• About The Emerald Palate
  • Work with Me
  • Contact
  • Home
  • Food Tours
  • Custom Trips
  • Blog
    • Travel Guides
      • Washington
        • Mt. Rainier
        • WA Islands
        • WA Coast
        • Seattle Itinerary
        • Seattle Road Trips
        • Leavenworth Eats
        • Woodinville
      • Oregon
        • Portland Eats
        • Willamette Valley
        • Columbia Gorge
        • Eugene
        • Bend
        • Mt. Hood
      • Canada
        • Vancouver
        • Whistler Eats
        • Victoria
        • Kelowna
        • Banff & Jasper
      • Idaho
      • Montana
        • Glacier National Park
        • Kalispell Activities
        • Kalispell Eats
      • California
        • Los Angeles
        • San Luis Obispo
        • Santa Barbara
        • San Diego
        • Joshua Tree
        • CA Road Trip
      • Hawaii
        • Maui Eats
        • Maui Hotels
        • Maui Itinerary
        • Kauai
        • Big Island
      • Arizona
        • Phoenix
        • Scottsdale Eats
        • AZ Wineries
      • Places to Stay
        • PNW Resorts
        • PNW Cabins
        • Unique Oregon Stays
        • WA Coast
        • Seattle
        • Romantic WA Airbnbs
        • Unique WA Hotels
    • Restaurants & Bars
      • Breakfast
      • Lunch
      • Dinner
      • Desserts
      • Fine Dining
      • Unique Eats
      • Happy Hour
      • Cheap Eats
      • Speakeasies
      • Rooftop Bars
      • Sushi
      • Steak
      • Burgers
      • Fried Chicken
      • Pizza
      • Vegetarian
      • Sandwiches
      • Soup
      • Italian
      • Chinese
      • Hawaiian
      • Thai
      • Indian
      • Mediterranean
      • Mexican
      • French
    • Things to Do
      • Wineries
      • Spas
      • Hiking
      • Coffee Shops
      • Farmers Markets
      • Shopping
      • Hidden Gems
      • Unique Activities
      • Romantic Activities
      • Cool Neighborhoods
      • Seasonal Activities
        • Summer
        • Fall Foliage
        • Larch Hikes
        • Halloween
        • Winter
        • Christmas Activities
        • Christmas Markets
        • Spring Tulip Fest
    • PNW Makers
      • Art
      • Ceramics
      • Chef Gifts
      • Coffee
      • Food Gifts
      • Jewelry
      • PNW Gifts
      • Travel Gifts
      • All Gift Guides
    • Recipes
  • Retreats
  • Events
  • About
    • Contact
    • Work with Me

The Emerald Palate

Seattle food tours & retreats

  • Home
  • Food Tours
  • Custom Trips
  • Blog
    • Travel Guides
      • Washington
        • Mt. Rainier
        • WA Islands
        • WA Coast
        • Seattle Itinerary
        • Seattle Road Trips
        • Leavenworth Eats
        • Woodinville
      • Oregon
        • Portland Eats
        • Willamette Valley
        • Columbia Gorge
        • Eugene
        • Bend
        • Mt. Hood
      • Canada
        • Vancouver
        • Whistler Eats
        • Victoria
        • Kelowna
        • Banff & Jasper
      • Idaho
      • Montana
        • Glacier National Park
        • Kalispell Activities
        • Kalispell Eats
      • California
        • Los Angeles
        • San Luis Obispo
        • Santa Barbara
        • San Diego
        • Joshua Tree
        • CA Road Trip
      • Hawaii
        • Maui Eats
        • Maui Hotels
        • Maui Itinerary
        • Kauai
        • Big Island
      • Arizona
        • Phoenix
        • Scottsdale Eats
        • AZ Wineries
      • Places to Stay
        • PNW Resorts
        • PNW Cabins
        • Unique Oregon Stays
        • WA Coast
        • Seattle
        • Romantic WA Airbnbs
        • Unique WA Hotels
    • Restaurants & Bars
      • Breakfast
      • Lunch
      • Dinner
      • Desserts
      • Fine Dining
      • Unique Eats
      • Happy Hour
      • Cheap Eats
      • Speakeasies
      • Rooftop Bars
      • Sushi
      • Steak
      • Burgers
      • Fried Chicken
      • Pizza
      • Vegetarian
      • Sandwiches
      • Soup
      • Italian
      • Chinese
      • Hawaiian
      • Thai
      • Indian
      • Mediterranean
      • Mexican
      • French
    • Things to Do
      • Wineries
      • Spas
      • Hiking
      • Coffee Shops
      • Farmers Markets
      • Shopping
      • Hidden Gems
      • Unique Activities
      • Romantic Activities
      • Cool Neighborhoods
      • Seasonal Activities
        • Summer
        • Fall Foliage
        • Larch Hikes
        • Halloween
        • Winter
        • Christmas Activities
        • Christmas Markets
        • Spring Tulip Fest
    • PNW Makers
      • Art
      • Ceramics
      • Chef Gifts
      • Coffee
      • Food Gifts
      • Jewelry
      • PNW Gifts
      • Travel Gifts
      • All Gift Guides
    • Recipes
  • Retreats
  • Events
  • About
    • Contact
    • Work with Me

Seasonal Activities, Things to Do · November 9, 2023

2025 Seattle Christmas Activities Even the Grinch Would Like

woman carrying a Christmas wreath while enjoying on the of the best Seattle Christmas activities

I was super surprised when I learned just how many Seattle Christmas activities there are. I’m accustomed to a lot of holiday activities and snow thanks to growing up on the east coast. When I learned Seattle doesn’t get much snow upon moving here ~15 years ago, the idea of it being a “Christmas town” was put to rest.

So you could imagine my surprise when I learned that Seattle is Christmas-y AF starting in November. Plus, snow is only an hour’s drive away. So if you’re looking for holiday craft markets, neighborhoods that are super extra when it comes to Christmas lights, and underground holiday performances, Seattle’s got it.

Here are my favorite Seattle Christmas activities that would give even the biggest grinch in your life the holiday spirit.

This post has some affiliate links, which means I’ll earn a small commission at no cost to you if you click on them and make a purchase. This is a small way I earn money to support this site. If links aren’t showing up for you, turn off your ad blocking software. Thank you for your support!


Best Seattle Christmas Activities

Here are all my favorite ways to spend the holiday season in Seattle. Jump to the type of holiday activity in Seattle, WA that interests you:

  • Christmas markets
  • Holiday shows and performances
  • Christmas festivals and events
  • Epic Christmas light displays
  • Holiday craft experiences

Christmas markets

Starting as early as mid-October, there are typically around 100 Seattle Christmas markets and craft fairs. Given my obsessive tendencies, I curate all of them in an epic roundup of holiday markets and update it each year. There’s nothing like finding the perfect gift to get you in the holiday spirit.

If you’re overwhelmed by the thought of hitting up all of these holiday markets, I’ve curated some gift guides including makers that attend these markets:

  • Best Pacific Northwest Gifts for Any Interest
  • Gifts for Foodies Made in the PNW
  • Best Gifts for Chefs and Home Cooks
  • All My Holiday Gift Guides

Holiday shows and performances

We’re so lucky to live in a theater city. Come the holidays there are a ton of Christmas shows, including more mainstream ones for the whole family to more obscure and risqué ones perfect for a date night.

A Christmas Carol

If you love the famous Charles Dickens’ story with the OG bah humbug, Ebenezer Scrooge, there are a lot of creative interpretations of A Christmas Carol around the greater Seattle metro area.

Union Arts Center hosts the classic play, A Christmas Carol, every year. This year it’s November 28 – December 28. Harlequin Productions out of Olympia, WA also puts on a version of A Christmas Carol November 28 – December 24 as well if you prefer a location more south.

If you’re interested in a spin on the classic Scrooge story, Taproot Theater in Greenwood is playing A Sherlock Carol November 26 – December 27.

Other holiday plays

Want to see a holiday show beyond A Christmas Carol? Taproot Theater in Greenwood is hosting their annual A Charlie Brown Christmas from December 4-27.

Another option is The Snow Queen running November 27 – January 5 at the Seattle Children’s Theater. Kids will love the story of the protagonist trying to save their friend from the snow queen’s palace.

Ballet dancers at the Nutcracker, one of the best Seattle Christmas activities

The Nutcracker Ballet

The Nutcracker Ballet is one of the most quintessential Seattle Christmas activities. This holiday season they’re back in the theater with shows from November 28 – December 28. However, you can also enjoy streaming the ballet and watching the fairy plum dancers from the comfort of your own home with a digital version available December 20-28.

If you want a different interpretation of the classic, STG is hosting Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet at Paramount Theater on November 16 and the International Ballet Theatre in Bellevue is hosting it Dec 5-23.

If you’re in South Seattle, Olympia also hosts a Nutcracker Ballet December 12-21. It’s the perfect excuse for exploring the best things to do in Olympia, WA. Or head to the Grand Kyiv Ballet’s version of The Nutcracker on various dates in December. Grand Kyiv is also playing the Snow Queen ballet on December 26.

Want to see ballet, but tired of The Nutcracker story? Head to We Call It Ballet November 13 for a rendition of Sleeping Beauty paired with a dazzling light show.

Holiday burlesque, cabaret & acrobatics

If you want a sultry take on The Nutcracker, check out on of the annual holiday events perfect for adults: Burlesque Nutcracker. This year it’s back in theater December 10-28. This makes a perfect date night out of one of the best Seattle Christmas activities!

Another option is Can Can Culinary Cabaret’s Wonderland show running from November 20 – January 4. Artists will swing from chandeliers and perform dazzling arrays of talents to awestruck guests. They also have weekend brunch option perfect for the whole family.

If you prefer more cabaret, head to The Velvet Noel: A Cabaret Affaire on December 3 & 17. The experience will be at The Smith Tower with dazzling views of the city below and a 3-course meal.

musical cabaret, a unique Seattle experience gift idea

Holiday drag shows

Moore Theatre is hosting The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show December 21-24. There will be holiday-themed performances and what is described as “whip-smart comedy”. It’s bound to be a good time!

Dina Martina Christmas Show is playing at ACT Theatre December 23-28, except Christmas Day. She’ll bring a mix of festive tunes and comedy for a fun night out to ring in the holiday season.

Two other options include A Drag Queen Christmas December 3 and Jingle All the Way December 12-14.

Christmas comedies

If you need a laugh, one of the best Seattle Christmas activities is seeing a holiday-themed comedy show. The Seattle Theater Group is hosting the annual A John Water’s Christmas show December 2. Described as “The Pope of Trash” by William Burrough, the “Christmasly incorrect” humor in the show notes sounds like a hoot.

Scott Shoemaker’s War on Christmas is running December 5-26. Follow the cast as they make you laugh while trying to figure out why people are fighting on Christmas.

A Very Die Hard Christmas is back again this year and offering shows December 26-28. This musical parody has Christmas entertainment with lots of action, 80s jokes, smooth soft rock jams, and snarky German terrorists.

Another option is Fa la la la la, ha ha ha ha for a musical extravaganza on select dates November 29 to December 20 that combines comedy and a sing-a-long.

West Seattle Sounds: A Holiday Christmas Event is happening December 10 where guests can watch the Grinch campaign to ruin the holiday season.

Oh Christmas Tea is as British comedy happening November 8 and following the shenanigans at a holiday afternoon tea.

Holiday concerts

There’s always some kind of music going on during the holidays. For example Fever’s popular Candlelight Music Series will be hosting a Holiday Special Featuring the Nutcracker December 19 and A Christmas Carol String Quartet December 18, 20, and 21. You’ll get to listen to classical music versions of your holiday favorites under the glow of endless candlelights.

Or, skip the candles and head to A Very Sinatra Christmas Special happening on the Fairmont Olympic Pavilion rooftop December 10 & 17. Charlie Brown Fan? Check out A Charlie Brown Christmas in Concert December 28.

Love jazz? BlueStreet Voices will be playing a jazzy Cool Yule holiday concert on December 6. Similarly, Mary McPage & Susan Carr will be playing their Annual Holiday Show December 13.

If you want more modern music, check out Colbie Caillat and Gavin DeGraw’s Christmas Tour coming to Seattle on December 5.

Harry Potter fans will want to head to Tacoma for the The Magical Music of Harry Potter in Concert happening December 6.

pianist surrounded by candles on a stage

Holiday choirs

Figgy Pudding is one of the most well-known holiday choir events in Seattle. It sounds like a British treat, but it’s an annual Christmas caroling competition. This year it’s December 6 and all ticket proceeds will support the Pike Market Senior Center & Food Bank.

If you want more intimate community choir performances, there are a ton this season:

  • Jake Shimbabukuro’s Holidays in Hawai’i (Dec 1)
  • Song of the Angels (Dec 5)
  • Holly Jolly Jingle (Dec 5-23)
  • In the Stillness (Dec 5-6)
  • Readings & Carols (Dec 6)
  • Angels in the Snow (Dec 6)
  • Festival of Lessons & Carols (Dec 6)
  • Kalani Pe’a’s Hawaiian Christmas (Dec 7)
  • Christmas in Latvia (Dec 6-7)
  • Noël sans Frontières (Dec 6-7)
  • Black Nativity Gospel Choir (Dec 10-28)
  • Ring Out Ye Bells (Dec 12-13 & 19-20)
  • Silver Sounds Holiday Show (Dec 13-14)
  • ChristmasSounds shows in Bellevue (Dec 5), Burien (Dec 13-14)
  • Christmas with Seattle Children’s Chorus (Dec 12 & 14)
  • A Night of Silence (Dec 13-14)
  • Northern Lights (Dec 13 & 20, streaming Dec 22)

You can find even more on this choir calendar.

Holiday symphony

The infamous Trans-Siberian Orchestra is coming to Seattle for a matinee and evening holiday concert on November 22. Or catch them in Spokane November 21!

If you can’t make it on those few select dates, The Seattle Symphony is hosting a bunch of holiday shows this year perfect for the classical music lover:

  • Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol Concert (Dec 5-7)
  • The Snowman (Dec 6)
  • Holiday Pops (Dec 12-14)
  • The Winds: Winter Wonderland (Dec 12-13)
  • Handel Messiah (Dec 18, 20, & 21)
  • A Festival of Lessons & Carols (Dec 22)
  • New Year’s Eve with The Hot Sardines (Dec 31)

Seattle Center during winter

Christmas festivals and events

These holiday events are a must when exploring the best Seattle Christmas activities.

Astra Lumina

A new holiday tradition that started last year is now one of the best Seattle Christmas activities because it’s back again this year. Astra Lumina is an enchanting night walk at the Seattle Chinese Garden happening on select dates from November 6 – December 31. You can expect a mesmerizing art installation featuring a pathway of light displays moving to the rhythm of music.

woman holding a child standing in front of a huge light installation

Seattle Center Winterfest

Every year the area around Seattle Center and the Space Needle is transformed into a winter wonderland for Seattle Winterfest November 28 – December 31, where you can typically find popup holiday shops, ice skating, performances, and more. They also deck out the Seattle Center campus in spectacular Christmas light installations perfect for a winter stroll.

While you’re at Winterfest, check out the Seattle Christmas Market also happening at Seattle Center November 20 – December 24. It’s a large European-style holiday market with performances, makers, activities, light installations, and festive food and drink.

Green Lake Pathway of Lights

Seattle Parks and Recreation hosts this free holiday event for the whole family December 13. The path around Green Lake will be illuminated with thousands of twinkling candles. There will be music, refreshments, mini hot air balloons, and plenty of photo opps.

Zoo WildLanterns

Every holiday season the Woodland Park Zoo hosts WildLanterns November 14 – January 18, an outdoor event where they install festive Christmas lights throughout the zoo exhibits. I used to work at the zoo and can attest to what an awesome experience this is, particularly for young ones!

Located south of Seattle? Point Defiance Zoo in Tacoma has their annual Zoolights November 28 – January 4.

Live north of Seattle? Issaquah’s Cougar Mountain Zoo hosts their Reindeer Festival November 28 – December 23.

Prefer indoor animal adventures? Head to Diving Santa at the Seattle Aquarium. Take a selfie as he floats in the tanks on select Fridays through Sundays November 28 through December 21.

jungle lights at Zoolights, one of the best Seattle Christmas activities

Woodinville Winterfest

Woodinville Winterfest is a town-wide holiday festival with a ton of events happening on December 6, so it’s the perfect excuse to go wine tasting at the Woodinville wineries. There will be a holiday fair and tree lighting at DeYoung Park where you can find holiday treats, Santa, kids activities, ornament making, face painting and a toy drive.

Holiday cookies

Get your fill of holiday sweets at this cookie crawl in Burien happening Saturday December 6. For $25 per person you’ll get a map with participating locations and a goodie bag to take home your treats. The London Plane is hosting a cookie exchange on Dec 6 as well.

Can’t make it on December 6 but want cookies? You can pre-order classic Christmas cookies from Tremonte’s. They make old school Italian cookies that I grew up eating on the east coast, but are hard to find here.

person breaking apart one of the best cookies in Seattle

Holiday Home Tour

The Assistance League of the Eastside is hosting a Holiday Home Tour on December 5. Guests get to tour elaborately-decorated homes around the Eastside, plus have the opportunity to buy raffle tickets for prizes. Every e-ticket purchase supports the league’s programs: Operation School Bell®, Assault Survivor Kits® and Community Outreach & Volunteer Engagement.

Kringle’s Inventionasium

At Kringle’s Inventionasium, every guest becomes part of the story. From November 22 – December 24, guests can go through the immersive toy lab adventure. You’ll play interactive games and puzzles to see if you have what it takes to become an honorary elf.

Downtown Holiday Lights and Delights

Every year downtown Bellevue is transformed into Snowflake Lane for the holidays. This year you’ll find elaborate light installations lining the main shopping street from November 28 – December 24. There will also be music, performances, and events throughout December, plus a daily parade starting at 7 PM.

reindeer Christmas lights in downtown Seattle

Seattle Festival of Trees

Every holiday season the Fairmont Olympic Hotel in downtown Seattle, one of the most Instagrammable spots in Seattle, transforms their lobby with a breathtaking Christmas tree display. And we’re not talking just one, but a ton, all decorated with different themes.

The Seattle Festival of Trees, is an annual charity event for Seattle Children’s Hospital. Each tree design is inspired by a patient, with their story displayed on a placard next to each tree. Guests can purchase the elaborate trees to adorn their own home for Christmas, with proceeds going to the hospital. You can see the trees and donate between November 17 – December 2.

There’s also a gala every year with an auction, food, drink, and entertainment. This year it’s happening on November 22. You can also tour the Teddy Bear Suite November 28 – December 25 and take selfies in one of their hotel rooms that’s completely transformed into a teddy bear workshop. Entry is free, but they suggest a donation to Seattle Children’s.

Christmas Ship Festival

Argosy Cruises is hosting a series of boat rides infused with holiday spirit. Ride the water on a ship decked out in Christmas lights during their annual Christmas Ship Festival November 28 – December 22. You can choose to ride two different boats or head to the onshore activities. There will be choirs singing Christmas carols, food, drink, and more.

Gingerbread Village

The Sheraton Grand Seattle in Downtown Seattle transforms their lobby each year into a Gingerbread Village. This year it runs daily November 20 – January 1. Visit Sundays through Thursdays from 9 am – 9 pm or Fridays and Saturdays from 9 am – 11 pm for a huge installation perfect for holiday photos.

Have kids who want to build their own gingerbread house? The Bellevue Collection is hosting Gingerbread Workshops at the Hyatt Regency in Bellevue November 28-29.

Magic in the Market

One of my favorite things to do in Pike Place Market is visit in winter. Each year it hosts Magic in the Market, where the market is decorated with fun installations and has various events, like pictures with Santa, ornament making, carolers, and live reindeers! This year it’s on Saturday November 29 from 11 am – 6 pm. It’s a fun way to experience beautiful views of the Puget Sound while getting some holiday shopping done.

Pike Place Market at Christmas

Enjoy holiday pop-up bars & cocktails

One of the best Seattle Christmas activities is to celebrate over a festive drink. Here are pop-up bars that go all out for the holidays.

A Christmas Carol Cocktail Experience

Embark on a 90-minute immersive stage performance of A Christmas Carol Cocktail Experience November 28-29. The show will be paired with a cocktail to represent each of the spirits Scrooge visits, for a twisted take on the classic Christmas story.

Miracle on 2nd Popup Bar

Rob Roy, the cocktail bar that is home to one of the best cocktails in Seattle, hosts a holiday popup bar every year where they turn their intimate bar in Belltown into a winter wonderland and serve festive drinks sure to get anyone in the holiday spirit. It starts in November and runs through the holidays, so get your reservations in now before they’re all booked up.

Miracle on 2nd pop-up Christmas bar in Seattle

Merry Little Christmas Bar

The Edgewater Hotel right along the Seattle waterfront is hosting the Merry Little Christmas Pop-Up Bar in December. This experience has a ton of festive holiday decor, themed drinks, and Santa-approved snacks. Expect unapologetically gaudy, delightfully kitschy, and all-around festive merriments and tunes.

Christmas Dive Bar

From now through January a festive Christmas Dive Bar has popped up in Capitol Hill. You can enjoy holiday-themed drinks from a full-blown holiday wonderland. Think floor-to-ceiling decor, twinkling lights, tinsel galore, and iconic photo ops—including the famous Bow Wall (yes, that one you’ve seen all over Instagram). No reservations are required, but you can book it for private parties.

New this year, they’re also hosting a ticketed drag brunch extravaganza Saturdays and Sundays. Giant screens will play classic holiday films while performers dazzle all around the bar and restaurant in a fully-immersive drag show experience. Every seat feels like the front row.

Christmas dive bar
Image courtesy of Christmas Dive Bar
Sheraton Grand Jingle Bar

The Sheraton Grand Seattle is also hosting a holiday-themed Jingle Bar November 17 – January 1. They’ll transform their hotel wine bar into a winter wonderland where guests can enjoy a special holiday menu and festive cocktails. Each item sold, they’ll donate $1 to the Breakthrough T1D that benefits those with type 1 diabetes.

Rosebay Chalet Swiss Bar

Hotel 1000 is hosting a holiday pop-up bar from November 23 to January called Rosebay Chalet. It immerses guests in the après-ski lifestyle of Switzerland with cozy decor that feels as if you’re in the Swiss Alps. There will be chalet-inspired sips and bites like fondue and hot toddies, plus plenty of photo opportunities. You can also win a $50 gift certificate by dressing up for their après ski and ugly sweater themed nights.

Frosty & Fizzy

Aluel Cellars in Ballard is turning their tasting room into a winter wonderland from November 21 through December for Frosty & Fizzy, a festive holiday pop-up. It’ll feature a curated menu of sparkling flights, by-the-glass pours, and seasonal specials. While sparkling wines will take center stage, guests can also toast the season with Aluel Cellars’ award-winning red, white, and rosé wines.

Christmas Cantina

Every December La Palerma Restaurant transforms their South Lake Union, Mill Creek, Everett, and Edmonds locations into a winter wonderland called Christmas Cantina. Expect twinkling lights, kitschy festive décor, and handcrafted Christmas cocktails with a Mexican twist.

Holiday Drink Week

The Stranger and EverOut are hosting Holiday Drink Week December 8-14. Visit various bars around the city to try their festive takes on holiday cocktails.

U-cut Christmas tree farms

There are so many farms near Seattle. I make my family visit them to chop down our Christmas tree at a farm every year because it feels more festive than heading to those tree stands on every corner. We go to Trinity Tree Farm in Issaquah every year, but here are some other spots that do u-cut Christmas trees. You can also search the Puget Sound Christmas Tree Association for more.

  • Buttonwood Farm (Redmond) – 100% organically-farmed trees
  • Carnation Tree Farm (Carnation)
  • Christmas Creek Tree Farm (North Bend)
  • Stocker Farms (Snohomish)

If you want to truly rough it, you can go into the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie Forest and cut down your own tree after getting a permit. This is probably your cheapest option, but it requires the most work!

woman carrying garland and excited to shop at the best Seattle Christmas markets

Visit a reindeer farm

Bring the magic of Santa’s reindeers to life at one of the reindeer farms around Washington. They offer tours and animal encounters during the holiday season:

  • Goldendale Reindeer (Goldendale, WA)
  • Rainier Reindeer Ranch (Buckley, WA)
  • Leavenworth Reindeer Farm (Leavenworth, WA)

SantaCon

Looking for an excuse to wear a Santa hat? Join hundreds of others with that same desire at SantaCon Saturday December 6, 13, and 20. This 21+ event gets you free admission to 15+ venues, drink specials, and entry into a costume contest. They insist a sugar plum fairy dies every time someone calls it a pub crawl, but it’s similar if you need an analogy.

Holiday English tea

High tea at Willowbrook Manor in Sedro-Woolley is one of my favorite things to do in Skagit County. Owner Terry Gifford built an English-style escape with her late husband and started a chamomile garden. Her family lived there while they expanded the grounds, but now she runs it as a gorgeous bed & breakfast.

A few times a year she hosts afternoon tea that my niece’s absolutely adore, and this holiday season she also added a Winter Workshop for adults to make homemade gifts. Tea runs Fridays and Saturdays December 5-6 and 12-13 and the Winter Workshop is November 7.

Pro tip: Don’t leave with a bag of her delicious scones! You can buy some a la carte or as part of a scone and tea kit.

If you want other afternoon tea options, check out these options:

  • Hotel Sorrento Holiday Tea (weekends Nov 9 – Dec 20)
  • Marina Mercantile Holiday Tea (Nov 15 – Jan 4)
  • Fairmont Olympic Afternoon Tea (Dec 1-30)
  • Salish Lodge & Spa Holiday Tea (Dec 16-23)

three tiers of afternoon tea treats and tea kettles

Get breakfast with Santa

Craven Farms in Snohomish is hosting breakfast with Santa in December. In addition to breakfast in the farm and Santa photo opps, there will be a Christmas gift shop, Fresh Evergreen market with fresh-cut trees, garland, and wreaths, Christmas train rides and light displays, animal viewings, Christmas-themed mini golf, festive foods, an outdoor fire pit, and more.

Another option is Salish Lodge & Spa’s brunch with Santa every Sunday in December. Jolly St. Nick will make an appearance at The Restaurant in the hotel while guests enjoy breakfast delights.

A Victorian Country Christmas Festival

Head to the Washington State Fair Grounds December 4-7 to experience Christmas as they did it in the Victorian era. The Victorian Country Christmas Festival will include performances, a holiday market, activities, and more the whole family is sure to love.

Normandy Park Winterfest

On Saturday December 6, this neighborhood south of Seattle near Des Moines will be hosting a Winterfest with free swag, Santa photo opps, performances, food, and more.

Bellevue Festival of the Nativity

This free Christmas celebration from December 6-14 includes musical performances, activities for kids, and hundreds of nativity sets from around the world.

Santa in downtown Seattle

Epic Christmas light displays

When I first moved here I lived in a neighborhood that didn’t have many Christmas lights. However, one of the best Seattle Christmas activities is scouting out the areas with intense twinkling lights. Here are some of my favorites perfect for a winter walk or drive by.

Festival of Laser Lights

The Family Hanukkah Show: Festival of Laser Lights happening Dec 7 will feature laser lights, fog, light projections, and a dance-party that brings the Hanukkah story to life. There will also be craft tables, kosher gelt for kids, and prizes.

Botanical garden lights

The Bellevue Botanical Garden puts on Garden d’LIGHTS every year where they install gorgeous light exhibits along a 1-mile walkway in the gardens. This year it’s November 29 – December 31.

Another option on December 13 is seeing bonsai trees lit up at the Bonsai Solstice hosted by The Pacific Bonsai Museum in Federal Way. Guests are encouraged to bring their own flashlight and participate in a scavenger hunt for kids while enjoying treats and shopping handmade glass.

Drive-through light displays

The Lights of Christmas a bit north of Seattle hosts a huge drive through Christmas decoration experience every weekend November 28 – December 28. For $40 you’ll be dazzled by a blinding array of Christmas decorations.

Fantasy Lights in Spanaway Park has nearly 300 elaborate displays scattered around a 2-mile long drive-through Christmas light exhibit. It runs November 28 to January 4 and is $15+ per car. However, they also have $10 discount nights.

Light the Forest

Drive about an hour north of Seattle to Stanwood November 8-9 for Light the Forest. It’s a self-guided walking tour through Pilchuck Glass School grounds to see light installations. All pieces are available for purchase and commissioned works by the artists are available upon request. You can also sign up for glass ornament and neon light craft workshops.

Holiday Magic Christmas light event

The Washington State Fair in Puyallup, WA is hosting a walkthrough light display and festival called Holiday Magic weekends December 5-23. There will also be ice skating, animals, a kids train ride, vendors selling gifts, and more.

Tulalip Lights & Ice

Tulalip Lights & Ice runs from November 22 through January 11. There will be 9.7 million holiday lights, a holiday marketplace, and picture opps with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. You can also take the ice skating trail and glide around the rink to your heart’s content. Entry to Tulalip Lights & Ice is free, but skating is $15-18/adult and $12-15/kids (cheaper on weekdays). Skating is always $10 for Tulalip Tribal members.

New this year is the “Animal Kingdom” lights display, with light sculptures featuring 40 animals, from 3-foot penguins to a 14-foot giraffe, and the 21+ “Fire & Ice Bar” open Friday and Saturday evenings.

peacock Christmas lights, a Christmas activity in Seattle

Neighborhood light displays

One of the best Seattle Christmas activities is strolling neighborhood light displays. Some neighborhood associations host official light display kick off events and then have the lights on throughout the holiday season for all to enjoy. For example:

  • Everett Holiday Laser Light Show (Nov 22)
  • The Landing in Renton Tree Lighting & Laser Show (Nov 22)
  • Everett Wintertide Kickoff Celebration (Nov 28)
  • Snohomish Tree Lighting and Santa (Nov 29)
  • Salish Lodge & Spa Tree Lighting (Nov 30)
  • Mountlake Terrace Tree Lighting (Dec 5)
  • Google Light Display in Kirkland (Dec 5)
  • Renton Holiday Lights (Dec 6)
  • Welcome Christmas on Queen Anne (Dec 6)
  • Evergreen Christmas Lights in Bothell (Dec 6)
  • Kent Winterfest Tree Lighting (Dec 6)
  • Snoqualmie Holiday Lights (Dec 6)
  • Hometown Holidays in West Seattle (Dec 6)
  • Light Up Your Holidays in Stanwood (Dec 6)
  • Redmond Lights (Dec 6 – Jan 5)

If there’s nothing official in your neighborhood, you can still check out different residential areas known for going all out during the holidays. Here are some spots to check out:

  • Candy Cane Lane (Ravenna)
  • Olympic Manor (Crown Hill)
    • Don’t miss the Nutcracker House in Blue Ridge if you go here. John Carrington, the principal harpist with the Pacific Northwest Ballet Orchestra, displays 15-foot tall nutcrackers that were donated to him by the ballet’s prop masters.
    • Now is a great time to stop at Swanson’s Nursery for holiday decor and ornaments.
  • Queen Anne near Kerry Park
  • Timberline Neighborhood (Sammamish)
  • The Very Merry Christmas House (Kent)

Find even more on this crowd-sourced Christmas light map.

Don’t feel like navigating? Take this Seattle Christmas Light Tour, which also stops at Snowflake Lane. Or head to one of the biggest Christmas light displays in Washington on this Full Day Leavenworth & Cascade Mountain Tour.

Best Seattle Christmas activities

Holiday craft experiences

There’s something festive about putting together your own holiday decorations. One of the best Seattle Christmas activities is creating your own ornaments, wreath, or gifts. They’re fun to do ahead of the holidays to get into the holiday spirit, or they for fun Seattle experience gift ideas!

Here are some options:

  • The Works (this is where I take a wreath-making class every year!)
  • The Field Trip Society
  • Swoon City
  • Robot vs. Sloth

For those who want to learn from some of the best Seattle ceramic artists, head to Saltstone Ceramics for classes.

The Westin Bellevue is offering holiday classes specifically for kids throughout December. There’s a wreath-making class, holiday sing along, and gingerbread decorating class. They’re also offering a free treat for kids that wear an ugly Christmas sweater for brunch.

DIY wreath, one of the best Seattle Christmas activities

More wintry things to do in Washington

Need more ideas to make the most of winter? After you explore the Seattle Christmas activities, check out my other favorite things to do once the winter season arrives.

  • What to Do in Seattle During Winter
  • Best Things to Do in Seattle in November
  • What to Do in Seattle in December
  • Winter Day Trips from Seattle
  • Best Cross-Country Skiing in Washington
  • Winter Getaways in Washington
  • Why You Should Visit Lake Chelan in Winter
  • Things to Do in the Best Wintry Destination: Winthrop
  • Cross Off a Bucket List Item at This Winter Hot Air Balloon Festival
  • Unique Hotels in Washington Perfect for a Winter Getaway
  • Winter Cabins in Washington to Book Right Now
  • Cozy Things to Do Come Winter in Leavenworth
  • Best Restaurants in Leavenworth, Washington’s Most Christmasy Town
  • The Definitive Guide to All of Mt. Hood’s Ski Areas
  • Where to Eat at Whistler Village in BC
  • How to Spend Winter in Bend, Oregon
  • Quaint Winter Cabins in Oregon to Book Stat
Need help with holiday shopping?

I have a ton of holiday gift guides filled with items made right in the Pacific Northwest. Or give them the gift of experience by getting them a custom travel itinerary planned by me!

Most images courtesy of Visit Seattle. Hero image courtesy of Wonderlane.

Seattle Christmas activities even the Grinch would like

In: Seasonal Activities, Things to Do

Join the club

You May Also Like

One of the best Seattle wine bars with plants covering ceiling17 Best Seattle Wine Bars for Interesting Pours & Vibes
woman exploring Pike Place Market, one of the best things to do in Seattle in January40 Best Things to Do in Seattle in January 2026
Best Things to Do in Washington State28 Best Things to Do in Washington State
Next Post >

Best Chinese Food in Seattle for Authentic & Creative Dishes

About Adria Saracino
The Emerald Palate is your guide to the Pacific Northwest. Use it to find Seattle food tours, travel guides, and more. Meet Adria

Take a food tour!

person diving fork into colorful layered cake from a restaurant on The Emerald Palate's self-guided Seattle food tour of the Georgetown neighborhood

Join the club

  • mountains in the distance at sunset, one of the best things to do in Scottsdale, Arizona 16 Things to Do in Scottsdale That are 100% Worth the Hype
  • Woman walking along Haleakala summit, one of the best things to do in Maui Hawaii 32 Things to Do in Maui, Hawaii That are Actually Worth It
  • one of the best small towns in Washington state 28 Best Small Towns in Washington State with Tons of Character
  • person cutting into an egg on top of toast at one of the hidden gem restaurants in Vancouver BC Hidden Gem Restaurants in Vancouver BC Locals Try to Gatekeep
  • pancakes topped with ice cream cone at one of the most unique Scottsdale restaurants Unique Scottsdale Restaurants All Foodies Must Try

Categories

  • Travel Guides
  • Things to Do
  • Seattle Restaurants
  • Makers
  • Recipes
  • Request Your Personal Data
  • Terms of Services
  • Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2026 The Emerald Palate · Theme by 17th Avenue