Being home to an enormous population of Christians, Christmas is one of the widely celebrated festivals in the US. Considering the enormous catholic population, which resides in the United States, you will not be surprised at the vivid celebrations across the United States in the Christmas season. People decorate not only their homes but also their workplaces, decorating them with vibrant and colorful decoration and erect Christmas trees. Christmas is celebrated on December 25th each year, which marks the birth of Jesus Christ.
The cuisine is very similar to the ones, which the Europeans really enjoy feasting on. Turkey or ham with cranberry sauce, keilbasi, soups, and cabbage dishes are some of the popular European flavors enjoyed here.
Pre-Christmas celebrations
Pre-Christmas celebrations in US
It is combined with Pre-Christmas winter celebrations and customs, and people visit their loved ones exchanging gifts and presents. People spent a large portion of their income for purchasing gifts and presents for their loved ones. The Christmas celebrations start minimum two weeks before the Christmas Day, with people start decorating their homes, gardens, workplaces with twinkling lights, Christmas trees, and much more. Turkey and other festive foods are served during this season. The young ones have great fun as they receive gifts from their family members, elders, and the mythical figures known as Santa Claus.
There are special events such as Nativity plays, concerts, and live performances organized by Sunday schools, churches, and communities. The American populations send out Christmas greetings through cards and postcards and also the usual custom of Christmas carols and the Christmas pickle is practiced in most parts of the US. They also leave a glass of milk and cookies for the Santa to snack on Christmas Eve while he is out distributing gifts to everyone.
Christmas Day
Christmas Day in US
Organizations, government offices, businesses, universities, and schools closed on the Christmas Day. This is an opportunity for people to visit their friends and relatives and a well-deserved break from their busy and hectic lives. You would find a good crowd and congestion in malls, highways and at airports during this season. Public life, in general, is affected due to heavy congestion and are a bit delayed. The Christmas tree, which stands erect tall on the streets symbolizes everlasting life and light and is made from evergreen bushes and trees. Popcorn threaded on a string is also used to decorate the Christmas tree.
New Year’s Eve
When you are in the US, you will not find it difficult to celebrate New Year’s Eve in the way you want to celebrate. You will find several centers, which is home to great music and nice food. So whether you want to spend the New Year’s party on a massive street jammed and crowded with people and live entertainment or you are looking forward to visiting family friendly event, all cities across the country compete in a way how they can outdo the others. So whatever your desire, the US has everything in store to meet your needs.
Places to visit this New Year’s Eve
New York City
New Year Celebration in New York City, USA
The city’s iconic public square – Times Square is the destination to be on New Year’s Eve. With more than 100,000 options to choose from to enjoy a drink and have a ball, you will be definitely be spoilt for choices. You can even purchase an official party pass and drift past the velvet ropes onto the premier open bars. Some of the popular spots include STK Rooftop where it plays hosts to popular hot tracks and a live DJ. The backdrop is absolutely amazing as the Hudson River flows through the background. Even the Monarch Rooftop Lounge has stunning views of the Empire State Building in the background. This city would definitely promise to make your New Year celebrations epic.
Las Vegas, Nevada
You will find over a million people partying in Vegas. A land made for partygoers and people are just eager to descend on the city and party and take part in the festivities. The entire area of Vegas is a party land and transforms into one giant block party. There are choreographed fireworks on display, which would put any other fireworks to shame. Be sure to catch your tickets early to avoid any last-minute hassles.
Portland, Oregon
You will be surprised at the options available at your disposal. Enjoy the evening at one of the craft brew pubs listening to live music and entertainment. The Portland Champagne Ball is one of the popular parties in the city and is home to 4 different themed rooms and dance floors, and 17 bars. If that was not enough, the hot and cold buffet with late night pizza, photo booths, party favors, desserts, wine and much more add to the excitement and thrill when you attend this party. You can also check out Pearl District and visit places such as Low Brow Lounge, Teardrop Cocktail Lounge, or Big Legrowlski.
Honolulu, Hawaii
The Waikiki Beach and the Aloha Tower Marketplace gives you some spectacular fireworks display on New Year’s Eve. Head with summer clothing to one of the best family friendly locations and take back an unforgettable experience and a bag full of cherished memories. The Kaka’ako Waterfront Park is home to a beer garden, food trucks, carnival rides, and multiples modes of entertainment activities. You can even hit one of the featured themed bashes if you are a totally a party animal. A view of the lovely beach is a perfect cure for that eventful hangover.
Los Angeles, California
This place has everything as per your taste and budget whether it is a wild party or a black tie event. Parties in LA are kept as a surprise and you will not have any information about the party probably until the last moment. Go clubbing to one of the several clubs lined up on the street or visit the Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood which hosts the annual Cleopatra’s New Year’s Eve ball. The Grand Park sets up stages where live performances and entertainment is played along with delicious food counters all through the night.
Chicago, Illinois
Come home to the land of awesome parties, firework cruises, fine dining options, and family friendly events this New Year’s eve. Nay Pier is the place to be if you are traveling with kids. Check out the Chicago Resolution Gala, a place with more than 30 bars, buffet stations, and get access to the Lakeview Terrace and the Grand Ballroom. The place is a bit crowded, but you seriously can’t find a place in the US, which is quiet, and subdue especially on New Year’s Eve.
New Orleans, Louisiana
The New Year party is probably the best New Year parties to be held in the United States. Get unique experiences of a New Year’s Eve through the funny hats and noisemakers in town. Check out Jackson Square where you would experience live music all night coupled with spectacular and spirited fireworks. The intensity of the crowd increases as the countdown to the New Year comes to a close. The Bourbon Street parties go wild into the wee hours of the morning. The area is also home to some marvelous restaurants of live music venues for calmer New Year celebrations.
You must plan your US Tour now without worrying about the US tourist Visa. You will find many well-experienced Visa consultants in Dubai, who can arrange for everything.
I am Priya, travel writer by profession & I love travelling. I am foodie & lover of world food, places, culture, languages. I like adventurous tours. Favorite destinations are United Arab Emitares, Malaysia, Italy, Thailand, Singapore, US.
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