Seattle’s 2025 holiday season is expected to bring back its most beloved traditions—along with new experiences perfect for families, couples, and visitors. Below are the top events that define the magic of Seattle holiday festivals 2025.
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Seattle Christmas Market 2025
Location: Seattle Center (Fisher Pavilion)
Typical Dates: Late November – December 24, 2025
Inspired by traditional European Christmas markets, the Seattle Christmas Market offers handcrafted gifts, mulled wine, holiday foods, live entertainment, and classic Krampus and Santa visits. Walk through artisan stalls, enjoy festive treats, and capture photos under the illuminated Lovers’ Lane arch.
Enchant Christmas Seattle 2025
Location: Likely T-Mobile Park (2025 venue TBD)
Typical Dates: Late November – December 31, 2025
Enchant is known for its jaw-dropping, immersive light mazes, large Christmas tree displays, ice skating paths, and holiday marketplace. Families love exploring the giant displays and participating in themed scavenger hunts.
Seattle Center Winterfest 2025
Location: Seattle Center
Dates: November 28 – December 31, 2025
Winterfest brings free entertainment, ice carving demonstrations, a model train village, live music, and cultural performances. It’s one of Seattle’s most beloved long-running holiday traditions.
WildLanterns at Woodland Park Zoo 2025
Location: Woodland Park Zoo
Typical Dates: November 2025 – January 2026
WildLanterns is a glowing nighttime lantern festival featuring oversized illuminated animals, themed worlds, and interactive experiences. Perfect for families with kids.
Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink 2025
Location: Bellevue Downtown Park
Typical Dates: Mid-November 2025 – January 2026
A short trip from Seattle but a must-visit, this is the Pacific Northwest’s largest seasonal ice rink with on-ice events, skating lessons, and Santa appearances.
Image Suggestions:
- Ice rink with city skyline behind
- People skating under string lights
- Skating instructors with kids
Magic in the Market at Pike Place Market 2025
Location: Pike Place Market
Dates: Late November 2025 (one-day festival)
A Seattle classic! Enjoy live performances, local vendors, Santa Claus photos, and the annual Market Christmas Tree Lighting. It’s a perfect blend of local culture and holiday cheer.
Image Suggestions:
- Pike Place Market sign with holiday lights
- Christmas tree lighting ceremony
- Santa at Pike Place Market
Argosy Christmas Ship Festival 2025
Location: Lake Union, Lake Washington, Puget Sound
Dates: Late November – December 2025
Argosy Cruises leads a flotilla of decorated ships that sail to waterfront communities, accompanied by choirs singing from the water. Visitors can ride the main Christmas Ship or watch from shore.
Image Suggestions:
- Decorated Christmas ships at night
- Choir performing on the ship
- Families watching from the shore
New Year’s at the Needle 2025–2026
Location: Seattle Center
Date: December 31, 2025
Seattle’s biggest New Year celebration features fireworks and synchronized drones around the Space Needle. Music, food trucks, and parties make this a major highlight of winter in the city.
Image Suggestions:
- Fireworks around the Space Needle
- Drone light show
- Crowd celebrating at midnight
Travel Tips for Visiting Seattle During Holiday Festivals 2025
Seattle is busy during the holidays, so planning ahead ensures a smooth experience.
Book Early for Popular Festivals
Attractions like Enchant, WildLanterns, and the Christmas Market sell out quickly—especially weekends.
Expect Rain and Dress Warmly
Seattle winters are cool and wet. Bring waterproof layers, hats, and gloves.
Use Public Transit or Rideshare
Parking is limited near major event centers; the monorail, buses, and Link light rail are very convenient.
FAQ — Seattle Holiday Festivals 2025
Q: What are the most popular Seattle holiday festivals in 2025?
The top events include the Seattle Christmas Market, Enchant Seattle, Winterfest, WildLanterns, and the Argosy Christmas Ship Festival.
Q: When do Seattle’s 2025 holiday festivals start?
Most major festivals begin between mid-November and late November and run through Christmas or New Year’s Eve.
Q: Are Seattle holiday festivals family-friendly?
Yes—Seattle’s holiday events are designed for all ages, with plenty of activities for kids, including ice skating, Santa visits, light mazes, and hands-on crafts.
Q: Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
For major paid events (Enchant, WildLanterns, Christmas Ship), buying tickets early is recommended to avoid sellouts.
Q: Are there free Seattle holiday festivals in 2025?
Yes! Winterfest, Magic in the Market, and many waterfront viewing locations for the Christmas Ship Festival are free.