DSA/MID To Celebrate the Holidays With Festive Programming

This holiday season, downtown Seattle will sparkle with a series of free events designed to bring joy to the entire community. From the beloved Tree Lighting Celebration to new activations at Pacific Place and First & Pike, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The holiday festivities kick off the day after Thanksgiving on Friday, Nov. 28, with the annual Tree Lighting Celebration at Westlake Center, presented by Amazon. While Westlake Park is under construction until spring 2026, the Tree Lighting Celebration will continue in the heart of the retail core. This signature event, complete with music and a dazzling light display, will be emceed by Rick Rizzs, the voice of the Seattle Mariners.

Light installations on the Pine Street corridor will bring even more cheer to the heart of the city throughout the holiday season.

Returning for its fourth year is the popular ice skating rink at Occidental Square, running from Dec. 13-21 between noon-6 p.m. Private skating sessions are available from Monday through Thursday between 12-4 p.m. Contact Floretta Woart, DSA senior specialist for events & programming, to reserve your spot. Skaters of all ages and skill levels are welcome, and skates are available to borrow for free.

Also at Occidental Square, from noon-6 p.m. on Dec. 13, the Holiday Bazaar will include vintage wares, crafts, home goods and more.

In addition, holiday decorations, carolers and a crepe station will brighten Pioneer Park, and downtown neighborhoods will glow with festive lighting and selfie stations, creating a magical atmosphere throughout the season. Bell Street Park will feature holiday lighting, letters to Santa and more.

New merrymaking offerings

New this year, Candlelight Concerts by Fever will fill Pacific Place on Friday evenings from 6-7 p.m. (Nov. 28, Dec. 5, Dec. 12, Dec. 19), and a kid zone will take over the shopping center for multiple Saturdays from 12-4 p.m. (Nov. 29, Dec. 6, Dec. 13, Dec. 20), offering a fresh twist on the center city experience.

Need to buy a Christmas tree? Want to do so in front of one of the most iconic, photogenic backdrops in the city? First & Pike will be home to the Pines on Pike Christmas Tree Lot — replete with wreaths and garlands as well — from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. between Nov. 28-Dec. 14.

“We’re excited to bring back these favorite holiday traditions while introducing new experiences for everyone to enjoy,” DSA Director of Public Realm Operations Owen Harrang said. “There will be festive lighting and selfie stations throughout downtown, creating a cheerful environment for residents, workers and visitors alike. There’s nothing like the energy of downtown Seattle during the holidays, and we can’t wait to share it with you.”

Stay tuned for additional family-friendly holiday programming details. Visit our holidays page throughout the next month for more information.