Jingle Bell, Jingle Bell, Jingle Bell Parks

Most parks used to call it a season soon after Labor Day. But, over the last few years, the majority has remained open for Halloween events. More recently, however, seasonal parks--even ones in places where the mercury can dip well below freezing and snow is likely--have been extending their seasons straight through to January with festive holiday celebrations. Joining the holiday hoopla this year are Six Flags Fiesta Texas in San Antonio and Six Flags Discovery Kingdom near San Francisco. Want to know where else to find bazillions of twinkling lights, visits from St. Nick, elaborate holiday-themed stage shows, and, yes, coasters and other rides amid winter's chill? Put on your thermal-lined Santa cap and peruse About.com's park guide to Christmas and holiday events.

• Silver Dollar City's An Old Time Christmas Photo Gallery
• Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas Photo Gallery