The holidays are here! if you’re looking to celebrate and enjoy the season with spending a ton of cash, you’re in luck. There are free events happening both in Seattle and the state of Washington as a whole. Here are 10 of the best free holiday events to enjoy in Seattle.
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
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
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
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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
Village of Lights Christmastown
Village of Lights Christmastown is on now and runs until Sunday, December 24th. So visitors can expect to see Leavenworth lit up nightly for a total of 30 days! Fans of the season will be able to check out live entertainment like choirs, carolers, and bands at the gazebo in the heart of downtown. There will also be “holiday characters” making appearances.
When: Friday, November 24th-Sunday, December 24th
Where: Leavenworth, WA
Cost: Free/Varies
Luminous Lights at Westlake Park
Display highlights include a 13-foot reindeer, a giant snowflake and a candy cane twice your height. You’re invited to stroll through the brilliant light installations and enjoy the artistry of these displays built from thousands of sparkling lights.
When: Daily until Tuesday, January 9th
Where: Westlake Park
Cost: Free
Christmas Ship Festival
Want to see beautiful displays on the water? The Seattle Christmas Ship Festival is one of the PNW’s most classic celebrations of the holidays. While a ride on the boat costs $74+ it is totally free to watch and listen to the event from the shore.
When: Friday, November 24th-Saturday, December 23rd
Where: Multiple departure locations
Cost: Free-$74+
Pathway of Lights
Mark your calendars as the Green Lake circuit transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle adorned with thousands of sparkling candles. Hot air balloons will fly overhead as you walk the circuit in a new and joyous way.
When: Saturday, December 9th
Where: Green Lake
Cost: Free
Happy holidays!
