The holiday season is such a special time of year, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than by experiencing the delightful world of holiday lights!
Seattle and its surrounding areas are absolutely brimming with a stunning array of colors and magical displays during this season, making it the perfect destination for families looking for a heartwarming and memorable experience. There’s truly nothing quite like the magic and wonder of twinkling lights!
Seattle’s early winter nights create an ideal backdrop for these captivating displays of holiday lights. So, why not pack a thermos of hot cocoa and head on down to one of these amazing locations for a truly unforgettable experience? These spots will surely become beloved family traditions for years to come!
Check out our blog post for some of the best holiday light displays in and around Seattle, guaranteed to delight and enchant both kids and adults alike. We hope you have a magical holiday!
And if holiday lights aren’t your preference, Seattle offers a variety of kid-friendly holiday activities too!
Table of Contents
1. Village of Lights Christmas Town | Leavenworth, WA
- November 24th – December 24th, 2023
- Cost: FREE
For a truly magical experience, make the scenic drive to the charming Bavarian village of Leavenworth. and experience Village of Lights Christmastown! very weekend from late November through December, the town becomes aglow with millions of twinkling lights. Enjoy the Bavarian-style architecture, savor delicious holiday treats, and witness the grand lighting ceremony that turns the entire town into a dazzling spectacle. It’s nothing short of a fairytale, especially in December, when the festive lights adorn the village, adding to its enchantment.
I recommend renting a cabin or hotel room and immersing yourself in the snow-white wonderland! Go to Leavenworth Ski Hill for skiing, snowboarding, or tubing, rent a snowmobile, or simply bring your sled and find a nice slope. Take a sled ride, explore the backcountry, and stroll through the town. Don’t forget to peek in the year-round Christmas shop.
Every year, the village celebrates winter with over half a million Christmas lights, carolers, live music, and photo opportunities with holiday characters. Roasting chestnuts and fun-filled activities like the Gingerbread House Exhibition, Story Corner, and gift wrapping station add to the magical ambiance. This year’s festivities start on Thanksgiving Day with lots of new promotions and daily prizes. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience!
And great news! The famous Christmas lights are on display every day from Thanksgiving through the end of February, so you have plenty of time to enjoy them. If you’re looking for a peaceful visit without the hustle and bustle of big crowds, January or February would be a fantastic time to come. Seeing the lights in the snow is such a magical experience.
- The East Side -
Embark on a festive journey across the Eastside this holiday season with our curated list of enchanting places to see holiday lights. From the dazzling displays in Bellevue to the whimsical scenes in Redmond and the cozy charm of Kirkland, these destinations promise to illuminate your holidays with sparkling joy. Explore the magic as each city transforms into a winter wonderland, creating memorable moments for you and your loved ones.
2. Snowflake Lane | Bellevue, WA
- November 24th – December 24th, 2023
- 4:30 to 9:00 pm
- Cost: FREE
Are you and your family looking for some holiday cheer? Head over to Bellevue for the spectacular Snowflake Lane! Make unforgettable memories as you watch live toy soldier drummers, enchanting holiday characters, and a magical parade under the snowfall. This beloved tradition is perfect for all families and perks up the spirit of the season. You won’t want to miss the festive music, dazzling lights, and so much more! Join us every night at 7:00 pm between Bellevue Square and Lincoln Square from NE 4th to NE 8th Streets for a free nightly parade of holiday floats. With plenty of free parking available at the shopping center, you can easily find your favorite spot on the sidewalk to enjoy the show. Make note that on weekends and as it gets closer to December 24th, the event gets busier and busier! Don’t wait, come early and during the weekdays for the best spot and see you there!
Find out more on their website.
3. Garden d’Lights | Bellevue, WA
- November 25th – December 31st, 2023
- 4:30 to 9:00 pm
- Cost: $8
Hey there! Looking for some magic this holiday season? Make sure to check out the Bellevue Botanical Garden’s Garden d’Lights. It’s a truly special experience, with over half a million beautiful lights twinkling throughout the gardens. This event is perfect for the whole family and will transport you to a world of fantasy and wonder. You won’t want to miss it! Volunteers have put so much love and effort into creating the fanciful shapes of plants, animals, and more, resulting in a magnificent display of lights that’s become a beloved tradition for the community. Just a friendly reminder to book your tickets in advance, as you can’t purchase them at the door. Also, remember that parking is an additional $5 at the garden, but there’s free parking available at Wilburton Hill Park, just a short and sweet 5-minute walk away. See you there!
Visit the Garden d’Lights website for more info.
4. Redmond Lights | Redmond, WA
- December 2nd, 2023 – January 3rd, 2024
- 4:00pm to 8:00pm
- Cost: FREE
Redmond Lights celebrates light, art, and culture with everyone in the community. During the month of December, the Downtown Park is filled with lights and art installations. Stop by on December 2nd for their Kick-Off event to enjoy additional festivities including live entertainment, crafts, face painting, and more. Kids (under 12 years old) can sign up to walk in The Kids Light Promenade which takes place Friday, December 2 — it’s free! Dress up in your best light and glow gear and join in on the parade around the park!
5. Google Lights | Kirkland, WA
- December 1st, 2023
- 5:00pm to 7:00pm
- Cost: FREE
Get ready to be mesmerized by the holiday lights and musical display along the Cross Kirkland Corridor, programmed by the brilliant Google engineers who have outdone themselves this time! With 10,000 lights dancing to festive music, this is a perfect opportunity for you and your family to revel in the holiday spirit. Google and SRM Development have generously created this wonderland, spreading joy throughout the community. To add to the merriment, on December 1st 2023, Kirkland is hosting a fun-filled campus fair, complete with a petting zoo, carolers, delicious food, and games. Join us for this nightly celebration as the mayor of Kirkland illuminates the lights at precisely 5:30 pm!
And if you’re looking for free parking, there are two locations that you can use – the Google surface parking lot at Google Building B on 787 6th St. S., or the first level of Google Building D at 451 7th Ave. S. Happy Holidays!
- Seattle -
Get ready to be dazzled! Uncover the best of Seattle’s holiday magic with our curated list of must-see places adorned in festive lights. From iconic landmarks to charming neighborhoods, Seattle comes alive with a radiant glow, offering a perfect blend of tradition and enchantment. Explore the city’s sparkling wonders and create lasting memories amidst the holiday cheer.
6. WildLanterns | Seattle, WA
- November 10th, 2023 – January 14th, 2024Â
- 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm
- Cost: $25.95 – $36.95
Kick off your holiday lights tour at the Woodland Park Zoo, where the annual WildLights event transforms the zoo into a winter wonderland. Stroll through the dazzling light displays, watch enchanting animal silhouettes come to life. The combination of wildlife and festive lights creates a unique and memorable experience for the whole family.
WildLanterns at Seattle’s Woodland Park Zoo, is the longest running holiday light show in Seattle. The zoo paths are lined with huge, colorful animal shaped lanterns. Make sure you book your tickets in advance for selected times (it’s not included in your daytime admission to the zoo).Â
Prices vary from non-peak weekday times to peak weekend tickets with special rates for members. Head over during the weekday to avoid the crowds and start at 4:00 pm if you have young kids with an early bedtime.
7. WinterFest | Seattle, WA
- November 24th – December 31st, 2023
- 4:30 to 9:00 pm
- Cost: FREE
Get ready for a dazzling holiday season at Winterfest! The Seattle Center will be filled with sparkling lights, amusement, and entertainment from November 24th to December 31st, 2023. Let yourself be enchanted by the tree-to-building decorations, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. From November 24th to December 24th, head to the Fisher Pavilion and South Fountain Lawn for an incredible European-inspired Christmas village featuring over 60 local and international vendors. Satisfy your cravings with sweet and savory treats, hot chocolate, and Glühwein (hot mulled wine). Plus, don’t miss the chance to admire the stunning 19th-century model train display inside the Armory Food & Event Hall. Join us for our Winterfest Opening Day celebration at International Fountain with a special ice spectacle at noon. Get into the holiday spirit with live performances on the Armory Stage every weekend from November 24th to December 30st. You won’t want to miss this magical winter wonderland!
Find out more on the Seattle Center’s events page!
8. Westlake Park | Seattle, WA
- November 24th – January 9th, 2024
- 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm
- Cost: FREE
Hey there! Have you ever wanted to take a picture with a 13-foot reindeer, or maybe hug a candy cane twice your height? Well, you’re in luck! Come stroll through the amazing light installations in Westlake Park, built from thousands of sparkling lights. You won’t want to miss the opportunity to snap a memorable selfie before the lights turn off on Jan. 9, 2024. Even better, these light sculptures are available every day, rain or shine, and they’re completely free for everyone to enjoy. It’s the perfect way to get into the festive spirit and create some amazing memories. So come on out and join in on the fun!
Find out more on their event’s page!
9. Candy Cane Lane | Seattle, WA
- Typically, early December to December 31, 2023
- Cost: FREE
Seattle neighborhoods really know how to celebrate the holidays! One tradition that’s been around since the 1940s is Candy Cane Lane on Northeast Park Road off of 20th Avenue Northeast and Ravenna Boulevard. This street of 23 houses really goes all out with their decorations every year, creating one of the best old-school neighborhood light displays. It’s a beloved spot, and crowds gather every year to enjoy the festive atmosphere. You can slowly drive through the neighborhood with the rest of the cars, or try your luck parking on one of the side streets and walking in. Don’t forget to bring your favorite hot beverage – hot cocoa, hot toddy, coffee or tea – to add to the cozy ambiance. Candy Cane Lane is open from early December to December 31st, so make sure to add it to your holiday to-do list!
10. Olympic Manor | Seattle, WA
- Typically, early December to December 31st, 2023
- Cost: FREE
Are you looking for a festive neighborhood in Seattle to enjoy the holiday lights with your loved ones? Look no further than Olympic Manor! This cozy neighborhood, just north of Ballard off of 85th St. and 23rd Avenue NW, is known for its stunning holiday displays. The residents of Olympic Manor go all out to spread holiday cheer with their beautiful decorations and lights. Take a leisurely walk along the sidewalk-lined streets or drive through the neighborhood with a warm drink in hand to enjoy the magical displays. It’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit!
- South Sound -
Discover the enchanting holiday lights as you drive south of Seattle. Our curated list unveils the best places to experience the magic of the season, from twinkling displays in charming neighborhoods to spectacular light shows along the route. Hit the road and let the sparkling landscapes south of Seattle illuminate your holiday spirit.
11. ZooLights | Tacoma, WA
- November 24th, 2023 – January 1st, 2024.Â
- 4:30-10:00 pm
- Cost: $14-$18
As the holiday season descends upon Tacoma, families eagerly anticipate the enchanting spectacle that is ZooLights at Point Defiance Zoo. This annual event transforms the beloved zoo into a magical winter wonderland, where dazzling lights, whimsical displays, and the spirit of the season come together for an unforgettable experience.
Zoolights is another classic holiday tradition that has been running for over 35 years. Over 80,000 lights transform the Point Defiance Zoo into a colorful, magical wonderland for their annual Zoolights festival. See a giant octopus, find the giant tiger face, get your game face on at the Seahawks tree, search for Sasquatch, take a selfie with lit-up butterfly wings, or walk-through tunnels of stunning lights. Book your tickets early for your selected date/time ahead of time as last year Zoolights were sold out!
12. Renton Holiday Lights | Renton, WA
- December 1st, 2023 – January 1, 2024
- 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm
- Cost: FREE
Renton Holiday Lights is a free community display, at Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park. Dozens of trees and shrubs along a walkable path are decorated with holiday lights and enliven this scenic waterfront park.
13. Holiday Magic at The Fair | Puyallup, WA
- December 1st – December 23rd, 2023Â
- Fri-Sun, 4:30 pm – 9:30 pm
- Cost: $10-$20
Holiday Magic first premiered in 2020 as a safe way for visitors to enjoy holiday lights at the Washington State Fairgrounds. Enjoy a magical holiday experience with lights, activities, rides, and delicious food and drinks. Stroll through the magical lights and festive displays. Ride Santa’s Express Train or the Sugar Plum Merry-go-Round. Skate on ice or walk through Gnome Land.Â
Buy tickets online in advance for extra savings, or purchase at the gate.
14. Fantasy Lights | Spanaway, WA
- November 24th, 2023 – January 1st, 2024
- 4:30 to 9:00 pm
- Cost: $10-$20
Fantasy Lights is a beloved holiday tradition in Spanaway, known for turning the serene Spanaway Lake Park into a magical wonderland. This drive-through light show has been brightening the winter nights for years, drawing families from near and far to experience the whimsy and joy of the season. Stay in the warmth of your car while soaking in the wonder of the holidays at Fantasy Lights! It is the largest drive-through light show in the Pacific Northwest with hundreds of displays along the shore of Spanaway Lake in Spanaway Park. Tune your car radio to AM 1700 for accompanying holiday music as you cruise through the two-mile route. Admission must be purchased online before you attend.
- North Sound -
Rev up your holiday spirit with a drive north of Seattle to experience the dazzling lights that adorn the landscapes. Our curated list unveils the most enchanting places, from festive neighborhoods to captivating displays. Embark on a scenic journey as you follow the glow of holiday magic, creating joyful memories on this festive road trip north of Seattle.
15. The Lights of Christmas | Stanwood, WA
- November 24 – 26, 30, 2023
- December 1–3, 7–10, 14–17, 20-23, 26–30, 2023
- 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm
- Cost: $32
Step into a world aglow with the magic of the season as Stanwood, Washington, transforms into a festive wonderland for the annual Lights of Christmas event. This enchanting celebration promises to be a radiant journey filled with dazzling lights, cheerful festivities, and the warmth of holiday spirit.
Enjoy the wonder of the holidays from the warmth of your car at The Lights of Christmas. Bask in the dazzling light displays, wave at Santa and Mrs. Claus, drop a letter to Santa in the special North Pole mailbox, and experience lots on holiday cheer. Pack your snacks and toasty hot cocoa or purchase snacks at a drive through shop there. For the full experience, tune your radio to FM 101.9 to hear the accompanying holiday music. Allow 30 minutes to complete this drive-through.
16. Christmas at Evergreen | Bothell, WA
- December 1st – 24th, 2023
- 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
- Cost: FREE
Get ready to be enchanted by the magic of Christmas at the Evergreen Church building! With dazzling Christmas lights and charming music, this event is sure to evoke feelings of warmth and joy. Embodying the spirit of hope and light, it’s no wonder this Christmas event has become a beloved tradition in Bothell. You don’t want to miss it! The famous Evergreen Christmas Light Show has something for everyone, boasting 500,000 twinkling lights set to music. Don’t forget to take a walk through the light tunnel and enjoy flurries every 30 minutes! If you’re feeling chilly, warm up with a delicious cup of cocoa and some cookies (available for purchase) while you take in the beauty around you. Come and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones!
Find out more on their event’s website!
17. Wintertide Lights | Everett, WA
- December 1st – 31st, 2023
- 4:00 to 8:00pm
- Cost: FREE
Experience the enchantment of the season as Everett transforms into a winter wonderland for the annual Wintertide Lights event. Immerse yourself in the warmth of holiday cheer and the glow of thousands of twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere for families and friends to come together.
The Evergreen Arboretum in Everett is all decked out in lights to bring some sparkle and shine to the early dark evenings of December. Special events for families take place on Saturdays, December 10th and 17th, from 4:00–6:00 p.m., in the Elves’ Workshop. Mark your calendar!
