Comedians do their best acts for prizes at the Seattle International Comedy Competition, which holds events at 18 venues in the state. Not suitable for children.
Join 15,000 people burning off Thanksgiving calories at the morning Seattle Marathon and Half Marathon, which begin on the north side of the Museum of Pop Culture, 325 5th Ave. N in Seattle.
GeekCraft Expo Seattle Holiday Market promises “gifts for the geeks on your holiday shopping list” handmade by 100 vendors in Hangar 30 at Magnuson Park, 6310 NE 74th St. in Seattle. Friday is 6 to 9 p.m. and tickets cost more. Children age 12 and younger are free.
Shop for fine art, native crafts, cards, jewelry, smoked salmon, and other food at the Native Art Market at Duwamish Longhouse, 4705 W Marginal Way SW in Seattle.
Admire two dozen designer trees during the annual Festival of Trees Display in the main lobby and down the escalator at Fairmont Olympic Hotel, 411 University St. in Seattle. Teddy Bear Suite upstairs is also free to visit but it’s only open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Vote for your favorite of 12 designer-decorated Christmas trees at Family Preview, with Santa, festive entertainment, and free arts & crafts for kids in the ballroom of The Westin Seattle, 1900 5th Ave. in Seattle.
“Enjoy fine cuisine, exciting games, great company, and a sneak peek performance from Seattle International Dance Festival” by attending the $100 Holiday Winter Shindig at Museum of History and Industry, 860 Terry Ave. N in Seattle. Festive attire is encouraged.
Walk on pathways lit by 600 glowing luminarias, hear a choir and musicians, visit the kids’ craft booth, and enjoy free cookies and cocoa while it lasts during Holiday in the Park at Volunteer Park, 1247 15th Ave. E in Seattle.
See WildLanterns’ amazing luminary displays, have animal encounters, and visit themed lounges selling specialty cocktails and food during $36 Night Owls at Woodland Park Zoo, 5500 Phinney Ave. N in Seattle for age 21+. Your ticket includes a Chinese show in the visitors’ center (5, 6, and 7 p.m.).
The Gothard Sisters “present a high-energy, festive evening weaving together Christmas carols, Celtic tunes and songs, and Irish dancing” at Edmonds Center for the Arts, 410 4th Ave. N in Edmonds.
Holiday Spark promises music, fire pits, a holiday bazaar, food vendors, and visits with costumed characters (Mr. & Mrs. Claus, Christmas Beauty, Ice Queen, Ice Princess, Pixie Pal, Christmas Princess) at Evergreen State Fairgrounds, 14405 179th Ave. SE in Monroe. Parking is $5, or free in the red and yellow parking lots.
A Victorian Country Christmas has 420 booths with vendors in Victorian costumes selling art, jewelry, decorations, clothing, and toys at Washington State Fair Events Center, 110 9th Ave. SW in Puyallup. Free parking, and free for children age 11 and younger. Entertainment schedule.
Twinkle Twinkle promises festive treats, a bonfire, roasted s’mores, cocoa, holiday lights, and carolers singing plus a dance party with break dancers at Seneca Plaza in Freeway Park, 600 Seneca St. in Seattle.
A $56 ticket to Ballard Cocktail Trail includes tastes of 10 “unique hand-crafted cocktails” in boutique shops beginning at Umpqua Bank, 5512 22nd Ave. NW in Seattle. Held in June and December.
Cirque Dreams Holidaze features flying reindeer, jumping gingerbread men, rousing music, amazing costumes, and Santa at The Paramount Theatre, 911 Pine St. in Seattle.
Shop for hand-crafted clothing, jewelry, toys, stationery, art, candles, house wares, and food at Urban Craft Uprising Winter Show in Seattle Center Exhibition Hall, 301 Mercer St. in Seattle. Six food trucks outside. Friday is not free and for age 21+.
Hear dozens of caroling teams sing, and then vote for your favorite at the crowded Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition at Pike Place Market, 85 Pike St. in Seattle.
Get creative with drawing materials, open studios, live models, live music, and food for sale at family-friendly Drawing Jam at Gage Academy of Art, 2107 Westlake Ave. in Seattle. Children age 18 and younger are free. Adult bar available 5 to 8 p.m.
Support great causes by shopping for unique gifts from 36 vendors at Giving Marketplace, with craft-making and live music at Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Discovery Center, 440 5th Ave. N in Seattle.
Run once or twice around Green Lake and then eat cookies at The Electric Cookie Run 5K/10K at Green Lake Park. Begin at Road Runner Sports, 7020 Woodlawn Ave. NE in Seattle.
Family-friendly Holiday Jingle Jam has choirs, soloists, and singalongs of sacred and secular music for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and winter solstice, plus storytelling and food for sale at Amazing Grace Spiritual Center, 2007 NW 61st St. in Seattle.
Winter Solstice Night Market promises 125 vendors, 15 food trucks, cocktail bars, and DJ music inside Hangar 30 at Magnuson Park, 6310 NE 74th St. in Seattle for age 21+. Held in various months.
Buy a $25 ticket online, and then walk to different shops and collect cookies on the Holiday Cookie Crawl, which begins at Discover Burien, 611 SW 152nd St. in Burien.
Enjoy live music, glowing art, a kids’ fashion show, a silent disco, craft making, dance performances, and a family lights parade (6:30 p.m.) at Redmond Lights in Downtown Park, 16101 Redmond Way in Redmond.
Run a half marathon or run 5 miles in beautiful Redmond Watershed Preserve on the Redmond Reindeer Romp Free shuttle from Bear Creek Park & Ride, 7760 178th Place NE in Redmond. Costume contest. No pets.
Run or Wine is a 5K/10K urban run/walk that includes wine tasting (or beer/cider), a race photo to download, and post-race snacks beginning at Dragonfly Sculpture Bridge, 14735 NE 145th St. in Woodinville. Repeats several times a year.
JuleFest has a market of Scandinavian arts and crafts plus food vendors at Sons of Norway, 18891 Front St. NE in Poulsbo. At dusk, a Lucia bride arrives in a Viking boat at waterfront park to light a giant bonfire.
Hear live music at 4 p.m., and at 4:30 p.m. watch lighted vehicles, floats, cars, and walkers go down Main Street from Auburn High School to city hall in the Santa Parade, followed by a tree lighting at city hall.
Watch bands, floats, and walking units in the Santa Parade go south down S. Meridian and then turn west on 5th Ave. SW. The nearby Holiday Market is 12 to 7 p.m. in Pioneer Park Pavilion, 330 S Meridian in Puyallup.
Gather around the fire to sing holiday songs led by a classical singer at Cocoa and Carols. This event is held outdoors under a tent, but you can warm up while exploring the winter flower exhibit inside W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory, 316 S G St. in Tacoma. Donation.
Play parlor games, make ornaments, browse a holiday market, meet Father Christmas, and “pop into the kitchen for a treat” during Christmas Regale at Fort Nisqually Living History Museum, 5519 Five Mile Drive in Tacoma.
PhinneyWood Winter Festival has 140 arts and crafts vendors, musicians and dancers, and lunch and baked goods at Phinney Center, 6532 Phinney Ave. N in Seattle. Children age 12 and younger are free.
Dress up for the all-ages Seattle Indies Holiday Party. Your $55 ticket includes “an all-you-can-eat Latin buffet, pizza & pasta bar, and deserts bar” plus beer, wine, cocktails, and unlimited arcade games at GameWorks, 1511 7th Ave. in Seattle.
“Dress up as Santa Claus or wear your best festive holiday attire” to all-ages An Edmonds Kind of SantaCon, and then visit “bars and restaurants to buy festive drinks, holiday specials, and delicious treats” with caroling (3:45 p.m.) at 5th & Bell in Edmonds. Venues.
Wear a costume or tie on bells for the morning Jingle Bell Run 12K, 5K, 1 mile, or kids’ run at Gas Works Park, 2101 N Northlake Way in Seattle. Walkers may bring dogs or strollers.
Bring things you cooked, made, or do as a service to trade at Barter Fair & Holiday Party. The trading begins at 1:30 p.m. There will be “delicious food and drinks, holiday decorations, and live music” at Old Stove Brewing Gardens, 1550 NW 49th St. in Seattle. $5 donation.
Join the K9 Candy Cane 5K Fun Run and Walk along the beautiful Cedar River Trail, either with or without a leashed dog, which begins at Renton Community Center, 1715 SE Maple Valley Hwy in Renton.
Based on the TV classic, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is a cheerful, song-filled live adventure featuring Santa, Mrs. Claus, the Abominable Snow Monster, Hermey the Elf, and Rudolph at Federal Way Performing Arts and Event Center, 31510 Pete von Reichbauer Way S in Federal Way.
Taste six single malts in a seated, guided tasting format for $93 during Rare Scotch Whisky Tasting Experience at The Barrel Thief, 3417 Evanston Ave. N in Seattle for age 21+.
“Enjoy the beauty of 500 crèches from around the world” plus 150 Christmas trees and live music during Festival of the Nativity at The Mormon Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 15205 SE 28th St. in Bellevue. Music schedule.
See 15 gingerbread houses entered in the Gingerbread Contest and vote for your favorite at Auburn Community & Event Center, 910 9th St. SE in Auburn. Closed Sunday.
Seattle Christmas Market “combines colorful décor, gifts from 80 artisans, enticing food & drink (including beer & mulled wine), and family entertainment” in Fisher Pavilion and on the lawn at Seattle Center, 305 Harrison St. in Seattle. Children age 6 and younger are free. Special events and discounts.
Snowflake Lane is a 25-minute outdoor show with music, lights, falling snow, dancers, and drummers on Bellevue Way between NE 4th & NE 8th. Arrive before streets close at 6 p.m. so you can park and get a good viewing spot. Nearby is a free Holiday Arts Fair at Bellevue Arts Museum (Thurs. to Sun., 4 to 8 p.m.).
Enjoy more than a half million colorful lights with displays at Garden d’Lights in Bellevue Botanical Garden, 12001 Main St. in Bellevue. You must buy timed tickets online. Children age 10 and younger are free. Parking is $5, or free at Wilburton Hill Park. Closed Dec. 25.
Wintertide Lights is a “winter wonderland” every December evening in Evergreen Arboretum and Gardens, next to Legion Memorial Park, 145 Alverson Blvd. in Everett. Enjoy luminaries and music on Dec. 21.
See four displays made mostly of food at Gingerbread Village in Sheraton Grand Seattle, 1400 6th Ave. Open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., extended to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Donation box. The 2024 theme is international cities.
Expect a long line of cars waiting to see the festive houses on Candy Cane Lane, located on Park Rd NE in Seattle. Or choose a night for walkers only (Dec. 10, 15, 19). Open 4 to 9:30 p.m., extended to 11 p.m. Fri. & Sat.
December 10, 2024 - Jan. 5, 2025 (4:30 to 10 p.m.)
(began this month on December 1)
Tacoma (40 miles SW)
Bundle up to admire 800,000 holiday lights and displays at Zoolights at Point Defiance Zoo, 5400 N Pearl St. in Tacoma. The kids’ area has goats. Discounted Dec. 10 to 12. Closed Dec. 24 & 25.
Buy a ticket online, and then drive two miles past “300 elaborate displays” of holiday lights while you hear holiday music on radio station 1700 AM at Fantasy Lights in Spanaway Park, 14905 Bresemann Blvd. S in Spanaway. Discounted after Dec. 25. Open every day.
Tulalip Lights & Ice has 7.8 million lights on plants surrounding the casino entrance ponds and the Tulalip Amphitheater at 10400 34th Ave. NE in Tulalip. Ice skating, food for sale, and a beer garden. Santa’s last day is Dec. 22, 2024.
WildLanterns features “large-scale animal and nature scape lanterns representing wild places from around the globe” including bugs, lions, pandas, parrots, and dragons, with snacks for sale and a performance in the entrance building at Woodland Park Zoo, 5500 Phinney Ave. N in Seattle. See schedule. Closed Dec. 25.
The Tomb Raider Experience is a “cutting-edge immersive experience that guides players through a series of six rooms” during 90 minutes where you solve clues to escape the perilous Temple of Fire at 1122 Post Ave. in Seattle for age 10+. Closed Dec. 25 & Jan. 1.
Bill Radke of KUOW and special guests share highlights and lowlights of 2024, plus a few surprises during $18 Year in Review at Town Hall Seattle, 1119 8th Ave. in Seattle.
A Christmas Carol is Charles Dickens’ holiday classic about the amazing transformation of miserly Scrooge, performed by talented actors with surprising special effects at ACT Theatre, 700 Union St. in Seattle.
Pacific Northwest Ballet performs The Nutcracker by George Balanchine, with a live orchestra, magnificent sets and costumes, and a huge cast in McCaw Hall, 321 Mercer St. at Seattle Center.
Magical nanny Mary Poppins sings catchy tunes, flies through the air, and works her charms on an English family at The 5th Avenue Theatre, 1308 5th Ave. in Seattle for age 4+. For best seats, check recently added shows Dec. 26 to 29.
Land of the Sweets is a polished burlesque version of the Nutcracker ballet with a live jazz band and top-notch dancers who arrive in opulent costumes and depart scantily dressed at The Triple Door, 216 Union St. in Seattle. For age 17+ (or 21+ after 9 p.m.).
Black Nativity by Langston Hughes retells the classic Nativity story with a cast of 30 actors, dancers, vocalists, a rousing choir, and a sing-along at Broadway Performance Hall, 1625 Broadway in Seattle.
Enchant Christmas features a maze where you look for Santa’s timepiece, an ice-skating rink, Christmas shops, food vendors, music, Santa, and photo opportunities indoors at T-Mobile Park, 1250 1st Ave. S in Seattle. Choose an entrance time when buying a ticket. Children age 3 and younger are free. Review by Seattle Times.
Visit Cougar Mountain Zoo when it’s decorated like the North Pole to welcome Santa with his reindeer and sleigh during the Issaquah Reindeer Festival at 19525 SE 54th St. in Issaquah. Santa’s last day is Dec. 23. Closed Dec. 24 & 25.
See a dozen Christmas trees decorated by local businesses during Festival of Trees at White River Valley Museum, 918 H St. SE in Auburn. Closed Mondays, Tuesdays, Dec. 25, and Jan. 1.
Legally Blonde: The Musical is an upbeat song-and-dance tale about a sweet sorority sister named Elle, known for her all-pink wardrobe and her chihuahua Bruiser, who goes to Harvard Law to win back her boyfriend, at Village Theatre, 303 Front St. N in Issaquah.
“Discover a celestial pathway of lustrous light, cosmic visions, and astral song” at Astra Lumina, a pricey walk with special-effects lighting and sound in Seattle Chinese Garden at South Seattle College, 6000 16th Ave. SW in Seattle.
Wear anything from a T-shirt to a tuxedo to GeekWire Gala and “see familiar faces, make new friends, and enjoy “an evening of conversation, tasty treats, and festive cocktails with great music” at Showbox SoDo, 1700 1st Ave. S in Seattle for age 21+. Your $79/$91 ticket includes two drink tickets and heavy appetizers.
Audience suggestions add funny twists to the story of Ebenezer Scrooge and Tiny Tim at $24 An Improvised Christmas Carol at Unexpected Productions Improv, 1428 Post Alley in Seattle.
Holiday Magic promises “breathtaking lights, interactive displays, festive food and drink, and fun for the whole family” including ice skating, a laser light show, a free train ride, and a holiday market at Washington State Fair Events Center, 110 9th Ave. SW in Puyallup. Free parking in the green and blue lots.
Lights twinkle on snow at Village of Lights, including the gazebo in Front Street Park, 820 Front St. in Leavenworth. The nearby Festhalle has gingerbread houses, kids’ crafts, and cocoa. See the schedule for Santa, carolers, and musicians.
See a million lights, beautiful displays, and costumed characters as you drive your car through The Lights of Christmas, 20800 Marine Drive in Stanwood. You can park at Joyland and Santa’s Village to take photos and buy snacks. Santa’s last day is Dec. 23.
Bundle up to watch frightening (PG-13) films at 7 p.m., with music beginning 6 p.m., and “cozy canopies, warm drinks, free popcorn, and candy while supplies last” on Movie Nights at Freeway Park, 700 Seneca St. in Seattle.
The 65 lit and decorated boats in Christmas Ship Parade of Boats sail from South Lake Union to the Fremont Bridge and back. You can buy a ticket to ride on the boat (sold out), or watch from shore along the parade route or at the Official Onshore Viewing Party in Evanston Plaza for free.
An Appalachian Christmas features violinist and composer Mark O’Connor and his wife playing Appalachian music at Meany Center for the Performing Arts, 4040 George Washington Lane NE in Seattle.
Drink local wine in 20 shops during $45 Kirkland Wine, Beer, & Spirits Walk, which begins at Heathman Hotel, 220 Kirkland Ave. in Kirkland. No children or pets. Bring age 21+ ID. Held in multiple months.
Santa Limited is a two-hour ride that includes a gift from Santa, a cookie, and a kids’ craft activity, departing from Northwest Railway Museum, 205 E McClellan St. in North Bend. Tickets are only sold online.
Jurassic Quest is an interactive experience with “80 true-to-life size dinosaurs” plus dinosaur shows and craft activities at Washington State Fair Events Center, 110 9th Ave. SW in Puyallup. Expect long lines for rides. Best for age 8 and younger.
Take a “75-minute round trip to the North Pole” on the Polar Express Train Ride, which includes cocoa, cookies, a sleigh bell, a reading of The Polar Express, and a visit from Santa, departing from Chehalis-Central Railroad & Museum, 1101 SW Sylvenus St. in Chehalis. [Remaining seats may not be together.]
Kringle’s Inventionasium is a colorful “toy factory” where kids meet whacky characters, make a toy, and then meet Santa at 1000 1st Ave. S in Seattle. It debuts here after 15 years in Cleveland with mostly positive reviews.
Winterfest features holiday lights, bands, carolers, comedy, dancers, model trains, vendors, and ice sculptures at Seattle Center. Scroll down their page to see the entertainment schedule. (Seattle Christmas Market is not free.)
(2 to 4 p.m.) — Emerald City Voices sing holiday songs in multi-part harmony.
(3 to 5 p.m.) — Polyrhythmics play originals & holiday classics with funky twist.
Beatles music
December 14, 2024 (7:30 p.m.)
Belltown (0.2 miles W)
Called “the best Beatles show in the world” by the Los Angeles Times, and winners of an Emmy award, The Fab Four recreate the excitement of a Beatles concert for all ages at The Moore Theatre, 1932 2nd Ave. in Seattle.
Watch The Snowman onscreen (rated G) while Seattle Symphony plays the score live at Benaroya Hall, 200 University St. in Seattle. Arrive early for pre-concert activities in the lobby. The movie has captions.
Boats decorated with Christmas lights begin lining up from Aurora Bridge to Gas Works Park at 6:30 p.m. At 7 p.m., Seattle Christmas Boat Parade starts sailing around the lake, past MOHAI, Ivar’s Salmon House, and back to the start.
Bike the Bridge celebrates the official opening of the bridge across SR 520 for bicycles and pedestrians, with hot cocoa, coffee, tea, and snacks followed by a short speech at 11:30 a.m. at 2167 E Hamlin St in Seattle.
“Show up to sing, dance, or quietly glow with the holiday spirit” at $29 Holiday Hootenanny “a boot stomping, hand-clapping evening of holiday song classics, obscurities, and originals with full on audience participation” for all ages at The Royal Room, 5000 Rainier Ave. S in Seattle.
A $26 ticket ($12 students) to Cool Yule Holiday Party and Concert includes “snazzy, jazzy holiday tunes and standards” by BlueStreet Voices and a jazz pianist, with a no-host bar at Woodlawn Hall, 7400 Woodlawn Ave. NE in Seattle.
Take a walk following glowing luminaries on the Pathway of Lights, which includes three live-music stages and hot-air balloons the first hour (if weather allows) at Green Lake Park, 7201 East Green Lake Drive N in Seattle. You are welcome to bring cans for the food bank.
The married couple known as Wild Harbors specializes in “gutsy, lyric-driven songs laced with intricate vocal harmonies.” Hear them sing Christmas songs and carols at the Christmas Concert at Illume Church, 5751 33rd Ave. NE in Seattle.
Wave to police, medics, and fire fighters as you walk by their decorated vehicles and tents during Battle of the Badges: Holiday Lights at Renton Technical College, 3000 NE 4th St. in Renton. Grounds map below shows entrances off Monroe Ave. for parking (1, 2), event walk-in (3), and handicapped parking (4). Optional food donation.
Bring your own glass to $40 Holiday Wine, Beer & Spirits Walk, where you get 10 tastes of “wines, beers, ciders, and spirits” in shops, beginning at Bothell Kenmore Chamber of Commerce, 10031 Main St. in Bothell for age 21+.
See lit Bonsai trees during Winter Bonsai Solstice, with live music, kids’ activities, hot chocolate, and a gift shop at Pacific Bonsai Museum, 2515 S 336th St. in Federal Way. Suggested donation $12.
A $40 ticket to Snohomish Wine Walk includes a glass and 10 tastes of wine at shops in charming downtown Snohomish, beginning at Waltz Building, 116 Avenue B in Snohomish. Bring age 21+ ID. Held in summer, fall, and winter.
The Midwinter Revels is a family-oriented celebration of the winter solstice. Expect music, dance, theater, song, and storytelling at Rialto Theater, 310 S 9th St. in Tacoma. The 2024 theme is “Christmastime in Seneca Village.” Closed Monday.
Buy a ticket online, and then wear a Santa suit or holiday costume and visit a dozen city bars from noon to closing time at SantaCon. It’s illegal to drink on streets or sidewalks.
During the Christmas Ship Festival, ride on the main ship with the choir, or on a follow boat for adults, or watch for free at a 20-minute onshore bonfire (unless the performance is marked P for private in the schedule).
Bubbles Jam is a $67 “festive open-house style party” with 20 champagnes and sparkling wines to taste at Village Wines, 14450 Redmond - Woodinville Road NE in Woodinville.
Dec. 15 & 17 — Jazz pianists play at The Royal Room. Donate at the door. Ticket-free.
Dec. 20 to 22 — Jazz Alley presents a tribute with David Benoit, a band, and a vocalist.
Dec. 26 to 28 — Taproot Theatre performs a musical version with actors.
Wine walk
December 18, 2024 (5 to 8 p.m.)
Fremont (3.5 miles N)
Wear an ugly holiday sweater to $34 Fremont Ugly Sweater Wine Walk, which includes a wine glass and tastes from “wineries, cideries, and distilleries” in 10 locations. Bring age 21+ ID and check in at Homestreet Bank, 3417 Evanston Ave. N in Seattle.
Storm Large brings a rock-’n’-roll edge to the holidays in Holiday Ordeal, a naughty and nice program that mixes classics like O Holy Night with contemporary favorites like 2000 Miles and Sock It to Me Santa at Kirkland Performance Center, 350 Kirkland Ave. in Kirkland for age 12+.
“Dancers command the stage with precision and agility, inviting you on an emotional journey through love and lust” at We Call it Tango. The one-hour show has three acts with live music and atmospheric lighting at Town Hall Seattle, 1119 8th Ave. in Seattle.
Taste pairings of chocolate from Theo Chocolate and cheese from Street Cheese during $93 Chocolate & Cheese Pairing at Theo Chocolate, 3400 Phinney Ave. N in Seattle for age 14+.
Snow Globe features performances by Kristin Chambers, The Mack Grout Trio, and more to benefit Northwest Harvest at The Royal Room, 5000 Rainier Ave. S in Seattle for all ages. Doors open 5:30 p.m. Dinner optional.
A $70 ticket to Winter Beer Fest includes “unlimited tastes of over 40 breweries and 150 beers” with food for sale and Santa in Victory Hall at The Boxyard, 1201 1st Ave. S in Seattle. Bring age 21+ ID. No pets.
Take a luminary forest walk on lit pathways, and make a craft at the Arboretum Winter Solstice Walk for age 21+. Buy a ticket online and then get your free beverage in the visitors center in Washington Park Arboretum, 2300 Arboretum Drive E in Seattle. Limited parking.
Watch model trains run through detailed scenes of the Pacific Northwest, and see railroad-history exhibits at the Model Train Festival at Washington State History Museum, 1911 Pacific Ave. in Tacoma. Free for children age 5 and younger. No library passes. Closed Dec. 24 & 25.
Adults can create luminaries, watch dragon dancing, see glowing art, dance to love & house music played by DJs, and buy food and drinks during $35 Science After Dark: Winter Solstice at Pacific Science Center, 200 2nd Ave. N in Seattle.
You’re welcome to dress for the holidays when you join the Holiday Fun Run (5K, 10K, 15K, kids’ dash), followed by hot chocolate at Magnuson Park, 7400 Sand Point Way NE in Seattle.
Shop for clothing, jewelry, woodworking, drums, and art prints at United Indians Native Art Market in Discovery Park at Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center, 5011 Bernie Whitebear Way in Seattle.
Wonderland is a whimsical winter cabaret and burlesque show that promises “a glittering parade of nostalgia, exploding with dance, laughter, and all the cheer of yesteryear” at Can Can Culinary Cabaret, 95 Pine St. in Seattle for age 21+. Food and drinks for sale.
A Festival of Lessons & Carols presents the story of the Nativity, with readings and carols sung by Northwest Boychoir & Vocalpoint at Benaroya Hall, 200 University St. in Seattle. Additional performances in churches Dec. 13 to 22.
The $42 Emerald City Gala features a hip-hop and alt-rock DJ-centric lineup to support the homeless on two stages at Madame Lou’s and The Crocodile, 2505 1st Ave. in Seattle for age 21+.
See a film about Jewish tradition, hear live Klezmer music, and enjoy free vegetarian noodle take-out at $27 Fiddler on the Roof Sing Along, an annual tradition at SIFF Cinema Uptown, 511 Queen Anne Ave. N in Seattle.
Sacred Music by Duke Ellington features the Seattle Repertory Jazz Orchestra, plus guest vocalists, a gospel choir, and tap dancers at Town Hall Seattle, 1119 8th Ave. in Seattle.
Amazing Bubble Man “explores the breathtaking dynamics of bubbles, combining comedy and artistry with audience participation and enough spellbinding bubble tricks to keep everyone mesmerized” at Kirkland Performance Center, 350 Kirkland Ave. in Kirkland.
A $225 ticket to Elvis Inspired NYE includes drinks and Southern foods like Crayfish Bisque and Pork Chop Blues prepared by Chef Tom Douglas to the songs of Elvis Presley at Hotel Andra, 2000 4th Ave. in Seattle.
Grammy award winning saxophonist Kenny G plays a mix of holiday hits, jazz standards, and more at New Year’s Eve with Kenny G at Dimitriou's Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave. in Seattle. Optional dinner.
Jazzy concert
December 31, 2024 (7 & 10:30 p.m.)
Downtown (0.3 miles NE)
Pink Martini plays its unique blend of “classical, jazz, and old-fashioned pop” at The Paramount Theatre, 911 Pine St. in Seattle.
Vocalists join the Seattle Symphony for a boogie wonderland of non-stop hits including That's the Way (I Like It), It’s Raining Men, I Will Survive, and Stayin’ Alive at New Year's Eve Concert & Party: Disco Fever, followed by a DJ dance party and midnight countdown in the lobby of Benaroya Hall, 200 University St. in Seattle.
“Laugh your way into the new year” at $59 Xtreme Theatresports New Year’s Eve Party, which promises an epic battle of 20 comedy improvisers split into 4 teams, with gifts, hats, streamers, and a champagne toast at Unexpected Productions Improv, 1428 Post Alley in Seattle. Doors open 9 p.m.
A $162 ticket to Great Gatsby New Year’s Eve Party includes your first drink, hors d’oeuvres, a no-host bar, DJ dance music, hats, horns, a midnight champagne toast, and views from the 75th floor at Columbia Tower Club, 701 5th Ave. in Seattle.
A $56 ticket to New Year’s Eve at the Hotel Sorrento includes live entertainment, “chef-prepared light bites and accoutrements,” a midnight champagne toast, a cash bar, and city views from the 7th floor penthouse at Hotel Sorrento, 900 Madison St. in Seattle for age 21+.
These events for age 21+ include DJ dance music, a no-host bar, and views of the Space Needle fireworks if the sky is clear.
Elliott Bay — The $162 New Year’s Eve Cruise departs from Argosy Cruises at both Pier 55 and Salmon Bay in Seattle.
Lake Union — The $225 New Year’s Eve Party Cruise includes specialty appetizers, desserts, and a midnight champagne toast, departing from Waterways Cruises, 901 Fairview Ave. N in Seattle
The $34 New Year’s Eve Party is “an elegant and fun evening of dining, dancing, and a midnight champagne toast” plus a dance lesson for age 21+ in two rooms at Century Ballroom, 915 E Pine St. in Seattle.
A $314 ticket to New Year’s Eve includes two drink tickets, light foods and desserts, a jazz band, a swing band, a midnight champagne toast, and city views from the 21st and 35th floors of the Smith Tower, 506 2nd Ave. in Seattle. Bring age 21+ ID.
The $165 Gatsby’s Penthouse has a prepaid bar, casino games, urban skyline views, and DJ music playing on a “state of the art lighting and sound system” at King Street Ballroom, 255 S King St. in Seattle for age 21+.
A $311 ticket to New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise includes champagne when you board and at midnight, a four-course dinner, party favors, live music, and views of the Space Needle fireworks, departing from Waterways Cruises, 901 Fairview Ave. N in Seattle for age 16+.
The $155 Together As One features Dom Dolla and 20 bands other performing on three stages at WaMu Theater, 800 Occidental Ave. S in Seattle. Requires age 18+ ID.
Watch the glamorous film with Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor at $16 Moulin Rouge: New Year’s Eve Sing-Along at SIFF Cinema Uptown, 511 Queen Anne Ave. N in Seattle. This event ends before midnight.
Begin with a dance lesson at 8:30 p.m., and then dance until 1:30 a.m. at New Year's Eve Tango Bash, which has a masquerade ball theme, a tango performance, live & DJ music, and an “elegant buffet & dessert bar” for $55/$65 at Dance Underground, 340 15th Ave. E in Seattle. Wear black and white and red.
New Year’s Eve Party for age 21+ features seven appetizers, eight courses of Polish cuisine, a dessert station, DJ dance music, and champagne at midnight for $140 at Polish Cultural Center, 1714 18th Ave. in Seattle.
Año Nuevo en el Sur 2025 features the band Orquesta Cambalache, DJ music, a salsa dance lesson, party favors, midnight champagne, and an optional dinner buffet from 8 to 9:30 p.m. at Club Sur, 2901 1st Ave. S in Seattle for age 21+. Tickets are $59 to $124.
Watch two teams of comedians compete for your laughs, and then join the countdown to a 9 p.m. new year “Eastern Standard Time” at $30 ComedySportz NYE for all ages at Csz Seattle, 3509 Fremont Ave. N in Seattle.
Improvised comedy (late show)
December 31, 2024 (10 p.m.)
Fremont (3.3 miles N)
Blue Years Eve features bawdy adult improv by ComedySportz, a midnight champagne toast, music, and dancing in a small theater at Csz Seattle, 3509 Fremont Ave. N for $50.
Dance your way into the new year with Pink Talking Fish playing “a fusion of Pink Floyd, Talking Heads, and Phish” plus Swindler and a midnight countdown during $42 NYE at Nectar Lounge, 412 N 36th St. in Seattle. Bring age 21+ ID. Doors open 8 p.m.
Local artists rotate on and off stage singing holiday cover songs, backed by the Artist Home All-Star band, during $58 Artist Home New Year’s Eve Celebration at Tractor Tavern, 5213 Ballard Ave. NW in Seattle for age 21+. Doors open 8 p.m.
A ticket to East Side Bollywood Family Party includes an Indian buffet, DJ dance music, live singing, belly dancers, party favors, and a midnight champagne toast at Hilton Bellevue, 300 112th Ave. SE in Bellevue.
A $130 ticket to The Midnight Affair: A New Year's Celebration includes entertainment by “cabaret singers and performers bringing you a mix of music, comedy, and burlesque,” passed appetizers, and a midnight toast at W Bellevue, 10455 NE 5th Place in Bellevue. Cocktails extra.
Write a New Year’s message and then drop it into a boat at Burning Boat Festival, which includes “s'mores, hot chocolate, games, and entertainment” by dancers and musicians to support local students at Des Moines Marina Pier, 410 S 222nd St. in Des Moines. The boat is lit at 8 p.m. Donation.
Blue Velvet Groove plays funk/disco/groove with multiple vocalists and a horn section, and balloons drop at midnight at McMenamins Anderson School, 18067 Bothell Way NE in Bothell. Doors open 8 p.m. This $28 event is for age 21+.
Countdown to the New Year is an $83 “black and white affair” with appetizers and small bites, a live band, a no-host bar, and a midnight balloon drop at Hotel Indigo, 1028 13th St. in Everett for age 21+.
Midnight Tropicana New Year’s Eve has a tropical carnival theme, with a DJ playing dance music, aerialist performers, a champagne toast at midnight, and a no-host bar for $77 at Avelon Ballroom, 2315 6th Ave. in Tacoma for age 21+.
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December 2024
