Essential Items for Your Road Trip: Top Must-Haves to Bring Along

Getting Ready for the Road

If you’ve got wheels and a sense of adventure, then you’re probably no stranger to the open road. But before you rev up that engine and hit the highway, it’s essential to pack like a pro to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. So, what should you bring along for the ride?

You’ll definitely want to pack a stash of snacks to keep hunger at bay and energy levels up during those long stretches between pit stops. Think easy-to-eat goodies like trail mix, granola bars, and fruit that won’t make a mess in the car.

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Next up, don’t forget about hydration! Staying hydrated is key to staying alert and focused behind the wheel, so be sure to pack plenty of water to sip on throughout your journey. And speaking of staying comfortable, don’t skimp on the creature comforts. A cozy blanket and pillow can make all the difference during those rest stops or impromptu roadside naps.

Plus, don’t forget to pack some entertainment to keep boredom at bay during those long stretches of highway. Whether it’s your favorite playlist, a gripping audiobook, or a classic car game like “I Spy,” having something to pass the time can make the miles fly by.

Safety First, Adventure Always

Now, let’s talk safety. Before you hit the road, it’s crucial to make sure your vehicle is in tip-top shape and ready for the journey ahead. Be sure to check your tire pressure, oil levels, and brakes to ensure everything is in working order. And don’t forget to pack an emergency kit with essentials like a first-aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables, and a spare tire, just in case. Safety should always come first, no matter how tempting that scenic overlook or quirky roadside attraction may be.

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Lastly, don’t forget to embrace the spirit of adventure! Road trips are all about the journey, not just the destination, so be sure to leave plenty of room for spontaneity and exploration along the way. Take the scenic route, stop at that quirky roadside diner, and don’t be afraid to veer off the beaten path now and then.

After all, it’s those unexpected detours and serendipitous discoveries that often make for the best memories. So buckle up, hit the road, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

The Most Unique Christmas Tradition in Every State

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‘Tis the season to be jolly. It’s time for the white-bearded man to wear his red suit and get the bag of presents ready! Prep the reindeer for worldwide delivery to those on the right side of the naughty or nice list! As with every other holiday, there are certain Christmas traditions that make the holiday season special. Here are some of the most unique holiday traditions of each of the 50 states of America.

Alabama

Alabama might as well be known as the Pecan State, and during the festive season, this is more true than any other time of the year. The town of Mobile is especially fond of celebrating the state’s culinary heritage with its “Alabama Pecan Festival.”

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Residents and visitors to the state dress in their best Southern-style festive garb and get together to indulge and, at times, over-indulge in a massive spread. Delectables include pecan-inspired sweet treats, from pecan pies to pralines and even Alabama Pecan bread. This bread is a perfect way to celebrate the festive season and the state’s prosperous pecan industry.

Alaska

In Anchorage, the residents have taken a page from the Spanish playbook and have their own version of the Running of the Bulls. The holiday season is welcomed with the very whimsical and adventurous “Running of the Reindeer.” Participants run through the snow-covered streets and are chased by reindeer.

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Another tradition unique to Alaska is the “Eskimo-Indian Olympics,” during which traditional Native Alaskan games — such as the blanket toss and ear pull — are played. The event is an opportunity for the community to have fun and honor their indigenous traditions.

Arizona

“Las Noches de las Luminarias” is held in the Phoenix Desert Botanical Garden every year. This holiday tradition has a sort of magic about it, with thousands of traditional paper lanterns on display. It turns the desert landscape into the stuff of dreams and creates an enchanting night for all who visit.

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Adding to the festive flair, with something even quirkier, is the “Tumbleweed Christmas Tree” in Chandler. This tree celebrates the state’s desert surroundings and is crafted from tumbleweeds. Thousands of residents gather each year for the tree lighting ceremony.

Arkansas

Blytheville has a charming holiday festival, the “Lights of the Delta,” which spans over 40 acres and is a dazzling display of millions of twinkling lights that create a winter wonderland. This beautiful exhibition draws large numbers of families who enjoy the lights, festive activities, and carriage rides.

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The Victorian-era town of Eureka Springs has its own Christmas traditions, and each year, the town turns into a holiday masterpiece. Perhaps the most fun is had on the “Night of a Thousand Santas,” which includes a parade and festive caroling.

California

Southern California celebrates the holidays with a bit of a West Coast twist. With a touch of maritime magic, decorated boats glide through the canals, featuring stunning festive lights. The Venice Canals Holiday Boat Parade has all the glitz and glam that one would expect to see in fabulous Los Angeles.

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And for a touch of old-time class, San Francisco celebrates with the “Great Dickens Christmas Fair.” Visitors are transported back to 19th-century London and can fully immerse in the experience of a Dickens Christmas with costumed characters, traditional food, and even live performances.

Colorado

Aspen is the perfect destination for an authentic white Christmas, with its snow-covered mountains and much-loved ski resorts. The “12 Days of Aspen” festival is the perfect way to celebrate Christmas with skiing events, Santa visits, and hot chocolate at the tree lighting festival. It definitely brings festive cheer.

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The Denver Botanic Gardens also embraces the winter wonderland feeling of the Yule time, and the gardens are transformed into a spectacle. Visitors of all ages are captivated by the “Blossom of Light” each year, where interactive light displays create a magical atmosphere.

Connecticut

Connecticut’s holiday spirit comes alive with the “Litchfield Dickens Carolers.” These festive folks are dressed in Victorian attire and roam the historic streets of Litchfield, bringing joy to the locals with their traditional songs. With festive tunes and period costumes, they create a nostalgic atmosphere that takes you back to a bygone era.

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Adding a touch of culinary delight, Connecticut boasts the tradition of indulging in “Peppermint Pigs” during the holidays. These delicacies originated in Saratoga Springs and have become very popular. It’s a pig-shaped peppermint candy that’s said to bring good luck.

Delaware

Delawareans celebrate the season with the “Winterthur Yuletide Tour,” held at the Winterthur Museum, Garden, and Library. It’s a festive tour that showcases the elegance of the du Pont family’s former estate. The estate is covered in holiday decorations and has a stunning antique dolls and toys display.

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“DuPont Cakes” are also a very popular tradition in the state. These rich and spiced fruitcakes are often homemade and have been a cherished tradition for many generations. Families gather around the Christmas tree to share slices of these flavorful cakes during the festive season.

Florida

In the Sunshine State, where snow is not very likely — and the idea of a white Christmas is foreign — the locals have to adapt and find other ways of celebrating. The “Night of Lights” in St. Augustine brightens the historic district with millions of twinkling lights, turning the city into a mesmerizing holiday spectacle.

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Florida also boasts a quirky holiday tradition with the “Festival of the Nativities” in Orlando. This event features a display of nativity scenes from around the world, showcasing diverse cultural interpretations of the Christmas story.

Georgia

Georgia starts the holiday season with the “Fantasy in Lights” at Callaway Resort & Gardens in Pine Mountain. It’s quite an enchanting drive-through display with over eight million lights. It’s a cherished family tradition in the Peach State, and the Gardens have thousands of visitors each year.

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For a taste of Georgia’s culinary heritage, the state indulges in “Praline Sweet Potato Casserole” during holiday gatherings. This unique dish combines the Southern love for sweet potatoes with the richness of pralines, adding a uniquely Georgia flavor to festive meals.

Hawaii

The “Mele Kalikimaka Shirt Contest” embraces the Aloha spirit. Locals participate in a friendly competition to showcase the most festive and creatively designed Hawaiian shirts. It showcases the island lifestyle with tropical Santas and holiday scenes while keeping with the festive spirit.

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Adding to the uniqueness, some Hawaiians celebrate the holidays with a twist on the traditional Christmas meal. A popular dish during this time is “Kalua Pig Roast,” where a whole pig is slow-cooked in an underground imu (earth oven).

Idaho

In the Gem State, the holiday season is marked by the “Spud Day Parade” in Sun Valley. Locals creatively transform potatoes into quirky holiday characters, marching them down Main Street. This eccentric parade brings a touch of humor to the festivities, showcasing Idahoans’ love for their iconic spuds.

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Adding a flavorful twist, residents indulge in the tradition of “Ski-through Potato Fondue.” At select ski resorts, skiers glide up to mountainside stations where bubbling cauldrons of cheesy potato fondue wait for them. They then skewer their spuds on long forks and dip them into the gooey goodness.

Illinois

The “Magnificent Mile Lights Festival” in Chicago transforms the iconic Michigan Avenue into a dazzling display of lights. The highlight is the grand tree-lighting parade featuring festive floats and marching bands.

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For a quirky touch, some Illinois residents participate in the “Ugly Christmas Sweater Run” in cities like Peoria. This festive 5K encourages participants to don their most outlandish holiday sweaters while running through decorated streets.

Indiana

Indiana rings in the season with the “Circle of Lights” celebration in Indianapolis. The Monument Circle transforms into a breathtaking holiday display with thousands of twinkling lights. Locals, bundled up in Hoosier-themed winter gear, gather for the lighting ceremony, kicking off a month-long festival of festive events and performances.

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Some Indiana communities participate in the “Festival of Trees,” where residents decorate trees with unexpected themes. The variety of trees is beyond belief! Local delicacies such as twists of reindeer meat cover some of the trees.

Iowa

Cyclists from all over the country gather in Iowa to welcome the holiday season with the “Jingle Cross Cyclo-Cross Festival” in Iowa City. The cyclists often wear holiday-themed costumes and have to navigate a challenging course adorned with seasonal decorations.

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The “Caramel Apple Pork Burger” shows the quirkiness of Iowa’s population. This unexpected treat combines the state’s love for pork with the sweetness of caramel apples, creating a uniquely Iowan holiday treat that

Kansas

The “Plaza Lighting Ceremony” in Kansas City is the beginning of the festive season in this state. The Country Club Plaza transforms into an amazing display of lights, and locals bundle up in festive winter wear to gather for the spectacular lighting ceremony.

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Adding a touch of whimsy, some Kansans embrace the tradition of “Sunflower Santa.” Instead of traditional red and white, Santa dons a sunflower-themed suit, paying homage to Kansas’s state flower.

Kentucky

The “Lights Under Louisville” extravaganza transforms a subterranean cavern in Louisville into a twinkling underground spectacle. This unique event offers a magical drive-through experience, capturing the imagination of all who venture below for a winter wonderland like no other.

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For a taste of Kentucky’s spirited holiday culinary scene, locals indulge in the tradition of crafting and enjoying “Derby City Delights.” These delectable treats, inspired by the state’s iconic Derby, blend the richness of bourbon with the sweetness of pecans and chocolate.

Louisiana

All along the Mississippi River, locals construct towering bonfires, illuminating the riverbanks to guide Papa Noel (Cajun Santa) on his journey. This “Bonfires of the Levee” combines Cajun music and traditional gumbo feasts that perfectly showcase the state’s heritage.

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Louisianans also embrace the “Réveillon Dinner” tradition during the festive season. This Creole-inspired feast features a lavish spread of dishes like Oysters Rockefeller, gumbo, and bourbon-laced desserts.

Maine

Maine welcomes the holiday season with the “L.L.Bean Northern Lights Celebration” in Freeport. The iconic outdoor retailer L.L.Bean transforms its campus into a winter wonderland — featuring a dazzling light display, horse-drawn carriage rides, and visits from Santa.

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Some Mainers participate in the “Yule Goat Burn” in Portland. Inspired by Scandinavian traditions, a large wooden Yule Goat is constructed and set ablaze during a community gathering. Visitors to the event enjoy hot beverages and sing Christmas carols as they watch the goat burn.

Maryland

In Maryland, the holiday season is marked by the “Miracle on 34th Street” in Hampden, Baltimore. Residents of this quirky neighborhood decorate their homes with extravagant light displays, turning the entire block into a festive spectacle. Families — often wearing Ravens or Orioles-themed holiday gear — then stroll through the illuminated streets, taking in the surroundings.

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“Crab Pot Christmas Trees” are a very popular holiday feature in this state. These quirky trees are crafted from crab pots and adorned with nautical ornaments. The state is known for its crab, and this tradition pays homage to that.

Massachusetts

In the heartland of Massachusetts, the holiday season unfolds with the timeless tradition of “Candlelight Strolls” in historic towns like Salem and Plymouth. As dusk settles, locals and visitors alike don period costumes, meandering through cobblestone streets illuminated by the soft glow of candlelight.

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Carolers serenade the crowds, and historic landmarks come alive with tales of yuletide past. Embracing the state’s rich history, these candlelight strolls bring a sense of witchy charm to Christmas, turning the tradition into something quite special.

Michigan

As winter blankets Michigan, the state comes alive with the “Grand Rapids Art Museum Holiday Exhibition.” This artistic celebration transforms the museum into a winter wonderland, featuring holiday-themed exhibits and interactive installations.

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The “Great Lakes Ghost Ship” is a tradition that is enjoyed by many across the state. In coastal communities like Ludington, residents decorate boats as ghost ships, parading them along the lakefront. Locals and visitors dress in themed costumes, making this a memorable and offbeat celebration.

Minnesota

The Land of 10,000 Lakes embraces a chilly tradition known as the “Ice Luminary Walk.” In this festive activity, communities create beautiful pathways illuminated by ice luminaries — small lanterns made of frozen water.

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Minnesotans carve intricate designs into blocks of ice, add a candle, and line the streets or frozen lakeshores with these twinkling creations. The Ice Luminary Walk transforms the winter landscape into a magical, icy wonderland, offering a unique and chilly twist on the traditional holiday lights display.

Mississippi

“Christmas on the Water” is a festival that embraces the state’s rich musical heritage. Many communities along the Mississippi River celebrate by hosting boat parades adorned with vibrant holiday lights and decorations. Spectators gather along the riverbanks, enjoying the unique spectacle as festively decorated boats cruise by, creating a magical reflection on the water.

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On the culinary side, residents indulge in the tradition of “Tamales for Christmas.” Influenced by the state’s vibrant culinary history, families come together to create and savor this unique holiday dish. Tamales, with their flavorful combinations of seasoned meats and masa, have become a staple on Christmas menus.

Missouri

Adding a touch of nostalgia to the season, Missouri embraces the tradition of “Main Street Christmas Parades.” Historic main streets in cities like St. Charles and Hannibal come alive with the festive sights and sounds of holiday parades.

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Missouri’s holiday traditions also include the unique custom of “Toasted Ravioli for Christmas.” Building on the state’s Italian culinary influences, many Missourians indulge in this delicious treat during the holiday season. Crispy on the outside and filled with savory goodness, toasted ravioli serves as a flavorful and festive addition to Christmas gatherings.

Montana

In the picturesque landscapes of Montana, the holiday season is marked by the enchanting tradition of “Lantern Tours” in historic locales like Virginia City. As the sun sets, the soft glow of lanterns bathes the town, transporting visitors back to the 19th century.

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Costumed guides lead tours through the snow-covered streets, sharing tales of Christmas past and highlighting the town’s rich heritage. Montana’s festive traditions also embrace the “Yule Log Hunt,” a winter scavenger hunt that adds an adventurous twist to the holiday season.

Nebraska

We’ve all heard of “Elf on the Shelf,” but Nebraskans take it one step further with their “Elf on the Shelf Ranch Style.” They often incorporate their agricultural roots into the popular Elf on the Shelf tradition by placing the mischievous elves in miniature farm scenes.

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These scenes depict the elves engaging in typical farm activities, from herding toy livestock to driving tiny tractor replicas. Families across the state creatively integrate their farming heritage into the festive spirit, making Elf on the Shelf a uniquely Nebraskan holiday tradition that combines the magic of Christmas with a touch of down-home charm.

Nevada

Embracing the state’s unique natural beauty, Nevada boasts the tradition of “Holiday Hikes” in places like Red Rock Canyon. Locals and visitors alike trade traditional snow-covered landscapes for the stunning red rock formations, embarking on scenic hikes during the holiday season.

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The crisp desert air and breathtaking vistas provide a refreshing alternative to the typical winter scenes, offering a unique way to celebrate the holidays amidst Nevada’s rugged and captivating terrain.

New Hampshire

Amidst the snow-laden landscapes of New Hampshire, the holiday season is marked by the charming tradition of “Luminaries on the Green.” Historic town squares, like those in Concord and Portsmouth, come alive with the warm glow of candle-lit bags lining the streets.

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Many Granite State residents also indulge in the tradition of “Maple Syrup Treats.” With an abundance of maple trees, families celebrate Christmas by incorporating this local delicacy into a variety of festive treats, from maple-glazed ham to maple-infused desserts.

New Jersey

Adding a flavorful twist to the Christmas Eve table, New Jerseyans cherish the tradition of the “Italian Feast of the Seven Fishes.” Rooted in the Italian-American heritage, this festive feast features an opulent spread of seven seafood dishes — from salted cod to shrimp scampi.

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Communities across the state also engage in the charming tradition of “Window Wonderland Displays”. In downtown areas like Hoboken and Princeton, local businesses decorate their storefront windows with artistic and festive displays. These visually captivating installations add a touch of whimsy to the holiday shopping experience.

New Mexico

In New Mexico, “Luminaria Nights” makes the holiday season very special. When the sun sets, small paper lanterns called luminarias light up the streets in towns like Santa Fe and Albuquerque, giving everything a magical glow. This tradition, inspired by Spanish and Native American cultures, makes the whole place look festive and unique.

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Another unique aspect of Christmas in New Mexico is the “Farolitos on the Rooftops” tradition, where people put small lanterns on their rooftops. It looks amazing against the night sky and brings a warm feeling to the community.

New York

Heading to New York, the Empire State boasts the quirky tradition of the “Dyker Heights Christmas Lights.” In the Dyker Heights neighborhood of Brooklyn, residents go all out to create extravagant and over-the-top holiday light displays.

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The tradition has become so popular that it attracts visitors from across the region who come to marvel at the twinkling lights. Houses adorned with enormous Santas, towering nutcrackers, and thousands of lights undeniably turn Dyker Heights into a festive extravaganza.

North Carolina

“Pig Pickin’ Christmas” makes this state’s Christmas traditions one of a kind. Many communities celebrate by hosting festive gatherings centered around a whole roasted pig, creating a unique and savory holiday feast.

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Additionally, North Carolina — particularly Banner Elk county — is known as the Christmas tree capital of the world! Locals celebrate this title with the annual “Mistletoe Market,” a charming holiday fair where handmade crafts, local goods, and mistletoe take center stage.

North Dakota

With the “Knoephla Soup Gatherings,” families and communities come together to share warm bowls of this hearty soup, a beloved local dish featuring dumplings in a flavorful broth. The gatherings foster a sense of togetherness and warmth in the midst of the winter chill.

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North Dakotans also celebrate the “German-Russian Waffle Breakfast.” In towns like Strasburg, families indulge in a festive morning meal of waffles, sausage, and traditional German-Russian treats.

Ohio

In Ohio, the holiday season takes an unexpected turn with the tradition of “Christmas pickle ornaments.” Legend has it that a Bavarian tradition made its way to Ohio, where families hide a pickle-shaped ornament in the Christmas tree.

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On Christmas morning, the first child to find the hidden pickle receives an extra gift or is said to have good luck for the coming year. Though a bit of luck is always welcome, every child secretly wishes for the extra gift.

Oklahoma

The holiday season kicks off with a special tradition known as the “Cherokee National Holiday Celebration.” This event honors the rich heritage of the Cherokee Nation, featuring cultural performances, art displays, and traditional games.

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Many Oklahomans also embrace the “Braum’s An Affair of the Heart Craft Show,” a beloved holiday market in Oklahoma City. Here, artisans and crafters from across the region showcase their handmade creations, offering a diverse array of gifts and decorations for the season.

Oregon

The Pacific Northwest embraces the “Ugly Sweater Dash” as a fun and festive Christmas tradition. Instead of donning traditional holiday attire, Oregonians participate in a 5K run while proudly wearing their most outrageously ugly Christmas sweaters.

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Participants often compete for the title of the “ugliest sweater,” turning the Ugly Sweater Dash into a colorful and comical holiday spectacle that brings communities together in the spirit of fun and fitness. And who doesn’t like a funky Christmas Sweater?

Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, the city of Pittsburgh hosts the charming tradition of the “Pittsburgh Crèche.” Nestled in the heart of downtown, the Pittsburgh Crèche is a larger-than-life nativity scene featuring life-sized statues depicting the Holy Family, shepherds, and wise men.

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This public display, erected each year in Market Square, has become a beloved holiday tradition for Pittsburghers. Visitors and locals alike gather to admire the beautifully crafted figures and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Rhode Island

This coastal state puts a nautical spin on the holiday season with the tradition of “Boat Parades.” Instead of the typical land-based festivities, Rhode Islanders celebrate Christmas by decorating boats with colorful lights and festive ornaments.

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These illuminated vessels then parade through the state’s scenic waterways, creating a magical and maritime spectacle. Families and friends gather along the shores to watch the twinkling flotilla — and some even decorate their waterfront homes to join in the festive maritime spirit.

South Carolina

Taking a quirky approach to holiday decor with the tradition of “Oyster Shell Christmas Trees,” South Carolina embraces the state’s rich seafood culture. Many South Carolinians show their creativity by crafting Christmas trees using oyster shells.

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These unique trees, covered with lights and coastal-themed ornaments, pay homage to the region’s culinary heritage while adding a touch of Lowcountry flair to the festivities. Oyster Shell Christmas Trees have become a symbol of South Carolina’s distinctive holiday spirit and have brought much joy to the season.

South Dakota

The Christmas season intertwines with a historical tradition in this beautiful state. The “Wagon Train to Yankton” commemorates the historical journey of pioneers in the 19th century. This event sees a convoy of festively decorated wagons retracing the trail to Yankton.

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Families and history enthusiasts come together for this reenactment, celebrating the resilience of early settlers and fostering a connection with the state’s rich past. The Wagon Train to Yankton offers a unique blend of history and holiday spirit.

Tennessee

The town of Gatlinburg introduces a peculiar twist to the Christmas season with the “Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade.” What sets this parade apart is that it takes place at night, with the entire route illuminated by a dazzling display of festive lights.

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Elaborate floats, marching bands, and costumed characters all come to life under the glow of thousands of twinkling lights, creating an opportunity for families to create magical holiday season memories. Never have the Smoky Mountains looked so beautiful.

Texas

In Texas, yuletide celebrations get a Lone Star twist with “Cowboy Christmas”. Folks don their Western finery, spurs and all, combining cowboy cool with festive spirit. Rodeo-themed decorations and Stetson-sporting Santas bring a Texan flair to the season.

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Beyond the usual fare, Tex-Mex takes center stage in holiday feasts. Families gather not just for traditional turkey but also for a mouthwatering Tex-Mex spread featuring tamales and chili con carne, turning Christmas dinner into a flavorful fusion of culinary cultures.

Utah

Utah lights up the winter nights with the enchanting “Luminaria Nights” at Thanksgiving Point. The Ashton Gardens transform into a breathtaking scene, bathed in the soft glow of countless luminaries. Wanderers meander through candlelit paths, soaking in the magic of this serene setting.

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Adding a dash of local flavor is the “Fry Sauce Festival,” where vendors showcase creative variations of the beloved Utahn condiment. This quirky event celebrates the state’s culinary ingenuity and the deep-rooted love for the unique fry sauce, bringing a tasty twist to the holiday season.

Vermont

The town of Woodstock welcomes the season with the age-old tradition of “Wassailing.” Locals and visitors come together in a picturesque scene, strolling through snow-covered streets, singing carols, and toasting to good health.

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For those with a sweet tooth, the “Sugaring Season” tradition is the perfect way to celebrate Christmas. Families venture into the woods to tap maple trees, turning the sap into the state’s prized maple syrup. During the holidays, this liquid gold finds its way into festive recipes, infusing everything from glazed ham to delectable desserts.

Virginia

Virginia flavors the holiday season with the delicious tradition of “Smithfield Ham.” Families across the state indulge in this unique aged ham, which undergoes a lengthy curing process to develop its distinctive savory and slightly sweet taste.

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This culinary tradition dates back to the 18th century and has become synonymous with Virginia’s holiday feasts. Whether thinly sliced for sandwiches or served as the centerpiece of a festive meal, the Smithfield Ham adds a flavorful touch to the holiday.

Washington State

The holiday season in Washington State commences with an architectural and culinary feast — the “Gingerbread Village” at the Sheraton Seattle. Collaborations between architects and local chefs give rise to intricate gingerbread masterpieces, transforming the hotel lobby into a sugary wonderland.

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The state also boasts the maritime-inspired tradition of “Merry Fishmas.” People adorn Christmas trees with fishing gear, buoys, and miniature boats. This creates a nautical spectacle that seamlessly merges Seattle’s seafaring heritage with the magic of the holidays.

West Virginia

Another state that makes away with the traditional Saint Nick in white and red and adds a unique flare to their Santa is West Virginia. The holiday season brings forth a charming clothing tradition known as the “Mountaineer Santa.”

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This festive figure, inspired by the state’s rugged mountain heritage, dons a Santa suit with a distinctive twist. Santa wears a suit of the iconic blue and gold colors of West Virginia University. The Mountaineer Santa embraces the local pride and sports spirit and makes the festive season a very colorful one.

Wisconsin

Wisconsin is a snow-covered paradise, which makes it perfect for “Ice Bowling.” Families and friends can explore frozen lakes, where makeshift ice bowling lanes keep everyone busy. Using frozen turkeys in place of traditional bowling balls, participants take turns aiming for the pins set up on the icy surface. The state also embraces the tradition of “Kringle Tasting Tours.”

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Inspired by the state’s Danish heritage, communities like Racine offer guided tours. Participants explore local bakeries renowned for crafting the iconic Wisconsin Kringle. This flaky, oval-shaped pastry, filled with a variety of delectable flavors, takes center stage. Tour-goers can savor the diverse tastes and learn about the rich cultural history behind this delicious Danish treat.

Wyoming

Bringing a sense of the literary to the Yule time, Wyoming brings forth the unique tradition of “Wyoming Cowboy Christmas Poetry Gatherings.” Cowboys and poets from around the state gather to celebrate the season with recitations of original and classic cowboy poetry.

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Set against the backdrop of crackling fires in rustic settings, these gatherings embody the spirit of the Old West. It combines storytelling, humor, and the rugged charm of Wyoming’s cowboy heritage.