Here Are The 11 Most Enchanting, Magical Christmas Towns In Alaska

It’s the most wonderful time of year in the last frontier, winter in Alaska! Get ready for the whole state to turn into an epic winter wonderland as the snow starts falling and the year quickly comes to a close. If a magical white Christmas is what you’re after, be sure to visit some of these enchanting towns and soak in the magic of the season!

Without further ado, we present to you the best Christmas towns in Alaska.

1. North Pole

Let's be honest, when it comes to the best Christmas towns in Alaska, it's only right to start the list with the North Pole. This town is home to the Santa Claus House, located at the iconic 101 St. Nicholas Drive, where you can actually meet the man himself along with his reindeer. After personally delivering your letter to Santa, enjoy cocoa and fresh cookies in The Sweet Shop before snapping a picture on Santa's sleigh in one of the most magical Christmas towns in Alaska.

2. Anchorage

The ice sculptures and fascinating light displays in downtown Anchorage are absolutely, positively remarkable! Not to mention, as Alaska's largest city, you'll find so many great neighborhoods filled with homes that are sparkled to the holiday nines. If you're looking for something memorable to do while you're in town, check out the Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge, one of the most unique day trip destinations in Alaska.

3. Kenai

Christmas comes to Kenai is an annual celebration that is full of life, love, and holiday magic. The parade and fun activities are the perfect way to ring in the holiday season with the whole family. There's no denying that the Kenai Chamber of Commerce, along with the incredible local residents, know how to "go big or go home" during the most wonderful time of the year. It's no surprise that Kenai is also home to one of the most picturesque Main Streets in Alaska during the holidays.

4. Fairbanks

The Golden Heart City comes alive during the holiday season. Visit the holiday bazaars and Winter Solstice Festival and you'll find yourself falling in love with the season on a whole new level. In fact, Fairbanks might just be one of the most underrated towns in all of Alaska.

5. Cordova

This sweet little isolated town is particularly magical around the holidays. Join the Chamber of Commerce for the Christmas Tree Lighting & Santa Parade, Watch as the town transforms with holiday lights. While you're there, be sure to check out this stunning Alaskan glacier.

6. Juneau

There is just something awe-inspiring about witnessing an entire harbor of floating boats decked out in Christmas lights. Juneau knows how to keep things wildly Alaskan and totally magical during the holidays. Other neat local events include the Juneau Symphony Holiday Concert and Winter Market. Downtown Juneau also the Holiday Gallery Walk which encourages to shop local and enjoy the magic of the season with cocoa and live performances. For the most up-to-date information about what to do in Juneau, check out the official visitor's website.

7. Soldotna

The Christmas in the Park tree lighting at Soldotna Creek Park is a magical way to kick the holiday season into high gear. The decorations and stunning backdrop of the world-famous Kenai River will surely get you in the spirit. Other great holiday events include the Kenai Watershed Forum Holiday Open House and the Winter Wonderland Sterling Community Center Annual Fundraiser. Truly, the small town of Soldotna may just steal your heart.

8. Palmer

The Mat-Su Valley truly knows how to have a good time, no matter how cold and dark it gets outside. Join the Colony Christmas celebration and enjoy fireworks, a parade of lights, gingerbread contests, and tons of family fun for days on end. Then, enjoy an immersive theatrical production at The Christmas Factory, perfect for all ages. For more information about planning your trip, check out this Palmer visitor's guide.

9. Homer

From the incredible community events to the Christmas parade, it's impossible not to fall in love with the holidays in the 'halibut fishing capital of the world'. Kick the season off right with a visit to the Homer Chamber of Commerce for the annual Christmas Tree Lighting celebration and bring the kiddos to meet Santa Claus while you're at it. Without a doubt, Homer is one of the most beautiful, charming small towns in Alaska.

10. Sitka

This little town in Southeast Alaska is special all year long, but it has a way of coming to life on a whole new level during the holidays. Enjoy community gatherings as well as the enchanting sights of many homes and businesses in the area decked out in Christmas lights. This little-known town in Alaska is positively brimming with character.

11. Nome

Last, but not least, on our list of the best Alaskan Christmas towns is Nome. This city located on the southern Seward Peninsula coast on the cuff of the Bering Sea is unique in so many ways, but that doesn't stop the town from celebrating the holidays in true festive fashion. The Christmas Extravaganza at Old St. Joe's Civic Center is a great way to get into the spirit of the season. A drive through the sleepy downtown streets lined with Christmas lights is sure to bring out the magic in everyone's eyes. Curious to learn more? Check out the official Nome visitor's guide.

If you want more holiday magic, check out these 9 incredible Christmas displays in Alaska, and and these magical destinations to your travel wishlist using the OIYS itinerary planner.