The sky is blue, the air is crispy and frosty mornings have arrived – perfect chance to explore the holiday season in the Emerald City. (Stay tuned for blog post of adventures out of town)
Staying Local? Our picks for in and around Seattle and the Eastside:
- Snowflake Lane in Bellevue is a must (extra kudos because it is free). It happens every night at 7pm through December 24. (Duration approx 30 mins). Grab a spot anywhere along Bellevue Way next to the Bellevue Collection and Lincoln Square to enjoy drummers, dancers, snow, lights and magical fanfare. Plenty of restaurants around to grab a bite before or after.
- Ice Skating – A holiday tradition for many. Try the ice rink at Winterfest in Seattle Center or at the Downtown Park in Bellevue. Both offer skate rental and concessions.
- PNW Ballet production of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker is spectacular! Scenes and Costumes by Ian Falconer (you know from the book Olivia) Truly one to put on the list – even if you have seen it a million times before. This production is unique.
- Enchant – New this year to Seattle is an outdoor wonderland at Safeco field. Highlights include a light maze, ice skating, entertainment and a Christmas market. I have not been yet and although the pictures look magical, word is that the lines for ice skating and food are long so be prepared! If you have been – please let us know your thoughts.
- Two great family options for seeing the lights: Garden D’Lights at Bellevue Botanical Gardens is an affordable easy whimsical walk for young and old alike. Wildlights at Woodland Park Zoo includes 700,000 led lights that bring added magic to the pathways and meadows. Enjoy a night ride on the carousel, indoor snowball fights and mulled cider and wine for those 21+
- From England? Perhaps you are missing your holiday pantomime traditions. Don’t fret – head to the family friendly production of Puss in Boots at Hales Palladium (enjoy a pint while you watch!) Fantastically fun for all!
- Holiday Markets abound and you will have no shortage of options. Some of our favorites include the indie craft market of Urban Craft Uprising at Westlake during the December weekends, Renegade Craft Fair at Magnuson Hangar or the smaller sweeter Marche Du Noel in Wallingford.
- Santa Con 2018 – Perhaps you had this in your last city. A 21+ event where thousands of Santas dress up and spread throughout the city bringing a little holiday cheer. Tell all the elves and reindeer!
- Who doesn’t like a little singing to get in the spirit? Check out the Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition or the Seattle Mens Chorus in Everett and Seattle for an always entertaining show.
- Christmas Ships! One of our favorite things to do is make some hot chocolate (or a hot toddy) and head to a beach to see the Christmas ships come by. Schedule of “stops” each night is included in the link. The ships glow on the water and the carolers voices float through the air for an unforgettable experience. You can also buy tickets to hop onboard the Argosy ship and hear the choir up close or if you own your own boat – deck it out and follow behind with the christmas ship parade!
Please let us know if you have any favorites in the comments below – it is always fantastic to hear about something new.