A holiday calendar packed with incredible light displays and timeless magic, local favorites like The Seattle Great Wheel, Pike Place Market, and Seattle Center—all decked out in the spirit of the season—this city truly has it all. Take a peek at what’s in store below.
Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship™ Festival is a ship-to-shore holiday celebration that has been a Northwest tradition since 1949. The Spirit of Seattle™, the Official Christmas Ship™, is decorated with hundreds of shimmery white lights and sails to different Puget Sound waterfront communities – around 40 in all. Choirs on board the Christmas Ship™ perform to guests aboard, to follow boats, and to communities gathered on shore.
Journey into the heart of a magical holiday tale at Enchant Christmas, home of the World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze experience. Set against the backdrop of a captivating original story, Santa’s Magic Timepiece, your adventure leads you through 80,000 square feet of breathtaking light sculptures as you search for the missing fragments of Santa’s Magic Timepiece, the key ingredient to Santa’s magical journey around the earth visiting each and every household.
George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker® with Pacific Northwest BalletDetails
11/29/2024– 12/28/2024
McCaw Hall
Mercer Street, Seattle, WA, USA
George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker® with Pacific Northwest Ballet
From long-standing family traditions to first trips to the ballet, George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker® is ready to delight one and all! Stroll through the liveliest lobby in town and settle in for the holiday treat of the season. From the dazzling costumes to the unforgettable performances, come discover why The Nutcracker is an integral part of the holidays for ballet fans of all ages.
Join us for a magical day at Pike Place Market as we celebrate the holiday season with the 29thAnnual Magic in the Market. With a wide range of exciting activities and festive attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Connect to a world of sparkling lights, amusements and spirited entertainment at Seattle Center Winterfest, presented by Symetra, Nov. 29 – Dec. 31, 2024 happening in-person on our grounds. Throughout the five weeks of Winterfest, those in search of uplifting seasonal spirit or delightful diversion will find seasonal decor, our Winter Train & Village, weekend entertainment on the Armory Stage, and a New Year’s Eve Celebration.
According to centuries-old tradition, many German towns host Christmas Markets in December; each one is unique, featuring local artisans and festive regional refreshments. Residents take the opportunity to enjoy each other’s company, sample local delicacies, shop for gifts, and share holiday cheer. The Seattle Christmas Market aspires to bring this festive Old-World tradition to Seattle. Our Market combines colorful décor, authentic gifts, enticing food and drinks, and family entertainment, creating the perfect atmosphere for celebrating Christmas.
Watch the largest structurally launched fireworks and light display in North America at Seattle Center, or see the Space Needle light up from your favorite viewing spot around Seattle.
WildLanterns presented by BECU returns to Woodland Park Zoo this November with an all-new, immersive, wild wonder that promises a magical holiday experience for all!
Seattle offers a full range of holiday merriment—and we invite you to delight in them all! Explore all the festive happenings below and don’t forget to book your stay to get the most out of your Seattle adventure.