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If you’ve ever wished you could step inside a Hallmark holiday movie, December is the perfect time to visit Berkeley Springs, West Virginia. In fact, this charming mountain town was featured in the Hallmark film A Sweet Christmas Romance, thanks to its picturesque downtown park, historic streets, and collection of locally owned boutiques that make every stroll feel like a scene from a holiday classic. This year, the magic is even bigger as the Town of Bath celebrates its 250th anniversary.
Berkeley Springs, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, was named for the healing mineral waters that naturally flow through the area. Founded in 1776, The Town of Bath was created to be America’s first spa town and took its name from that other famed spa town, Bath, England. George Washington and other notables from American history are known to have “taken the waters” here as have generations of Native American travelers. Today’s travelers from the Baltimore region need only drive roughly 90 minutes to reach this charming mountain retreat.
In December, the town feels like a European Christmas Village with chalets and artisans dotting the streets. The celebration begins on Friday, December 4, when downtown businesses invite visitors to enjoy the annual Cocoa Crawl. More than a dozen local shops serve complimentary gourmet hot chocolate while staying open late for holiday shopping. It’s the perfect excuse to bundle up and visit each storefront, discover unique gifts, and warm up with creative cocoa flavors as the town sparkles under Christmas lights.
Staying downtown is the best way to experience everything our Hallmark movie town has to offer—bed and breakfasts, historic inns, and comfortable cottages, all invite visitors to lay their heads at a place where they can simply walk outside and feel immersed in the Christmas spirit.
On Sunday, December 6, history takes center stage as the Town of Bath commemorates 250 years since its founding in 1776. As “America’s First Spa,” Berkeley Springs has welcomed travelers seeking wellness, relaxation, and adventure for centuries. The anniversary celebration will feature special festivities, culminating with a community tree lighting and a fireworks display that honors both the town’s remarkable history and the holiday season.
The walkable downtown is filled with cozy cafes, independent shopping, and luxurious spas creating an atmosphere that is perfect for romantic getaways, family outings, and Christmas-time retreats. You won’t find big box stores, traffic, or the stress of major cities. Berkeley Springs invites visitors to relax and recharge surrounded by small town spirit.
The first and second weekend of December continue the holiday festivities with the Bath Christmas Market, transforming downtown into a European-inspired holiday village filled with handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, festive entertainment, and plenty of opportunities to shop small. Kids will enjoy visits from Mr. and Mrs. Claus, a free ice-skating rink, and the annual Christmas Parade on Saturday evening.
This winter you can explore true small-town America in a real Hallmark movie village. Visit Berkeley Springs, West Virginia—home to America’s First Spa.
