Map shows states with the most Christmas spirit

As the holiday season approaches, the spirit of Christmas is felt in various ways—through acts of kindness, generous giving and the joy of being with loved ones—but which states truly embrace the heart of the holiday?

Drawing on data from World Population Review, Newsweek has created a map to show which U.S. states have the most Christmas spirit. The study ranks states based on factors like holiday shopping activity, charitable contributions and the number of Christmas tree farms.

New Hampshire claims the top spot, with its residents displaying an especially high level of holiday cheer. Wisconsin, Utah and West Virginia also shine in terms of festive spirit, consistently demonstrating their commitment to charitable giving and holiday traditions.

Democratic Senator David Watters of New Hampshire told Newsweek his state possesses a “craggy spirit.”

“New Hampshire retains its strong feelings of community during the season, with so many local parades, gatherings, local toy drives by fire departments, tree lightings, Christmas tree farms and a good chance of snow.

“A picturesque landscape, classic villages and downtowns. And that craggy spirit from Robert Frost’s 1916 poem, ‘Christmas Trees’, which shows the state’s resistance to being overwhelmed by the commercial influence.”

The data from 2022 provides a snapshot of how states express these values, reminding us that the holiday season is about more than just festivities—it’s about fostering meaningful connections with others and maintaining good Christmas vibes.

This sentiment was echoed by Democratic Senator Bill Wielechowski of Alaska, which ranks 13th, who told Newsweek: “Alaska has amazing Christmas spirit! Alaska is the home of the North Pole and Santa Claus.

“Where else in America can you ski or snowshoe out on state land under the Northern Lights and freely cut your own Christmas tree? Where else in America do reindeer herds roam free? Alaska is the place to be for the holidays!”

On the other side of the spectrum, larger states such as Mississippi and New York rank lower, which may reflect the challenges of maintaining a strong sense of community and togetherness in highly urbanized regions. The rankings showcase the significance of regional differences, with smaller or more tight-knit communities often reflecting greater holiday enthusiasm.

Mississippi, New York, Oregon and Alabama are among the lowest-ranking states for Christmas spirit. With rankings of 47th, 48th, 49th, and 50th respectively, these areas show less festive engagement than others.

These states exhibit lower levels of festive activity, charitable giving and holiday-related engagement compared with others.

“Christmas spirit” refers to the feelings and attitudes people often associate with the holiday season. It embodies a sense of joy, warmth, kindness and goodwill, as well as an emphasis on togetherness and compassion.

In popular culture, this spirit, as depicted in iconic works of literature and film, often centers on themes of generosity, redemption, familial love and the joy of giving.

In A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, for example, Christmas spirit is exemplified through themes of redemption, generosity and goodwill.

The story conveys that the true spirit of Christmas lies in caring for others, particularly those less fortunate, and fostering joy and love.