Discover These Unique US Holiday Traditions While Traveling This Season

About 48% of Americans plan to travel during the holidays, according to Deloitte. With so many people on the road and in the air, they’re bound to run across holiday festivals in cities nationwide.

Whether Americans travel to New England or California, they can explore some of the most intriguing and distinctive holiday traditions that make this season special in the United States.

Trail of Lights in Austin, Texas

This celebration is a cherished holiday tradition in Texas’ capital city. Each year, this enchanting event transforms the heart of the city into a wonderland of lights, spreading warmth and joy. The festival celebrates community spirit as families and friends gather.

Eloisa from BarkLikeMeow says, “The Festival of Lights is an annual event held in Austin, Texas. It usually features a two-mile drive-thru display of more than two million lights. It is one of the more popular holiday traditions to be enjoyed with your loved ones.”

The streets are decorated with intricate light displays, ranging from traditional motifs to contemporary designs, creating a tapestry of colors that dance against the night sky. When you do get hungry, you can also stop at one of the food trucks for some ice cream or barbecue.

The Trail of Lights fosters a sense of unity and togetherness, making it an unforgettable experience.

The Feast of the Seven Fishes in Italian-American Communities

The Feast of the Seven Fishes is a culinary tradition deeply rooted in Italian-American communities, particularly in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions of the U.S. This tradition probably originated in the coastal areas of Southern Italy and has found a loving home among Italian-Americans, who embrace it as a tribute to their cultural heritage.

The centerpiece of this feast is an array of seafood dishes, ranging from salted tilapia or cod to calamari, each dish demonstrating the robust, authentic flavors of the Mediterranean. Families gather on Christmas Eve for this celebration that looks back to the early days of Italian immigration to the U.S.

Polar Bear Plunge at Coney Island, New York

The Polar Bear Plunge at Coney Island, New York, is one of the most unconventional, exhilarating ways to usher in the new year. This time-honored tradition, dating back over a century, sees brave individuals donning their swimsuits and plunging into the icy waters of the Atlantic Ocean on New Year’s Day.

It’s a heart-pounding, adrenaline-fueled experience, and undeterred by the frigid temperatures, participants come together to revel in the invigorating thrill of the plunge, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and shared daring.

A Gullah Christmas in the Low Country

In the Low Country of South Carolina and Georgia, the Gullah communities gather for a distinctive, culturally rich celebration of Christmas. The festival is rooted in the Gullah culture.

These descendants of enslaved Africans maintained their unique linguistic and cultural heritage, and the festivities offer a unique glimpse into a vibrant and resilient community. Soulful spirituals, captivating storytelling, and traditional dishes like red rice and okra soup characterize Gullah Christmas celebrations.

These gatherings are a powerful testament to the endurance and rich heritage of the Gullah people. By weaving together elements of faith, oral history, and culinary artistry, the Gullah communities in the Low Country create a holiday celebration filled with cultural significance. It’s a unique, enlightening experience.

Ride the Rails With Santa in Portland

Ride the rails with Santa — specifically the Portland Holiday Express Train. This holiday experience for families in the Pacific Northwest takes passengers on a whimsical journey through the scenic landscapes of Oregon, accompanied by Santa Claus himself. As the vintage train chugs along, children’s faces light up with joy and wonder as they interact with Santa, share their Christmas wishes, and receive a special gift.

The train’s festive decorations, holiday music, and the sight of snow-dusted forests outside the windows create an atmosphere of pure holiday magic. This unique tradition brings families together for a memorable adventure. It’s a beloved annual event in the Portland community.

Amy Rose from AmyandRose.com says, “One of the most magical experiences here is the Portland Holiday Express Train. It’s not just a train ride; it’s a festive voyage. Every year … this ornate steam train departs from Oaks Amusement Park. As it chugs along the scenic Oregon Pacific Railroad Line, passengers are treated to a 40-minute visual delight.

The train interiors are cozy and warm, contrasting to the chilly Oregon winters. My advice, especially for those with tiny tots, is to hop on the earlier rides. And keep those eyes peeled! Santa, being the legend he is, visits every train. It’s our slice of Yuletide magic right here in Portland.”

Breaking the Piñata on Las Posadas in the Southwest

In the American Southwest, the tradition of Las Posadas brings a unique and spirited touch to the holiday season. Rooted in Mexican culture and celebrated with enthusiasm in states including New Mexico and Arizona, Las Posadas re-enacts Mary’s and Joseph’s search for lodging before the birth of Jesus.

One of the most exciting moments of this tradition involves breaking a piñata, which symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. Children and families eagerly anticipate this event, which adds a joyful element to the celebration. As the piñata bursts open, it releases a cascade of sweets, creating an atmosphere of cheer and camaraderie symbolic of the Southwest’s rich cultural tapestry.

In a nation as diverse and expansive as the United States, holiday traditions vary widely. These customs reflect America’s cultural tapestry and remind us of the enduring spirit of community and celebration that unites us all. Whether it’s lighting luminarias in the Southwest or taking the Polar Bear Plunge in New York, these traditions remind us that the true magic of the holidays lies in the shared experiences that bring us closer together.

This article was produced by Media Decision and syndicated by Wealth of Geeks.