Home Design Network HGTV has named a small Nevada “ghost town” as one of the best places to visit in America this holiday season to experience the perfect winter wonderland.
The network, known for its glossy home renovation content, released a list of “50 Favorite Small Towns to Watch for Christmas.” It’s lit up local landmarks across the country, including, appropriately enough, Santa Claus, IN; Breckenridge, CO; Flagstaff, AZ; And, of course, the North Pole.
At least on the surface, the list of top festival destinations had some surprising choices: Virginia City, NV, a small town with a population of just 787 in 2020, according to U.S. Census data.
Today, it is estimated that Virginia City is still home to fewer than a thousand residents, prompting some to dub it a “living ghost town,” a label that is said to encompass the many chilling stories of “haunted” activity in the area.
What the city lacks in population, it makes up for in festive fun, offering a wide range of activities during the holiday season.
According to HGTV, the town hosts an annual two-week event in December called “Christmas on the Comstock,” during which visitors can enjoy fireworks, “train rides on the Candy Cane Express,” craft fairs, a tree lighting, and town carolers.
For those looking for a historical experience, the area also boasts an impressive – and fascinating – springs that served as a mining center during the 19th century.
Although its mine no longer operates, the town still “retains its historic Old West facade along the main street.”
This date has played an active role in the city’s Christmas celebrations, including festive performances at the 19th-century Piper Opera House.
The town kicks off its holiday events on December 5, with the famous Christmas tree lighting.
The next day, the town opened its Grinch doors, prompting me to hit the saloon crawl, which runs from 1 a.m. to 5 p.m. and features holiday-themed drinks.
Later, the city unveiled its parade of lights, which returns on December 13.
Downtown visitors and locals can also visit the St. Mary’s Art Center’s 11th annual Holiday and Senior Center Craft Fair, which features more than 30 vendors offering handmade Christmas gifts.
Local shops are also participating in a holiday decorating contest that local residents can vote on through the Story County Chamber of Commerce.
Stores are also offering a discount for customers who spend more than $25.
Participants have a chance to win one of three overnight stays in Virginia City.
Historic Mackay Mansion is also offering Christmas candlelight tours on December 12, 13, 19 and 20. Tickets can be purchased on the website and cost $35 per person.
People can also enjoy a festive performance at Piper’s Opera House, which is performing “Miracle on Sea Street” several times this month.
Finally, First Presbyterian Church is opening its doors to guests on Dec. 16 from 6 to 8 p.m. for its popular Horseman’s Head Feast, a medieval-themed potluck with live music.
According to Realtor.com, Virginia City can offer a great opportunity to buy an investment property for everyone through the festival, with an average listing price of just $198,250.
The most expensive property currently on the market in Virginia City is a $2.4 million 10-acre estate. It is listed for just over a million dollars at the time of writing.
Other cities to make HGTV’s list were Fairhope, AL; Hot Springs, AR; Solvang, CA; Mystic, CT; Lewis, D.; St. Augustine, FL; Dahlonga, GA; Lihu, Hi; McCall, ID; and Galena, IL.
