Christmas is the most enchanting time of year. The world becomes a wonderland filled with carols that you can’t get out of your head, twinkling fairy lights strewn across cities all over the world and the smells of fresh baked pastries linger in the air.

When I moved to Seattle from LA a little over two years ago and spent my first Christmas in the city, I fell in love with Seattle even more. If there is one city in the US besides New York that takes Christmas seriously, it’s Seattle. The entire city changes to welcome the holidays.

There are festive events taking place throughout the holiday season. From a delightful winter beer festival to a charming Christmas ship with carolers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. If you’re a fan of Christmas, Seattle is the perfect destination to celebrate.

Looking for more Washington State Travel Tips? Check out these articles!

7 Amazing Snoqualmie Falls Tours from Seattle
9 Festive Things to do in Leavenworth, WA: Washington State’s Premier Christmas Town
11 Epic Things to Do On Whidbey Island, Washington: A Perfect Weekend Getaway
11 Beautiful Mt Rainier Tours from Seattle
Gifts Made in Washington State: A Local Shopping Guide

Things to do For Christmas in Seattle

Visit a Christmas Market

Julefest at Nordic Museum | Address: 2655 NW Market St, Seattle, WA 98107, United States

If you want to get immersed in Scandinavian Christmas culture without leaving the country, Julefest at the Nordic museum is the next best thing! Here you will find Nordic sweet treats like Æbleskiver (a round Danish pancake topped with powdered sugar and jam), live Swedish music and all the glögg you can possibly drink. Plus, local artisans are selling Nordic inspired gifts.

If you are feeling peckish, there are also a few food trucks, one of which serves Swedish meatballs. The Christmas market is $10 to enter, and the ticket also gets you entrance to the Nordic museum, which is usually a $20 ticket!

Winter Solstice Night Market | Address: 7440 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA 98115

Calling all procrastinating holiday shoppers! If you are struggling to find that one of a kind gift for someone this Christmas, the winter solstice market is the place to come. This is my favorite Christmas market in Seattle. There are over 125 vendors selling all sorts of things from candles and soaps to beef jerky and beautiful cakes. The market happens for one weekend in December, and it’s 21+ every day except Saturday afternoon.

There are also 2 bars, one for festive cocktails and one for beer, and plenty of food trucks to keep that holiday shopping drive going! You do have to buy tickets ahead of time, and if you plan to drink I recommend the beer inclusion which will get you 10 tastings of local beer at the bar.

United Indians Native Art Market | Address: 5011 Bernie Whitebear Way, Seattle, WA 98199

The Day Break Star Indian Cultural Center hosts a Christmas market where you will be able to buy from local native artisans. It’s a pretty small market, but definitely worth visiting. You will find jewelry, clothes, coffee, artwork, skin care products, and they have a stand selling the most delicious fry bread, stew, and salmon bowls!

If you don’t drive, you can catch the 44 bus towards Ballard, and it leaves once every hour.

Seattle Christmas Market

This market is a new one that started last year, but became so popular it’s back fori another year! This is more like a European style Christmas market. You will find local businesses set up in small wooden chalets, lots of yummy food choices including European Christmas classics like chimney cake, German sausage, pierogies, mulled wine, and hot chocolate.

There will also be fun special events happening throughout the month including Santa Clause visits, Christmas karaoke night, live music, elf day, ugly sweater day, and if you have a date you want to impress they even have date nights!

You have the option to buy a general admission ticket or, if you live in the area, I recommend a season pass. That way you can go in and out as much as you want!

Show Off Your Gracefulness Ice Skating

Bellevue Ice Rink | Address: 10201 NE 4th St, Bellevue, WA 98004, United States

Ah, ice skating – a perfect blend of grace and clumsiness, where triple axles turn into triple tumbles, at least in my case.

When it comes to ice skating in Seattle, Bellevue’s pop-up ice rink is the only option. It’s open only 2 months out of the year, so plenty of time to get your skate on. They also offer FREE skate lessons on select days if you’re a proud member of the clumsy potato club like myself, and they have fun events like an ugly Christmas sweater skate day.

Bellevue is about a 30-minute drive from Seattle or 1 hour on the bus.

Visit the BIGGEST Christmas lights maze in the world. 

Enchant | Address: 1250 1st Ave S, Seattle, WA 98134.

Enchant Christmas is making its grand comeback at T-Mobile Park, after a four-year break. I went several years ago, and am so excited they are back. Kids and adults will find so much to do. They have an ice skating trail, that takes you though most of the complex, festive drinks and food, and lots of lit up trails to wander through. Some days, Santa even makes an appearance and you can enjoy live music.

They serve the drinks in fun lightbulb glasses that you can easily sip while you explore. Enchant is truly one of my favorite Christmas activities and I know you will have a blast exploring all the stunning light displays.

Ticket prices vary depending on time and day, but you can expect to pay between $27 – $47.

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Indulge Your Senses on a Festive Christmas Dinner Cruise

Waterways Cruises & Events | Location: South Lake Union

The wonderful thing about living in a city so close to the water is all our cruise options. We have a Halloween cruise, brunch cruise, drag cruise, all-you-can-eat ice cream cruise, Christmas light cruise and even a pirate cruise. Seattle seems to have it all!

This dinner cruise takes place on select nights during the holiday parade of lights, which is another fantastic event I talk about more below. Upon boarding, everyone got a complimentary glass of champagne, and then we took off admiring the houses lining lake union as Christmas decorations lit up each one. We even saw Bill Gate’s house!

This dinner cruise had it all—two soups, succulent salmon, turkey, veggies, potatoes, salad, bread, a meat carving station, and a dessert spread that would make Santa jealous.

This instantly became one of my favorite things I did for Christmas in Seattle. To add to the festive atmosphere, we docked briefly while the Christmas light ship ahead of us blasted joyous tunes sung by their onboard carolers from speakers that we could all hear.

The dinner cruise costs $102, but they do have discounts for military, seniors, and children.

Watch a Memorizing Light Show at a Local Bar

Bait Shop | Address: 606 Broadway E, Seattle, WA 98102, United States

Prepare to be dazzled every evening in December at The Bait Shop, where they put on an incredible 20-minute light show on the hour. Watch in awe as the entire bar comes alive, dancing and sparkling to the Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s rendition of “Carol of the Bells.”

While reservations are recommended for a table, if you’re just looking for a drink, they have a bar, but it is small, so you may have to wait for a seat.

Visit Santa’s Workshop at an Old Gas Station

Kringle’s Filling Station | Address: 8211 Aurora Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103, United States

Welcome to Kris Kringles Filling Station, one of the coolest Christmas experiences in Seattle! Located in an old gas station, you’ll find yourself transported to Santa’s workshop in the North Pole. You will be greeted by two masterful toy makers, Otis and Sparky Kringle, and you’ll be drinking hot chocolate served straight from vintage gas pumps.

There are a wide range of activities including, ski ball, festive karaoke, and you can write a heartfelt letter to Santa. You can also tour Santa’s office, and get an exclusive preview of Santa’s latest sleigh masterpiece. While it would be great to have an exclusive time slot for adults, like an after hours ticket, I had a ton of fun.

Price starts at $15 for standard admission, which includes a cup of delicious hot chocolate.

Cozy Up at a Coffee Shop

It’s no secret that Seattle LOVES coffee. After all, it’s the birthplace of Starbucks, but a true local never goes there. It’s overpriced, and the coffee isn’t good. In my quest to uncover the coziest coffee shops in the city, I have gone far and wide, searching for those hidden gems that not only offer a warm and inviting ambiance but also serve up truly exceptional and one-of-a-kind coffee concoctions.

Moore Coffee Shop | Address: 1930 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98101, United States

Moore Coffee is probably one of the coolest coffee shops in Seattle, renowned for their extraordinary latte art showcasing a diverse range of characters, from adorable dogs and cuddly teddy bears to beloved icons like SpongeBob and Shrek. A few of the unique lattes on their menu include, taro latte (my favorite), Nutella mocha, horchata, and turmeric latte.

Fuel Coffee | Address: 610 19th Ave E, Seattle, WA 98112, United States

Fuel Coffee is part coffee shop, part book store and during the holiday season, they serve up a delightful array of drinks that go beyond the usual offerings of peppermint mochas and eggnog lattes. Instead, you can indulge in refreshing iced coffee topped with peppermint sweet cream, savor a fragrant rosemary latte, or indulge in the decadent blend of eggnog infused with their signature Milky Way espresso – just to name a few.

Coffeeholic | Address: 8525 Greenwood Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103, United States

Coffeeholic is one of the most popular Vietnamese coffee shops in Seattle. You may have seen their crazy drink concoctions as you were scrolling aimlessly on TikTok. While they do offer classic Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk for those seeking a traditional drink, they are also known for their outrageous beverage options, such as the delightful ube latte, refreshing coconut coffee, and a range of seasonal specialties.  In December, their showstopper is the frosty peppermint latte topped off with velvety peppermint foam.

Storyville | Address: 94 Pike Street Top floor Suite 34, Seattle, WA 98101, United States

Located in the heart of downtown, Storyville holds a special place in my coffee-loving heart. It often goes unnoticed by the majority of people because of its unassuming location on the second floor overlooking Pike Place Market. You won’t find special holiday drinks here, but the coziness vibes are through the roof, and they have some of the best cinnamon rolls in Seattle.

Wander Through the Teddy Bear Suite

The Fairmont Olympic Hotel | Address: 411 University St, Seattle, WA 98101, United States

Welcome to the Teddy Bear Suite, the bear-y best spot located in the Fairmont Olympic Hotel in downtown Seattle! Prepare to be whisked away to a world of teddy bear wonder as you step into this enchanting suite. With two beautifully decorated rooms, filled with an adorable army of teddy bears, sparkling Christmas trees, and twinkling fairy lights.

To make the most of your visit and avoid the long lines, be sure to arrive right at 9 AM when the doors open. Look for the signs in the lobby that will lead you to the Suite which is usually on the third floor nestled in one of the corner suites. And if you find yourself feeling a bit lost, just ask the friendly hotel receptionist, who will gladly point you in the right direction.

Partake in a Traditional Swedish Christmas Smorgasbord 

Seattle is home to a huge Scandinavian community! We have Scandinavian bakeries, shops, restaurants, museums, and tons of events celebrating Scandinavian culture. My favorite events are the Christmas smorgasbords! The one time of year when I can eat my weight in meatballs and no one bats an eye. Skål to that!

These are my favorite Christmas Smorgasbord events in Seattle.

Skål Beer Hall | Address: 5429 Ballard Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107, United States

Skål is a viking inspired restaurant and mead bar that hosts a wonderful Nordic Christmas dinner every year. It’s a fixed menu that includes their twist on various dishes such as pickled herring smørbrød, Roast Duck with Savory rice porridge, Bacon seared Lutefisk and the list goes on! Each course is thoughtfully paired with either a selected mead or aquavit because no Viking feast is complete without a bit of firewater.

Tickets must be purchased in advance for this event, and will be available end of Nov/early Dec.

Swedish Club | Address: 1920 Dexter Ave N, Seattle, WA, United States, Washington

If you are looking for a more traditional take on the Swedish Smorgasbord, you must attend the Swedish Club’s Julbord. You will find pickled herring, gravlax, various types of Swedish cheeses and crispbreads, Swedish meatballs, succulent sausages, liver paté, and rice porridge with fruit preserves to finish off your meal. Oh, and there’s a bar serving incredible glögg (mulled wine)

While you are eating, live music will be playing and there will be a Santa Lucia procession. My family loves this event and attends every single year! It’s $75 and tickets can be purchased starting early December on their website.

Have a Drink at a Festive Bar

After a full day of festive activities in Seattle, there’s no need to stop the fun when the sun sets. This city embraces the yuletide vibe, even within its nightlife.

Miracle on 2nd | Address: 2332 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98121, United States

Rob Roy, one of the best cocktail bars in Seattle, transforms into Miracle on 2nd every year. This bar undergoes a full-blown Christmas makeover that will make you question whether you have been transported to Santa’s Workshop or just had a few too many buttered rums.

The bartenders don their best Christmas sweaters and hats while they shake up delicious drinks with alluring names like Christmaspolitan and Jingle Balls Nog. The bar itself is pretty small, so I recommend arriving right when they open, especially if you have a big group. It’s on a first come, first serve basis.

Sippin Santa | Address: 2505 2nd Ave #102, Seattle, WA 98121, United States

Get ready to ride the wave of holiday cheer at this tiki-tastic cocktail bar pop-up. It’s a tropical twist on the Christmas spirit, where you’ll find Santa hanging ten on a surfboard instead of a sleigh and palm trees swaying instead of pine.

They have a menu full of tiki drinks with a holiday twist like the “Holiday on Ice,” my personal favorite with a heavenly blend of vodka, dark roast cold brew, condensed milk, ancho chili pepper and cinnamon syrup. The Yule Tide is a refreshing drink served in a santa mermaid mug and made with tequila, applejack, lime, and maple cranberry syrup.

Sitting Room | Address: 108 W Roy St, Seattle, WA 98119, United States

If you are a fan of the movie Home Alone, you won’t want to miss the Sitting Room’s holiday transformation.  They bring the spirit of the classic Christmas movie to life with epic decorations, including a massive poster showcasing Kevin’s battle plan and walls adorned with iconic movie stills.

They have a menu of over 10 themed cocktails like the “Kevin!” and the “Keep the Change, Ya Filthy Animal.” and my personal favorite “The Northbend Graveslinger” which tastes like an oreo milkshake and comes with a tiny shovel. As an added bonus, Home Alone plays on repeat.

Tinsel Town | Address: 110 East Green Lake Dr N, Seattle, WA 98115, United States

Shelter Lounge in Green Lake turns into the ultimate winter wonderland every year. They not only have outrageously festive decor and drinks, but they also host a number of events throughout the month of December, like a holiday luau. As of early 2023 they have changed ownership, so I can’t say if Tinsel Town will be happening this year, but I sure hope so!

Christmas Dive Bar | Address: 1512 11th Ave.  Seattle, WA 98122

This bar is a holiday wonderland, featuring kitschy decorations, vintage Christmas lights, and quirky ornaments. It is one of the BEST decorated bars in all of Seattle and such a fun time. I also think they have some of the most creatively named drinks, such as Grinch martini and butter beer fizz. My personal favorite was the espresso nog-tini.

They also have a cozy upstairs area called the “chug and cheers chalet” that overlooks the main bar.

Get Your Hands Dirty in the Kitchen by Learning to Make Holiday Treats 

PCC Community Market | Address: Various Locations

Baking is my love language. It’s my sweet escape, my therapy after a long day. But there’s an undeniable magic that fills the air when I step into the kitchen during the month leading up to Christmas that makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. The kitchen becomes a haven of warmth, joy, and mouthwatering aromas of cinnamon and sugar.

That being said, you can imagine my excitement when I found a Christmas themed baking class in Seattle. PCC Community Markets hosts cooking classes almost every day at various locations. They have a ton of Christmas cooking and baking classes, from crafting the perfect batch of Christmas cookies to creating show-stopping holiday dinners and sides.

I did a baking class all around Christmas morning pastries. We made cinnamon rolls, cranberry scones and gingerbread waffles.

My only complaint is that we didn’t receive the recipes after the class. The dough for the scones and cinnamon rolls were pre done, so we focused our attention on mastering the art of rolling out and shaping the dough. I did learn a lot and would definitely take another cooking class with PCC in the future.

Beautiful pre frosted cinnamon rolls we made. 

Take an Overnight Trip to Victoria, Canada to Experience Some Out of this World Christmas Magic

Victoria, Canada is a Christmas wonderland during the month of December. Many people don’t realize you can take a ferry there from Seattle. It takes 2 hours and 45 minutes! Here are the best and most festive things to do in Victoria for Christmas.

Butchart Gardens | Address: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8, Canada

Butchart Gardens is a place where the spirit of Christmas comes alive in a dazzling display of thousands of lights, and the harmonious sounds of carolers fill the air as you walk through. Every year they pick a theme and decorate the place accordingly, and last year it was 12 Days of Christmas. It was fun running around trying to find all the themed displays like, “7 swans a swimming” and “10 lords a-leaping” etc.

The BEST display in my opinion was the Fairy Garden. The trees are lit up by thousands of green and blue sparkling lights, and looks magical. I felt like I was walking through Neverland and Tinker Bell was going to pop out at any second.

Butchart Gardens is beautiful year round, but Christmastime unreal!

Getting to Butchart from Downtown Victoria: Since I was traveling with my mom and grandparents, we opted to rent a car for the day (we returned it the same day). However, for those looking for an alternative, a bus route is available. It takes approximately 50 minutes to an hour. It costs $5 for a Day Pass, which can be purchased from the driver.

Empress Hotel for Tea | Address: 721 Government St, Victoria, BC V8W 1W5, Canada

The Empress Hotel, an iconic landmark situated along Victoria’s Inner Harbour, has been serving its renowned afternoon tea since 1908. If you are a Christmas fanatic like myself, you will want to experience their festive afternoon tea. The entire hotel gets decked out for the holidays, and the tearoom is no exception.

It’s worth noting that afternoon tea at The Empress is a highly sought-after experience, especially during the holidays, and reservations are strongly recommended.

Shopping on Government Street

Government Street is the main shopping street in Victoria. You can find pretty much anything your heart desires. These are a couple of my favorite shops!

Rogers Chocolates | Address: 913 Government St, Victoria, BC V8W 1X5, Canada

This chocolate shop isn’t just another plain Jane chocolate shop because they’ve cracked the code to candy greatness with their famous Victoria Creams. Victoria creams have a delicious whipped cream center encased in a velvety chocolate shell. They come in many flavors, but during the holidays they have festive flavors like pumpkin spice, peppermint, and gingerbread!

Once you taste your first Victoria Cream, you’ll be dreaming about them day and night. Definitely not speaking from experience…

Munros Books | Address: 1108 Government St, Victoria, BC V8W 1Y2, Canada

For more than half a century, Munros has been the ultimate destination for bookworms looking to escape reality (and let’s be honest, avoid doing adult things like laundry or washing dishes).

Founded by Jim and Alice Munro, who were clearly overachievers in the realm of literary success with their Nobel Prize and Man Booker accolades, decided to take on the book store world too because, well, why not? And boy, am I grateful they did!

It has become a tradition at this point that any time my family and I go to Victoria, we always make a stop at Munros. It’s a wonderful escape amidst the chaos of holiday shopping or a potential hazard for book hoarders like myself, but hey, it’s a risk I’m willing to take!

Dress up Like Santa and Wander the City

Santa Con info

If you’ve ever felt the inexplicable desire to roam the city dressed as Santa or his merry helpers, you will want to mark your calendar for Santa Con. Now, people either love or hate Santa Con because although it’s fun bar hopping and drinking with thousands of other Santas. It’s not so much fun watching Santa after the Santa puke their brains out on the side of the street after having one too many Christmas shots.

I, for one, love it. It’s such a silly event and so much fun if you have a group of friends to go with. 

Santa Con is essentially a self-guided pub crawl. It’s $7 to join and there are 8 – 10 participating bars on the list that offer drink specials (and themed drinks). When it comes to costumes, the creativity knows no bounds at SantaCon. From Grinches to reindeer onesies, ugly Christmas sweaters to people bedecked in twinkling lights with a Santa hat atop their head. You can go as simple or as extravagant as you want.

Eat Dinner While Watching a Festive Burlesque Show

Can Can Culinary Cabaret | Address: 95 Pine St, Seattle, WA 98101, United States

If you have ever visited Seattle and thought to yourself, “I would love to see a Broadway show” but weren’t sure how or if that was even possible? Well, my friends. I have great news!

Watching a show at the Can Can is on par with anything you would see on Broadway, and instead of having seats miles away from the stage, you are right in front, at a table, enjoying a delicious meal.

For over 10 years, every December, the Can Can have put on a fantastic winter themed show called Winter Wonderland with stunning costumes, original song & dance performances, and a touch of daring chandelier swinging (you’ll see what I mean).

This show is only for 21+ and tickets are $79, but you can upgrade to include a better seat or drinks and food package.

Experience Holiday Magic at Pike Place Market

Magic in the Market

Pike Place is one of my favorite places to visit during Christmastime. They host quite a few events during December, but the best one is The Magic in the Market Event, which happens the weekend before December.  Here are a few of the things they have going on during this event:

• ornament & glassblowing workshop
• cookie decorating with live music, which is definitely not just for kids
• Santa Claus meet & greet
• shopping discounts
• holiday drinks and treats (eggnog, apple cider, donuts, grilled cheese)
• evening lighting ceremony

My very well decorated cookie below. I think I found my calling. 

Go on a Festive Self-Guided Cocktail Tour

Holiday Drink Week | Address: 16 locations

This might be one of the best ways to spend Christmas in Seattle, or at least for those of us who are old enough to drink. Holiday Drink Week is a festive extravaganza where bars and restaurants across the city team up to serve holiday-themed drinks. As the name suggests, it lasts one week, so you have plenty of time to hop from one festive watering hole to another.

As a local, it was fun exploring neighborhoods that I don’t normally have the chance to visit, even if it was just to bar hop.

Check Out the Most Extravagant Gingerbread Houses in Seattle

Gingerbread Village at the Sheraton | Address: 1400 6th Ave, Seattle, WA 98101, United States

Gingerbread Village has been a Seattle tradition at the Sheraton for more than 20 sugar-coated years. These gingerbread creations are more than just “houses” – they’re feats of confectionary engineering. Each year, a theme is chosen, as you can see, I went the year of Buzz Light year, and it did not disappoint.

I half expected them to sprout icing wings and take flight

Each creation is designed in partnership with a child who has type 1 diabetes and a local architect and the Gingerbread village raises money for JRDF Northwest which is an organization that funds type one diabetes research. At the end of your visit, you can vote for your favorite gingerbread “house” but be warned, it won’t be easy to pick just one. These kids are insanely talented.

Ride Aboard the Christmas Ship

Seattle Christmas Ship

Get ready to set sail on a nautical extravaganza that puts Santa’s sleigh to shame! The Seattle Christmas ship is tradition that’s been lighting up the waters for over 70 years. This ship has everything your little Christmas loving heart could desire, with twinkling lights and festive trees adorning almost every corner.

There is a bar that serves snacks, wine, beer and festive cocktails – my favorite was the hot chocolate with peppermint schnapps.

Then as you are sailing the waters, the boat stops, and a local choir preforms for about 15 – 20 minutes. Our boat had a high school choir and they were fantastic! Towards the end of the trip, Santa comes out to read Twas The Night Before Christmas, and he has a “Ho Ho Hoing” contest with the kids.

Depending on the date, the ship has different departure points, but my favorite place to depart is Kirkland. I suggest arriving a couple of hours before departure to walk around and maybe grab some dinner. It’s a cute area with a small town feel, especially during Christmastime!

Have Tea at a Festive English Tea House

Queen Mary’s Tea Room | Address: 2912 NE 55th St, Seattle, WA 98105, United States

The one thing I miss about living in London is the immense afternoon tea choices, and although Seattle doesn’t have the selection you would find across the pond, Queen Mary’s Tea Room is all you really need.

This adorable tearoom goes above and beyond to transform the place into a holiday-themed wonderland, complete with decorations so over-the-top, you’ll swear you’ve stumbled onto the set of a cheesy Hallmark Christmas movie, and they offer a menu of festive treats and teas, which may or may not make you forget that you’re not actually in London.

Attend a Winter Beer Festival

Seattle Winter Beer Festival

It’s no secret that Seattle is a city that practically breathes beer. There are 60+ breweries in the city AND we have a lot of beer festivals throughout the year, but my favorite festivals are the ones that celebrate the seasonal beer, like the Seattle Winter Beer Festival.

When faced with 6 long months of chilly weather, we need more than just warm blankets and cozy firesides.

Over 30 breweries showcase their winter beers, and offer an array of winter warmers, imperial stouts, and spiced ales. Also, each booth was decorated with lights, fun Christmas decor, and Santa Claus even made an appearance. Festive attire is highly encouraged! Most people came in their ugliest Christmas sweater and Christmas hats.

Tickets start at $40, but that includes a tasting cup with 10 4oz tastings.

Get Transfixed at a Garden Full of Lights

Garden d’Lights at Bellevue Botanical Garden

Every year, the Bellevue Botanical Gardens put on an incredible light display that showcases nature at it’s finest. Over half a million sparkling lights are whimsically transformed into the shapes of plants, birds, animals, and cascading waterfalls.

Watch a Holiday Show

Nutcracker | Venue: Pacific Northwest Ballet | Dates: Nov 24th – Dec 27th

Prepare to be whisked away into a whimsical realm with giant mice, growing Christmas trees, and pirouetting snowflakes. Seeing the Nutcracker is a tradition many families have at Christmastime all over the world. Seattle is lucky enough to be home to the Pacific Northwest Ballet, who put on an amazing Nutcracker show every year.

The Christmas Carol | Venue: ACT

Bah! Humbug! Everyone knows the heartwarming tale of how Ebenezer scrooge goes from a cruel Christmas hating monster to the most generous man in London, even paying for Little Timmy’s surgery! Seeing this show is a must when visiting Seattle during Christmas.

Christmas Improv Shows | Venue: Unexpected Productions

What better way to spend the holidays than at a hilarious improv show at Seattle’s longest running improv theater. Unexpected Productions is located through the alley adjacent to the gum wall in Pike Place Market. During Christmas, they have two fantastic shows to look out for.

They do a hilarious rendition of Christmas Carol and an (Un)improvised Christmas Show. Both shows rely on audience participation to give the actors names and places to add to the show.

In our Christmas Carol show, scrooge was a used car salesman, which worked really well and in an (Un)improvised Christmas Show the audience had more say in the direction the story went.

Die Hard | Venue: The Habit

Uncle Mike Ruins Christmas | Venue: West of Lenin

This is a show that relies on audience participation. Before the show starts, everyone is given a card where they can share a heartwarming festive memory, then the cast will choose a few to bring to life on stage.

Then, Uncle Mike, shatters the innocence of each and every memory in a way that no human should. This show was incredibly foul and fun. I can see why it comes back year after year.

Just a friendly warning: this show is only for mature audiences and not for those who get offended easily.

These are just a few of my favorite shows, but Seattle has a ton of theaters that put on performances that you should certainly check out. You can browse a list of Christmas shows here or here.

See Seattle’s Best Light Displays

I admire those dedicated souls who go above and beyond in transforming their homes into dazzling spectacles of holiday cheer! It’s no small feat, but their efforts are truly appreciated by us Christmas light enthusiasts. We see the time, love, and meticulous attention to detail that goes into those magnificent displays.

Since Seattle is a city that loves Christmas, it should come as no surprise that someone has created a map of all the best light displays in in the city, There are actually two maps you can check out:

Curiocity
Lights Maps

The second one has light displays all over Washington State, while the first is just focused on Seattle.

My absolute favorite light display in the city is at the Westlake Center in Downtown.  They have giant igloos, a teddy bear, a deer, and even a present all made out of lights.

Admire the Most Creative Christmas Flower Arrangements

Fleur De Ville | Venue: Pacific Place

Prepare to be mesmerized by the enchanting world of Fleur De Ville, an extraordinary exhibition that pays homage to the incredible talent of local florists.

Immerse yourself in a captivating display of 17 breathtaking holiday floral arrangements, where reindeer come to life in vibrant blooms, mannequins don the most stunning flower-made dresses, and plenty of other creative designs await your awe.

Watch a Festive Christmas Parade

Snowflake Lane | Location: Between Bellevue Square and Lincoln Square

Christmas in Seattle wouldn’t be the same without the Snowflake Lane Parade in Bellevue. It happens every night from the end of November to Christmas Eve. Downtown Bellevue undergoes a miraculous transformation into a magical wonderland, attracting people from all over to witness this spectacle of lights, music, and festive madness.

There are floats bedazzled with twinkling lights carrying characters from Santa’s entourage. Marching bands play beloved Christmas tunes while dancers twirl and pirouette their way down the street and snowflakes start falling from the sky (well, technically, machines), creating a magical ambiance that’ll make you believe you’ve stumbled into a snow globe.

Tip: Make sure to arrive early, especially the closer it is to Christmas. It gets very busy.

Attend a Winter Festival

Winterfest | Location: Armory Food & Event Hall at Seattle Center.

The Winterfest is a fun, family friendly event that takes place throughout the month of December. They host local bands every weekend and there is even a 19th century model train and village that has been on display every year for over 40 years.

Listen to Holiday Music Surrounded by Candlelight

Candlight Series

Get ready to be whisked away on a magical musical journey, where the gentle flicker of candlelight creates an enchanting ambiance like no other. You’re sitting in a room surrounded by hundreds of (totally safe) candles while listening to classical renditions of your favorite Christmas carols. The musicians are all local and incredibly talented.

View Christmas Lights at a Zoo

Woodland Park Zoo | Address: 5500 Phinney Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98103

Experience the enchantment of Woodland Park Zoo’s Christmas light display, featuring stunning large-scale lanterns depicting animals and naturescapes inspired by diverse wildlife habitats around the world.

Point Defiance Zoo | Address: 5400 N Pearl St, Tacoma, WA 98407

The Point Defiance Zoo is transformed into a colorful winter wonderland with over 800,000 lights depicting various animals and landscapes. They have a giant Pacific octopus, Giant tiger face, Flame tree, Seahawks tree, and a bright tunnel you can walk through. If you are feeling peckish, they have smores kits you can purchase and a fire pit to roast those marshmallows over.

Try some Delicious & Festive Treats

Seattle has no shortage of festive treats to get you in the mood for the holidays. Below are some of my favorite places to indulge in holiday pastries.

Pirosky Piroshky | Address: 1908 Pike Pl, Seattle, WA 98101

Piroshky Piroshky is a popular eastern European fast food place. A piroshky is basically a savory turnover.  They have many locations, but my favorite is the Pike Place Market location. During the holidays, they have a thanksgiving filled piroshky that has turkey, potatoes, cranberry sauce and gravy. It is divine! They also do a pumpkin toffee bread.

Confectional | Address: 1530 Pike Pl, Seattle, WA 98101

Confectional is another pike place gem that serves mini cheesecakes! They have a delectable gingerbread and eggnog cheesecake.

Cupcake Royale | Address: 106 Pine St, Seattle, WA 98101

Cupcake Royale has some of the best cupcakes in the city. Every month they feature 4 limited edition cupcakes and of course during the month of December, the cupcakes are flavors that even Santa would approve of. Last year the four flavors were: eggnog, candy cane, orange chocolate, and cranberry.

Pie a la mode | Address: 5821 Phinney Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103

Pie makes an appearance in all the winter holidays, so it’s really no surprise Seattle has a pie bakery. They have a selection of holiday pies to choose from. My favorite ones are  pumpkin, spiced apple ad butterscotch bourbon, so I suggest getting a slice of all three. You can thank me later!

General Porpoise | Address: 1020 E Union St, Seattle, WA 98122

Seattle has no shortage of donut shops. I mean, we even have a donut tour. That being said, General Porpoise is one of the best donut shops in the city. They are so popular, they frequently sell out before closing. Every December, they have at least one festive donut flavor. Last time I went, they had a gingerbread donut with a gingerbread filling that just melted in my mouth.

Molly Moon | Address: 917 E Pine St Seattle WA 98122

Ice cream may not be the first thing you crave during the winter, but Molly Moon should be the exception. They hand make all their ice cream and create their own unique flavors, but the holiday flavors are always my favorite.

Look at Designer Trees Designed by Kids for Charity

Festival of Trees

The Designer Trees that are part of the Festival of Trees are showcased at the Fairmont every year. People can buy the trees, which raise money for various children’s organizations such as Seattle Children’s Hospital and Seattle Autism Center. Each tree is designed by a child, and there is a card next to each tree with information about the child who decorated said tree.

The trees are very expensive (several thousand dollars) but really fun to look at!

Watch an Insane Trans Siberia Show

I have never seen a Trans Siberian Orchestra show until they came to Seattle, and Oh my word! I am glad I did because it was amazing! They come to Seattle every year on their Christmas tour.

A Trans-Siberian Orchestra show is a captivating and immersive musical experience that combines the power of rock music with the elegance of classical orchestration.

The show has a theme which changes yearly. The theme of the show I went to was “Ghosts of Christmas Past”. They played a mix of original music and classic carols with a twist, and there were some crazy effects like fire spitting out of the stage and lighting effects that were synchronized with the music.

If you want to be blown away, you absolutely have to see Trans Siberia Orchestra live, especially their Christmas show. I am not a huge concert person, but would see their show a hundred times over.

Get tickets here

Where to Stay in Seattle

Book accommodation in Seattle by searching for hotels below!

Christmas in Seattle Faqs

How do I get around Seattle?

1. Public Transit: Seattle has an extensive public transit system operated by King County Metro. You can use buses, light rail, and streetcars to travel within the city and surrounding areas. The ORCA card is a convenient way to pay for fares and transfers across different modes of transportation.
2. Light Rail: Seattle’s Link light rail connects downtown with the University of Washington, Sea-Tac Airport, and various neighborhoods. It’s a fast and efficient way to travel, especially for longer distances.
3. Buses: King County Metro operates a network of buses that cover the city and its suburbs. Bus routes serve various neighborhoods and destinations, making it a flexible option for getting around.
4. Streetcars: Seattle’s South Lake Union Streetcar and the First Hill Streetcar provide transportation in specific areas. They connect popular neighborhoods and offer a convenient way to explore those regions.
5. Ride-Sharing: Services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Seattle.
6. Bicycles: Seattle is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and trails. You can rent a bicycle from various bike-sharing programs, such as Lime or Jump, and explore the city on two wheels. Just make sure to familiarize yourself with the city’s biking laws and safety guidelines.
7. Walking: Seattle is known for its pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods. Many areas in the city are easily walkable, allowing you to explore the vibrant streets, parks, and attractions on foot.

Is Seattle Safe?

Seattle, like any major city, has areas with varying levels of safety. Overall, Seattle is considered a relatively safe city to visit. However, it’s important to exercise general caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or during late-night hours. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Tourist Areas: Popular tourist areas in downtown Seattle, such as Pike Place Market and the waterfront, are generally safe during the day. However, it’s wise to remain vigilant and take typical precautions to protect your belongings.
2. Homelessness: Seattle has faced challenges with its homeless population, which can lead to certain areas having visible signs of homelessness. While the majority of interactions with the homeless are peaceful, it’s important to exercise empathy and caution in any interactions. The city is working on addressing this issue and providing support to those in need.
3. Public Transportation: Seattle’s public transportation system is generally safe to use, but it’s always prudent to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
4. Emergency Services: Seattle has a well-established police force and emergency services that aim to ensure public safety. In case of emergencies, dial 911 to reach the appropriate authorities.

What is the Weather Like in Seattle During Christmastime

Temperatures in December typically range from the mid-30s Fahrenheit (around 1-4 degrees Celsius) to the mid-40s Fahrenheit (around 7-9 degrees Celsius). It’s important to note that temperatures can vary, and occasional colder spells or milder days are possible.

Rainfall is common in Seattle, even during the winter months. December is considered one of the wettest months, with an average of around 5-6 inches (12-15 cm) of precipitation. The rain in Seattle is often characterized by drizzle or light showers, but heavier rainfalls can also occur.

Snowfall in Seattle during Christmastime is relatively rare but not unheard of.

What Should I Pack for Christmas in Seattle?

1. Warm clothing: Pack sweaters, long-sleeved shirts, and thermal layers to keep yourself warm in the cool temperatures. A medium-weight jacket or coat is also recommended.
2. Rain gear: Seattle is known for its rain, so be sure to bring a waterproof or water-resistant jacket or coat, an umbrella, and waterproof shoes or boots. Consider packing a compact umbrella that can easily fit in your bag.
3. Footwear: Opt for comfortable and sturdy shoes or boots that can handle wet conditions. Waterproof or water-resistant footwear is particularly useful. You may also want to bring an extra pair of shoes to rotate if one gets wet.
4. Layering essentials: Pack items like scarves, gloves, and hats to protect yourself from the cold. These accessories can also add style and versatility to your outfits.

Looking for more Washington State Travel Tips? Check out these articles!

7 Amazing Snoqualmie Falls Tours from Seattle
9 Festive Things to do in Leavenworth, WA: Washington State’s Premier Christmas Town
11 Epic Things to Do On Whidbey Island, Washington: A Perfect Weekend Getaway
11 Beautiful Mt Rainier Tours from Seattle
Gifts Made in Washington State: A Local Shopping Guide

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Travel Resources

First off, if you want to browse all my favorite travel resources, check out my Travel Resources page.

Trip Planning: I have put together the ultimate trip planning guide that will walk you through everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip.

Book your Flight: Check out Skyscanner and Momondo! They can have great deals. Airfarewatchdog is also a favorite of mine. I get notified by email every time there is a good deal from my local airport.

Book your Transportation: Wanderu is usually where I check first. They check hundreds of different transportation companies all over the world and find you either the best bus or train deal. Flixbus is one of my favorite cheap options for Europe. The buses generally aren’t too bad, and they go to most countries around Europe. It’s the perfect option for short distances. Train travel is my favorite mode of transportation, and I always use Rail Europe to book my tickets. The Eurail pass makes Europe train travel super affordable.

Book your Accommodation: Just Wndr is a platform that allows you to find and book hotels for up to 70% off! All you have to do is sign up with your email, and then you have access to thousands of hotel deals for a fraction of what you would pay on other booking sites. On a budget and looking for cheap accommodation? Hostelworld is my preferred site to book cheap and reliable hostels. Hotwire has a fun mystery to it. It’s a great site to use for last-minute bookings. They don’t actually tell you the name of the hotel when you are browsing. You will just get the area of the city it’s in, the price, and how many stars it has. I love the surprise aspect of it!

Book your Travel Insurance: Getting travel insurance is such a crucial part of preparing for a trip. You never know what could happen and why take the risk? Before I travel anywhere, I always book my insurance through Safety Wing.

Book your Activities: Now, you have planned all the logistics, time to think about what you will do once you get to your destination!  The main site I use is Get Your Guide. I have booked cooking classes, day tours and so much more through them and absolutely love the immense selection they offer in cities all over the world!

Store Your Luggage: Do you have a long layover or a late flight and need to store your luggage? Radical Storage has got you covered. You can book luggage storage in more than 500 cities worldwide.