In the weeks leading up Christmas, holiday markets open across Europe and America as part of an annual tradition. Crowds gather to watch Christmas carolers, lantern processions, and tree lightings; otherwise, they're there to browse stands of handmade gifts, toys, and decorations.

There's never really a bad time to take the family on a trip to one (or more!) of the country's stunning national parks, but now is an incredibly opportune time to start planning your next group getaway to the great outdoors.

There are bars with unique clienteles all across the U.S., but some play host to some more interesting patrons than you'll find anywhere else: yes, we're talking about ghosts, spirits, and shades. Deal with it.