No doubt this time of year can get hectic and there are so many things we want to do to celebrate the holidays with our friends and family. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, or National Fruitcake Day (it’s December 27th in case you were wondering) there is something for everyone to do this most wonderful time of the year!
In the Southwest there are festivals in many communities celebrating Las Posadas. These festivals take place during the 9 days leading up to Christmas and most often include the lighting of thousands of luminarias ( small candles paced inside paper bags to illuminate the walkways and streets). Dating back to the 1800’s, communities now use this tradition to raise money and resources for local charities and to highlight small businesses.
Music plays a big part in each states unique culture and the holidays are a fantastic time to showcase the many talents of residents. In Utah the Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra will perform their annual concert at Temple Square. The choir boasts 360 members and the orchestra and bells include an additional 1musicians. In contrast, Leavenworth, WA is as quaint and Christmas-y as it gets and you will be enchanted by the carolers and hand bell choirs roving the streets of this picturesque mountain village.
