Categories: Things To Do

10 of the best things to do in & around Seattle this week (December 18-22)

The holidays are getting closer and closer. From ice skating to light displays, holiday pop-up bars, and concerts, the city has a little bit of everything for you. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Seattle this week.

Holiday Magic at The Fair

This 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

Go ice skating

There are several places to go ice skating in and around Seattle this weekend. 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.

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+

WildLanterns

Explore the zoo like never before, 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.

When: Friday, November 10th-Sunday, January 14th, 2024
Where: 5500 Phinney Ave N
Cost: $29.95-$36.95+

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

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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.

When: December 20th-23rd
Where: 20800 Marine Drive, Stanwood, WA
Cost: $32-$60

Christmas Dive Bar

Of all the things to do in Seattle, adding a little seasonal joy can’t hurt. The holiday wonderland is located at The Woods and comes from Joey Burgess and Murf Hall, the dynamic owners of Capitol Hill establishments like Elliott Bay Book Co., Oddfellows/Little Oddfellows, Queer/Bar, and Cuff Complex.

Where: 1512 11th Ave
Hours: Thursday, November 16th through the New Year

Macklemore: The BEN Tour

Macklemore needs no introduction, he is truly a local icon. He’ll be performing at Seattle’s Climate Pledge Arena and playing all of his classic tunes as well as some new ones.

When: Thursday, December 21st
Where: 334 1st Ave N
Cost: $78

Village of Lights Christmastown

Village of Lights Christmastown comes to life from November 24th, and runs until Sunday, December 24th. So visitors can expect to see Leavenworth lit up nightly for a total of 30 days.

When: Friday, November 24th-Sunday, December 24th
Where: Leavenworth, WA
Cost: Free/Varies

Soak in a hot tub boat

Looking to stay warm this fall? Seattle’s Lake Union has two different hot tub boat rental companies. You can’t go wrong with either and they both have their own unique offerings.

Enjoy all of the things to do in Seattle!