Most 'Christmassy' Towns: Alexandria Makes Top 5

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Between the illuminated trees on King Street and plentiful holiday events, it's no surprise Alexandria is ranked as one of the top Christmas towns in the U.S.

Alexandria ranked fifth on the America's 75 most 'Christmassy' towns list by photo book brand Mixbook. More than 3,000 families were polled to come up with the top Christmassy towns.

According to Mixbook, Alexandria's high ranking can be attributed to its mix of "history and festive charm."

"The town's picturesque streets, lined with historic brick buildings, are transformed into a winter wonderland adorned with twinkling lights and holiday decorations," Mixbook says in the ranking. "Alexandria's rich colonial history adds to its allure, offering a nostalgic backdrop to modern holiday celebrations."

The ranking also mentions Alexandria's extensive holiday events like the Scottish Christmas Walk Parade as well as visitor-friendly features like holiday markets, artisan shops and cafés. The city has plenty of holiday happenings, from a small business-focused Black Friday to tree lightings at Old Town's Market Square and Del Ray's Pat Miller Neighborhood Square, the doubleheader Scottish Christmas Walk Parade and Holiday Boat Parade of Lights and Waterskiing Santa.

Other regional locations on the list were Frederick, Maryland at 26 and Bethesda at 34.

The top five most Christmassy towns in the U.S., according to Mixbook, were Pigeon Forge, Tennessee at No. 1, followed by Durango, Colorado; Lake Placid, New York; Stowe, Vermont; and Alexandria, Virginia.

“We hope our guide inspires families to experience these wonderful destinations that celebrate the essence of Christmas,” Leslie Albertson, director of brand at Mixbook, said in a statement. “Visiting these festive towns provides a unique opportunity to create lasting memories, connect with loved ones, and celebrate the spirit of the season” Albertson said.