Festive Seattle-Area Holiday Activities to Make the Season Sparkle
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Visit with Santa and his reindeer at the Issaquah Reindeer Festival. Photo: courtesy stateofwatourism.com
Eastside holiday activities
Snowflake Lane, Bellevue
Date and time: Nightly, Nov. 29–Dec. 24, 7–7:45 p.m.
Cost: Free
Holy holiday parade, Snowflake Lane is here! This over-the-top parade with falling snow, dancers, floats, music and splendor is a favorite among Eastside families. Even if you’re not on the Eastside, you should make your way to Bellevue to take in this spectacular show at least once. Arrive early and grab a section of sidewalk between Bellevue Square and Lincoln Square to watch the parade go by.
Woodinville Winterfest, Woodinville
Date and time: Saturday, Dec. 7. 3–6 p.m.
Cost: Free
This holiday fest includes a tree lighting, free photos with Santa and plenty of kids activities. There will be face painting, a petting zoo, a firepit for s’mores and live music. Plus, you can indulge in seasonal beverages and shop local vendors. Bring a toy to donate to the toy drive.
Issaquah Reindeer Festival, Issaquah
Date and time: Open daily, Dec. 1–23 and 26–30, 10:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Cost: Book timed-entry tickets online for $16.50–$19.50, which will save you a bit off walk-up admission.
This one stretches the definition of cheap, but it’s unique, cool and worth considering. Head to Cougar Mountain Zoo in Issaquah for its annual Issaquah Reindeer Festival to visit real-live reindeer. Catch a glimpse of Santa, his decked-out sleigh and see the reindeer, of course.
Redmond Lights, Redmond
Date and time: Dec. 7, 2024–Jan. 6, 2025, 5–11 p.m.
Cost: Free
Don’t miss this month-long display celebrating art, culture and community in Redmond’s Downtown Park. The kick-off event on Dec. 7 will bring festive lights, live music, dancing and more family fun to town.
Renton’s Clam Lights, Renton
Date and time: Dec. 6, 2024–Jan. 5, 2025, 5–9 p.m.
Cost: Free
Renton Parks and Recreation decorates Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park for free enjoyment by all, sponsored by Ivar’s. Opening night on Dec. 6 includes photos with Santa, a singalong and a parade of boats.
Garden d’Lights, Redmond
Date and time: Open nightly Nov. 30–Dec. 31 (closed Dec. 25); hours vary.
Cost: Tickets are sold online only and cost $8 per person; free admission for children 10 and younger; $5 admission on select nights.
This is an enchanting and affordable holiday light show, loved by many families. More than half a million lights sparkle throughout Bellevue Botanical Garden in the shape of plants, birds and other animals. Walk through the garden and delight in the whimsical display.
Hands on Hanukkah, multiple locations
Date and time: Nov. 29, Dec. 7 and Dec. 14; hours vary.
Cost: Free (admission required to Bellevue Botanical Garden event).
Mercer Island’s Stroum Jewish Community Center hosts kid-focused Hanukkah events around town, including Hands on Hanukkah craft sessions, held at multiple locations on select dates. Make free crafts and join the festive holiday fun.
Next up: Tacoma-area holiday activities
