Seattle Holiday Guide 2026

A Seattle holiday afternoon can start under the Pike Place Market clock and end among lanterns at Woodland Park Zoo. For an easier evening, stay around Seattle Center and choose one main event, with time for something warm afterward.

November events

WildLanterns

Nov 13–Jan 17
Woodland Park Zoo, Phinney Ridge

Walk through illuminated scenes after dark. Reserve a timed ticket and check operating nights. Event details

Seattle Christmas Market

Nov 20–Dec 26
Fisher Pavilion and South Fountain Lawn, Seattle Center

Browse local and European vendors for gifts and snacks at this ticketed outdoor market. Event details

Julefest

Nov 20–22
National Nordic Museum, Ballard

Browse Nordic-inspired gifts, try seasonal food and check the museum’s performance schedule. Event details

Seattle Center Winterfest

Nov 27–Dec 31
Seattle Center, Uptown

Look for the miniature train and village in the Armory, weekend performances and Saturday ice sculpting. Event details

Christmas Ship Festival

Opens Nov 27 · Select sailings
Seattle waterfront and regional stops

Watch from a listed shore stop or book a sailing. Check the route for the departure dock and choir stops. Event details

Pacific Northwest Ballet’s The Nutcracker

Nov 27–Dec 27
McCaw Hall, Seattle Center

Make an evening of the ballet with a live orchestra. Check the performance calendar for matinees and accessibility information. Event details

Magic in the Market

Nov 28
Pike Place Market

Shop the craft tables and head back toward the Market clock for the lighting. Event details

December events

Christmas Ship Parade of Boats

Dec 11
Fremont Cut

Watch decorated boats pass through the canal. Argosy lists an official shore viewing party at Evanston Plaza. Event details

A slower winter outing

On a rainy evening, pair the Armory’s indoor train display with a market visit when the weather lets up.

Happy holidays from Upside Properties NW.

Schedules checked November 9, 2026. Confirm hours, closures and tickets with organizers before heading out. January dates are in 2027.