Great Destinations for a Christmastime Wedding

Holidays and weddings have a lot in common, from their focus on celebration to their ability to bring people together. It makes sense, then, that some couples choose to combine the festivities into one. Christmastime is a popular choice, and especially for those captivated by its charm and cheer. Twinkling lights make for beautiful wedding decorations, seasonal food transitions well into reception menus, and if your nearest and dearest are already planning to convene around the special time of year, gathering them for your big day may be easier than ever. That being said, it's important to be cognizant of expectations and traditions when planning a wedding on or around Christmas. Most of your celebrating guests won't want to miss out on the complete Christmas experience, and neither will you.

One of the best ways to make the most of the season is by throwing your wedding in a thematic location. Loved ones worried about changing their holiday plans will be more likely to accept the invite if they know the destination won't be lacking in yuletide spirit. And if you're throwing a smaller event, traveling somewhere with just your closest friends and family is a beautiful way to bond. Not to mention, the spot you choose may lead to a nostalgic holiday-and-anniversary trip down the road.

If you're set on throwing a Christmastime wedding but don't know where to look for your venue, consider one of these options, which each embrace the holidays in a different way. We've searched the globe for the jolliest of places, be they bustling cities or winter wonderlands.  

The Tivoli Gardens light up the night throughout the Christmas season, and feature festive decorations and shops that visitors can stroll through. The streets are also blanketed with glowing bulbs from above, and delicious Christmas lunches are a beloved tradition.

Manhattan is at its most magical come Christmastime, thanks to plentiful holiday happenings. The famed tree in Rockefeller Center is an iconic symbol of the holiday season, and the lit-up skyline makes for a great wedding backdrop.    

New Orleans might not be the obvious choice for a seasonal wedding, but as with most things, the lively city puts its own wonderful spin on Christmas. Take photographs in front of the beautifully-decorated French Quarter and Garden District homes, and consider having a traditional and luxurious Réveillon dinner at your reception.

Nuremberg hosts Germany's most famous Christmas market, which is a great spot to snag some goods to use as favors or as gifts for your wedding party. The whole setup is undeniably enchanting, and good spirits radiate across the entire city.

This destination is becoming more and more popular amongst Christmastime travelers. The charming streets are all dolled up, the air is crisp and wonderfully wintry, and the northern lights offer a natural, colorful display come nighttime—imagine capturing that for your wedding album.

If you seek a warm escape during the holiday season, consider venturing to this seaside city. December is one of the best times to visit the destination. While you're there, check out the world's largest floating Christmas tree, set in the Rodrigo de Freitas lagoon.

For a wedding with a focus on religion, the holidays are a meaningful time to visit the center of Catholicism. The streets of these two locations host huge Christmas trees, nativity scenes, and more.   

Contrary to popular belief, Rovaniemi, rather than the North Pole, is the hometown of Santa Claus—at least according to the city. Nestled on the Arctic Circle, the destination houses Santa Claus Village, a tourism hotspot for visitors around the globe. Get married in an incredible ice chapel at the SnowHotel, and be on the lookout for real-life reindeer.

It's always Christmastime in this quaint town, which really is called Santa Claus. Santa's Lodge, nearby Monkey Hollow Winery, and local chapels all double as wedding venues.

This charming, historic capital scores high for its array of Christmas villages and markets. Delicious food, elegant architecture, and traditional festivities up its appeal.