Placerville, California, a city with a history rooted in the Gold Rush and a past nicknamed “Hangtown,” is now a contender for the Hallmark Channel’s “Merriest Christmas Towns” contest. The competition, part of the network's 25th anniversary, aims to find the most festive Christmas town in America.
Founded in 1848 as Dry Diggins, the city earned its notorious moniker “Hangtown” due to frontier justice hangings that occurred during the Gold Rush era when a large influx of newcomers arrived following the discovery of gold in nearby rivers and mountains. The city officially changed its name to Placerville in 1854.
Today, Placerville, home to approximately 10,300 residents, is recognized for its Christmas celebrations. The city is among 25 communities nationwide participating in the Hallmark contest. Its holiday traditions include the Hangtown Christmas Parade, the Hometown Holiday on Main celebration, and Christmas Tree Lane, where a section of Highway 50 is adorned with decorated Christmas trees and lights.
Each participating community has been designated an Official Hallmark Christmas Town. The winner, selected by a panel of judges and public voting, will receive the grand prize of serving as a filming location for a Hallmark movie. The towns are being evaluated based on community spirit, holiday traditions, neighborhood charm, and goodwill.
Other towns in the running include Ashland, Oregon; Bemidji, Minnesota; and Berlin, Maryland. Public voting for the contest is open online daily and will close at 11:59 p.m. ET on September 4, 2026.