WASHINGTON —
Celebrating the holidays does not need to break the bank. Here is a list of free activities all around the state that you and your family can enjoy this holiday season.
La Conner Tree Lighting
Take the family on a mini road trip to La Conner, the port town with an annual Christmas tree lighting Dec. 3 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Santa will also make an appearance at the event for the children.
Where: Gilkey Square,103 Morris St, La Conner, WA 98257
Shelton Christmas Tree Maze
Known as the "Christmas Tree Capital of the World," Shelton's free tree maze is back. The maze will be open each day through December at 3:30 p.m. until 10 p.m.
Where: 325 W Cota St, Shelton, WA 98584
Festival of Trees in Auburn
From now to Dec. 30, the White River Valley Museum is hosting its annual exhibit featuring holiday trees decorated by local artists. The installation will be available Wednesdays through Sundays from noon to 4 p.m.
Where: 918 H St SE, Auburn, WA 98002
Winter Night Market on Bainbridge Island
It's the first-ever Winter Night Market hosted by the Bainbridge Island Art Museum. On Dec. 2 and Dec. 3 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., local vendors, a beer garden, a free photo booth, holiday movie showings and music will fill the plaza. With activities for all ages, this night market is the place to go for families across the Sound.
Where: 550 Winslow Way E, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
Snowflake Lane
An iconic Bellevue tradition, Snowflake Lane will light up again for the 2022 holiday season. The parade featuring drummers and dancers will run nightly at 7 p.m. until Christmas Eve. Another great thing about this event: free parking.
Where: Between Bellevue Square and Lincoln Square from NE 4th to NE 8th Streets
Free pictures with Santa in Snohomish
Support local businesses in the North Sound as you come visit Santa for free photos. Every Saturday and Sunday through Dec. 18, Santa will make appearances at different local shops for photoshoot opportunities.
Where: Various businesses around Snohomish. Full schedule here.
Tacoma Santa Parade
On Dec. 4, there will be the 9th annual Tacoma Santa Parade, which kicks off at 4:30 p.m., which will feature musical acts including Voice contestant Grace Bello and "Singing Chef" Chantel Jackson. There will also be a holiday market with street vendors starting at noon.
Where: S Tacoma Way between 56th St and 50th St Tacoma, WA
Winterfest at Seattle Center
On every weekend from now to Dec. 29, live performances will be held at the Armory. A late 19th-century model train and village exhibit will also be on display daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., which has been an annual tradition for over 40 years. Bring your family for free entertainment as you grab a bite from one of many food merchants at Seattle Center.
Where: 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109
Village of Lights: Christmastown in Leavenworth
A list of holiday activities is incomplete without mentioning Leavenworth. Through Dec. 24, there will be music and entertainment available for people of all ages at the Gazebo. At the event center, there will be kid's crafts, a gingerbread house display and photos with Santa.
Where: 820 Front St, Leavenworth, WA 98826 and 1001 Front St, Leavenworth, WA 98826
Redmond Lights
From Dec. 1 to Jan. 4, enjoy a free light and art installation in Redmond's Downtown Park. Friday Night Celebrations, which include face painting, craft activities and local vendors, will also occur on Dec. 2, 9 and 16 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: 16101 NE, Redmond Way, Redmond, WA 98052