When ski season hits, certain cities across the country come alive. While skiing may be the main attraction, many of these towns offer an enchanted experience that extends beyond the slopes.



As you plan your winter getaway, consider these well-rounded ski cities:

What better way to feel jolly than to have some festive holiday fun? From light shows to enchanted forests, there are some spectacular events going on now around the country. Here are a few of our faves:

An Old Time Christmas at Silver Dollar City - Branson, Mo.
Nov. 7 - Dec. 30
Named one of the world's top holiday destinations by CNN, this holiday celebration features over four million dazzling lights and a musical five-story Christmas tree that twinkles and dances. There are some great shows throughout the park including The Living Nativity and A Dickens' Christmas Carol. You'll probably even can even catch a glimpse of Kris Kringle himself.

Ready to do a little rockin' around the Christmas tree? 'Tis the season! It's time to kick off the holidays and light up those trees.



Enjoy some good fun and good cheer at these top tree lighting ceremonies around the country:

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony - New York, N.Y.
December 2, 2009
One of season's most anticipated holiday events, the Rockefeller Tree Lighting is always a jolly time. The star-studded event will attract thousands and feature exciting celebrity performances. The festivities begin at 6:45PM and the tree will be lit at 8:55PM sharp.

With the winter season and the holidays fast approaching, it's about time to lace up those skates and embrace the cold-weather spirit.



Bundle up, grab your family and friends and get ready to skate your heart out. Here are some of our favorite rinks to show off those salchows and triple toe loops: