Every year the town of Kennebunkport, Maine, hosts "Christmas Prelude," a two-week festival that includes tree lighting ceremonies, concerts, arts and craft fairs, food events, a bonfire, candlelight caroling, Santa's arrival by lobster boat and lots of other activities for both kids and adults.
Blanchard Springs Caverns in the Ozark National Forest is just outside Mountain View, Ark. Every December visitors can go "Caroling in the Caverns." Local singers and musicians fill the Cathedral Room with the sweet sounds of Christmas, amplified perfectly by the cave walls.
The historical streets of Alexandria, Va., are lined with lights and street performers entertain on festively decorated corners. More than 100 Scottish clans dressed in tartans and playing bagpipes perform in the Scottish Christmas Walk Parade. See Santa arrive by boat at the Holiday Boat Parade.
Mackinac Island is a 20-minute ferry ride from the northern tip of Michigan. With only horse-drawn carriages and snowmachines available for transportation, Christmas in this picturesque town brings back memories of years past, when life was simple and folks knew their neighbors.
Trip Tracker is compiled by Joy Guest. Is there a vacation or excursion that interests you? E-mail jguest@adn.com or comment online at adn.com/life/travel.
"Santa Claus House is one of the top attractions in Interior Alaska, and has welcomed millions of visitors from all over the world. Marvel at our 42-foot three dimensional fiberglass Santa and meet real members of Santa's reindeer team." -- www.santaclaus house.com
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