The holidays are just around the corner and one of the most beautiful ways to celebrate is by viewing eye-catching displays. From classic holiday scenes to drive-thru lights, Christmas Ships, and even animal-themed displays, we have you covered. Here are 10 of the most stunning holiday light displays in Washington.
WildLanterns
WildLanterns is a lantern festival unlike any in the Northwest due to its specific focus on nature and animals. No matter how old you are, you’re sure to be wowed by the size and diversity of the hand-crafted displays. This year’s event promises to be a mix of “brand-new lanterns and themed zones, along with some returning fan favorites.”
When: Friday, November 10th-Sunday, January 14th, 2024
Where: 5500 Phinney Ave N
Cost: $29.95-$36.95+
Fantasy Lights at Spanaway Park
“Fantasy Lights at Spanaway Park is the largest holiday drive-through display in the Northwest,” according to Pierce County. The experience features “nearly 300 elaborate displays and thousands of sparkling lights” on a two-mile drive along Spanaway Lake.
When: Friday, November 17th-Sunday, November 19th & Friday, November 24th-Monday, January 1st 2024
Where: 14905 Bresemann Boulevard South, Spanaway, WA
Cost: $15+
Zoolights
Get ready to experience the Point Defiance Zoo in a new way as the grounds are transformed into a winter wonderland with over 800,000 lights. You’ll be able to see all sorts of displays both old and new ranging from a giant Pacific octopus to a flame tree and even Sasquatch.
When: Friday, November 24th-Monday, January 1st, 2024
Where: 5400 N Pearl St, Tacoma, WA
Cost: $7+
Village of Lights Christmastown
Leavenworth is lighting up for 30 nights of stunning holiday lights. Experience the transformation of the town with live entertainment in the heart of downtown, choirs, carolers, bands, and even holiday characters making appearances.
When: Friday, November 24th-Sunday, December 24th
Where: Leavenworth, WA
Cost: Free/Varies
Lights of Christmas
The Lights of Christmas is a dazzling holiday world that you are invited to enjoy both from your car and on the ground. Your journey can take about 30 minutes up to 1-1.5 hours, depending on if you choose to visit any of the activity stops. As you traverse the event route, you’ll be mesmerized by over a million vibrant lights, eye-catching displays, and an enchanting atmosphere.
When: November 24th-26th & 30th, December 1st-3rd, 7th-10th, 14th-17th, 20th-23rd, 26th-30th, 2023
Where: 20800 Marine Drive, Stanwood, WA
Cost: $32-$60
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Garden d’Lights
The illuminated display is fully outdoors, located along a well-lit pathway, and is accessible only by foot. In total, you will walk about 3/4 of a mile, and the overall time will depend on how long you pause at each display. On average it takes about 30-45 minutes to see everything. A map of this current year’s route is available before attending.
When: Saturday, November 25th–Sunday, December 31st
Where: 12001 Main St., Bellevue, WA
Cost: $5-$8
Holiday Magic at The Fair
The enchanting “Holiday Magic at the Fair” takes place at the Washington State Fairgrounds in Puyallup. Guests are invited to take a “wonder-filled stroll through magical lights, festive displays, and holiday joy.”
When: Begins Friday, December 1st until 23rd, 2023
Where: 110 9th Ave SW, Puyallup, WA
Cost: $25
Wintertide Lights
Beginning this December, visitors can step into a world of enchantment at Wintertide Lights, taking place at the Evergreen Arboretum and Gardens. The grounds will be decorated with captivating lights and full of holiday spirit. It’s described as a “sparkling wonderland” and is open every evening in December from 4 PM until 8 PM.
When: Friday, December 1st-Sunday, December 31st
Where: 145 Alverson Boulevard, Everett, WA
Cost: Free/By Donation
Astra Lumina
Astra Lumina invites you to embark across “mysterious grounds” to discover a “celestial pathway of lustrous light” complete with “cosmic visions, and astral song.” The experience comes to life this December with lighting, projection, and sound, all connecting you with the stars.
When: Begins Friday, December 8th, Thursdays-Sundays, 5 PM- 10 PM (Saturdays open until 11:00 PM), Open daily between Thursday, December 14th and Sunday, December 31st
Where: 6000 16th Ave SW
Cost: $29+
Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship Festival
While not exactly a classic light display, the Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship Festival features hundreds of shimmery white lights on The Spirit of Seattle and its follow boat. You’ll get to watch as it sails to different Puget Sound waterfront communities. Or you can even get tickets to have an onboard experience.
When: Friday, November 24th-Saturday, December 23rd
Where: Multiple departure locations
Cost: $74+
Enjoy the holiday light displays Washington!
