Planning a Christmas trip to America? 7 experiences to add to your holiday itinerary

Christmas in the American South comes with its own charm, from storybook train journeys through the Smoky Mountains and dazzling waterfront parades to historic mansions filled with decorated trees and festive dinners rooted in centuries-old traditions. Across North Carolina, Mississippi, Tennessee and Louisiana, the holiday season offers plenty of ways to celebrate with family, explore local culture and discover a different side of the United States.

If you are planning a Christmas getaway, these seven experiences bring together the region’s seasonal highlights, whether you prefer spectacular light displays, theme park adventures or memorable meals.

1. North Carolina: Take a magical ride on the Polar Express

One of the most enchanting ways to experience Christmas in North Carolina is aboard the Polar Express with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in Bryson City. Inspired by Chris Van Allsburg’s beloved 1985 children’s book and its animated film adaptation, the festive train ride brings the story to life for families travelling through the Smoky Mountains.

Children can arrive dressed in their pyjamas and enjoy a read-along journey accompanied by music from the film, hot cocoa and a sweet treat. The experience builds towards a magical North Pole visit, where Santa greets the young passengers with a gift. Christmas carols round off the return journey to the Bryson City Depot.

The seasonal attraction is especially popular with families looking to create Christmas memories with younger children. The 2026 season is listed as running from November 5 through December, although visitors should check the official schedule for specific departure dates and ticket availability.

2. North Carolina: Step into a festive Wild West town at Tweetsie Christmas

For another family-friendly Christmas outing, Tweetsie Railroad in Blowing Rock transforms its Wild West-themed attraction into a festive wonderland. Set against the Blue Ridge Mountains, Tweetsie Christmas combines the charm of a historic steam train with colourful lights, holiday entertainment and classic amusement rides.

Visitors can take a Christmas train ride, sing along to familiar carols and explore the attraction’s seasonal decorations. Children can also visit Santa at his Gingerbread House, share their Christmas wishes and take photographs with him.

Hot chocolate, roasted s’mores by the fire and a special Christmas show add to the experience. The combination of train rides, festive treats and family activities makes it a worthwhile stop for those exploring North Carolina during the holiday season.

3. Mississippi: Watch the Christmas on the Water boat parade in Biloxi

Christmas celebrations take on a coastal character in Biloxi, where the annual Christmas on the Water parade brings festive cheer to Biloxi Bay. Instead of streets lined only with decorations, visitors can watch boats covered in twinkling lights, wreaths and elaborate holiday displays sail across the water.

Traditionally held on the first Saturday of December, the event draws spectators to the waterfront to enjoy the illuminated procession, with fireworks adding to the celebrations.

The parade offers a different perspective on the Christmas season, combining Mississippi’s Gulf Coast atmosphere with the excitement of a community holiday tradition. It is an appealing addition to a December itinerary for travellers who want to experience something beyond conventional Christmas light displays.

4. Mississippi: Explore a mansion transformed by Christmas at Merrehope

In Meridian, the annual Trees of Christmas at Merrehope offers a festive experience inside a historic mansion. The 20-room Neoclassical Revival home is decorated with more than 70 Christmas trees, elaborate seasonal arrangements and holiday exhibits.

Visitors can tour the mansion and discover how each space is transformed for the celebrations, with the decorations adding a festive touch to its historic interiors. The event brings together Christmas traditions, decorative artistry and architectural heritage, making it a particularly appealing stop for those who enjoy historic homes.

Recognised as a major holiday attraction in Mississippi, Trees of Christmas is described as running from November 22 through December 31, with tours throughout the season. Check the official schedule before visiting to confirm the dates and opening hours for 2026.

5. Tennessee: Experience a Smoky Mountain Christmas at Dollywood

In Pigeon Forge, Dollywood’s annual Smoky Mountain Christmas celebration brings together the excitement of a theme park and the atmosphere of the festive season. The attraction, associated with country music star Dolly Parton, is known for its elaborate light displays, holiday performances and seasonal food.

The 2026 celebration is scheduled to run from November 6 to January 3. More than six million twinkling lights are expected to illuminate the park, while festive shows and seasonal flavours add to the experience.

Visitors can spend the day exploring the attractions before taking in the Christmas decorations and entertainment. For families planning a winter break in Tennessee, Dollywood offers an opportunity to combine theme park fun with a full-scale holiday celebration in the Smoky Mountains.

6. Tennessee: Discover A Country Christmas at Gaylord Opryland Resort

Nashville’s Gaylord Opryland Resort becomes a festive destination during its annual A Country Christmas celebration. Millions of lights, elaborate decorations, seasonal treats and holiday entertainment transform the resort into a destination in its own right.

The 2026 event is scheduled to run from November 6 to January 2. One of its signature attractions is ICE!, which features scenes from ‘Home Alone’ recreated through colourful, large-scale ice sculptures. Visitors can also try ice tubing for a more adventurous winter activity.

Another highlight is POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance, a holiday cirque show featuring acrobatics, original music and theatrical production. With multiple activities gathered in one location, the resort offers a festive outing for families, whether they choose to stay overnight or visit for the day.

7. Louisiana: Experience New Orleans through its Réveillon dining tradition

In New Orleans, Christmas celebrations extend beyond decorations and entertainment to the dining table. The city’s Réveillon tradition, rooted in French culture and local culinary heritage, offers visitors a taste of the festive season through special holiday meals.

Historically, Réveillon referred to a celebratory meal enjoyed after Christmas Eve religious services. Today, restaurants across New Orleans continue the tradition with specially curated prix-fixe menus and seasonal cocktails throughout December.

Participating establishments, including Brennan’s and Arnaud’s, offer menus that draw on traditional New Orleans cuisine while incorporating contemporary and international influences. The experience is particularly suited to travellers who want to explore the city through its food and discover how local customs shape the holiday season.

A Réveillon dinner can be a memorable addition to a New Orleans itinerary, bringing together regional flavours, festive hospitality and a tradition that has evolved over generations.

Planning your Southern Christmas holiday

From a magical train ride in North Carolina to a boat parade in Mississippi, spectacular Christmas lights in Tennessee and festive dining in Louisiana, the American South offers a varied mix of holiday experiences. Each destination brings its own traditions and atmosphere, giving travellers several ways to celebrate the season.

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Whether you are planning a family holiday, a December road trip or a food-focused getaway, these seven experiences offer inspiration for exploring the Southern states at Christmas. Since many attractions operate on seasonal schedules and some require advance bookings, check official websites for confirmed dates, tickets and reservations before finalising your plans.