The Ultimate US Christmas Guide 2025: Traditions, Gift Ideas & Festive Events

Photo: Marvin E. Newman / The Image Bank / Getty Images

The Christmas tree stands as one of the most beloved symbols of the season. While the tradition originated in Germany, it found a special place in American homes during the 19th century. Today, families across the US continue the ritual of selecting and decorating a tree with ornaments collected over generations, with the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting in New York City serving as a nationally televised highlight of the season. 

Beyond the tree, other traditions have become deeply embedded in the American Christmas experience:

• Stockings by the fireplace: This custom, inspired by the legend of St. Nicholas providing dowries for three poor sisters, sees children hanging stockings hoping to find them filled with small gifts and treats on Christmas morning.
  
  
• Christmas lights: The tradition of decorative lighting dates back to Thomas Edison, who created the first strand of electric Christmas lights in 1880. Today, approximately 150 million sets of lights are sold annually in the US, with spectacular displays drawing visitors to homes and professional installations nationwide.
  
  
• Christmas cards: Although the first commercial Christmas cards were created in London, the custom became popular in the United States during the 1870s. Today, sending holiday greetings remains a cherished way to stay connected with distant friends and family.
  
  
• Christmas cookies: Baking and decorating cookies for Santa on Christmas Eve is a beloved family activity, with each region boasting its own specialties ; from gingerbread people in New England to Mexican wedding cookies in the Southwest.
  

The 2025 Christmas Gift Guide: Popular Presents for Everyone on Your List

Top Gift Categories and Ideas

Spectacular Christmas Events Across the United States

From coast to coast, American communities transform into winter wonderlands during the Christmas season. Here are some of the most anticipated annual events:

East Coast Extravaganzas

Midwest & Southern Celebrations

• Christkindlmarket (Chicago, IL): This authentic German-style Christmas market transforms Daley Plaza into a European winter village with over 50 vendors selling handcrafted gifts, traditional foods, and warm drinks in collectible mugs.
  
  
• Celebration in the Oaks (New Orleans, LA): Located in the city’s historic City Park, this event illuminates century-old oak trees with over one million twinkling lights, creating a magical canopy alongside light sculptures that reflect New Orleans’ unique cultural heritage.
  
  
• Margaritaville’s Lakeside Lights Spectacular (Buford, GA): This walk-through experience at Lanier Islands blends traditional holiday themes with Margaritaville’s signature style, featuring dazzling light displays, festive music, and seasonal treats.
  
  

Western Wonders

• Christmas in the Park (San Jose, CA): Silicon Valley’s beloved holiday tradition features over 140 uniquely decorated trees created by local organizations, along with live performances, holiday music, and local food vendors at Plaza de Cesar Chavez.
  
  
• The Christmas Boat Parade (Newport Beach, CA): A unique coastal tradition where over 100 elaborately decorated boats parade along the coastline, creating a spectacular display visible from shore or special cruise experiences.
  
  
• The Christmastown Village of Lights (Leavenworth, WA): This Bavarian-styled mountain village transforms into a storybook winter wonderland with mandatory festive decorations, holiday lighting ceremonies, traditional markets, and horse-drawn sleigh rides.
  

Planning Tip: For the most current information on dates, times, and ticket requirements, always check the official event websites before visiting, as details can change annually.

Photo : Courtesy of NewPort Beach Christmas Boat Parade

The 12 Days of Christmas: Understanding the Tradition

The “Twelve Days of Christmas” is more than just a familiar holiday song. It’s a historical Christian tradition that begins on December 25 (Christmas Day) and continues through January 5 (Twelfth Night), concluding with the Epiphany on January 6, which commemorates the visit of the Magi to the infant Jesus.

While the religious observance has evolved over time, the concept has seen a resurgence in popular culture through Advent calendars that count down the days until Christmas. Modern interpretations of the 12 days include:

• Extended gift-giving: Some families now give small presents on each of the twelve days rather than all on Christmas morning.
  
  
• Progressive holiday activities: Planning a different festive activity for each day, such as driving to see neighborhood light displays, baking cookies, or watching holiday movies.
  
  
• Advent calendar innovations: Today’s calendars have expanded far beyond simple chocolate treats to include options for every interest, from beauty products to specialty foods and crafts.
  

Bringing It All Together: Creating Your Memorable Christmas

The beauty of an American Christmas lies in its diversity. There’s no single “right” way to celebrate. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling energy of New York City’s holiday events, the cozy tradition of baking family recipes, or the convenience of finding perfect gifts online, the season offers something for everyone.

As you plan your celebrations, remember that the most enduring holiday memories often come from simple moments of connection, whether that’s hanging lights with family, sharing a special meal, or starting new traditions that your loved ones will cherish for years to come.

We hope this guide inspires your holiday planning! To add an extra personal touch to your celebrations, feel free to explore our free Christmas printables, including:

• Christmas posters and favor tags
• Holiday-themed coloring pages
• Festive bookmarks, memory card games and “Build a Snowman” activity sheets
• Customizable gift tags, card holders and Personalized family Christmas cards

These resources are designed to help you create beautiful, handmade elements for your holiday celebrations without the extra cost. Download them today and add a special homemade touch to your Christmas!