Get ready for a festive season filled with twinkling lights, joyful melodies, and magical experiences as Seattle transforms into a winter wonderland. This year, the city expands its holiday celebration with the return of beloved events and exciting new additions. For the first time, both Enchant and the Seattle Christmas Market will illuminate the city with their unique charm.
Festive Markets and Enchanting Experiences
The Seattle Christmas Market, following its successful inaugural year, will once again fill Fisher Pavilion and South Fountain Lawn with a European-style charm from November 21 to December 24. Explore over 80 stalls showcasing handcrafted goods from local and international artisans, indulge in delicious treats, and warm up with festive beverages. This year’s highlight is the inaugural Lantern Festival parade on December 1 at 5 p.m., offering a breathtaking spectacle of light and color. Early bird tickets are available throughout October.
Enchant returns to T-Mobile Park after a four-year break, bringing its dazzling winter wonderland from November 22 to December 29. Experience the “world’s largest Christmas light maze” under the theme of a magical quest to save the holiday season. The “Santa’s Magic Timepiece” maze invites guests to embark on a whimsical adventure, recovering lost star fragments to restore Christmas cheer. Beyond the maze, Enchant features an ice-skating trail, a new Ferris Wheel experience, stunning photo-ops, visits with Santa, holiday party celebrations, seasonal food and drink, live entertainment, and much more.
For a taste of Nordic tradition, visit the National Nordic Museum’s 47th annual Julefest from November 22-24. Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood will be filled with the spirit of Scandinavia, offering unique wares, traditional foods, and festive cheer.
Pike Place Market will be bursting with holiday magic from November 30 onwards, hosting its 29th Annual Magic in the Market. The nine-acre market will transform into a winter wonderland with festive activities for all ages. Enjoy cookie decorating, sip on eggnog, meet Santa, and witness the Market lighting ceremony at 5 p.m. The event also features the third annual Crafty’s Handmade HoliDAYS, a week-long celebration of kid-friendly arts, crafts, and live holiday music.
Holiday Performances for Every Taste
Seattle’s beloved ACT Theatre continues its cherished tradition of presenting “A Christmas Carol” at the Allen Theatre, bringing the classic tale to life from November 29 to December 27.
For a touch of classical elegance, enjoy Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic “The Nutcracker,” performed by the Pacific Northwest Ballet at McCaw Hall from November 29 to December 28.
The Seattle Men’s Chorus will spread holiday cheer throughout Puget Sound with their festive Ho Ho Ho! Holiday Show, touring from December 1-21.
The Seattle Symphony’s Holiday Pops concerts on December 6-8 feature Conductor Anthony Parnther and pianist Chloe Flower, offering a festive blend of classical and popular holiday music.
Pike Place Market hosts the 39th Annual Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition on December 7 from 12 to 2:30 p.m. This daytime event, a new twist on the tradition, invites teams to carol for a good cause, supporting local senior and food services.
Astonishing Displays of Holiday Cheer
From November 15 to January 19, Woodland Park Zoo’s WildLanterns transforms the zoo into a “Mystical Forest.” Admire illuminated mythical creatures throughout the zoo, creating a magical experience for all ages.
The Sheraton Grand Seattle hosts its annual Gingerbread Village Display from November 21 to January 1, featuring architectural masterpieces made of gingerbread. This delightful display supports the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation.
Experience the magic of the Argosy Christmas Ship Festival, a Seattle tradition since 1949, running from November 29 to December 23. Festive cruises light up the holiday nights, creating a picturesque and heartwarming experience.
Seattle Center Winterfest kicks off with an “Ice Spectacle” on November 29, offering a month of performances, a historic winter train display, a world bazaar at The Armory, and culminating in a spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks show at the Space Needle.
Bellevue Botanical Garden’s Garden d’Lights, illuminating the garden from November 30 to December 31, includes a special “Hands On Hanukkah” night on December 14, offering family-friendly crafts and holiday activities.
Holiday Hotel Packages for a Festive Stay
Enhance your Seattle holiday experience with exclusive hotel packages offering everything from discounts and cocktails to event tickets and spa credits. Hotel Ändra Seattle introduces its Solstice Savings, offering up to 20% off rates and discounted parking.
The Fairmont Olympic Hotel delights with its Teddy Bear Suite and Festival of Trees, both festive fundraisers for Seattle Children’s Hospital.
Hyatt Regency Seattle’s Enchant Winter Package includes tickets to Enchant, complimentary parking, and waived destination fees, ensuring a magical holiday stay.
Seattle is brimming with holiday cheer this season. Whether you’re seeking festive markets, enchanting light displays, captivating performances, or simply a cozy escape, the city offers something for everyone to enjoy. Plan your perfect Seattle holiday today and experience the magic of the season!