Family Christmas Activities in the Seattle Area (2025 Holiday Guide)
Looking for festive, family-friendly Christmas activities in the Seattle area? Whether you’re planning ahead or squeezing in last-minute holiday magic, the Puget Sound has no shortage of events that feel straight out of a snow globe. From classic train rides and holiday cruises to free light displays and cozy traditions, this guide highlights some of the best Christmas events for families around Seattle in 2025—plus key details like pricing, location, and what to expect.
If you’re building traditions or just trying to soak up the season, bookmark this list and check dates early—many of these events sell out fast.
The Polar Express™ Train Ride
Starting price: Around $45–$110 per person (varies by seating class)
Location: Elbe, WA
Good to know: Nearly sold out
A Pacific Northwest favorite, this immersive train ride brings The Polar Express story to life with hot chocolate, cookies, onboard entertainment, and a visit from Santa himself. Pajamas encouraged. If it’s still on your wish list, you’ll want to grab tickets immediately—this one fills up fast every year.
Christmas with the Clauses – Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad
Starting price: Around $40–$95 per person
Location: Elbe, WA
Good to know: Nearly sold out
A slightly different spin on a holiday train ride, this experience features Santa and Mrs. Claus, festive storytelling, and a cozy ride through the foothills near Mt. Rainier. Great for younger kids who love interactive holiday magic.
A Season of Giving & Caring – White River Valley Museum
Price: Included with museum admission (typically $5–$10; kids often free)
Location: Auburn, WA
This heartwarming seasonal event focuses on giving, kindness, and community through hands-on activities and exhibits. It’s a quieter, thoughtful way to introduce kids to the spirit of the season without the crowds.
Festival of Trees – White River Valley Museum
Price: Included with admission
Location: Auburn, WA
Dozens of beautifully decorated trees fill the museum, each with its own theme and personality. It’s festive without being overwhelming and pairs well with a slower-paced holiday outing.
Argosy Christmas Ship Festival
Starting price: Free to watch from shore; cruises start around $45+
Location: Throughout Puget Sound (Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland, Tacoma, and more)
One of Seattle’s most iconic Christmas traditions. Decorated boats cruise the waterfront while onboard choirs perform holiday music for both passengers and shoreline spectators. Watching from shore is completely free and still feels magical.
Winterfest at Seattle Center
Price: Free (some activities may have a cost)
Location: Seattle Center
Winterfest transforms Seattle Center with lights, seasonal decor, free entertainment, and festive food. It’s easy to pair with a monorail ride, ice skating, or a visit to the Armory for a full holiday outing.
Snowflake Lane
Price: Free
Location: Bellevue Collection (Bellevue Square & Lincoln Square)
Snowflake Lane is a high-energy nightly parade with twinkling lights, holiday music, dancers, and falling “snow.” It’s one of the easiest events to attend—no tickets, just show up early for a good viewing spot.
Issaquah Reindeer Festival – Cougar Mountain Zoo
Starting price: Around $14–$18 per person
Location: Issaquah, WA
Meet Santa, see real reindeer, and enjoy festive activities set against a forested backdrop. This event blends Christmas cheer with a zoo visit, making it a fun daytime option for families with younger kids.
The Teddy Bear Suite – Fairmont Olympic Hotel
Price: Free (donations encouraged, supports Seattle Children’s Hospital)
Location: Downtown Seattle
A beloved Seattle tradition, this elaborately decorated hotel suite is filled with teddy bears and holiday charm. It’s quick to visit but incredibly charming—and perfect if you’re downtown anyway.
Gingerbread Village – Sheraton Grand Seattle
Price: Free (donations encouraged)
Location: Downtown Seattle
Local businesses and designers create incredible gingerbread structures, all on display in the hotel lobby. It’s festive, impressive, and easy to fit in between other holiday errands or outings.
Holiday Magic at the Washington State Fair Events Center
Starting price: Around $10–$15 per person (kids often discounted)
Location: Puyallup, WA
This drive-through and walk-through lights event features millions of holiday lights, seasonal displays, and a chance to stay warm while still enjoying the sparkle. A solid option for chilly nights or little ones with short attention spans.
Planning Tip
If there’s one takeaway here, it’s this: book early. The train rides and ticketed holiday experiences often sell out weeks (sometimes months) in advance. For last-minute plans, free events like Snowflake Lane, Winterfest, and shoreline views of the Christmas Ships can still deliver plenty of holiday magic without the stress.
Looking for more Seattle-area family guides, seasonal events, and local resources? Stick around—I share updates like this all year long.
