Washington State transforms into a festive wonderland during the holiday season, with towns that fully embrace the Christmas spirit. From Bavarian-themed villages to small historic communities, these destinations offer twinkling lights, holiday markets, and cheerful parades that bring the magic of Christmas to life. Whether you’re looking for a quiet getaway or a bustling festival, there’s a town for everyone to enjoy the season.
This guide highlights some of the best Christmas towns in Washington, each with its own unique events and festive atmosphere. You’ll find cozy places to stay, local restaurants to indulge in, and charming holiday traditions in every location. Get ready to explore these winter wonderlands and experience the joy and warmth of the holiday season across the state.
Christmas in Leavenworth
Location: Central Washington
Leavenworth transforms into a Bavarian Christmas wonderland during the holiday season. Visitors come for the famous Christmas Lighting Festival, where the entire town is covered in festive lights. You can enjoy caroling, visit holiday markets, and meet Santa. The festival also offers sleigh rides and live music. Leavenworth’s stunning mountain backdrop and twinkling streets make it feel like a storybook setting.
Beyond the festival, take a walk through Front Street Park or visit the Nutcracker Museum, showcasing over 7,000 nutcrackers. Icicle Brewing Company offers locally crafted beers and hearty pub food, while Munchen Haus is known for its German sausages and pretzels. For lodging, try the Bavarian Lodge, with cozy, Alpine-style rooms, or Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort, offering eco-friendly accommodations with scenic views. You can check out these Leavenworth Cabins as well.
Poulsbo Christmas
Location: Kitsap Peninsula
Poulsbo, also known as “Little Norway,” celebrates its heritage with Julefest, a traditional Norwegian Christmas festival. The event features a torchlight parade, Christmas tree lighting, and a Scandinavian market. Visitors can enjoy local crafts, traditional treats, and festive boat parades in Liberty Bay. The town’s waterfront and charming streets are decked out in holiday lights.
While visiting, stroll along the harbor or explore the Poulsbo Marine Science Center. For a bite to eat, try Sluys Poulsbo Bakery for their famous Viking Cupcakes or visit Tizley’s Europub for a cozy meal with European flair. Stay at Poulsbo Inn & Suites for comfortable lodging close to downtown.
Anacortes Christmas
Location: Fidalgo Island, Puget Sound
Anacortes offers a charming holiday experience with its Holiday Art Walk, lighted boat parade, and Christmas tree lighting. The downtown area is beautifully decorated with festive lights and garlands. Visitors can enjoy local art displays, warm beverages, and live music during the Holiday Art Walk. The Lighted Boat Parade is a holiday favorite, with boats twinkling across the harbor. More info
In addition to the events, explore Washington Park for scenic views or visit the Anacortes History Museum. For dining, try A’Town Bistro for seasonal farm-to-table dishes or Adrift for seafood and comfort food. Stay at the charming Majestic Inn and Spa, offering luxurious rooms and spa services, or book a cozy room at Anaco Bay Inn, known for its comfortable, boutique feel.
Christmas in Port Townsend
Location: Olympic Peninsula
Port Townsend is a picturesque Victorian town that shines during the holiday season. The town’s Victorian architecture adds to the holiday charm, making it feel like stepping back in time. Stroll through the historic downtown, shop for unique gifts, and enjoy live performances. Check out the tree lighting event in December.
Outside of the town, visit Fort Worden State Park for beautiful views and trails or explore the Port Townsend Marine Science Center. For a meal, try Alchemy Bistro & Wine Bar for Mediterranean-inspired cuisine or Silverwater Café, known for its Pacific Northwest dishes. Stay at the historic Ravenscroft Inn, offering elegant rooms, or book a night at The Bishop Hotel, housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building.
Stanwood and Camano Island
Location: North Puget Sound
Stanwood and Camano Island come alive with the annual Lights of Christmas festival at Warm Beach. With over a million lights, this event is one of the largest holiday festivals in Washington. Families can enjoy live performances, light displays, and holiday treats. The event also features train rides, Santa visits, and cozy cabins available for an overnight stay.
While you’re here, explore Cama Beach State Park, which offers stunning views and opportunities for outdoor activities. For dining, head to Camano Island Inn Restaurant for farm-to-table meals or enjoy seafood at Diamond Knot Brewery & Grill. Stay overnight in one of the festival’s cozy cabins or book a room at Camano Island Inn, known for its waterfront views.
Town of Snohomish Christmas
Location: Snohomish County
The historic town of Snohomish lights up during the holidays with its Home for the Holidays event. The event includes horse-drawn carriage rides, a Christmas tree lighting, and holiday markets. The downtown area is lined with antique shops and festive lights, offering a perfect setting for a day of holiday shopping and hot cider.
Explore Blackman House Museum for a glimpse into local history or enjoy a scenic walk along the Snohomish Riverfront Trail. For a meal, stop by The Oxford Saloon, a local favorite, or Andy’s Fish House for fresh seafood. Stay at the Deer Ridge Treehouse, a magical option in winter.
Bellevue Christmas
Location: East of Seattle
Bellevue offers a festive urban experience with its Snowflake Lane event. This nightly parade runs through December and features drummers, dancers, and even artificial snow. Visitors can enjoy the holiday lights, music, and winter magic along Bellevue Way. There’s also the Garden d’Lights at the Bellevue Botanical Garden, an impressive display of over half a million lights.
For more fun, head to Bellevue Downtown Park for ice skating or visit The Shops at The Bravern for holiday shopping. For dining, try Wild Ginger, known for its Pan-Asian flavors, or The Lakehouse, which offers farm-to-table dishes. Stay at the luxurious Hyatt Regency Bellevue, or book a room at The Westin Bellevue, offering great access to the city’s holiday events.
Christmas in Winthrop
Location: Methow Valley, North Central Washington
Winthrop, located in the Methow Valley, offers a magical winter wonderland during the holidays. The town hosts the Christmas at the End of the Road celebration, featuring fireworks, a tree lighting ceremony, and festive events. With its Old West architecture and snow-covered streets, Winthrop feels like a step back in time during the holidays.
While you’re in town, enjoy skiing or snowshoeing at Sun Mountain Lodge or visit Pearrygin Lake State Park for stunning winter scenery. For dining, stop by Sheri’s Sweet Shoppe for treats or enjoy a meal at Arrowleaf Bistro, known for its fine dining and local ingredients. Stay at Sun Mountain Lodge for a luxurious winter escape or book a cozy cabin at River’s Edge Resort. Or any of these unique Cabins in Winthrop.
Enumclaw Christmas
Location: Southeast of Seattle, near Mount Rainier
Enumclaw offers a quaint holiday experience with its annual Christmas Parade and tree lighting. The small-town charm and scenic views of Mount Rainier make Enumclaw a perfect holiday destination.
For dining, visit The Mint Restaurant & Alehouse for local craft beers and American cuisine or enjoy comfort food at Kelly’s Mercantile. Stay at GuestHouse Enumclaw, located near downtown, or glamp at Rowanwood Farm, known for its welcoming atmosphere.
Content creator and writer for multiple websites including All About Glamping, Fit Living Lifestyle, and Live Dream Discover. A full-time traveler who has spoken at various travel conferences around the world.
