Skip the Crowds: Charming Cities to Visit Between Thanksgiving and Christmas

5. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe brings unique Southwestern holiday traditions to visitors, with luminarias and candle-lit streets creating a distinctive seasonal atmosphere. The city’s arts scene and Pueblo-style architecture combine with cultural performances and boutique holiday markets that are often quieter before the busiest holiday weeks. Temperatures can be cool, and the high-desert climate means crisp, clear days that are great for exploring galleries and historic plazas. Because Santa Fe is smaller than many tourist magnets, pre-Christmas visitors usually find more room to explore and shorter waits at beloved restaurants and museums. Check local calendars for special concerts or markets and book lodging early if you plan to attend popular seasonal events. For travelers who value culture and a calendar of intimate holiday traditions, Santa Fe offers a memorable alternative to larger, more crowded holiday cities.