It’s not the holidays without a few tried-and-true traditions! The Nordic Christmas Festival of Julefest has been a Seattle staple for nearly five decades, and it’s coming back to the neighborhood of Ballard this November.

Julefest is a three-day festival that takes place outside the National Nordic Museum in Seattle. It’s a fun, wintery, and authentically Nordic holiday experience complete with live music and unique cultural treats.

The Market

Expect rows upon rows of market stalls laden with handcrafted gifts, traditional foods, and cozy Scandinavian apparel.

“Modeled after the festive outdoor Christmas markets found across the Nordic countries, Julefest captures the essence of Scandinavian holiday traditions while adding a unique Pacific Northwest twist.”

There’s no better way to celebrate the start of the holiday season!

Friday 21+ Night

This year, Julefest is introducing a brand new 21+ night market. Get your tickets online for Friday, November 22nd between 5 PM to 9 PM, and enjoy the festive atmosphere with friends. There will be themed drinks at the cozy  Valhalla Beer Hall, happy hour pricing, and first dibs on all the Julefest market vendors.

Saturday and Sunday

The regular Julefest celebration takes place on Saturday, November 23rd, and Sunday, November 24th from 10 AM to 5 PM. Enjoy the full scope of the market with friends and family, and if you’re a member of the National Nordic Museum you’ll get in for free!

Time to celebrate the season the Nordic way!

Julefest – Seattle, Washington

When: Friday, November 22nd to Sunday, November 24th, 2024
Where: National Nordic Museum, 2655 NW Market St.
Cost: $5-$20

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Alicia Lyons

Alicia Lyons

Staff Writer

Alicia is a storyteller who chased the sun all the way to Calgary and decided to stay. When she’s not writing, she can be found stumbling along nature trails, curling up under a fuzzy blanket with a good book, or finding any excuse to eat.

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