Des Moines Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Step into a magical winter wonderland at Zoolights, where over one million sparkling lights transform Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium into a dazzling holiday spectacle. This cherished 38-year tradition invites visitors to stroll through enchanting displays, including iconic animal shapes and a mesmerizing light tunnel. Enjoy festive treats and create...

The Tacoma Light Trail transforms downtown Tacoma into a dazzling free winter festival of light art. Visitors can explore illuminated installations, experience live performances, and engage with a unique 'Sound Trail' that pairs art with music and poetry. Highlights include dragon parades, a lighted bike ride, and captivating fire spinning,...

Experience the magic of the Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship™ Festival, a cherished Pacific Northwest tradition for over 75 years. Sail aboard the beautifully illuminated Spirit of Seattle, serenaded by live choirs. Choose from three unique ways to celebrate: join the family-friendly Christmas Ship™ cruise, the festive 21+ Follow Boat, or...

Step into a world of edible enchantment at the Sheraton Grand Seattle's Gingerbread Village. This cherished holiday tradition showcases magnificent, 6-foot-tall gingerbread creations, meticulously crafted by architects and chefs. Each structure is a testament to creativity, teamwork, and the spirit of the season, with designs reflecting diverse cultural influences and...

Embark on a magical holiday journey with the Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship™ Festival, a cherished Pacific Northwest tradition. Sail aboard the beautifully decorated Spirit of Seattle, serenaded by festive choirs and entertained by Santa himself. Choose from various departure points and experience the joy of the season on the water.

Step into a glittering wonderland at Holiday Magic, the region's fastest-growing holiday tradition. Wander through immersive light tunnels, sip cocoa, and visit Santa's Village. Enjoy free rides, live entertainment, and a holiday market filled with merry treasures. It's the South Sound's most magical holiday experience, perfect for all ages.

Experience the enchanting Snowflake Lane, a complimentary nightly parade that transforms Bellevue into a winter wonderland. From November 28 to December 24, 2025, witness falling snow, dazzling lights, and festive music as holiday floats, dancers, and toy drummers bring cheer. The parade runs nightly at 7 pm between Bellevue Square...

Step into a magical holiday wonderland at the Bellevue Botanical Garden's annual Garden d’Lights. This cherished tradition transforms the garden into a dazzling spectacle with over half a million lights. Explore whimsical displays of plants, animals, and cascading waterfalls, all illuminated to create an enchanting experience for all ages.

Port Orchard invites you to 'Holiday on the Bay,' a cherished community tradition kicking off the Christmas season. This family-friendly event on Bay Street features opportunities to meet Santa, a delightful pet parade, and vibrant holiday markets. Enjoy live musical performances, festive cocoa bars, and delicious treats as the marina...

Step into a luminous winter wonderland at Woodland Park Zoo's WildLanterns. This immersive holiday event features breathtaking, larger-than-life lantern displays inspired by nature and wildlife. Explore themed trails showcasing creatures from the Pacific Northwest and beyond, with special zones like the Meandering Mangrove and Beneath the Blossoms. Get a glimpse...

Kirkland's Winterfest transforms Marina Park into a winter wonderland with free hot chocolate and the thrilling 'Marina Mountain' for sledding. Nearby, Google Lights illuminates the campus and Cross Kirkland Corridor with stunning, music-synced light displays, complete with carolers and festive surprises. Don't miss Celestial Lights at Bastyr University Chapel for...

Experience the enchanting Google Lights festival, a spectacular holiday tradition in Kirkland. This dazzling event transforms the Google Campus and Cross Kirkland Corridor into a wonderland of colorful lights, all choreographed to music. It's a magical experience for all ages, perfect for igniting your holiday spirit.

Step into a magical winter wonderland at Evergreen Christmas Lights in Bothell, Washington. This beloved free event transforms Evergreen Church with thousands of sparkling lights synchronized to festive music. Wander through two enchanting light tunnels, capture memories at the Christmas photo booth, and marvel at a captivating train display. Enjoy...

Discover the Des Moines Waterfront Holiday Bazaar, a festive gathering offering unique handmade crafts, artisanal goods, and delicious seasonal treats. This special event provides a wonderful opportunity to find perfect holiday gifts while enjoying the scenic waterfront location. Support local businesses and embrace the holiday spirit in a welcoming community...

Discover unique, handcrafted treasures at the Des Moines Auxiliary Holiday Bazaar and Craft Market. Browse a delightful selection from over 25 vendors offering handmade items perfect for holiday gifting. Enjoy the convenience of purchasing lunch on-site while you shop for one-of-a-kind gifts. Admission is free, making it an accessible way...

Experience the festive spirit of the holidays at Auburn's annual Gingerbread Contest. This delightful event showcases the creativity of the community as participants display their gingerbread masterpieces. Visitors can admire a dazzling array of edible art and cast their vote for the most impressive creations in both youth and adult...

Step into a festive wonderland at A Victorian Country Christmas, a premier holiday shopping event. Discover unique gifts, handcrafted items, and seasonal decor from over 100 vendors. Enjoy live entertainment at the Holiday Jubilee Theater and create lasting memories with a visit to Santa Claus. Don't miss the heartwarming Singing...

Experience the magic of the holidays at the Issaquah Reindeer Festival. Visit Santa's permanent home, meet his legendary reindeer team, and get a photo with his Grand Traveling Sleigh. This unique celebration offers festive fun for all ages.

Experience the magic of the Bainbridge Island Winter Night Market, where the plaza transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland. Browse unique, handcrafted goods from talented Pacific Northwest makers, perfect for holiday gifting. Enjoy live music, festive drinks, and delicious street food in a cozy, illuminated setting.

Experience the Jingle Fest Holiday Craft & Gift Show, a vibrant two-day event in Bremerton. Discover unique gifts from numerous artisan crafters and direct sales vendors, enjoy live holiday music, and visit Santa Claus for photos. Admission is free, with opportunities to donate cold weather items for seniors.

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with the 38th Annual Kent Celtic Yuletide Concert. This special event promises an unforgettable evening filled with the enchanting melodies of Celtic music, specially curated for the holiday season. Discover a unique celebration of tradition and cheer.

Get ready to jingle bell rock with ABBA Holly Jolly Christmas! This festive performance brings the iconic sounds of ABBA to the holiday season, promising a night of energetic music and seasonal cheer. Don your Santa hat and bell-bottoms for an unforgettable celebration.

Get into the holiday spirit with 'An Inspirational Christmas with Elvis,' a special performance by Danny Vernon. This show features classic Elvis hits alongside heartwarming traditional Christmas selections, creating a memorable festive tradition for all attendees.

Experience the enchanting "In the Stillness" winter concert presented by the Amabile Choir. This multigenerational ensemble delivers music with love and joyful intention, promising a heartwarming performance for the community.

Emerald Ballet Academy presents their annual production of The Nutcracker, featuring original choreography by Viktoria Titova. This magical holiday performance returns to the Northshore Performing Arts Center with a live orchestra conducted by David Waltman, stunning new costumes, and guest professional dancers. All enrolled EBA dancers have the opportunity to...

Get ready for a magical morning of holiday cheer at the 2025 Jingle Bell Brunch! This festive event offers a delicious breakfast, engaging holiday crafts, and a special visit from Santa Claus. Children ages 2-10 will delight in the fun activities, while everyone can soak in the jolly music and...

Lace up your running shoes for the annual Christmas Rush Fun Run and Walk! This festive event offers a choice between a scenic 10K run or a 5K run/walk along the beautiful Green River. It's a perfect way to kick off the holiday season with community spirit and active fun....

Lace up for the Jingle Bell Run, a beloved holiday tradition perfect for families looking to stay active during the festive season. This 3-mile run/walk offers a fun way to enjoy the outdoors and burn off some energy. Participants can also contribute to a good cause by donating warm winter...

Experience the magic of the festive season at the historic Fairmont Olympic Hotel in Seattle. They offer a blend of elegant holiday cheer and exclusive guest experiences, including special dining offers at The George and Shuckers Oyster Bar, and a daily sparkling wine sabering masterclass. Guests can also enjoy discounts...

Ring in the New Year at Seattle Center's vibrant celebration! This free event offers a night of entertainment across the grounds, featuring live music from The Blue Wave Band and a dazzling Fountain of Light dance party with DJ Arson Nicki. The night culminates with the breathtaking Alaska Airlines New...

Celebrate the holiday season with your furry companions at Santa Paws! This festive event invites pet owners to bring their beloved animals, dressed in their holiday finest, for a special photo opportunity with Santa Claus. Enjoy a delightful selection of treats and refreshments for both pets and their humans, alongside...

Embark on a magical holiday journey with the Northwest Railway Museum's Santa Trains. Choose between the Yuletide Express for a shorter, scenic ride past Snoqualmie Falls, or the Santa Limited for a longer excursion to the decorated Railway History Campus. Both experiences offer a chance to meet Santa, receive a...