Getting into the holiday spirit is easy in the Danish Villages. Celebrate the weekend after Thanksgiving at Julefest, which offers visitors a way to kick start the Christmas season.

For 38 years, this magical festival has warmed hearts and provided a way to celebrate all things Danish. Julefest promises an array of traditional Danish food and tasty treats such as pastries, wine, glögg, pebbernødder, and rollepølse. Search for unique Christmas presents and decorations at gift shops, specialty stores and craft fairs in both towns. Make the most of a winter’s day and listen to a Christmas concert, and watch for Father Christmas strolling through town.

Elk Horn and Kimballton are in southwest Iowa, off I-80, 6 and 9 miles north of Exit 54; no passport is required and Jul Love It!