SEATTLE — With the holidays around the corner, we've rounded up a list of free activities that are family-friendly and cover a wide range of traditional seasonal activities across the Sound. Events are separated by county.
King County
Many traditional downtown Seattle festivities are back. The activities listed below in Westlake Park and Occidental Square are being hosted by the Downtown Seattle Association.
"Last year we saw thousands of people visit throughout the holidays, and we’re hoping for even more this year," said Jennifer Casillas, DSA vice president of public realm and ambassador operations, in a statement.
Downtown Tree Lighting Celebration
When: Nov. 24, 3:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.
Where: Westlake Park
The preshow begins at 3:30 p.m., with the tree being lit up starting at 5 p.m. The Macy's Star will also be lit up, and there will also be a fireworks show and free performances by the African American Cultural Ensemble and The Jewel Tones that follow.
Westlake Park Light Sculptures
When: Nov. 24, 2023-Jan. 9, 2024
Where: Westlake Park
55,000 light sculptures of Rudolph, snowflakes and other holiday iconography will be lit up at the downtown park. The exhibit is free to attend.
Festive Friday Concerts
When: Dec. 1, 8 & 15 from 4-5:30 p.m.
Where: Westlake Park
Free performances from local artists Dancer and Prancer, Payge Turner and the High Seagrass are open to everyone.
Sweet & Snowy Saturdays
When: Nov. 25, Dec. 2, 9 & 16 from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Occidental Square
Falling "snow" is guaranteed to make an appearance at the square on specific Saturdays through November and December. There will be live music, photo opportunities with costumed characters and even free treats from The Pastry Project, which provides free baking and pastry training programs to make culinary education more accessible.
Wintry Wonderland Ice Skating
When: Dec. 8, 1-7 p.m. and Dec. 9 & 10, noon-6 p.m.
Where: Occidental Square
Your family can get free skate rentals and access to an 80-foot-rink during these two weekends in December. All ages and skill levels are welcome.
For more information about these events, visit the Downtown Seattle Association website.
Fleurs de Villes Noel
Where: Pacific Place
When: Dec. 8-17
View a collection of floral art created by Seattle florists organized by the local business Fleurs de Villes, or French for "flowers of the cities". There are over 15 pop-up floral installations, including floral reindeer and lots of photo opportunities. Visitors can also vote on their favorite Fleurs de Villes' floral mannequins, which they are well-known for.
28th Annual Magic in the Market
Where: Pike Place Market
When: Nov. 25, 2023, 11 a.m. – 5:30 p.m
The event includes free Santa (bring your own camera) photos, which are happening under the clock and sign near the main entrance from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and free cookie decorating at the Economy Atrium. The lighting ceremony will include a tree lighting, as well as vegetable and reindeer pig light sculptures. The ceremony starts at 5 p.m.
Kitsap County
Bainbridge Island Winter Night Market
Where: Island Gateway Plaza
When: Dec. 1-2, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
A relatively new event is the second annual Winter Night Market organized by the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (BIMA). This year includes local vendors, DIY crafts, holiday-themed drinks, as well as free movies in the BIMA auditorium and photo booth.
Pierce County
10th Annual Tacoma Santa Parade
Where: Between 50th and 56th on South Tacoma Way
When: Dec. 3 noon to 6 p.m.
The Tacoma Santa Parade is back. The parade begins at 4:30 p.m. on 50th and South Tacoma Way and includes food and gift vendors, as well as live entertainment.
Free Santa photo at Bass Pro Shops
Where: Bass Pro Shops, 7905 S Hosmer St, Tacoma, WA 98408.
When: Nov. 4 - Dec. 24
Get a free printed 4x6 photo with Santa at the studio in the Tacoma Bass Pro Shops. Reservations are required and available seven days in advance.
Skagit County
In the picturesque town of La Conner, there are many holiday activities for the family to do. For a full list, visit the La Conner Chamber of Commerce site.
Christmas Tree Lighting
When: Dec. 2, 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Gilkey Square, La Conner, WA
Holiday Lighted Boat Parade
When: Dec. 9, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: along Swimonish Channel
The Swinomish Yacht Club is hosting the Lighted Boat Parade. Families can watch along the La Conner Boardwalk, as well as view the holiday lights in the area.
Snohomish County
Snohomish Tree Lighting Ceremony
Where: Snohomish Carnegie Building
When: Nov. 25 beginning at 2:30 p.m.
The Santa parade begins at First Street from the Gazebo on Avenue A to the Carnegie Building at First and Cedar. There will be hot chocolate and a chance for families to meet Santa's reindeer.
Free Santa pictures across Snohomish
Where: Various small businesses
When: every Saturday and Sunday starting Nov. 26 to Dec. 23
Santa Claus is coming to Snohomish. Families can get free pictures with Santa across different small shops in the area. Check the Historic Downtown Snohomish Association website for the schedule.