The holidays in the Pacific Northwest are nothing short of magical. Whether you’re planning cozy outings with family, festive date nights, or seasonal adventures with friends, the Eastside and Seattle come to life with lights, winter markets, performances, and community celebrations.

Here’s your complete, verified 2025 Holiday Bucket List — curated to help you make the most of the season across Bellevue, Mercer Island, Kirkland, Redmond, Sammamish, Issaquah, and Seattle.

EASTSIDE HOLIDAY BUCKET LIST (2025)

1. Garden d’Lights – Bellevue Botanical Garden

Dates: November 29 – December 31, 2025
Experience one of the most beloved holiday light walks in Washington. Garden d’Lights features over half a million lights transformed into sculpted plants, animals, and whimsical scenes. It’s a stunning experience for families, couples, and anyone who loves the magic of twinkling lights.
Tip: Visit during $5 nights (Dec 1–4, Dec 8–11) for a great deal.

2. Snowflake Lane – Downtown Bellevue

Dates: November 28 – December 24, nightly at 7 PM
Drummers, dancers, snowfall, and thousands of lights transform Bellevue Way into a nightly parade of holiday celebration. Perfect for all ages and a must-experience tradition for Eastside residents.

3. Holiday Barn Lighting – Kelsey Creek Farm (Bellevue)

Date: December 6, 2025
A community favorite with caroling, hot cocoa, Santa photos, and beautifully lit barns. A warm, small-town moment in the heart of East Bellevue.

4. Light Up Bellevue – Tree Lighting & Holiday Market

Date: December 6, 2025
Enjoy an outdoor holiday market, live entertainment, food vendors, children’s activities, and a festive tree-lighting celebration. A cozy, local way to ring in the season.

5. Eastside Holiday Lights Bike Ride – Bellevue & Surrounding Areas

A guided bike ride through beautifully decorated Eastside neighborhoods. A fun and active way to enjoy lights and community spirit.

6. Holiday Light Drives – Sammamish + Issaquah Plateau

Local neighborhoods put on spectacular displays throughout South Sammamish and Issaquah’s Talus communities. Grab a warm drink, turn up the holiday playlist, and enjoy a scenic evening drive.

SEATTLE HOLIDAY BUCKET LIST (2025)

1. Winterfest – Seattle Center

Dates: November 28 – December 31, 2025
A Seattle classic featuring the Winter Train & Village, live performances, ice-sculpting demonstrations, and seasonal entertainment. A festive experience for families and visitors alike.

2. Seattle Christmas Market – Seattle Center

Dates: November 20 – December 24, 2025
Step into a European-style holiday market with artisan gifts, handcrafted ornaments, festive food stalls, and classic mulled wine. A charming destination for holiday shopping and date nights.

3. Ice Sculpting Saturdays – Seattle Center

Dates: Every Saturday, Nov 29 – Dec 27, 2025
Watch expert artists turn massive blocks of ice into breathtaking sculptures. Great for children and a fun winter outing.

4. WildLanterns – Woodland Park Zoo

Dates: November 14, 2025 – January 18, 2026
Walk through illuminated lantern worlds featuring giant glowing animals, themed pathways, and special nights including family themes and 21+ evenings with cocktails.

5. Festál Winterfest World Bazaar – Seattle Center

Dates: Weekends, Nov 29 – Dec 21, 2025
Shop handcrafted goods representing cultures from around the world. A meaningful way to support community artisans during the holidays.

6. Symetra Holiday Movie Nights – Seattle Center

Free film screenings of holiday classics inside the Armory. A cozy, nostalgic community tradition.

⭐ Make the Most of Your 2025 Holiday Season

Whether you stay close to home on the Eastside or cross the lake into Seattle, the region is filled with experiences that bring joy, connection, and wonder. Save this list, share it with family and friends, and soak in the magic of the season.

If you need recommendations for neighborhoods, local events, or winter activities in the area, we are always happy to help — and always just a message away.