Top 10 Holiday Activities in Seattle

Seattle is one of the most beautiful cities on the entire west coast and that’s no understatement. From the iconic Pike Place Market and the Space Needle to the picturesque views of Mt. Rainier, Seattle is the emerald jewel of the PNW.

Being a coastal city, Seattle doesn’t get as much snow as its inland counterparts, but that doesn’t stop them from celebrating the holidays. 

If you’re looking for fun holiday activities in Seattle, WA, make sure to bookmark this list!

Fun Holiday Activities in Seattle, Washington

View the Wild Lanterns at The Woodland Park Zoo 

Nov. 11, 2022 to Jan. 22, 2023; 4-9 p.m.

Find yourself in awe of beautiful nature-themed displays in The Woodland Park Zoo’s WildLanterns. Walk through the Zoo and see stunning lantern displays of the animals we know and love.

Celebrate Kwanzaa 

Saturday, Dec. 03, 2022; 12-5 p.m.

Seattle is the cultural epicenter of the Pacific Northwest, so it should come as no surprise that the city hosts some of the best Kwanzaa celebrations in the region. Join the Nu Black Art West Theatre Company and Black 4 Charities group for a cultural experience and marketplace that focuses on the seven principles of Kwanzaa.

Pick out a Christmas Tree

There’s nothing like a fresh Christmas tree to make your entire house smell like the holidays. Luckily, in Seattle, there are so many magnificent spots to pick up a Christmas tree that fits into your house or apartment. 

Dress up for the Seattle Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl 

Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022; 1-8 p.m.

Stop at the best bars in Seattle in your favorite ugly Christmas sweater during the Seattle Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl.

Go see the Nutcracker Ballet

Various times and dates Nov. 25 to Dec. 27, 2022

The Nutcracker is a Christmas classic. The Pacific Northwest Ballet is performing this holiday show for almost a month and is a must-see!  

Check out the holiday Zoolights at Point Defiance 

Nov. 25, 2022 to Jan. 2, 2023; 4:30-10 p.m.

Take a quick drive to Tacoma to see the beautiful Zoolights at the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. There’s something so magical about seeing the different habitats and areas lit up for the holidays with over 800,000 twinkling bulbs!

Shop at Holly Jolly Holiday Market 

Nov. 25-26, 2022; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Support Seattle’s small businesses on Black Friday and Small Business Saturday at the Holly Jolly Holiday Market. This free event will include over 125 vendors, food and coffee trucks, and even Santa will make an appearance.

Visit the Winterfest Train & Village 

Nov. 25 to Dec. 31, 2022; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (closes at 4 p.m. on Dec 24; closed Dec 25)

All aboard the Polar Express! For 40 years, the public have been able to see the Winterfest Train & Village, a late 19th-century model train and village. 

Model trains can be so exciting for both young and old, making this a fun, family outing. You can even do a scavenger hunt as you explore the village.

Ring in the New Year – Gatsby Style 

Saturday, Dec. 31, 2022, 9:00 p.m. through Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023, 1:30 a.m.

Dress up, sip some giggle juice and dance the night away as you ring in the new year. Seattle’s King Street Ballroom & Perch venue plays host to the event up in its Gatsby Penthouse. This will be a night to remember! You can read more about the event and what’s included here.

Start your new year off with a spark

Saturday, Dec.31, 2022, 9:00 p.m. through Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023, 2:00 a.m.

Countdown to the new year with the ultimate electric party, featuring five hours of music from top Seattle DJs and three different areas to dance and mingle. Get your tickets here.

Celebrate Fun Holiday Activities in Seattle

Seattle is an incredible destination for holiday celebrations. Ranging from family-friendly to 21+, there’s something fun for everyone. What’s your favorite way to celebrate the holidays in Seattle?