It’s the weekend before Christmas and Seattle is full of holiday cheer. Whether you’re looking to celebrate, shop, just chill or dine out, we’ve got you covered. Here are 10 of the best things to do in & around Seattle this weekend.

Winter Solstice Holiday Night Market

You’ll be able to enjoy a winter solstice market from the folks who put on the popular Seattle Night Market. Expect to shop, eat, and listen to live music. If you want an adults-only event check it out on Friday when it’s 21+ only, Saturday is for all ages.

When: December 17th & 18th
Where: Magnuson Park, Hangar 30
Cost: TBA

SantaCon Seattle

On December 11th and 18th, you’re invited to paint the town red and white. You can expect live entertainment all day, free admission to 15+ venues, drink specials, a costume contest, professional photographers, and more! Best of all, you can hop in on the fun pretty much anytime between noon and midnight to pick up your wristband.

When: December 18th
Where: Locations TBA
Cost: $5-$20

Listen to carolers aboard the Christmas Ship

If you’ve lived in Seattle long enough chances are that you’ve heard singing coming from Puget Sound during the holidays. That beautiful sound is the Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship and while watching from shore is nice, you can actually ride the ships and hear the singing up close. So bundle up and get ready to sail with your SO.

When: Until December 23rd
Where: Onboard/Onshore
Cost: Free-$50

Miracle on 2nd

The wildly popular Christmas-themed Miracle bar is returning to Seattle in the form of a pop-up cocktail bar. It’s the ultimate spot to snag holiday cocktails in a festive setting. You’ll feel just like papa Noel yourself as you sip professionally-developed cocktails surrounded by kitschy holiday décor.

When: Until December 24th
Where: Rob Roy, 2332 2nd Ave
Cost: Varies

Enjoy a snowy sleigh ride

Leavenworth has a whole host of sleigh rides for you to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a more intimate experience with up to 6 people or Santa’s Sleigh with up to 16 people they have you covered. All rides come with a piping hot cup of cider to enjoy with some rides even stopping by an open fire.

When: Tours Daily
Where: 19115 Chiwawa Loop Road, Leavenworth, Washington, 98826
Cost: $225-$400

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Land of the Sweets: The Burlesque Nutcracker

Land of the Sweets: The Burlesque Nutcracker is a great performance to add to your list of holiday events. Lily Verlaine and Jasper McCann have been producing this show in Seattle for 14 years making it a beloved classic in its own right. The show is refined and stunning, with professional dancers performing Verlaine’s choreography.

When: Until December 29th
Where: 216 Union Street
Cost: $50-$90

Visit Washington’s ultimate Christmas town 

Is there a more iconic holiday town in Washington than Leavenworth? We think not. They’re lighting up once again this year but instead of having to wait for weekends to see the light, now you can see the town glowing daily. Enjoy the lights, hike in the area, shop & dine, there are lots to do and see in Leavenworth

Where: Leavenworth, Washington

Go to the Nutcracker Ballet

PNB’s Nutcracker is one that you probably know well. It follows the story of a young girl as she adventures into a Christmas wonderland with her newfound friend, the nutcracker. Together they battle the evil mouse king and bring joy to all the fantastical characters they meet along the way. With PNB’s talented dancers, detailed costumes, and choreography it’s a must-watch and perfect romantic date.

When: Until December 28th
Where: 321 Mercer St, Seattle, WA
Cost: $27+ per person

Hit the ice rink

Want to show your crush just how many tricks you know on the ice? Well luckily, Seattle and its surrounding areas have a few ice rinks for you to check out. Whether you’re looking for a simple open skate or to take lessons like figure skating or hockey, these ice rinks have you covered.

Where: Click above to see our picks

Give back to a local organization

Looking to make the holidays more meaningful this year? Consider giving back to a local organization. Whether you’re able to donate a can of food, cash, or your time, there’s always some way you can help. We even went ahead and compiled a list of some of our favorite organizations.

Where: Click above to see our picks

There you have it folks, have a great weekend and we’ll catch you back here next week. Happy Holidays!