A Holly Jolly Family Holiday

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a Hallmark movie, where snow-capped mountains, towering Christmas trees and the nostalgic sound of carolers set the scene, you’ll be delighted to find this magical experience within reach at Fairmont Banff Springs. This historic castle, tucked within Banff National Park, warmly welcomes families with open arms and a generous dose of Christmas cheer. From ornament painting and candy cane hunts to cookie decorating and bedtime stories with Mrs. Claus, the castle is a playground of festive fun for young guests. Meanwhile, parents can savor the season with lavish brunches and festive afternoon teas, accompanied by live performances of beloved holiday classics.

Celebrate the holidays Western-style at The Lodge at Blue Sky, where festivities unfold against the wild beauty of a 3,500-acre ranch. Days flow from exhilarating mountain pursuits to quiet moments of wonder—ski Park City Mountain Resort’s legendary slopes, then trade speed for serenity on a horse-drawn wagon ride through Gracie’s Farm, hot cocoa in hand. Write letters to Santa, toast s’mores by the firepit and savor the hush of winter over the Wasatch Range. While parents unwind in the spa, kids can dive into frontier-inspired fun at the Little Vaqueros Kids Club. Afterward, reunite for a bit of family bonding—perhaps a spirited axe-throwing challenge or a cozy night crafting gingerbread houses in the comfort of your room.

As Paris becomes a haven of twinkling lights and the spiced scent of vin chaud drifts through the boulevards, Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel transforms into a winter dreamscape overlooking the iconic Place de la Concorde. Little Rosebuds (as they’re affectionately known) are at the heart of the season’s enchantment, welcomed with thoughtful touches and treated to an outdoor winter chalet serving waffles and hot chocolate. Inside, a chic Christmas market invites families to browse curated brands, while festive afternoon teas offer a cozy reprieve from winter’s chill. Celebrate further with Pastry Chef Matthieu Carlin’s Yule log, a gourmet creation inspired by the palace’s façade, alongside a carousel of other sweet creations—each crafted with precision and artistry.

The Magnificent Mile is one of Chicago’s most postcard-perfect holiday districts—and within its sparkling bounds, The Peninsula Chicago pulls out all the stops for the season. Each year, the hotel transforms into a storybook winter wonderland, welcoming guests of every age with a full slate of seasonal delights, from skating at the open-air Sky Rink to indulgent holiday meals beneath its soaring Christmas tree. Little guests are especially pampered with sweet treats from the Candy Shoppe, weekend Santa sightings and even an in-room holiday tree or menorah through the Holly Jolly Family Holiday package. On Christmas Day, The Lobby’s brunch buffet adds an extra touch of magic with a dedicated children’s spread, a roaming magician and meet-and-greets with Santa.

Indulge in a family holiday wrapped in flavor, tradition and Caribbean charm at Kempinski Hotel Cancún. As twilight falls on December 23rd, tiny tots’ eyes will be all aglow as they witness the lighting of the magnificent Christmas tree—a dazzling moment that officially ushers in the season. The celebration continues with a traditional Mexican posada, one of the country’s most cherished holiday rituals, honoring Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem with delicious appetizers and festive treats like ponche, a fragrant warm punch infused with fruit and cinnamon. Piñatas bursting with surprises add to the thrill, while live music fills the night with the soulful rhythms of Mexico—all set against the sparkling turquoise backdrop of the Caribbean Sea.

Thanks to Home Alone 2, every child dreams of experiencing New York at Christmastime—and at The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue, that sense of wide-eyed wonder sweeps through the hotel like Santa himself. The showstopping Nutcracker Suite, inspired by the beloved holiday ballet, dazzles with sparkling décor, a full-size Christmas tree and a vinyl record player spinning Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. Little guests are further spoiled with the Candy Cane Lane Kids Club—a whimsical program filled with ornament-making, gingerbread-house decorating and holiday movie screenings. And with the hotel’s prime location, you’re well-placed for all of New York’s iconic festive sites, from skating at Bryant Park and the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to wandering Fifth Avenue’s legendary holiday windows.

Traditional holidays are always magical, but this year, why not trade winter’s bitter chill for the gentle rhythm of Caribbean waves? At Windjammer Landing Resort & Residences, the season is packed with fun for kids and grown-ups alike. Watch the towering Christmas tree light up over Labrelotte Bay, then dive into St. Lucia’s vibrant culture during the December 13th National Day Celebration. Little fans of the classic Polar Express will love hopping aboard the tropical Windjammer version, chugging through lush landscapes as they explore the resort. Festivities continue with the Christmas Eve Bonfire & S’mores Beach Extravaganza, followed by a joyful Christmas Day filled with sandcastle fun and the moment children anticipate most—the arrival of Saint Nick by boat.

Celebrate the season in style at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, where coastal elegance meets heartfelt holiday traditions for the whole family. Little ones can delight in breakfast with Santa at AVEO Table + Bar, complete with cheerful tableside visits from Saint Nick and an expansive buffet. Over at 33 North, an enchanting Holiday Tea awaits, where a ballerina trio dazzles with a graceful rendition of the Nutcracker Ballet. On Friday and Saturday evenings, families can cozy up on the Part & Parcel terrace to craft their own s’mores and sip warm cider under the stars. Rounding out the festivities, curated feasts on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day bring a festive glow to every table.

The UK capital is at its most atmospheric during the festive season, with streets sparkling with lights, bustling Christmas markets and carol singing around the Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square. In stylish Marylebone, within easy reach of iconic attractions, The Landmark London makes spirits even brighter with a holiday experience the whole family will treasure. Children are treated like little VIPs with the Elf Escape and Santa’s Sleepover packages, featuring festive toys, an elf turndown service with milk and cookies, gingerbread kits, a festive hunt around the hotel and seasonal cocktails for the grown-ups. Families can also explore the Christmas Shop pop-up, where homemade fudge, nougat, mince pies and warm drinks are served straight from a charming gingerbread house.

In winter, Gstaad transforms into a storybook village—snow blankets the landscape, ski slopes beckon and horse-drawn sleighs glide through crisp alpine air. At the heart of it all, Gstaad Palace rises like a fairytale castle, its snow-dusted spires overlooking the charming town below. Young guests feel instantly at home here: Sammy’s Winter Kids Club welcomes little explorers with a full roster of activities, and on New Year’s Eve, a VIK Party (for Very Important Kids) sends off the year with a disco celebration for youngsters—no parents allowed. Junior sweet-tooths can join cookie-baking sessions and gingerbread workshops, while in the gardens, children can meet Santa’s reindeer, visit St. Bernards or simply frolic in the snow.