Home » Latest Travel News » New York Joins Nevada, California, Illinois, Florida, Texas and Other US States to Organize Fabulous Events in This December Making America a Winter Wonderland
Published on
November 30, 2025
By: Tuhin Sarkar
New York joins Nevada, California, Illinois, Florida, Texas, and other US states in organizing fabulous events this December, making America a true winter wonderland. As the year draws to a close, the United States transforms into a festive paradise, with states like New York, Nevada, and California leading the way in offering unforgettable experiences.
From dazzling holiday lights in New York to the vibrant celebrations in Texas, these states ensure that December 2025 is filled with joy and excitement. Whether you’re visiting Nevada for the spectacular New Year’s Eve parties in Las Vegas or exploring the winter magic in Illinois, each state adds its own special touch to America’s winter wonderland.
With so many incredible events across the nation, it’s clear that this December, America will shine brighter than ever. Keep reading to discover the best events happening across the US and get ready to make the most of this magical season.
As the year winds down, December 2025 is set to be one of the most exciting months across the United States, with unmissable events happening from coast to coast. Whether you’re a sports fan, a lover of culture, or someone seeking thrilling experiences, December 2025 is packed with events that will leave you speechless.
From New York’s festive holiday displays to California’s star-studded concerts, the entire month offers opportunities to witness high-energy performances, grand celebrations, and much more. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or looking for the ultimate year-end adventure, you’ll find something special in every state. Stay tuned with TTW, as we break down the top events in 10 US states that you absolutely cannot miss this December.StateEvent NameLocationEvent DatesNew YorkRockefeller Center Christmas Tree & Radio City Christmas SpectacularNew York CityAll December (Tree Lighting 1st week)CaliforniaHollywood Christmas Parade & Trans-Siberian Orchestra TourLos Angeles, San FranciscoAll December (Tour Dates vary)FloridaWalt Disney World Christmas Parades & Miami New Year’s EveOrlando, MiamiAll DecemberTexasAustin Trail of Lights & Dallas Cowboys GamesAustin, Dallas, San AntonioAll DecemberNevadaLas Vegas New Year’s Eve Parties & Cirque du Soleil ShowsLas VegasAll December (New Year’s Eve 31st)IllinoisMillennium Park Ice Skating & Chicago Bulls GamesChicagoAll DecemberColoradoKeystone Snow Sculpture Championships & Denver Christkindl MarketAspen, Vail, DenverAll DecemberArizonaDesert Botanical Garden Holiday Lights & Tucson Festival of LightsPhoenix, TucsonAll DecemberPennsylvaniaPhiladelphia Christmas Village & Philadelphia Orchestra’s Holiday PopsPhiladelphiaAll DecemberWashingtonSeattle Winterfest & Seattle Seahawks Home GamesSeattleAll December
1. New York: Holiday Magic in the Big Apple
New York City is always buzzing with excitement, but December brings something magical to the Big Apple. The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a must-see — a true icon of the holiday season. But that’s just the start. If you’re into world-class performances, don’t miss the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, featuring the world-famous Rockettes. It’s a must-see for anyone who wants to experience New York at its most festive. Ice skating in Central Park, holiday markets scattered throughout the city, and the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Times Square make December in New York an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re in it for the Christmas spirit or the glittering entertainment, New York is undoubtedly a prime destination this December.
2. California: The Ultimate Year-End Celebration
In California, December 2025 is packed with festive events that will make your year-end celebration unforgettable. The Hollywood Christmas Parade in Los Angeles offers a star-studded spectacle, featuring celebrities, floats, and amazing performances. For those who enjoy music, The Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s Holiday Tour makes stops in major cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles. With its mix of classical music and rock, it’s a performance that will have you hooked from the first note. California’s wine regions also host some of the most exclusive events, perfect for those seeking a refined holiday getaway. With beach parties, luxury events, and an array of New Year’s Eve celebrations, California is ready to deliver the ultimate December experience.
3. Florida: Fun and Sun with a Holiday Twist
Florida is known for its year-round sunshine, but in December, it adds some holiday sparkle to the mix. In Orlando, Walt Disney World transforms into a winter wonderland, with Christmas parades, themed attractions, and spectacular firework shows. Miami takes a different route with its New Year’s Eve parties held on the beach, where the festivities continue until sunrise. If you’re a sports fan, you won’t want to miss the Miami Dolphins games or the Florida Citrus Bowl taking place this month. With its perfect mix of sun, fun, and holiday spirit, Florida offers the best of both worlds this December.
4. Texas: Bigger, Bolder, and Full of Surprises
Everything is bigger in Texas, and December is no exception. Austin, known for its live music scene, hosts the Austin Trail of Lights — a stunning holiday light display that transforms the city into a dazzling holiday attraction. Sports fans will find excitement in Dallas with the Dallas Cowboys playing home games in front of their passionate fanbase. San Antonio’s River Walk comes alive with Christmas lights, boat parades, and festive food markets. Whether you’re a culture seeker, a sports lover, or someone looking for the best of holiday entertainment, Texas delivers a larger-than-life experience this December.
5. Nevada: New Year’s Eve Like No Other
Las Vegas in December 2025 will be packed with party-goers, world-class concerts, and unforgettable events. The Las Vegas Strip is transformed into a huge party zone for New Year’s Eve, with performances by top-tier DJs and iconic artists. For those looking for a more glamorous experience, the Bellagio Fountains and the famous Las Vegas casinos host some of the biggest and most extravagant events of the year. If you’re lucky enough to be in town, don’t miss the Cirque du Soleil’s holiday shows, where acrobatic wonders meet holiday magic. When it comes to partying and entertainment, Las Vegas is at the top of its game.
6. Illinois: Chicago’s Winter Wonderland
The Windy City comes alive in December with everything from ice skating to holiday light displays. Chicago’s Millennium Park hosts one of the most festive ice skating rinks in the country, set against the stunning city skyline. Take a stroll down Michigan Avenue to explore the Magnificent Mile lights, a stunning display that sets the holiday mood. For sports fans, the Chicago Bulls and Blackhawks provide ample entertainment this month. The Chicago Theatre hosts musical performances, with shows like A Christmas Carol lighting up the stage. If you’re looking for a winter destination, Chicago is full of charm and holiday spirit.
7. Colorado: Winter Sports and Cozy Mountain Vibes
Colorado is a prime destination for skiers, snowboarders, and anyone looking to embrace the snowy holiday season. From Aspen to Vail, Colorado’s ski resorts are bustling with visitors in December. The annual Keystone Snow Sculpture Championships attract artists from around the world to carve intricate ice masterpieces. For a unique holiday experience, you can explore the Denver Christkindl Market, a German-style holiday market that offers artisan gifts and festive foods. Whether you’re in it for the slopes or the holiday cheer, Colorado will leave you feeling wintery, cozy, and excited.
8. Arizona: The Desert Holiday Wonderland
Arizona may be known for its desert landscapes, but December brings a magical twist. The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix lights up with its illuminated holiday displays, where cacti and desert flora shine in festive colours. For those who love arts and culture, Tucson hosts the Festival of Lights and a number of holiday performances that celebrate both traditional and contemporary art forms. If you prefer the warmth, Arizona’s resorts offer incredible holiday getaways, where you can enjoy winter activities without the chill.
9. Pennsylvania: History, Culture, and Holiday Cheer
Philadelphia offers an unmatched holiday experience with its famous Christmas Village and beautiful holiday lights in Rittenhouse Square. The Philadelphia Orchestra’s Holiday Pops concert is a must-see for music lovers, bringing holiday cheer to the stage with timeless classics. For history buffs, December in Pennsylvania means exploring historic landmarks such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, all while experiencing festive decorations. Whether you’re into history, music, or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere, Pennsylvania is brimming with excitement in December.
10. Washington: Festive Wonders in the Evergreen State
In Seattle, December transforms the city into a festive wonderland with holiday markets, tree lightings, and the famous Seattle Center Winterfest. The Washington State Ferries offer holiday light tours, providing a unique way to experience the city’s waterfront decorated in festive lights. Additionally, sports fans can enjoy watching the Seattle Seahawks play, with home games adding to the city’s electric atmosphere. Whether you want to enjoy the outdoor festivities or cozy up with a hot beverage by the fireplace, Washington will keep you entertained all month long.
December 2025 is shaping up to be an unforgettable month for events across the United States. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays with family and friends or seeking an adrenaline-pumping experience, the 10 US states we’ve highlighted are offering something special. From New York’s magical holiday cheer to California’s luxury celebrations and Nevada’s wild New Year’s parties, there is no shortage of exciting events to wrap up the year. Don’t miss out on these incredible festivities — mark your calendars, book your tickets, and get ready for the ultimate December 2025 adventure. The US is calling — will you answer?
