Let's be honest for a moment...When most people think of Illinois, their hearts don't fill with holiday joy, BUT the results of a new study might prove the tides are changing!

Is Illinois a State Full of Grinches?

Back in December of 2022, getcenturylink.com published a study that was pretty disappointing to my Christmas-loving heart. The results basically said that Christmas spirit in Illinois was pretty meh, but our Northern neighbors in Wisconsin were killin' it with holiday cheer (and no, I'm not talking about cocktails here).

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The 2022 study by Century Link based their results on the number of Christmas-related searches made in each state, now two years later, another company has done the same thing with far better results in regards to Illinois.

The Most Christmassy U.S. States

The website Preply recently published their 2024 Christmas Spirit Index, and maybe it just my optimist side talking here, but the results gave me  hope that Illinois is becoming a little less Grinch and a lot more Cindy Lou Who...

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So, how did Illinois rank so high? I can only assume that people in this state are busy searching for everything from “best Christmas cookie recipes” to “holiday light displays near me,” or simply searching for the perfect gift and new ways to make the season bright. You go, Illinois!

Now that I've got you in the holiday frame of mind, here's more Christmas fun you should check out in Illinois this year...

Snowman's Reindeer Farm, in Canton, Illinois, is Full of Christmas Magic

Snowman's Reindeer Farm is a prime spot to experience the magic of Christmas in Illinois.

Gallery Credit: JB Love

LOOK: Inside One of Illinois' Most Over-the-Top Christmas-Themed Bars

Check out Santa Baby Bar in Chicago, Illinois

Gallery Credit: JB Love

Galena, Illinois: One of America’s Very Best Christmas Towns

Step into the picture-perfect Christmas town of Galena, Illinois, where holiday magic comes alive. Stroll along Main Street adorned with festive decorations, explore local shops, savor holiday treats, and bask in the cozy holiday atmosphere. A must-visit destination!

Gallery Credit: Steve Shannon