25 Best Places to Celebrate
These Midwest destinations herald the season with an attention to detail that could give Santa himself a few lessons.
Amazing light displays
Wildlights at Columbus Zoo Columbus, Ohio More than 3 million LED lights shine at the home of animal expert Jack Hanna (November 16, 2012–January 1, 2013). Every half hour, a choreographed display of lights and music bursts over Conservation Lake. Admission charged. (800) 666-5397; columbuszoo.org
National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows Belleville, Illinois Twinkling with more than 1 million lights, the breathtaking displays just east of St. Louis beautifully reveal the story of Christ’s birth, a lovely alternative to fun but secular holiday displays. Free. (618) 397-6700; wayoflights.org
Bentleyville Duluth Fifteen fire pits and free hot chocolate warm visitors in Bayfront Park, where regional landmarks shine in twinkle lights. It started as one guy’s home display; now, it’s a community’s must-see. Free. (218) 740-3535; bentleyvilleusa.org
Winter Wonderland East Peoria, Illinois Ooh and aah at the animated displays in the Winter Wonderland: dinos! Star Wars! Ski jumpers! and more. Admission charged. (800) 747-0302; peoria.org
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