Illinois Town Named Merriest Christmas City By Hallmark

Illinois Town Named Merriest Christmas City By Hallmark: NBC says Carlinville, Illinois has been named Hallmark’s Merriest Christmas Town for 2026.  Carlinville made the final 25, then won after public voting and an evaluation by a panel of judges. The town is between Springfield and St. Louis. It is known for its historic square, holiday light ceremony and seasonal festivities.  Carlinville also hosts a Christmas market and other holiday events each Winter. It is home to the world’s largest continuous  collection of original Sears catalog homes in one neighborhood. Hallmark may use Carlinville  to film a future holiday movie.