Categories: Things To Do

10 of the best things to do in & around Seattle this weekend (December 15-17)

The holidays are here and it’s time to celebrate. 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 weekend.

Hometown Holidays

Hometown Holidays is comprised of five events this year including Shop Small Saturday, Glorious Lights of West Seattle Festival (GLOWS), Cocoa and Coat Drive, Holiday Art Walk and Selfies with Santa in the Holiday Spirit Room.

When: Select dates, November 25th-December 16th
Where: The Junction, West Seattle
Cost: Free/Varies

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

Sponsored Pick: The Westin Bayshore, Vancouver

About time for a weekend getaway? The Westin Bayshore, Vancouver is a luxe, resort-style hotel in Vancouver’s Coal Harbour with spectacular marina views and amenities that deliver year-round. Unwind with one of the many wellness programs or enjoy one of the hotel’s unique winter experiences. Try Winterlust, a Christmas dining experience or a lunch buffet with Santa at H2 Kitchen + Bar. The location makes it ideal for exploring the city and kicking back at the end of the day to enjoy the finer things.

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+

Sponsored Pick: Seattle Christmas Market

The Seattle Christmas Market is coming to town for the first time ever! This European-inspired market will have over 60 different vendors selling gourmet foods and artisan gifts for the holidays. Take a ride on the Nordstrom Very Merry Go Round, listen to live music, sip mulled wine at the heated tent, or get your pictures with St. Nikolaus. The Seattle Christmas Market will be in town from mid-November until Christmas Eve. Get your tickets online to save your spot!

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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.

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.

When: Every Sunday
Where: Evanston Ave N & 34th St

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 14th-17th
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

Snowflake Lane

Beginning on Friday, November 24th, 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

Enjoy all of the things to do in Seattle!