The holidays in Washington are a little different. Here, we don’t just deck the halls; we bundle up in flannel, sip spiked cider by roaring fireplaces, and revel in the unmistakable Pacific Northwest charm. Whether you’re craving indulgent dinners, family-friendly crafts, or that special kind of holiday magic you can only find on a twinkling boat, Washington has something for everyone. From Seattle to Snoqualmie, this state knows how to celebrate the season. Here’s your guide to holiday happenings that will have you humming “Jingle Bells” while wearing your coziest puffer jacket.
Seattle: The Heartbeat of Holiday Fun
The Elf Bar: A Pop-Up Wonderland
Let’s start with something unexpected: The Elf Bar. Open Wednesdays through Sundays at Astra Hotel, this isn’t your average holiday bar; it’s like stepping into a Hallmark movie—if Hallmark movies came with cheeky elf-themed cocktails and Instagram-worthy décor. It’s adults-only (sorry, kiddos), which makes it the perfect excuse for a festive date night or a friend gathering with just the right amount of kitsch. Pro tip: Book early. This is one holiday hotspot that fills up faster than Santa’s sleigh.
Christmas Dining at Ben Paris
Ben Paris at The State Hotel is serving up holiday meals with the kind of flair that makes you want to retire your apron for good. On Christmas Eve, their Surf and Turf special will have you questioning why you ever bothered with turkey. Think 8oz New York Strip, shrimp atop creamy polenta, and a carrot cake finale. Come back Christmas morning for their Steak and Eggs breakfast—it’s indulgent but still feels festive in that “I totally earned this” way. Reservations are a must.
Enchanting Holidays at Hyatt Regency Seattle
If you’re in Seattle with kids (or just want to unleash your inner child), the Hyatt Regency’s Enchanted Holidays event is like stepping into a winter fairytale. Through December 22, wander through twinkling light displays, grab a mug of hot cocoa, and snap a photo in front of the selfie-ready backdrops. The best part? It’s not outrageously priced—kids under two are free, and tickets for adults won’t break the holiday budget.
Suburban Holiday Bliss
Breakfast with Santa at Beardslee Public House
If your idea of holiday joy includes pancakes and Santa Claus, you’re in luck. Beardslee Public House in Bothell brings you Breakfast with Santa on select Saturdays in December. The vibe is charmingly low-key—Santa visits every table for a photo op, so there’s no waiting in endless lines. Add a side of bacon, and you’ve got yourself a new family tradition.
Hyatt Regency Lake Washington: The Holiday Jackpot
If you’re looking to pack your holiday calendar, this place has it all: a Santa brunch, wreath-making workshops, and even the Argosy Christmas Ship Festival. The wreath-making is a personal favorite—it’s hands-on, creative, and just the right level of festive without being overly complicated (no crafting expertise required). Pair that with a festive dinner at Water’s Table, and you’re basically starring in your own holiday movie.
For the Foodies: Elegant Holiday Feasts
Cedarbrook Lodge’s Christmas Dinner
This one’s for those who dream of a fancy holiday dinner but don’t want to deal with a mountain of dishes afterward. Cedarbrook Lodge in SeaTac offers a five-course extravaganza in the cozy, twinkling ambiance of Copperleaf Restaurant. It’s intimate, luxurious, and worth every penny.
The Lodge at St. Edward’s Park
Imagine a historic lodge dressed up like a winter wonderland, with Michelin-worthy food to match. From the Christmas Tasting Menu to the arts market (hello, unique gifts!), The Lodge at St. Edward’s Park in Kenmore is a one-stop shop for holiday indulgence. Bonus: Their wreath-making workshops include snacks and sips, because crafting is better with wine.
Family Traditions, Pacific Northwest Style
Holiday Lights Market at Semiahmoo Resort
Blaine’s Semiahmoo Resort turns into a festive wonderland on December 7 with their Holiday Lights Market. This is your spot for snagging locally made gifts while soaking in the cheerful atmosphere. There’s something about shopping in a cozy market that makes the holiday chaos feel less chaotic.
Grinch-Themed Cookie Decorating at The Lodge at Columbia Point
Over in Richland, the Grinch takes over a cookie-decorating event on December 22. Each child gets a dozen cookies to decorate, which means you get adorable holiday memories and—let’s be real—a sugar rush for everyone involved. While the kids focus on frosting, parents can indulge in mulled wine because balance is key.
Unexpected Twists on Classic Holiday Fun
Mad Hatter-Inspired Afternoon Tea
The Lodge at Columbia Point is shaking up the traditional holiday tea with a Mad Hatter twist. Wonderland-themed treats and fine teas are served in a whimsical, festive setting that will make you feel like you’ve fallen down a (very delicious) rabbit hole.
Argosy Christmas Ship Festival
It wouldn’t be a Washington holiday season without the Argosy Christmas Ship Festival. Picture this: a boat decked out in lights, live music serenading the waterfront, and a whole lot of holiday spirit. Catch it from the Hyatt Regency Lake Washington for a perfectly magical evening.
The Coziest Christmas Ever
No matter how you choose to celebrate, the joy of the season is waiting for you in the twinkling lights, the smell of fresh pine, and the taste of that first gingerbread cookie. Washington’s got all that and more. So grab your calendar, start making plans, and prepare for a holiday season that’s as magical as it is uniquely Pacific Northwest.
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