Top Christmas Activities in Seattle for Families
October 28, 2024
The holiday season in Seattle is a magical time, with a variety of festive activities and events for families and individuals alike. From dazzling light displays and festive markets to enchanting performances and holiday traditions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking a cozy winter wonderland or a bustling holiday celebration, Seattle offers a diverse range of experiences to make your holiday season truly special.
Holiday Light Displays:
- Bellevue Garden d’Lights:
- Bellevue Garden d’Lights is a breathtaking holiday light display that transforms the Bellevue Botanical Garden into a winter wonderland. As you wander through the enchanting pathways, you’ll be amazed by the intricate light displays, illuminated trees, and festive decorations. The garden is adorned with millions of lights, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for families and couples. Whether you’re strolling through the Japanese Garden, admiring the rose garden, or simply enjoying the festive ambiance, Bellevue Garden d’Lights offers a unique and unforgettable holiday experience.
- Location: Bellevue Botanical Garden, 12000 NE 10th St, Bellevue, WA 98005
- Dates: November 30 – December 31, 2024
- Website: https://bellevuebotanical.org/
- Bellevue Garden d’Lights is a breathtaking holiday light display that transforms the Bellevue Botanical Garden into a winter wonderland. As you wander through the enchanting pathways, you’ll be amazed by the intricate light displays, illuminated trees, and festive decorations. The garden is adorned with millions of lights, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for families and couples. Whether you’re strolling through the Japanese Garden, admiring the rose garden, or simply enjoying the festive ambiance, Bellevue Garden d’Lights offers a unique and unforgettable holiday experience.
- Woodland Park Zoo’s WildLanterns:
- Woodland Park Zoo’s WildLanterns is a captivating holiday event that transforms the zoo into a mesmerizing world of illuminated animal lanterns. As you wander through the zoo, you’ll encounter life-sized lanterns depicting various animals, from majestic elephants to playful otters. The intricate details and vibrant colors bring these animals to life, creating a truly magical experience for visitors of all ages. In addition to the stunning lanterns, WildLanterns also features festive lights, holiday music, and special activities for families. It’s a truly unforgettable way to celebrate the holiday season in Seattle.
- Location: Woodland Park Zoo, 5500 Phinney Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103
- Dates: November 15, 2024 – January 19, 2025
- Times 4:00 – 9:00 p.m.
- Website: https://www.zoo.org/
- Woodland Park Zoo’s WildLanterns is a captivating holiday event that transforms the zoo into a mesmerizing world of illuminated animal lanterns. As you wander through the zoo, you’ll encounter life-sized lanterns depicting various animals, from majestic elephants to playful otters. The intricate details and vibrant colors bring these animals to life, creating a truly magical experience for visitors of all ages. In addition to the stunning lanterns, WildLanterns also features festive lights, holiday music, and special activities for families. It’s a truly unforgettable way to celebrate the holiday season in Seattle.
- ZooLights at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium:
- ZooLights at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is a beloved holiday tradition that transforms the zoo into a magical winter wonderland. Over a million dazzling lights illuminate the park, bringing the animals to life in stunning displays. From towering trees to intricate animal sculptures, every corner of the zoo is a sight to behold. As you wander through the illuminated pathways, you’ll encounter festive music, delicious food, and unique shopping opportunities. Whether you’re marveling at the majestic creatures or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere, ZooLights is an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
- Location: 5400 N Pearl St, Tacoma, WA 98407
- Dates: November 29, 2024 – January 5, 2025
- Website: https://www.pdza.org/
- ZooLights at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is a beloved holiday tradition that transforms the zoo into a magical winter wonderland. Over a million dazzling lights illuminate the park, bringing the animals to life in stunning displays. From towering trees to intricate animal sculptures, every corner of the zoo is a sight to behold. As you wander through the illuminated pathways, you’ll encounter festive music, delicious food, and unique shopping opportunities. Whether you’re marveling at the majestic creatures or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere, ZooLights is an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
- Holiday Lights & Delights
- Unleash the festive spirit in Seattle! While Magic in the Market at Pike Place Market is a cherished tradition, there’s a whole wonderland of holiday cheer waiting to be discovered. Explore the Downtown Seattle Association’s Holiday Events Page for a complete calendar bursting with dazzling light displays, bustling holiday markets, heartwarming performances, and family-friendly activities. From the iconic tree lighting ceremony at Westlake Park to festive shopping experiences and captivating entertainment, this website is your ultimate guide to crafting unforgettable holiday memories in the heart of Seattle. So grab your loved ones, embrace the winter spirit, and get ready to experience the magic of the season in the Emerald City!
- Location: Westlake Park
- Dates: December TBA
- website: www.downtownseattle.org/holidays
- Unleash the festive spirit in Seattle! While Magic in the Market at Pike Place Market is a cherished tradition, there’s a whole wonderland of holiday cheer waiting to be discovered. Explore the Downtown Seattle Association’s Holiday Events Page for a complete calendar bursting with dazzling light displays, bustling holiday markets, heartwarming performances, and family-friendly activities. From the iconic tree lighting ceremony at Westlake Park to festive shopping experiences and captivating entertainment, this website is your ultimate guide to crafting unforgettable holiday memories in the heart of Seattle. So grab your loved ones, embrace the winter spirit, and get ready to experience the magic of the season in the Emerald City!
Holiday Events and Shows:
- Winterfest at Seattle Center:
- Winterfest at Seattle Center is a beloved holiday tradition that transforms the iconic Seattle Center into a winter wonderland. This festive event offers a variety of activities for the whole family, including ice skating, holiday shopping, and live entertainment. The centerpiece of Winterfest is the magnificent Christmas tree, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights. Visitors can also enjoy the enchanting Ice Rink, where they can glide across the ice and capture memorable moments. The Winterfest Market features unique gifts, handcrafted items, and delicious treats from local vendors. With its festive atmosphere, dazzling lights, and exciting activities, Winterfest is a must-visit destination for families and individuals alike.
- Location: Seattle Center, 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109
- Dates: November 29 – December 31, 2024
- Website: https://www.seattlecenter.com/events/featured-events/winterfest
- Winterfest at Seattle Center is a beloved holiday tradition that transforms the iconic Seattle Center into a winter wonderland. This festive event offers a variety of activities for the whole family, including ice skating, holiday shopping, and live entertainment. The centerpiece of Winterfest is the magnificent Christmas tree, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights. Visitors can also enjoy the enchanting Ice Rink, where they can glide across the ice and capture memorable moments. The Winterfest Market features unique gifts, handcrafted items, and delicious treats from local vendors. With its festive atmosphere, dazzling lights, and exciting activities, Winterfest is a must-visit destination for families and individuals alike.
- Pacific Northwest Ballet’s The Nutcracker:
- The Pacific Northwest Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker is a beloved holiday tradition in Seattle. This enchanting ballet, set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, transports audiences to a magical world of sugarplums, toy soldiers, and the Land of Sweets. The company’s talented dancers bring the story to life with breathtaking choreography, stunning costumes, and captivating performances. From the moment the curtain rises to the final curtain call, The Nutcracker is a feast for the eyes and ears. Whether you’re a child or an adult, you’ll be captivated by the magic and wonder of this timeless ballet.
- Location: McCaw Hall, Seattle Center, 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109
- Dates: November 29 – December 28, 2024
- Website: https://www.pnb.org/season/
- The Pacific Northwest Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker is a beloved holiday tradition in Seattle. This enchanting ballet, set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, transports audiences to a magical world of sugarplums, toy soldiers, and the Land of Sweets. The company’s talented dancers bring the story to life with breathtaking choreography, stunning costumes, and captivating performances. From the moment the curtain rises to the final curtain call, The Nutcracker is a feast for the eyes and ears. Whether you’re a child or an adult, you’ll be captivated by the magic and wonder of this timeless ballet.
- Seattle Children’s Theatre’s Holiday Show:
- Location: Seattle Children’s Theatre, 201 Mercer St, Seattle, WA 98109
- Dates: Typically December
- Website: https://www.sct.org/
- Snowflake Lane at Bellevue Square:
- Snowflake Lane at Bellevue Square is a magical holiday experience that transforms the shopping center into a winter wonderland. As you stroll along the lane, you’ll be enchanted by falling snow, festive music, and colorful lights. Santa Claus and his elves greet visitors with warmth and cheer, creating a memorable experience for children of all ages. The charming shops and restaurants lining the lane offer a variety of holiday treats and gifts. With its festive atmosphere and enchanting sights and sounds, Snowflake Lane is a must-visit destination for families during the holiday season.
- Location: Bellevue Square, 550 Bellevue Square, Bellevue, WA 98004
- Dates: Typically November to December
- Website: https://bellevuecollection.com/shop/guide/
- Snowflake Lane at Bellevue Square is a magical holiday experience that transforms the shopping center into a winter wonderland. As you stroll along the lane, you’ll be enchanted by falling snow, festive music, and colorful lights. Santa Claus and his elves greet visitors with warmth and cheer, creating a memorable experience for children of all ages. The charming shops and restaurants lining the lane offer a variety of holiday treats and gifts. With its festive atmosphere and enchanting sights and sounds, Snowflake Lane is a must-visit destination for families during the holiday season.
- Downtown Christmas Events:
- To discover a full calendar of holiday events throughout the city, head over to Downtown Seattle Association’s Holiday Events Page. From dazzling light displays and festive markets to heartwarming performances and family-friendly activities, this website is your one-stop shop for creating lasting holiday memories in Seattle. So bundle up, grab your loved ones, and get ready to experience the magic of the season in the Emerald City!
- Dates: November – December
- Location: Downtown Seattle
- Website: https://downtownseattle.org/events/holidays/
- To discover a full calendar of holiday events throughout the city, head over to Downtown Seattle Association’s Holiday Events Page. From dazzling light displays and festive markets to heartwarming performances and family-friendly activities, this website is your one-stop shop for creating lasting holiday memories in Seattle. So bundle up, grab your loved ones, and get ready to experience the magic of the season in the Emerald City!
- Enchant Christmas at T-Mobile Park:
- Enchant Christmas at T-Mobile Park is a dazzling holiday experience that transforms the ballpark into a winter wonderland. This immersive event features a magical light maze, ice skating rink, festive market, and Santa’s Village. As you wander through the illuminated maze, you’ll be captivated by the intricate light displays and enchanting atmosphere. Enchant Christmas offers a variety of activities for all ages, making it the perfect holiday outing for families and friends.
- Location: T-Mobile Park, Seattle, WA
- Dates: November 22 – December 29, 2024
- Website: https://www.enchantchristmas.com/programs/seattle-wa-tmobile-park
- Enchant Christmas at T-Mobile Park is a dazzling holiday experience that transforms the ballpark into a winter wonderland. This immersive event features a magical light maze, ice skating rink, festive market, and Santa’s Village. As you wander through the illuminated maze, you’ll be captivated by the intricate light displays and enchanting atmosphere. Enchant Christmas offers a variety of activities for all ages, making it the perfect holiday outing for families and friends.
Holiday Shopping and Activities:
- Magic at the market:
- Magic in the Market is a beloved holiday tradition at Pike Place Market. As the festive season approaches, the market transforms into a winter wonderland, adorned with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the aroma of delicious holiday treats. Visitors can wander through the bustling stalls, browsing for unique gifts and sampling local delicacies. The market comes alive with carolers, live music, and special holiday performances. Santa Claus also makes an appearance, spreading joy and excitement among children of all ages. With its charming atmosphere and festive spirit, Magic in the Market is a must-visit destination for families and individuals alike.
- Date: Saturday, November 30, 2024
- Time: 11:00am – 5:30pm
- Location: Pike Place Market, 85 Pike Street, Seattle, WA 98101
- Website: https://www.pikeplacemarket.org/events-calendar/29th-annual-magic-in-the-market/
- Magic in the Market is a beloved holiday tradition at Pike Place Market. As the festive season approaches, the market transforms into a winter wonderland, adorned with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the aroma of delicious holiday treats. Visitors can wander through the bustling stalls, browsing for unique gifts and sampling local delicacies. The market comes alive with carolers, live music, and special holiday performances. Santa Claus also makes an appearance, spreading joy and excitement among children of all ages. With its charming atmosphere and festive spirit, Magic in the Market is a must-visit destination for families and individuals alike.
- Westlake Center:
- Location: 400 Pine St, Seattle, WA 98101
- Holiday Train & Village at Seattle Center:
- Location: Seattle Center, 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109
- Seattle Christmas Market
- Seattle’s Christmas Market is a festive event that brings the magic of the holiday season to the city. With its charming wooden stalls, twinkling lights, and the aroma of delicious treats, the market offers a unique shopping experience. You can find a variety of handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and holiday decorations from local artisans. From cozy sweaters to gourmet food, there’s something for everyone. The market also features live music, festive performances, and opportunities to meet Santa Claus, creating a truly magical atmosphere for families and friends.
- Dates: November 21 – December 24, 2024
- Location: South Fountain Lawn and Fischer Pavillion
- Website: https://seattlechristmasmarket.com/
- Seattle’s Christmas Market is a festive event that brings the magic of the holiday season to the city. With its charming wooden stalls, twinkling lights, and the aroma of delicious treats, the market offers a unique shopping experience. You can find a variety of handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and holiday decorations from local artisans. From cozy sweaters to gourmet food, there’s something for everyone. The market also features live music, festive performances, and opportunities to meet Santa Claus, creating a truly magical atmosphere for families and friends.
- Festival of Trees at the Fairmont Olympic Hotel:
- Stop by The Fairmont Olympic to see over 20 uniquely themed, professionally decorated Christmas trees displayed throughout the hotel, each telling the inspiring stories of this year’s Seattle Children’s patients. Proceeds benefit Seattle Children’s Hospital Uncompensated Care and Autism Center.
- Dates: November 21st – December 2nd
- Location: Fairmont Olympic Hotel 411 University St. Seattle, WA 98101
- Website: https://www.fairmontolympic.com/happenings-at-fairmont-olympic/festive-season-at-fairmont-olympic/
- Stop by The Fairmont Olympic to see over 20 uniquely themed, professionally decorated Christmas trees displayed throughout the hotel, each telling the inspiring stories of this year’s Seattle Children’s patients. Proceeds benefit Seattle Children’s Hospital Uncompensated Care and Autism Center.
- Teddy Bear Suite at The Fairmont Olympic Hotel
- The Teddy Bear Suite at The Fairmont Olympic Hotel is a magical experience for children during the holiday season. This luxurious suite is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with plush toys, holiday decorations, and a cozy atmosphere. Children can enjoy a variety of activities, such as building teddy bears, playing games, and reading stories. The Teddy Bear Suite is a delightful way to create lasting memories with your family during the holidays.
- Dates: November 29th – January 2nd, 2025
- Hours: 10am – 5pm
- Website: https://www.fairmontolympic.com/happenings-at-fairmont-olympic/festive-season-at-fairmont-olympic/
- The Teddy Bear Suite at The Fairmont Olympic Hotel is a magical experience for children during the holiday season. This luxurious suite is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with plush toys, holiday decorations, and a cozy atmosphere. Children can enjoy a variety of activities, such as building teddy bears, playing games, and reading stories. The Teddy Bear Suite is a delightful way to create lasting memories with your family during the holidays.
- Gingerbread Village at Sheraton Grand Seattle:
- The Sheraton Grand Seattle’s Gingerbread Village is a beloved holiday tradition that brings joy to visitors of all ages. Each year, talented architects and pastry chefs create intricate and imaginative gingerbread houses that showcase their creativity and skill. As you wander through the display, you’ll be amazed by the intricate details and whimsical designs. The Gingerbread Village not only delights the senses but also supports a worthy cause, as proceeds benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
- Address: Sheraton Grand Seattle 1400 6th Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
- Dates/Times: November 21st, 2024 – January 1st, 2025
- Sunday – Thursday 9:00am – 9:00pm
- Friday – Saturday 9:00am – 11:00pm
- Website: https://www.breakthrought1d.org/pacificnorthwest/2024/10/21/sheraton-grand-seattle-gingerbread-village/
- The Sheraton Grand Seattle’s Gingerbread Village is a beloved holiday tradition that brings joy to visitors of all ages. Each year, talented architects and pastry chefs create intricate and imaginative gingerbread houses that showcase their creativity and skill. As you wander through the display, you’ll be amazed by the intricate details and whimsical designs. The Gingerbread Village not only delights the senses but also supports a worthy cause, as proceeds benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
Want to capture priceless family memories this year? Go ahead and contact me about booking this winter…
