Vienna Christmas Market — Photo courtesy of ttaaooo One of December's more magical locations is the city of Vienna. Nearly every corner hosts a Christmas market, each vendor selling gifts and/or food items. They also share hot punch and warm mulled wine, to stave off the chill of Austrian evenings. You've got until the 25th to shop the city. The largest Christkindlmarkt is at Vienna City Hall.
[PHOTO_102328] Miami draws art collectors from around the globe for December's sizzling Art Basel event. One of the world's premier art events, Art Basel showcases artists from countless countries, their works featured in gallery spaces across the city. South Beach is the hub of the show, but don't miss the chance to gallery-hop in the hot Wynwood District north of downtown.
Rockefeller Center at the Holidays — Photo courtesy of Salon Nowojorski No place does Christmas like New York City. You've probably talked about going to The Big Apple during the holidays. Make this the year! Grab your family or friends and head to Rockefeller Center for ice skating beneath one of the most iconic Christmas trees in America.
Radio City Music Hall: Home of the Rockettes — Photo courtesy of Clint Currier The Rockettes will happily kick up a leg for you, over at Radio City Music Hall, and the entire city is draped in holiday decor that's smile-inducing. Stop by FAO Schwarz toy store, where everyone connects with their inner kid.
[PHOTO_102320] At Boston’s First Night celebration, many events are free, but some require a First Night button for admission. Partygoers can enjoy the feeling of being in Times Square without the tight spaces. Utilizing both indoor and outdoor venues, 200 performances are to be seen in the 35 locations selected to showcase this celebration of the New Year. A few events include musical performances, ice sculptures, and two fabulous fireworks displays!
Ashville's Biltmore Village in December — Photo courtesy of anoldent Asheville, North Carolina's historic Biltmore Village transforms into a Victorian Christmas village each December. Located just outside the famed Biltmore Estate, this sweet neighborhood was built by George W. Vanderbilt. Originally a "company town" for all those who worked at the estate, Biltmore Village is now a popular commercial district. The Biltmore Estate is an incredible thing to see, too, with Christmas tours available into the evening hours.
San Jose, Costa Rica — Photo courtesy of Festival de La Luz In San Jose, Costa Rica the Festival de la Luz 2011 marks the start of the Christmas holiday in Costa Rica, and the 15th anniversary of this spectacular street party. Live bands, elaborate masquerades, and spectacular displays are highlights of this sensational celebration in the city. The week long festival kicks off at 6pm on December 26th with a grand display of pyrotechnics from the highest buildings. Find the Festival de la Luz located between Paseo Colon and Avenida 2, where the trees of the streets are decorated with lights. 
de Tolosa Mission Plaza in San Luis Obispo — Photo courtesy of kevincole You might Santa enjoying some sunshine in San Luis Obispo, the heart of Central California wine country. Santa's House hsa been known to brighten up the de Tolosa Mission Plaza.