, and holiday items. Plan to spend extra time here. The selection covers both classic and modern decorations.

Individual classrooms feature smaller vendors with jewelry, candles, and accessories. Each room has its own theme or focus. Art rooms show off work by local painters and photographers.

The cafeteria becomes the food court. Local restaurants and caterers serve up holiday treats and hot meals. You’ll find everything from cookies to full lunches.

Detail	Information
2025 Dates	November 8, 2025
Times	9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Location	Wakefield High School, 2200 Wakefield Pines Drive, Raleigh, NC 27614
Admission Cost	$6 adults (cash only), children under 12 free
Nearby Hotels	Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh/Crabtree Valley, Hilton North Raleigh/Midtown
Website	Festival Information

St. Augustine Holiday Light Display, St. Augustine, Florida

Origins and Cultural Impact

St. Augustine’s holiday celebrations got their start more than thirty years ago. The city launched America’s most famous light festival to honor its Spanish colonial roots. Local officials wanted to show off the nation’s oldest city during the winter months.

Spanish Christmas customs inspired the celebration. In the past, people placed white candles in windows during December as a sign of welcome and warmth for travelers.

Now, the festival draws more than a million visitors every year. You can soak up the tradition from late November through early February. The whole historic district gets in on the fun.

Distinctive Holiday Elements

You’ll see over three million lights covering St. Augustine’s historic buildings. The Winter Wonderland at St. Augustine Amphitheatre runs nightly from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. during the season.

Walking tours let you explore the glowing streets at your own pace. Horse-drawn carriages take you on romantic rides through the lit-up district. Trolley tours offer guided trips with a bit of historical storytelling.

Local vendors set up shop throughout the district, selling seasonal snacks. Hot chocolate and warm cider are favorites. Street performers bring some extra fun to your evening stroll.

Essential Destinations

Try to hit a few key spots for the best experience. The historic fort gives you great views of the city lights. The lighthouse lets you see the whole celebration from above.

The central plaza acts as the heart of the festival. Here, you’ll find the main Christmas tree and regular performances. Local wineries stay open late for holiday visitors.

St. Augustine Holiday Light Display 2025

Detail	Information
Dates	Late November 2025 – Early February 2026
Times	6:00 PM – 10:00 PM nightly
Location	Historic District, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Cost	Free to walk, paid tours available
Nearby Hotels	Casa Monica Resort & Spa, Historic Inns of St. Augustine
Website	floridashistoriccoast.com

The Red Train gives you a solid way to tour the area. You can hop on at several stops around the historic district. They run longer hours during the holidays.

Train tours cover the most decorated streets and big attractions. Guides share fun facts and holiday traditions along the way.

Franklin Main Street Christmas, Franklin, Tennessee

Heritage and Cultural Importance

Franklin’s downtown district holds deep roots from the 1800s. Locals have worked hard to keep its antebellum architecture and Civil War history alive through careful restoration.

Christmas festivities here started as a small neighborhood get-together years ago. Residents wanted to share their historic downtown with visitors during the holidays.

You can see how Franklin’s Main Street turns into a Hallmark movie set with its old buildings and festive decorations. Now, thousands of people visit each year to experience this classic American Christmas scene.

Distinctive Holiday Elements

The Holiday Magic on Main event turns Franklin’s historic district into a winter wonderland. Twinkling lights cover the massive Christmas tree on the Square, and decorated storefront windows pop up all over downtown through December.

Dickens of a Christmas really steals the show as the main holiday attraction. Roughly 200 performers dress up as Charles Dickens characters like Ebenezer Scrooge and the Ghost of Christmas Past and wander the streets, bringing the stories to life.

The Made South Holiday Market gathers more than 60 makers and artisans from all over the South. Food & Wine Magazine even called it the best holiday market in Tennessee, and honestly, it’s hard to argue with that.

Essential Downtown Destinations

You’ll want to check out the historic Main Street shopping district, where local shops sell handcrafted goods and regional treats. The Franklin Theatre shows classic Christmas movies inside a restored 1930s building that’s full of charm.

The Factory at Franklin puts on several holiday markets and Christmas shopping events inside Liberty Hall. You can browse local artisan pieces and Southern-made crafts—there’s always something new to discover.

Event Details	Information
Dates	Mid-November through December 2025
Times	Varies by event, typically 10 AM – 8 PM
Location	Downtown Franklin Square, Franklin, TN 37064
Cost	Free admission, individual purchases vary
Nearby Hotels	Booking.com: Historic Franklin hotels within walking distance
Website	visitfranklin.com

Christmas Light Display at Bellingrath Gardens, Mobile, Alabama

Background and Cultural Impact

Bellingrath Gardens has been lighting up the holidays with its holiday light display for almost thirty years. What started out small has grown into one of Alabama’s top winter attractions.

You’ll step into a tradition that draws thousands every year. The gardens date back to 1932, so the historic setting adds a little extra magic to all those modern lights.

This blend of heritage and holiday spirit makes the visit feel more special than just another seasonal display.

Distinctive Elements

You’ll walk across 65 acres glowing with over 3 million lights. The display includes more than 1,100 handcrafted pieces, each arranged in one of 16 themed areas.

Every section feels a bit different as you explore. Local artisans build many of the displays right there on-site, working year-round.

Three staff members dedicate themselves full-time to the light display, keeping things fresh and original. You’ll find light tunnels, decorated trees, and interactive spots for kids and adults alike.

Live music performances and themed nights add to the atmosphere, making it much more than just a walk through lights.

Essential Viewing Areas

The Great Lawn holds the star of the show—a massive Christmas tree that’s basically made for family photos. People gather here for pictures while kids run around checking out the nearby displays.

The Asian-American Garden feels quieter, with lights carefully arranged to fit the landscape. The mix of natural beauty and holiday glow makes for some unforgettable scenes.

Old sports fields now turn into wintry wonderlands, which kids absolutely love. The Rose Garden stands out with some of the most detailed light work, showing off the estate’s gardening roots.

Detail	Information
Dates	November 29 – January 5, 2025
Times	6:00 PM – 9:00 PM nightly
Location	12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Theodore, AL 36582
Cost	Adults $25, Children $15
Nearby Hotels	Book accommodations in Mobile through booking.com
Website	bellingrath.org

The display closes on December 25 and January 1. Magic Christmas in Lights keeps going throughout the holiday season, so you’ve got plenty of chances to visit if you’re in the Mobile area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Christmas markets should you visit in the southern United States?

The Texas Christkindl Market in Arlington stands out as one of the best in the region. This outdoor market runs all December and brings in thousands.

Savannah also hosts a fantastic market in the city’s historic Plant Riverside District, mixing holiday shopping with river views and old-school architecture.

Where can you find the best Christmas markets in southern cities?

Arlington, Texas puts on one of the Southwest’s largest outdoor Christmas markets. The city turns downtown into a German-style holiday spot.

Savannah, Georgia creates a market experience right in its historic district. Cobblestone streets and 18th-century buildings set the scene for festive fun.

How do southern Christmas markets differ from northern venues?

Southern markets take advantage of milder winter weather, so you can comfortably browse outdoors. No need for heavy coats like up north.

Vendors mix traditional German market vibes with southern flare. You might find barbecue right next to bratwurst—honestly, it’s a pretty great combo.

What Christmas markets operate in Texas?

The Texas Christkindl Market in Arlington is the state’s main holiday market. You’ll see German crafts, classic foods, and live entertainment all December long.

Market Details:

• Location: Downtown Arlington
• Duration: Month-long event
• Features: German imports, cuckoo clocks, beer steins
• Size: Largest outdoor Christmas market in the Southwest

What distinguishes southern Christmas markets from other regions?

Southern markets bring together European holiday traditions and good old-fashioned southern hospitality. Vendors often chat with visitors longer than you’d expect elsewhere.

The mild weather means markets can stay open later into the evening. You get to enjoy outdoor stalls without bundling up in layers.

Which southern states host notable Christmas market experiences?

Texas leads the way with the Arlington Christkindl Market, known for authentic German goods and entertainment. The state’s German roots show up in a lot of the traditions.

Georgia puts on markets in Savannah’s historic district, where colonial-era buildings make the holidays feel even more magical.

South Carolina features several Christmas markets around the state, including Charleston and upstate spots where southern charm meets holiday cheer.

Market Cancellations

Some Christmas markets might close up shop for the 2025 season. Economic challenges and import fees just make it tough for vendors to stick around.

When organizers can’t bring in enough vendors, they sometimes cancel the whole market. High costs can push small businesses out—they just can’t swing the booth rentals or keep up with inventory.

Before you travel, check market websites. Even in popular spots like New Orleans, the Plant Riverside District, or Key West, markets could run into these problems because operating costs there are no joke.

If you want to report changes or you’re wondering about status updates, most market websites have contact info handy.