Get Festive in Seattle Southside

Winter Holiday Events in and around Seattle Southside

Last Updated: September 30, 2026

The holiday season is full of magic, fun, and delight.

Whether you're hoping to be dazzled by a light display, shop for gifts at a festive market, or find delicious seasonal treats, there's a holiday event in or near Seattle Southside that will bring a smile to your face.

Note: We will continue to update this blog as more information becomes available.

Maritime Magic
Sweet Treats
Holiday Markets
Holiday Symphony
Light Displays
All Events

Seattle Holiday Events

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Maritime Magic: Step Aboard a Christmas Ship at the Des Moines Marina

Argosy Christmas Ship Festival

November 27-December 23, 2026 (Departs from the Des Moines Marina on December 16 at 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.)

The Argosy Christmas Ships are an annual, all-ages tradition, departing from various locations around the region throughout the season, including the Des Moines Marina. Sail through Puget Sound while enjoying an onboard choir and festive beverages. Or, stay on dry land and watch the ship cruise by while being serenaded by the Christmas carolers on board. Thanks to a state-of-the-art speaker system, you can hear the carols clearly from the shore. Check the schedule for Seattle Christmas Boat Parade tickets, times, and locations.

Sweet Treats

Burien Cookie Crawl

December 5, 2026, 12-4 p.m.

Downtown Burien transforms into a sweet stroll during the Holiday Cookie Crawl, an annual holiday tradition! Begin at Discover Burien to pick up your map and reusable bag, then wander through local shops collecting cookies and treats while enjoying festive sights, shopping, and dining. This family-friendly event is limited to just 100 participants, so grab your spot early. Learn more.

Festive Seattle Holiday Markets

Seattle Christmas Market

November 20 - December 27, 2026 (times vary by day)

Immerse yourself in a magical, European-style Christmas village while you shop at the Seattle Christmas Market. With Bavarian-style scenery, light displays, and a Christmas Carousel, it's an experience the whole family will love. Take the Link light rail from Seattle Southside to the Monorail for quick and easy access to Seattle Center.

A Holiday Symphony

The Rainier Symphony Holiday Concert

Saturday, December 19, 2026, 6:30 p.m.

Sunday, December 20, 3:00 p.m.

Enjoy classic Christmas music played by a live, professional orchestra at the Foster Performing Arts Center in Tukwila. This special program features beloved Christmas classics and special performances by the talented Foster High School Concert Choir. Learn more and buy tickets.

Seattle Christmas Lights

WildLanterns at the Woodland Park Zoo

November 13, 2026 – January 17, 20274:00 – 9:00 p.m.(Last entry at 8:30 p.m.)

See the Woodland Park Zoo in North Seattle transformed into a magical wonderland, featuring larger-than-life lanterns shaped like animals, plants, and mystical creatures.

Zoolights at Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium

November 27, 2026 - January 3, 2027, 4:30-10:00 p.m.

Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium in Tacoma dazzles during the holidays, with displays made of 1.5 million twinkling lights.

person making a handmade Christmas wreath at a wreath making class at Zenith Holland Nursery in Des Moines, Washington
Holiday wreath making class at Zenith Holland Nursery in Des Moines, Washington

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