Downtown Seattle Shines Bright as Holiday Magic Returns

SEATTLE (Nov. 18, 2024) — Downtown Seattle is set to sparkle for the season with holiday traditions and new family-friendly festivities from the Downtown Seattle Association.

At 5 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 29, the annual Tree Lighting Celebration will take place at Westlake Park, along with the lighting of the iconic Holiday Star and fireworks. Pre-show fun — including live music, face painting, snow and other family-friendly surprises — begins at noon.

Looking for the perfect holiday photo? Now through early January, Westlake Park will shine with 84 light spheres throughout the plaza and tree grove, along with several selfie stations. And what’s a holiday celebration without Santa? Bring the family for free Santa Saturday photos from 1-3 p.m. on Nov. 30, Dec. 7, 14 and 21. Enjoy sweet treats, face painting and balloon artists, all while capturing memorable moments. For more holiday cheer, sing along at Jingle Bell Jams free concerts from 2-4 p.m. on Dec. 7 and 14.

The fun continues over at Occidental Square with free ice skating from Dec. 13-15. A magician will woo the crowd Friday and Saturday and the Seattle Christmas Market’s Holly and Jolly will be in attendance each day. WARM 106.9’s Shellie Hart will make a special guest appearance Saturday, followed by Seattle Kraken mascot Buoy on Sunday. The rink will be open from noon-6 p.m. that weekend. And if you’re looking for unique holiday gifts, check out the Occidental Square Trading Post Holiday Bazaar popping up that same weekend on Friday and Saturday.

“We’re looking forward to the holiday season and all of the incredible activities coming to downtown,” DSA Vice President of Public Realm and Ambassador Operations Jennifer Casillas said. “We have a variety of events planned throughout the center city that everyone, of all ages, can enjoy. And thanks to funding from downtown property owners and sponsors, we’re able to offer these activities to the community for free.”

The DSA’s holiday events and attractions include:

Downtown Tree Lighting Celebration — Nov. 29, noon-5:30 p.m.

This signature event is an annual sign that the holiday season has begun. Pre-show, family-friendly festivities begin at noon, including a live performance by the Jewel Tones. The evening will conclude with the tree lighting, the illumination of the iconic Holiday Star and a dazzling fireworks show.

Glitter and Glow at Westlake Park — Nov. 15-Jan. 5

From now through Jan. 5, enjoy holiday decor and glittering musical dancing lights that create the perfect backdrop for photos and festive fun at Westlake Park.

Santa Saturdays and Jingle Bell Jam Concerts at Westlake Park, Presented by Amazon — Nov. 30-Jan. 5

Westlake Park is also home to Santa Saturdays and Jingle Bell Jam free concerts, both presented by Amazon. On Santa Saturdays — Nov. 30, Dec. 7,14 and 21 — come snap a free photo with the Big Guy from 1-3 p.m., and take part in art workshops, face painting and balloon art. And enjoy Jingle Bell Jams from 2-4 p.m. on Dec. 7 and 14, when Dancer and Prancer and the Emerald City Voices a cappella group will perform, respectively.

Wintry Wonderland Ice Skating at Occidental Square — Dec. 13-15, noon-6 p.m.

Experience free outdoor ice skating on an 80-foot rink, perfect for all ages and skill levels. Skates are provided at no charge. Look out for festive guests, including the Kraken’s Buoy, Holly and Jolly and WARM 106.9’s Shellie Hart, plus special giveaways.

Bell Street Park Festivities — Dec. 10-20

A belle of the ball this season will undoubtedly be Bell Street Park, where an art walk busker will perform from 5-7 p.m. on Dec. 13 and a holiday community concert by Polyrhythmics will brighten the day from 3-5 p.m. on Dec. 14.

Occidental Square Holiday Bazaar — Dec. 13-14, noon-6 p.m.

Whether you’re just getting started on your holiday shopping or looking for the perfect finishing touch, stop by the Occidental Square Holiday Bazaar for all your gifting needs. Featuring over 30 local makers selling crafts, artwork, sustainable gifts and more, the two-day market will be open alongside the ice skating rink. The Bazaar is presented in partnership with Northwest Marketplaces and The Alliance for Pioneer Square.

There’s even more to explore in downtown Seattle this holiday season, with special events at Pioneer Park and other locations. Be sure to check the DSA’s holiday events calendar for all the details. Please contact us for high-res photos.

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About the Downtown Seattle Association

Established in 1958, the Downtown Seattle Association is a nonprofit membership organization whose mission is to create a healthy, vibrant downtown for all. By advocating on issues including transportation, economic development and the urban experience, DSA works to ensure that downtown remains a great place to live, work, shop and play for all. DSA also manages the Metropolitan Improvement District, a business-improvement area spanning 300 square blocks downtown.