New week, new year! 2024 is here whether you like it or not and there is plenty to do this week. From ice skating to enjoying free museum entrance, movies and more. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Seattle this week.

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.

Free Public Tours of Washington Park Arboretum

The Arboretum is one of Seattle’s best spots for getting outdoors, especially in the summer. 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

Watch Wonka at the new SIFF Cinema Downtown

Seattle’s iconic Cinerama is officially back as SIFF Cinema Downtown. The historic theatre is reopening with showings of Wonka.

When: Showtimes daily
Where: 2100 4th Ave
Cost: $19.50

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. Psst, your library card can also get you access to tons of local museums for free. And several museums have free days every single month.

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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

Teatro ZinZanni at Lotte Hotel

Teatro ZinZanni works with artists from around the globe to create dinner shows that are a “unique celebration of cirque, comedy, and cabaret.” ZinZanni’s original brand of “love, chaos, and dinner” will be evident in their limited-time residence at the Lotte Hotel.

When: On now until Sunday, March 31st
Where: 809 5th Ave
Cost: $119+

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: On now until Sunday, January 14th, 2024
Where: 5500 Phinney Ave N
Cost: $29.95-$36.95+

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

Harry Potter: Magic at Play

The experience has more than 20 touchpoints of hands-on magical activity, including “games, exploration, sensory activations, and more.” Your journey begins at the iconic 4 Privet Drive where you’ll explore the Dursley’s living room and eventually be whisked away on a boat as you cross the Great Lake to arrive at Hogwarts.

When: Until May 12th, 2024
Where: The Shops at The Bravern, 11111 NE 8th St, Bellevue, WA
Cost: $29 for adults, $22.50 for children 9 and under

Enjoy all of the things to do in Seattle!