Every year, we both love attending a variety of Christmas events around Seattle and the Eastside. With so many great options to choose from, here are the ones that make our can't-miss list year after year.
WildLights
Where: Woodland Park Zoo
When: Through January 4, 8:30 pm nightly
Price: $9.75 for adults, 13+; $6.50 for kids, 3-12, toddlers are free
I love the zoo. The landscaping is beautiful, the animals are entertaining, and Max can run wild without me constantly trying to keep him on a sidewalk. Add thousands of lights, an old-fashioned carousel, and visiting reindeer and you've got a wonderful evening. If you want to grab dinner first, try Uneeda Burger for super yummy burgers (and plenty of kid-friendly options) at very reasonable prices.
Christmas Ships
Where: Marinas around the city; see the schedule here
When: Through December 23
Price: FREE
Nothing says Christmas in the Northwest like a flotilla of boats decked out in twinkling lights. If you have a boat-obsessed kid (yep) or just love soaking in a little local culture, seeing the Christmas Ships is a must. The ships arrive almost nightly at various waterfronts around the area and onboard choirs sing a short performance for the waiting crowds. If you go when the ships are in Kirkland, Teriyaki Madness in nearby Houghton has my favorite teriyaki chicken and the best-ever cucumber salad.
Bellevue Festival of the Nativity
Where: 15205 SE 28th Street, Bellevue
When: December 6, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14, 12:30 pm to 9 pm
Price: FREE
Come see over 500 creche displays from 44 countries, plus activities for kids, a live nativity, and beautiful musical performances. It's a wonderful way to feel the true spirit of the season. Bring along an unwrapped gift to support the Bellevue Fire Department's annual toy drive.
Garden D'Lights
Where: 12001 Main Street, Bellevue
When: Through January 3; 4:30 pm to 9 pm nightly
Price: $5; Under 10 yrs. are free; Select nights are offered FREE for adults (Dec 8, 9, 10, 11)
Half a million lights transform these beautiful gardens into a beautiful light sensation. Lights form several varieties of flowers, garden animals. and even a dragon! There's a small coffee cart on location but bring some hot cocoa and snacks to avoid the lines.
Snowflake Lane
Where: Bellevue Way between Bellevue Square, Lincoln Square and Bellevue Place
When: Through December 24; 7pm nightly
Price: FREE
Each night in December, this street in Bellevue in taken over by live toy soldier drummers, fun music, snow characters and even a magical snow flurry! This event is a must at least once every year for my kids. Make sure to arrive early to find good parking. If you time it right, you can eat at Cactus or Ruth's Chris with a view from indoors. And if you don't manage to catch the show before Christmas, a similar show, Celebration Lane, runs from December 26- 31.
Westlake Carousel
Where: Right outside Westlake Mall; Seattle
When: Through Jan 1; Mon-Thurs: 11-9pm; Fridays 11-10pm; Saturday 10-10pm; Sunday 10-9pm
Price: Suggested donation of $3 per person
A full-size carousel in the heart of Seattle is truly magical. It's the perfect break from holiday shopping downtown. There's a donut truck parked nearby which is a favorite for people looking to pick up a warm treat while waiting in line. Or, my personal favorite is to pop into See's which is right next door to grab a chocolate or two. With Anthropologie around the corner and Zara across the street, use this outing to cross a few items off your shopping lists...even if those items are for you.
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