Leavenworth Christmastown

Leavenworth Christmastown covers the Bavarian village with more than half a million lights, on from Thanksgiving through February. The Gazebo at 800 Front Street is the center, with live music, strolling carolers, and Santa, Mrs. Claus, and other characters. The Festhalle at 1001 Front Street is the indoor warming station: kids' crafts, letters to Santa, selfie stations, a gingerbread house exhibition, Santa costumes from around the world, merchandise, and gift wrapping. Food vendors set up in Front Street Park. Concert nights at the Festhalle add a movie screening and live shows.

Our take: Use the Festhalle as a warm-up stop for crafts, Santa photos, and the gingerbread exhibition, then walk the Gazebo lights.