December is nearly here, Seattle, and that means the holidays are here. Now that being said, it’s prime time to have all the joy of the season without breaking the bank. Here are 14 of the best free & cheap things to do in Seattle this December.
Free Public Tours of Washington Park Arboretum
The Arboretum is one of Seattle’s best spots for getting outdoors. While you can walk it by yourself at any time, you can also enjoy free tours on the first Thursday of each month from 11:30 AM-1 PM.
When: First Thursday of every month
Where: 2300 Arboretum Drive E
Cost: Free
Go ice skating
There are several places to go ice skating in and around Seattle this fall. Prices vary by rink and skate time. You can also choose between renting skates or bringing your own. Of course, we’ve created a list of some of the best spots to check out. Plus you can enjoy free ice skating December 8th-10th in Pioneer Square.
Holiday movies at City Hall Park
Live or work downtown? You can catch a selection of holiday movies during lunchtime at City Hall Park. This year’s lineup of films includes Elf on December 5th, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation on December 12th and The Polar Express on December 19th. Plus there will be free hot cocoa and coffee!
When: Tuesdays until December 19th at noon
Where: 450 3rd Ave
Cost: Free
Capitol Hill Art Walk
A digital map allows you to pick and choose where you stop on the Capitol Hill Art Walk. Stop by small galleries, local businesses, and more on this monthly art walk.
When: Second Thursday of every month
Where: Capitol Hill
Cost: Free
Santa photos at Pike Place Market
Of course, Santa has to stop by Pike Place. The market is offering free Santa photos for one day only. It’s a great opportunity to partake in the classic holiday photo tradition while also doing some shopping from local vendors and growers.
When: Saturday, December 9th
Where: Pike Place Market
Cost: Free
Seattle Restored Winter Market
The Seattle Restored Winter Market has over 24 local makers, bakers, and artists participating. You’ll find body care, home goods, new and thrifted clothing, jewelry, and art.
When: Saturday, December 9th, 12 PM-6 PM
Where: 1501 5th Ave
Cost: Varies
Issaquah Reindeer Festival
The Issaquah Reindeer Festival takes place this year between December 1st and 23rd. It’s an opportunity to enjoy the sights and sounds of the holidays with family, friends, Santa and his reindeer.
When: December 1st-23rd
Where: 19525 SE 54th St, Issaquah, WA
Cost: $18+
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Winterfest
Seattle Center will transform to a place for you to connect to a world of sparkling lights, amusements, and holiday entertainment. You’ll also be able to check out the Winter Train which has been on display annually for 40 years. The 19th-century model train and village display will be installed inside the Armory Food & Event Hall as always.
When: Friday, November 24th-Sunday, December 31st
Where: Seattle Center, 305 Harrison St
Cost: Free/Varies
Twinkle Twinkle at Freeway Park
Twinkle Twinkle is a great way to start out your holiday celebrations. You are invited to warm up with festive treats, fire and live entertainment from holiday carollers. Roast s’mores by the bonfire, sip hot cocoa, and enjoy the beautiful, twinkling holiday lights in Seneca Plaza. At 6 PM liver carollers will lead visitors in a parade to Pike Place Market to watch the Figgy Pudding Competition at Pike Place Market.
When: Friday, December 1st
Where: 700 Seneca St
Cost: Free
Check out a sno-park
Have you ever wished that you could visit a park strictly for snow activities? You actually can in Washington. Our state has 126 sno-parks for you to enjoy through both motorized and non-motorized sports.
Silent Reading Party: In-Person
The beloved Silent Reading Party is back in person if you’d like to have the experience of reading amongst strangers inside the beautiful Hotel Sorrento. Keep in mind there is a $20 food and drink minimum on top of your ticket price.
When: First Wednesday of each month
Where: 900 Madison St
Cost: $8-$40
Visit a museum for free
You may or may not know but Seattle actually has 5 museums that you can always visit for free. We’ve listed them out and given you some details so you can take yourself on the perfect adventure. What’s more, many local museums offer free entrance on the first Thursday of the month.
Snowflake Lane
Onlookers can experience the wonder of Snowflake Lane through an array of dazzling lights, and festive music in Bellevue’s complimentary nightly parade of holiday floats. You’re invited to line the sidewalks between Bellevue Square and Lincoln Square from NE 4th to NE 8th Streets every night at 7 PM.
When: Friday, November 24th-Sunday, December 24th
Where: Bellevue Way between NE 4th Street and NE 8th Streets
Cost: Free/Varies
Fremont Sunday Market
The Fremont Market is truly a classic Seattle shopping experience and it happens year-round, rain or shine. It’s a great place to find antiques, vintage clothing, and much more. It’s definitely one of the best free things to do in Seattle each weekend.
When: Every Sunday
Where: Evanston Ave N & 34th St
Enjoy the holidays and have fun with all of these free and cheap things to do in Seattle!
