Winterfest Magic in Seattle: A Dazzling Five-Week Celebration of Light, Culture and Holiday Cheer

Seattle Christmas Market 

Seattle’s Sparkling Winter Wonderland Returns

Winter in Seattle brings more than misty mornings and mountain views – it ushers in a season of celebration, colour and community at the city’s beloved Winterfest. Running from 28 November to 31 December 2025, this five-week festival transforms Seattle Center into a vibrant destination filled with live entertainment, festive markets, captivating traditions and a spectacular New Year’s Eve finale. Perfect for families, culture lovers and holiday-season travellers, Winterfest is one of the city’s most treasured annual events.

A European-Inspired Christmas Market to Welcome the Season

Beginning 20 November, the Seattle Christmas Market brings the warmth and charm of Europe to the Fisher Pavilion and South Fountain Lawn. This bustling outdoor village features more than 60 local and international vendors offering handcrafted gifts, holiday décor, sweet and savoury foods, hot chocolate and traditional Glühwein. Daily live entertainment and colourful displays make it a festive stop for visitors seeking the magic of the season. Whether browsing artisanal goods or simply soaking in the holiday ambience, the Seattle Christmas Market provides an unforgettable start to your winter journey.

Discover the Timeless Winter Train & Village

One of Winterfest’s most cherished traditions is the Winter Train & Village, displayed inside the Armory Food & Event Hall. This charming late 19th-century model village has captivated visitors for nearly 50 years. Guests can watch the train wind its way through the miniature town, take part in a themed scavenger hunt or even operate the train themselves between 10:30am and 5:30pm. Running daily from 10am to 6pm, this nostalgic experience delights both young and old, offering a timeless connection to Seattle’s holiday heritage.

Shop Local at the Winterfest World Bazaar

The Winterfest World Bazaar presented by Festál showcases handcrafted goods created by local BIPOC artists, making it a meaningful place to discover unique treasures. Held on weekends from 28 November to 21 December, the rotating vendor lineup offers everything from art and jewelry to textiles and specialty crafts. It’s an inspiring opportunity to support local makers while finding memorable gifts that reflect the cultural richness of Seattle’s communities.

Be Mesmerised at the Weekly Ice Sculpting Series

Each Saturday at noon, the Mural Amphitheatre hosts Winterfest’s Ice Sculpting Series, where acclaimed artists such as Chan Kitburi, Janson Iwakami and James Royal carve intricate masterpieces before your eyes. These live demonstrations highlight the skill and creativity of the region’s top ice sculptors, offering a dazzling performance of artistry in motion.

Enjoy Free Family Movie Nights at the Armory

On select Friday evenings during Winterfest, families can enjoy free screenings of beloved holiday films in the Armory. Guests can relax with provided hot beverages and snacks while watching seasonal favourites including The Polar Express (28 Nov), The Muppet Christmas Carol (5 Dec), A Christmas Story (12 Dec) and Disney’s Frozen (26 Dec). It’s one of the festival’s most popular traditions, perfect for a cosy winter night out.

Weekend Entertainment on the Armory Stage

From 28 November through 28 December, live performances light up the Armory Stage every weekend. Travellers can enjoy music, dance and cultural showcases while exploring the Winter Train & Village or sampling dishes from the surrounding food merchants. This lively program adds heart and rhythm to the Winterfest experience.

Experience the Winterfest Campus Lighting

As night falls, Seattle Center glows with thousands of twinkling lights adorning trees, pathways and special installations. The atmospheric campus lighting, sponsored by Climate Pledge Arena, turns the grounds into a magical winter landscape that’s perfect for evening strolls and memorable photos.

Ring in 2026 at New Year’s ‘At The Needle’

New Year’s Eve

Winterfest culminates in one of the West Coast’s most spectacular New Year’s Eve celebrations. From 8pm until midnight, the Armory hosts live music from Northwest favourites The Blue Wave. At 9pm, visitors can enjoy the brilliant Fountain of Light show at International Fountain, complete with DJ Arson Nicki. As the clock approaches midnight, all eyes turn to the iconic Space Needle for Alaska Airlines New Year’s at the Needle – a jaw-dropping fusion of fireworks and drone choreography that illuminates the sky above Seattle. It’s an unforgettable way to welcome the new year.

Celebrate the Season the Seattle Way

With its blend of cultural traditions, festive markets, live entertainment and awe-inspiring light displays, Winterfest delivers the very best of Seattle’s holiday spirit. Whether visiting for a day or soaking in the full five weeks, travellers will find countless ways to celebrate, connect and warm up in this enchanting winter playground.

Further details: https://www.seattlecenter.com/  

https://visitseattle.org/

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