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 has limited hours. An annual gala dinner is held in the ballroom.
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 early to park and find a good viewing spot. Sections of Bellevue Way and NE 6th Street are closed (6 to 7:45 p.m.).
Bundle up to admire 1.5 million holiday lights and displays at Zoolights at Point Defiance Zoo, 5400 N Pearl St. in Tacoma. Closed Dec. 24 & 25. Pay to bring your dog on some nights.
Victorian Christmas Festival has musicians, Santa Claus, and 420 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 in gold and blue lots. Free admission for children age 12 and younger.
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.
Twinkle Twinkle promises a bonfire, roasted s’mores, cocoa, holiday lights, seasonal crafts, and carolers singing at Seneca Plaza in Freeway Park, 600 Seneca St. in Seattle.
Shop 150 vendors 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. Seven food trucks parked outside. Friday is a preview for adults only (5 to 9 p.m.).
Friday Night Celebrations include live entertainment, food vendors, craft activities, cool art made of lights, and a family parade the first night at Downtown Park, 16101 Redmond Way in Redmond.
Scandinavian Christmas FREE
December 5, 2026
Poulsbo (22 miles NW via ferry)
JuleFest has a market of Scandinavian arts & crafts opening at 10 a.m., plus food vendors opening at 11 a.m. 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 as the Santa Parade goes south down S. Meridian (from Main St. to 6th Ave.). The nearby Holiday Market is 12 to 7 p.m. in Pioneer Park Pavilion, 330 S Meridian in Puyallup.
PhinneyWood Winter Festival has 140 arts & crafts vendors, musicians, dancers, food booths, and a bake sale at Phinney Center, 6532 Phinney Ave. N in Seattle. Children age 12 and younger are free. Friday evening is a preview for adults only (5 to 8 p.m.).
Buy a ticket online, put on a Santa suit or holiday costume, and then visit a dozen city bars from noon to closing time at SantaCon. It’s illegal to drink on streets or sidewalks.
Santa Limited is a two-hour ride that includes a gift from Santa, cookies and hot chocolate, and a kids’ craft activity, departing from Northwest Railway Museum, 205 E McClellan St. in North Bend. Buy your ticket online.
Saint Mark’s Evensong Choir performs its monthly Choral Evensong service in the cathedral nave at Saint Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral, 1245 10th Ave. E in Seattle.
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.
Take a walk following glowing luminaries on the Pathway of Lights, with “warm drinks, sweet treats, sponsor giveaways, and musical performances” at Green Lake Park, 7201 East Green Lake Drive N 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.
See lit Bonsai trees during Winter Bonsai Solstice, with holiday lights, music, free hot chocolate, and a gift shop at Pacific Bonsai Museum, 2515 S 336th St. in Federal Way. Free including parking. Flashlights welcome.
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. Dogs and strollers are welcome.
Monthly Columbia City Night Market has 8 food trucks, 20 makers and vendors, live music, and a beer garden on 37th Avenue S. (from S. Ferdinand to S. Edmunds). Walk 10 minutes from Columbia City rail station to 4850 37th Ave. S 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.
A ticket to Splash includes an open bar, “small bites and desserts,” dancing, and behind-the-scenes views of Seattle Aquarium, 1483 Alaskan Way Pier 59 in Seattle for age 21+ ID. The dinner option is $250.
See a film about Jewish tradition, hear live klezmer music, and enjoy free vegetarian noodle take-out at Fiddler on the Roof Sing Along, an annual tradition at SIFF Cinema Uptown, 511 Queen Anne Ave. N in Seattle.
A $184 ticket to One Night in Osaka includes 4 drink tickets, 6 food tickets (made by chefs from five Seattle Japanese restaurants), entertainment, and DJ dance music at 415 Westlake Avenue N. for age 21+. Dress in black and gold.
New Year’s Eve restaurants
December 31, 2026
multiple locations
OpenTable lists restaurants that offer special menus and celebrations on New Year’s Eve.
Jazz party
December 31, 2026
Downtown (0.3 miles SW)
New Year's Eve with The Hot Sardines in the auditorium is followed by a DJ dance party “with dancing, champagne, and revelry” to ring in the new year in the lobby of Benaroya Hall, 200 University St. in Seattle.
Watch the Space Needle’s fireworks through the windows of the city’s tallest building at $161 Jackpot at the Top, which features classic casino games and has “hosted snacks and shareable bites available for purchase” atop Columbia Center, 700 4th Ave. in Seattle for age 21+. A ticket with open-bar is $244.
Watch the Space Needle fireworks from the water, with a no-host bar on all cruises and DJ dance music on the adult cruises.
Elliott Bay — Fireworks Viewing Cruise departs from Argosy Cruises at Pier 55 in Seattle for all ages.
Elliott Bay — New Year’s Eve Cruise includes a midnight champagne toast and departs from Argosy Cruises at your choice of Pier 55 or Lake Union for age 21+.
Lake Union — New Year’s Eve Party Cruise includes light bites, snacks, and a midnight champagne toast, departing from Waterways Cruises, 901 Fairview Ave. N in Seattle for age 21+.
The New Year’s Eve pARTy includes appetizers & dessert, two drink tickets, live music and dancing, a tour of the exhibits, and a champagne toast with a view of the Space Needle’s fireworks through the Glasshouse ceiling at Chihuly Garden and Glass at Seattle Center for age 21+.
Giant New Year’s party
December 31, 2026
Seattle Center (0.9 miles NW)
Indulgence is billed as Seattle’s biggest New Year’s Eve bash, with 1,500 guests, comedy, dance music, dancers, and access to most exhibits in the Museum of Pop Culture at Seattle Center for age 21+.
Party – Smith Tower
December 31, 2026
Downtown (0.9 miles SE)
A ticket to New Year’s Eve includes “welcome champagne, lights bites, desserts, a midnight champagne toast,” DJ dance music, a no-host bar, and city views from atop the Smith Tower, 506 2nd Ave. in Seattle. Bring age 21+ ID.
Spectra: New Year’s Eve Under the Arches has laser shows, science exhibits and live demos, games, dancing to DJ music, a champagne toast, a cash bar, food for sale, and a view of the Space Needle fireworks at midnight at Pacific Science Center for age 21+.
Early New Year’s dance party
December 31, 2026
Pioneer Square (1.5 miles S)
Wear white and gold to Resolution, a massive concert with 13 DJs playing dance music on two stages at WaMu Theater, 800 Occidental Ave. S in Seattle. Bring age 18 ID, age 21 for the bar.
Movie: Moulin Rouge
December 31, 2026
Lower Queen Anne (1.5 miles NW)
Watch the glamorous film with Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor at Moulin Rouge: New Year’s Eve Sing-Along at SIFF Cinema Uptown, 511 Queen Anne Ave. N in Seattle. This event ends before midnight.
Cirque Du Bollywood New Year’s Eve has aerial circus performances, food and drinks for sale, and a DJ playing Bollywood pop music as “state-of-the-art light and sound light up the large dance floor” at Emerald City Trapeze Arts, 2702 6th Ave. S in Seattle. Bring age 21+ ID.
Elegant party
December 31, 2026
SoDo (3.2 miles S)
“Dress in your finest black and white attire” for Black and White New Year’s Ball, which has a 10-piece orchestra and vocalist performing Sinatra classics, swing numbers, and contemporary dance hits, followed by a DJ at midnight. The $114 ticket includes a cocktail, party hats, noisemakers, and midnight champagne at Metropolist Events, 2931 1st Ave. S in Seattle for age 21+.
Local artists rotate on and off stage singing holiday cover songs, backed by the Artist Home All-Star band, during Artist Home’s New Year’s Eve Celebration at Tractor Tavern, 5213 Ballard Ave. NW in Seattle for age 21+. Doors open 8 p.m.
The New Year’s Eve Party in the Clubhouse Casino features the Sonic Funk Orchestra playing 1970s disco-dance party music at 9 p.m., a casino, a free champagne toast at midnight, and free parking for age 21+.
Eastside Roaring ‘20s party
December 31, 2026
Carnation (27 miles E)
A ticket to New Year’s Eve Roaring ‘20s includes “sumptuous appetizers inspired by the 1920s,” a no-host bar, dancing to an electro swing band, and a champagne toast plus a fireworks show at midnight in the hippodrome at Carnation Farms, 28901 NE Carnation Farm Road in Carnation.
Christmas ships
December 2026 (undated)
Seattle, Renton, Kirkland
During the Christmas Ship Festival, ride on the main ship with the choir, or on a follow boat, or watch for free at a 20-minute onshore event (unless the performance is marked P for private in the schedule). Some onshore events have bonfires.
Seattle Men’s Chorus sings seasonal favorites and leads a sing-along in their show Holly Jolly Jingle. (The morning show on Dec. 20 is a short version for kids.)
See a Broadway style production live onstage at Pantages Theater in Tacoma.
Family Christmas event FREE
December 2026 (undated)
Downtown (0.1 miles N)
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.
An Appalachian Christmas features violinist and composer Mark O’Connor and his wife Maggie playing Appalachian music at Dimitriou's Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave. in Seattle. Dinner seating is available.
Urban Craft Uprising features 100 vendors of “handmade jewelry, custom art, gourmet treats, and cozy home goods” at Eleventh Hour Makers Market on the concourse level of the former Barnes & Noble at Pacific Place, 600 Pine St. in Seattle.
Enjoy furry costumes, art vendors, games, panel discussions, and a masquerade dance at Anthro Northwest at Hyatt Regency Seattle, 808 Howell St. in Seattle. See minors policy if younger than age 18.
Dress up for the all-ages Seattle Indies Holiday Party. which 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.
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 theme changes each year. The 2025 theme is Toy Shop Time Machine.
The Grammy Award winning Blind Boys of Alabama blend classic gospel with authentic soul and blues and perform “holiday standards” at Dimitriou's Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave. in Seattle.
Kenny G
December 2026 (undated)
Downtown (0.2 miles NW)
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.
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.).
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.
Watch The Muppet Christmas Carol onscreen (rated G) while Seattle Symphony plays the score live at Benaroya Hall, 200 University St. in Seattle for age 5+.
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.
New Year’s Eve with The Dusty 45s features a band “electrifying audiences with their raw energy and timeless sound” at The Triple Door, 216 Union St. in Seattle. The 7 p.m. show includes dinner for all ages, and the 10 p.m. show includes a countdown package for age 21+.
National Geographic Live presents scientists, photographers, filmmakers, and adventurers live on stage with amazing photos and video at Benaroya Hall, 200 University St. in Seattle.
Audience suggestions add funny twists to the story of Ebenezer Scrooge and Tiny Tim at An Improvised Christmas Carol at Unexpected Productions Improv, 1428 Post Alley 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. Simlar in Olympia.
“Laugh your way into the new year” at 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.
Bill Radke of KUOW and special guests share highlights and lowlights of 2026, plus a few surprises during Year in Review at Town Hall Seattle, 1119 8th Ave. 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.
A ticket to Pearl-Jama NYE Soiree includes an open bar, passed bites, DJ music, a midnight champagne toast, and views of the Space Needle fireworks (weather permitting) from the 75th floor at Columbia Tower Club, 701 5th Ave. in Seattle for age 21+.
Roaring ‘20s New Year’s Eve includes a glass of champagne, live entertainment, a dance band, a midnight toast, a no-host bar, and city views from the 7th floor penthouse and ballroom at Hotel Sorrento, 900 Madison St. in Seattle for age 21+.
Black Nativity by Langston Hughes tells the story of the first Christmas with a cast of 30 actors, dancers, vocalists, a rousing choir, and a sing-along at Broadway Performance Hall, 1625 Broadway in Seattle.
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. Holiday movies shown some evenings. (The outdoor Christmas Market is not free.)
West Coast Swing Winter Formal has DJ music, a bar, a beginner’s lesson at 9 p.m., and social dancing from 9:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. at Reverie Ballroom, 915 E Pine St. in Seattle.
Support great causes by shopping for unique gifts from 31 vendors at Giving Marketplace, with family-friendly holiday activities and art-making at Gates Foundation Discovery Center, 440 5th Ave. N in Seattle.
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. Closed Thanksgiving Day.
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.
“Enjoy fine cuisine (dinner & drinks), exciting games, great company, and a sneak peek performance from Seattle International Dance Festival” by attending Holiday Winter Shindig at Museum of History and Industry, 860 Terry Ave. N in Seattle. Festive attire is encouraged.
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.
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+.
Kringle’s Inventionasium is a colorful “toy factory” where kids meet whacky characters, make a toy, and then meet Santa for photos at 1000 1st Ave. S in Seattle. Extra fee to keep the toy. Children younger than two years old are free.
Slacker's New Years Eve Party and Show includes party favors, dessert, a glass of champagne or sparkling cider to toast at midnight, and a “Northwest showcase of hilarious stand-up comedy” at Club Comedy, 328 15th Ave. E in Seattle for age 21+. Doors open 9 p.m., show 10 p.m.
Begin with a dance lesson at 8:30 p.m., and then dance until 1:30 a.m. at New Year's Eve Tango Ball, which has a masquerade ball theme, a tango performance, live & DJ music, and an “elegant buffet & dessert bar” at Dance Underground, 340 15th Ave. E in Seattle. The theme in 2025 is black and white.
A ticket to Capitol Hill Holiday Wine Walk includes a wine glass and 10 tickets for tastes in local shops. No children or pets. Begin at KeyBank, 321 15th Ave. E in Seattle.
“Discover bold short films and connect with the artists who bring them to life” during Scope Screenings: Season Finale at Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute, 104 17th Ave. S in Seattle. Doors open 7 p.m. Expect “narrative shorts, music videos, feature trailers, commercials, and experimental horizontal content.”
A ticket to New Year’s Eve Ball includes dessert, a glass of wine, a band playing Polish and French music, and a midnight champagne toast followed by dinner at Polish Cultural Center, 1714 18th Ave. in Seattle for age 21+.
Wear anything from a T-shirt to a tuxedo to GeekWire Gala for “a festive night of food (heavy appetizers), drinks, karaoke, games, and dancing” at Showbox SoDo, 1700 1st Ave. S in Seattle for age 21+.
A 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.
Año Nuevo en el Sur 2026 features the band Frecuencia Acustica, 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+. Optional dinner.
Midwinter Magic begins with a cocktail hour at 6 p.m., followed at 7 p.m. by a dance party with a band playing “high energy music” to support non-traditional lifestyles at Club Sur, 2901 1st Ave. S in Seattle.
NYE at Mr. P.P.’s Clubhouse is a “culinary-cabaret fever dream that bursts with zany antics, snacky theatrics, and five-star absurdity” with circus acts, comedians, vocalists, and a live band at Teatro ZinZanni, 2702 6th Ave. S in Seattle for age 21+. Your ticket includes a five-course tasting menu, tax, tip, and champagne at midnight.
Wear 1920s glam to the Speakeasy New Year's Eve, which includes a jazz band, dancing, an open bar, a midnight toast, and cashless casino tables at Imperia Lake Union, 3119 Eastlake Ave. E in Seattle for age 21+. Snacks are extra.
Shop from local makers and food vendors “under the covered, heated Fremont Bridge” at Trollstice Holiday Night Market at 701 N. Northlake Way in Seattle.
Holiday in the Park offers “live music, free kids’ activities, and complimentary hot chocolate and cookies” at Volunteer Park, 1247 15th Ave. E in Seattle.
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 ComedySportz NYE for all ages at Csz Seattle, 3509 Fremont Ave. N in Seattle.
Blue Years Eve features bawdy adult improv by ComedySportz, a midnight champagne or juice toast, music, and dancing in a small theater at Csz Seattle, 3509 Fremont Ave. N. [Only single tickets remain.]
See 65 lit and decorated boats sail from South Lake Union to the Fremont Bridge and back in the Christmas Ship Parade of Boats. You can buy a ticket to ride on the boat, or watch from shore along the parade route or at the Official Onshore Viewing Party in Evanston Plaza.
Watch the Washington Huskies play an exciting exhibition game with the UNLV Rebels in Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion, 3870 Montlake Blvd. NE in Seattle.
See six homes decorated for the holidays, “a stunning showcase of architectural treasures” on the Mount Baker Home Tour for age 10+. Free shuttle between houses. No shoes or pets in the houses. Buy tickets online. Check in and enjoy drinks and cookies at Mount Baker Community Club, 2811 Mt. Rainier Drive S in Seattle.
Lights at Seattle zoo
December 2026 (undated)
Phinney Ridge (4.1 miles N)
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 WildLanterns’ amazing luminary displays, have animal encounters, take carousel rides, and visit holiday-themed lounges with fireplaces selling specialty cocktails and food during Night Owls at Woodland Park Zoo, 5500 Phinney Ave. N in Seattle for age 21+.
Jingle all the Gay features “an all-star cast of burlesque, cabaret, dance, drag, and musical luminaries” at Neptune Theatre, 1303 NE 45th St. in Seattle.
A ticket to the Winter Luminary Walk includes two drinks, live acoustic guitar, and a 30-minute self-guided walk along the pathways at Washington Park Arboretum, 2300 Arboretum Drive E in Seattle. Limited parking. No pets.
Five-time Grammy winner Dianne Reeves “brings her fresh interpretations of Christmas standards for a night of holiday magic” at U.W.’s Meany Center for the Performing Arts, 4040 George Washington Lane NE in Seattle.
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. Donation.
A ticket 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 opening 30 minutes before the show, at Good Shepherd Center, 4649 Sunnyside Ave. N in Seattle.
“Show up to sing, dance, or quietly glow with the holiday spirit” at 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.
New Years Eve with Moxie features “Tamika Alston’s powerhouse vocals, tight horns, and a driving rhythm section” followed by a DJ at 11 p.m. at The Royal Room, 5000 Rainier Ave. S in Seattle. Minors must leave at 10 p.m.
A 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.
Family-friendly Holiday Jingle Jam has choirs, soloists, and singalongs of sacred and secular music for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and winter solstice, plus Santa, elves, and food for sale at Amazing Grace Spiritual Center, 2007 NW 61st St. in Seattle.
“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. Open Friday, Saturday, Sunday.
Run once or twice around Green Lake and then eat cookies at The Electric Cookie Run 5K/10K at Green Lake Park, 7201 East Green Lake Drive N in Seattle. Consider wearing a headlamp and glowing decor.
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.
Winter Solstice Night Market promises 100 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. Free admission until 5 p.m.
Shop from 50 craft and food vendors, visit a wine and beer garden, hear live music, enjoy free cocoa and cookies, and walk down Main Street without cars at New Year’s Eve Night Market. Parking lots nearby at Bellevue Downtown Park, 10201 NE 4th St. in Bellevue.
New Year’s Eve Dance has a live blues band and DJ, plus “a sumptuous finger-food feast, wine, champagne, and non-alcohol refreshments” at OmCulture, 2210 N Pacific St. in Seattle.
“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.
Inspired by the golden age of Hollywood, Cinema: A New Year's Eve Celebration has live entertainment & DJ sets, oysters & caviar, passed appetizers, a “luxe grazing board, iconic pours by Ketel One, and a midnight countdown with mini Moët bottles & sippers” at W Bellevue, 10455 NE 5th Place in Bellevue.
New Year’s Eve at Dave & Buster's includes unlimited soft drinks, an appetizer banquet, dessert, unlimited video game play, and a prepaid power card for other games at Dave & Buster's, 11639 NE 4th St. in Bellevue.
Families (4 - 7 p.m.) — with ginger ale toast, party hats, favors
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. Held in spring and winter.
With a Cuban nightclub theme, Havana Nights offers unlimited progressive dining, specialty cocktails, DJ music, performers, casino games, champagne at midnight, and a view of Bellevue fireworks at Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi, 10400 NE 4th St, Suite 3100 in Bellevue.
Enjoy half a 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. Half-price days available.
ShoreLights is “a dazzling showcase of light” covering art installations and trees in the Park at Town Center, 17550 Aurora Ave. N in Shoreline. Closes 9 p.m. Free parking.
Buy a 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.
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 usually Dec. 23. Closed Dec. 24 & 25.
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.
Write a New Year’s message and then drop it into a boat at Burning Boat Festival, which has “fire pits, s’mores, hot cocoa, beer, wine, a DJ, and family friendly activities” to support charity at Des Moines Marina Pier, 410 S 222nd St. in Des Moines. The boat is lit at 8 p.m. Children age 5 and younger are free.
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.
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.
An ticket to Enchanted Winter’s Eve: A White Masquerade includes two glasses of wine and a decadent dessert bar, a dance floor, and a live DJ at Chateau Ste. Michelle, 14111 NE 145th St. in Woodinville for age 21+. You’re encouraged to wear white and a mask.
Bring your own glass to 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+. Holiday costumes are welcome.
Souled Out Funk features “a 10-member funk band with five horns, a high-powered rhythm section, and soulful vocals” at McMenamins Anderson School, 18607 Bothell Way NE in Bothell for age 21+. Doors open 8 p.m.
Bubbles Jam is a “festive open-house style party” with 10 champagnes and sparkling wines to taste at Village Wines, 14450 Redmond - Woodinville Road NE in Woodinville.
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.
Watch 30 freestyle athletes perform mind-blowing stunts, freestyle motocross, and BMX routines with a crazy circus theme at Nitro Circus Live at Angel of the Winds Arena, 2000 Hewitt Ave. in Everett.
A 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 for age 21+. Held in summer, fall, and winter.
A ticket to Midnight on the Waterfront “includes small bites and appetizers, a complimentary drink ticket, and access to drink specials throughout the evening” with DJ music and a midnight balloon drop at Hotel Indigo, 1028 13th St. in Everett for age 21+. Free parking.
Holiday Spark promises music, carolers, fire pits, a holiday bazaar, food vendors, and Santa Claus. See schedule for visits with costumed characters (Ice Queen, Holiday Princess, Pixie Pal) at Evergreen State Fairgrounds, 14405 179th Ave. SE in Monroe. Parking is $5.
Tacoma Light Trail has a 5:30 p.m. dragon parade beginning at Prairie Line Trail (Pacific Ave & S. 17th St.), followed at 6 p.m. by performances, DJ music, and craft activities at Tollefson Plaza, 1548 Commerce S in Tacoma. If it rains, watch for an alternative venue posted on Facebook.
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.
Back to the ‘80s includes DJ dance music at 8 & 10:30 p.m. and Nite Wave playing new wave hits at 9:30 & 11 p.m. in the ballroom at McMenamins Elks Temple, 565 Broadway in Tacoma for age 21+. Schedule.
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.
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 theme changes each year.
Tulalip Lights & Ice has 9.7 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. See Santa some nights.
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. Held in spring and winter.
Holiday Magic promises “breathtaking lights, interactive displays, festive food and drink, and fun for the whole family” including ice skating, fire pits, a free train ride, Santa’s Village, and a holiday market at Washington State Fair Events Center, 110 9th Ave. SW in Puyallup. Free parking.
Boats with lights and decorations travel south along the Tacoma waterfront from Anthony's at Point Defiance to Dock Street Marina in the Lighted Boat Parade. You can see it anywhere on the waterfront, including Cummings Park, 3939 Ruston Way in Tacoma.
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.
Buy a ticket online, and then drive two miles past “300
illuminated holiday displays” while you hear holiday music on radio station 1700 AM at Fantasy Lights in Spanaway Park, 14905 Bresemann Blvd. S in Spanaway. Cheapest after Christmas. Credit cards only.
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, buy snacks, and meet Santa (until he returns to the North Pole).
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.
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. Lights on until 11 p.m.
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