5 Christmas tree lightings in Seattle this holiday season

With days until December, it’s time to fully immerse into the holiday season. We’re so ready for tree lightings and hot chocolate in the freezing weather.

Here are some of the Seattle Christmas tree lightings to check out in the city.

Westlake Park

One of downtown’s busiest public spaces is going to be packed — with good reason. Last year, a crowd of over 10,000 people gathered in Westlake Park for the annual post-Thanksgiving tradition of the Christmas tree lighting. Once the tree is lit, stick around and enjoy the festive holiday market as well as ride the classic DSA carousel.

When: November 23
Time: TBA
Location: 400 Pine Street, Seattle

Bellevue Place

The first bit of good news: Bellevue Place will have a gigantic 30-foot holiday tree. The second piece of good news: the tree is being lit by none other than Santa Claus. If standing outside on a chilly night isn’t your thing, make it indoors. The Bellevue Place tree is sure to be a lesser-packed alternative than it’s outdoor counterparts while maintaining all of the fun. Enjoy holiday music, snack on cookies and even drink hot cocoa while taking in the sights of the beautiful lights.

When: November 29
Time: 7 pm
Location: 800 Bellevue Way NE, Bellevue

Pike Place Market

More than just a tree lighting, Pike Place Market will be hosting a Magic in the Market celebration. If you’re wanting a holiday experience, this is the place to be. Live reindeer, photos with Santa Claus, live music, a glass blowing demonstration, cookie decorating, and SO MUCH MORE. Trust us when we say that you have to spend the entire day in the market festivities.

When: November 30
Time: 11 am to 5 pm
Location: 85 Pike Street, Seattle

Tacoma Tree Lighting

We lied. This lighting isn’t technically in Seattle, but Tacoma is basically Seattle, right? The Tacoma Tree Lighting is going to be well worth the 20-minute drive. If you’re looking to start a new tradition, this is your new go-to spot. People have gathered near the Pantages Theatre Lobby and Broadway since World War 2. Besides the tree, Santa will be making a visit for photos.

When: November 30
Time: 4:15 pm, photos with Santa; 6:15 pm, tree lighting
Location: Pantages Theater – 901 Broadway, Tacoma

West Seattle Tree Lighting

The West Seattle Tree Lighting is special, in that community members contribute to the tree. At the event, make your tree ornament which gets added to the tree. The West Seattle Tree Lighting also boasts a Holiday Night Market with over 40 local vendors and a Santa who’s all ready for photos. The Market features a full music and entertainment lineup, with the finale being the tree lighting at 6 pm.

When: December 7
Time: Tree lighting at 6 pm
Location: 4545 42nd Avenue SW, Seattle