As a born-and-raised Seattleite, I wouldn’t normally recommend winter as an ideal time to visit. However, the festive season is the one exception, underscored by its recent crowning as one of the coziest cities for a Christmas getaway. During December, the Pacific Northwest’s gray and gloom brightens with holiday cheer (and occasionally snow) and celebratory happenings all around the region.
Here’s how to plan a jubilant trip in December.
1. Stroll the Christmas market and enjoy downtown lights in Seattle
Ever since I was a kid, the magical feel of the city during December has always been a highlight to end the year. The lit-up downtown streets, Westlake carousel and holiday music blasting from every shop and cafe evoke a sense of nostalgic joy.
Last year, the Emerald City held its first-ever Christmas Market to great success. Now it’s back at the Seattle Center (who needs the Rockefeller tree when you’ve got the Space Needle?) and better than ever with a double-decker carousel, live music daily and over 80 food, drink, and craft vendors. The market is open until December 24, from 10am to 9pm on most nights, except the last day when it closes at 6pm (note entry stops one hour before closing). You can purchase a ticket upon arrival for $20 for ages 6 and up, but it’s recommended to reserve a timeslot to avoid disappointment.
Not far away, the Sheraton Hotel’s annual Gingerbread Village awaits wondrous eyes (and stomachs, you’ll probably want to head to one of Seattle’s amazing coffee shops after this exhibit.) The Village is a collaboration between the Sheraton, local architecture firms and Breakthrough T1D in order to raise awareness and funds for Type 1 Diabetes. It’s open daily from 9am to 9pm, and until 11pm on Friday and Saturday, through January 1. Admission is free, but donations to the cause are appreciated.
After, wander down to Pike Places to enjoy the lights and decorations. Then continue down the stairs to the waterfront to check out the Christmas boats! There’s no cost just to view them from the shore, but if you have time, book a Christmas Ship cruise, an hour-and-a-half ride on Puget Sound on a lit-up boat. You’ll enjoy a cheery atmosphere thanks to onboard choirs while you get a waterfront view of various Seattle neighborhoods decked out in festive decor. Ticket prices vary from $35 to $76 for youth and $49 to $76 for ages 13 and up. Children age four and younger are free.
If you’re looking for something a bit different, another local favorite, the Enchant Light Exhibit, is back for the first time since the pandemic. Located in T-Mobile Park, this giant Christmas light maze will delight visitors of all ages. There’s also an ice skating run and a Ferris Wheel—should you want to glimpse the lights from above. Prices range from $27 to $43 depending on the date and hour.
2. Marvel at street performers and go ice skating in Bellevue
The Greater Seattle Area is split into the west and east sides by Lake Washington. Bellevue is the largest Eastside city and as the population and city have grown, so have the holiday-themed activities.
Snowflake Lane is one of the longest running and most popular traditions. This nightly winter-themed parade features dancers, musicians, actors and students from around the region performing as sugar gumdrops, snowflakes and toy drummers, among other festive characters. It’s free to watch from the sidewalks on NE 4th to NE 8th Street between Bellevue Square and Lincoln Square. The show starts at 7pm sharp, so arrive early to secure a prime viewing spot, and don’t forget your peppermint hot chocolate and mittens to stay warm!
Additionally, the ice rink at Bellevue Downtown Park is open until January 12 and is a great activity pre or post-parade. Tickets range from $15 to $25, depending on the date. It’s recommended to book online.
Finally, to enjoy the best Eastside light display, head to Garden d’Lights at Bellevue Botanical Garden. The massive event displays over half a million colorful lights in various floral, animal and waterfall shapes. It’s open daily until December 31 (closed Christmas Day), from 4:30 until 8 or 9pm, depending on the day. You must book a specific day and time online in advance. Tickets cost $8 for 11-year-olds and up ($5 on “special” indicated dates), 10 and under are free.
3. Transport yourself to Bavaria in Leavenworth
Washington’s very own Bavarian village is the place to go for European-esque holiday vibes just a couple of hours from the city! As you drive the winding, tree-lined (and possibly snow-covered) roads through the Cascade Mountains, the town seems to come out of nowhere. And the carved wooden buildings reminiscent of gingerbread and Alpine chalets will trick your mind into thinking you’ve been transported to another continent.
Leavenworth is lit up daily from late November through February, making it a wonderful wintertime destination, even after the holidays. Beyond that, the central gazebo hosts carolers, choirs and bands performing various holiday songs. Santa also makes appearances (with photo ops) on select days. Check the schedule here.
Additionally, food trucks, crafts houses and Christmas characters line Front Street for a wonderful mash-up of Americana mountain-town and Bavarian village festivities. And make sure to visit the Festhalle for the Gingerbread House display, hot drinks and craft stations.
The town is also strategically placed in the heart of the Cascade Mountains just a 30-minute drive from the slopes of Stevens Pass. If boarding and skiing aren’t your thing, cross-country and snowmobile trails can be found closer to town.
4. Take a trip to Scandinavia in Poulsbo
Washington’s “Little Norway” is full of Scandinavian celebrations that, unlike Leavenworth, are a bit less manufactured and more rooted in history and tradition. The town was a major hub for immigrants from Nordic countries, particularly Norway during the 1800s and early 1900s. To this day, street names and various signs around town are in Norwegian and Front Street downtown maintains an Old World look on all the businesses.
This year, the annual Julefest is on December 7 and includes a Nordic market (full of crafts and food) and a bonfire. On December 21, the annual Christmas Lighted Ship Parade can be viewed on the waterfront—bring hot drinks and snacks! All activities are free, though you’ll of course need to purchase any crafts or treats.
Finally, even if you can’t visit on either of these dates, the town is magical throughout the season with a massive Christmas tree and decorations. Visit my favorite merchants like Sluy’s Bakery, which dates back to 1966 (the Poulsbo Bread and lefse are must-tries), Poulsbohemian Coffeehouse, and the Marina Market for unique Scandinavian imported treats. The Heritage Museum will give you more background on the history and entry is free!
Nearby Suquamish is also an important stop, particularly to understand the pre-settler history. There’s a fantastic museum where you can also see the gravesite of Chief Si’ahl, for whom the city of Seattle is named. The tribe puts on a great Holiday Bazaar, featuring members’ handcrafted gifts and local delicacies.
5. Hit the slopes in the Cascade Mountains
The closest ski slopes to Seattle are Snoqualmie and Alpental (a subsidiary of Snoqualmie), both just an easy hour’s drive from downtown on I-90. I recommend South Fork or the Dru Bru Brewery for post-slope sustenance.
Stevens Pass is a bit farther away (about 1.5 hours from Seattle) but is touted by many as the best skiing destination near the city and pairs great with a visit to Leavenworth. Stop at the Sultan Bakery (a local favorite for decades, as my grandpa used to tell everyone who would listen) or Sky River Coffee (in what was once the old Skykomish Hotel) for a pre or post-slope treat.
Finally, Crystal Mountain near Mount Rainier is another favorite and also 1.5 hours from Seattle, with a small lodge. If you’re looking for a different kind of experience, head to the Olympic Mountains to ski Hurricane Ridge. You can spend the morning on the mountain and then head to the Hoh Rainforest or coastal beaches in the afternoon!
Lodging is limited at most mountains. The dates vary depending on the snowfall each season. As of writing Crystal Mountain and Stevens Pass have opened for the 2024-25 season. Check back before planning a trip. You’ll need chains or winter tires during the season to go up the pass.