There’s something truly special about Christmas in Seattle. As winter settles over the Pacific Northwest, the city takes on a cozy, twinkling charm that blends Nordic traditions, cutting-edge modern culture, and breathtaking natural scenery. Evergreen trees frame the skyline, ferries glide across misty waters, and the scent of mulled wine drifts through festive streets.
While Christmas markets in Seattle may be younger than their centuries-old European counterparts, they more than make up for it with creativity, cultural diversity, and local craftsmanship.
From handcrafted gifts to warming mugs of glögg, the Emerald City has embraced the holiday market tradition in its own distinctive way. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the season, exploring Seattle at Christmas is an experience filled with lights, flavors, and festive cheer.
Read on for our list of the best Christmas markets in Seattle!
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Top 3 Must-Visit Christmas Markets and Bazaars
Top 3 Must-Visit Christmas Markets and Bazaars
Seattle has wholeheartedly adopted the European tradition of Christmas markets, creating welcoming spaces where visitors can shop for unique gifts, enjoy seasonal food and drinks, and soak up the holiday atmosphere. Here are three of the best places to experience festive magic.
The Seattle Christmas Market (Seattle Center)
Set in the heart of the city at Seattle Center, just steps from the iconic Space Needle, the Seattle Christmas Market is the city’s most classic take on a European-style Weihnachtsmarkt. Inspired by traditional German Christmas markets, it features rows of wooden chalets adorned with lights and garlands.
Visitors can browse stalls selling handcrafted ornaments, candles, toys, and artisanal gifts, while the air fills with the aroma of roasted nuts and sausages. Food lovers will enjoy hearty German specialties, sweet treats, and—of course—steaming cups of Glühwein, the spiced mulled wine that’s a winter staple. Live music and festive decorations make this market a joyful gathering place throughout the season.
- Opening hours: Dec 16-17: 11:30 – 21:00; Dec 18-19: 11:30-22:00; Dec 20-21: 10:00-22:00; Dec 22: 10:00-21:00; Dec 24 (Christmas Eve): 10:00-18:00
- Price: From $7 upwards
- Location: Seattle Center. Nearest City Sightseeing stop: Stop 1 (1 min walk)
Julefest: A Nordic Holiday Celebration
Seattle’s strong Scandinavian heritage shines at Julefest, hosted by the Nordic Museum in Ballard. This market stands out for its deep cultural roots and authentic Nordic holiday traditions. It’s the perfect place to experience a different side of Christmas in Seattle.
Inside and around the museum, you’ll find vendors selling Nordic crafts, textiles, jewelry, and festive décor inspired by Danish, Swedish, Norwegian, Finnish, and Icelandic traditions. One highlight is the traditional glögg, a Scandinavian mulled wine often served with almonds and raisins. Julefest feels intimate, cultural, and wonderfully cozy—ideal for visitors looking for something a little different from the typical Christmas fair.
- Opening hours: Friday Night Market: 17:00 – 21:00, Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00
- Price: Adult: $20 ($25 onsite); Adult: $12.50 ($16 onsite), Youth: $5.00 (children under 12 enter for free)
- Location: Nordic Museum, Ballard
Pike Place Market’s Holiday Magic
Open year-round, Pike Place Market becomes especially enchanting during the holiday season. Garlands and lights decorate the famous market signs, vendors sell fresh Christmas trees and winter flowers, and the entire area buzzes with seasonal energy.
One of the highlights is Magic in the Market, a festive event that includes live performances and a special lighting celebration. Wandering through Pike Place at Christmas means sipping hot cider, shopping for local food gifts, and enjoying views of Elliott Bay framed by twinkling lights. It’s not a traditional Christmas market, but its holiday transformation makes it an essential stop and one of the best Christmas makets in Seattle.
- Opening hours: Friday Saturday, November 29, 2025, 11:00 – 18:00
- Price: Free
- Location: Pike Place Market. Nearest City Sightseeing stop: Stop 12 (3 min walk)
Dazzling Seattle Christmas Lights and Festive Events
With early sunsets in winter, Seattle Christmas lights truly steal the show. From glowing lanterns to massive light displays, the city sparkles throughout the holiday season, offering magical experiences for all ages.
WildLanterns at Woodland Park Zoo
WildLanterns is a must-see nighttime experience, especially for families. Hosted at Woodland Park Zoo, this event features giant illuminated lanterns shaped like animals from around the world. Walking paths glow with color, music plays softly in the background, and the displays feel both whimsical and awe-inspiring.
It’s an unforgettable way to enjoy Seattle at Christmas after dark, combining art, nature and festive light displays in a unique setting.
- Opening hours: November 14, 2025 – January 18, 2026 from 16:00 – 21:00 (Last entry at 20:30)
- Price: varies, but approx. $30 – $40
- Location: Woodland Park Zoo
Downtown Tree Lighting
No holiday season is complete without a Christmas tree lighting, and Seattle’s takes place at Westlake Center in Downtown. The event usually includes live music, performances, and a countdown as the massive tree lights up the city center.
Surrounded by shops, cafés, and decorated streets, the Downtown Tree Lighting is a festive moment that brings locals and visitors together to officially welcome the holiday season.
- When: Typically late November or early December at 17:00
- Price: free
- Location: Westlake Center. Nearest City Sightseeing stop: Stop 11 (5 min walk)
Unique Ways to See Seattle at Christmas
To truly experience Seattle at Christmas, it’s worth exploring the city from different perspectives. From cosy bus tours to scenic cruises and breathtaking viewpoints, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the festive atmosphere without braving the cold for too long.
Touring the City and Christmas Lights by Bus
One of the easiest and most comfortable ways to explore the city during winter is by using hop-on hop-off seattle services. These tours allow you to move effortlessly between major attractions and festive hubs while staying warm and dry.
It’s an ideal option for seeing decorated neighborhoods, landmark buildings, and seasonal displays without worrying about parking, traffic, or chilly weather. Simply relax, enjoy the views, and hop off whenever something catches your eye.
Harbour and Locks Cruises
Seattle’s waterfront takes on a magical glow during the holidays. A true seasonal highlight is the Christmas Ship Festival by Argosy Cruises, where boats decorated with lights sail across local waters spreading holiday cheer.
A maritime tour offers a completely different perspective on the city, with the illuminated skyline reflecting on Puget Sound. Options like the One-way Locks Cruise + Hop-on Hop-off Seattle and the Harbour Cruise + Hop-on Hop-off Seattle make it easy to combine sightseeing with festive views from the water.
Seeing the City from Above
For unforgettable panoramic views, Seattle’s observation decks are hard to beat. The Space Needle is a classic choice, especially when the city below sparkles with holiday lights. Another fantastic option is the Sky View Observatory + Hop-On Hop-Off Seattle, which offers sweeping views of the skyline, mountains, and waterfront.
From above, you’ll truly appreciate how Seattle Christmas lights transform the city into a glowing winter wonderland.
Essential Treats and Tips for Visiting Seattle in Winter
A smooth and enjoyable holiday trip comes down to knowing what to eat, what to drink, and how to prepare for the Pacific Northwest winter climate.
Festive Food and Drink Must-Tries
Winter in Seattle is all about warming comfort foods and drinks. At Christmas markets, you’ll often find glögg, the Scandinavian mulled wine infused with spices and citrus. Hot apple cider is another seasonal favorite, perfect for chilly evenings.
Sweet treats abound, from spiced cookies to pastries and chocolates. And for something uniquely local, don’t miss a bowl of clam chowder—rich, creamy, and ideal for warming up after a day of sightseeing.
Winter Weather and What to Pack
Seattle winters are typically cold and damp rather than snowy. Temperatures are cool, rain is common, and the air can feel crisp. The key to staying comfortable is dressing in layers and wearing waterproof clothing.
Bring a warm jacket, a rainproof outer layer, comfortable shoes with good traction, and accessories like scarves and gloves. With the right gear, exploring Christmas markets in Seattle becomes a pleasure rather than a challenge.
Plan Your Magical Christmas in Seattle
From festive markets and glowing light displays to yummy food, scenic cruises and skyline views, Christmas in Seattle offers a holiday experience unlike any other. The city’s blend of Nordic heritage, modern culture, and natural beauty creates a seasonal atmosphere that’s both vibrant and welcoming.
Whether you’re sipping glögg at a Christmas market, admiring Seattle Christmas lights, or exploring the city from land, sea, or sky, the Emerald City delivers unforgettable holiday memories.
Plan ahead, dress warmly, and make the most of the season by booking convenient sightseeing experiences with City Sightseeing. Your magical Seattle Christmas adventure awaits.
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Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re looking for less crowded destinations in spring, consider the following options:
- Bath: Bath is a beautiful city known for its Roman-built baths, Georgian architecture, and charming streets. In spring, you can explore the city’s historical sites, such as the Roman Baths and the stunning Bath Abbey.
- Reykjavik: Reykjavik offers a unique springtime experience. In spring, you can also witness the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Reykjavik, such as the stunning waterfalls and geothermal wonders that this Nordic island has to offer.
- Lisbonl: Lisbon is a vibrant city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. Explore the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower, while enjoying the beautiful spring weather.
If you’re a wine lover, spring is a great time to visit these destinations:
- Napa Valley, California: Known as one of the premier wine regions in the world, Napa Valley offers stunning vineyards, wineries, and wine tasting experiences. The mild spring weather makes it an ideal time to explore the region and sample its renowned wines.
- Bordeaux: Bordeaux is famous for its exceptional wines, and spring is an excellent time to visit. You can explore the region’s vineyards, indulge in wine tastings, and even participate in wine-related events and festivals.
- Mendoza, Argentina: Mendoza is a wine lover’s paradise, with its beautiful vineyards, stunning landscapes, and world-class wines. In spring, the weather is pleasant, and you can visit wineries, take guided tours, and soak up the unique wine culture of the region.
- Barcelona: Barcelona offers a diverse and lively nightlife, with an array of bars, clubs, and music venues.
- Bangkok, Thailand: Known for its energetic and diverse nightlife, Bangkok’s spring season brings lively celebrations and vibrant street scenes. Visitors can explore bustling night markets, enjoy rooftop bars with panoramic city views, and experience the city’s famous nightlife districts such as Khao San Road or the trendy Thonglor area.
- London, UK: London’s nightlife truly comes alive in the spring, offering an unparalleled range of entertainment options. Additionally, London hosts numerous live music events, theatre performances, and late-night dining options that contribute to the city’s dynamic nightlife scene.