5 Seattle Winter Events You Shouldn’t Miss

Just because its winter doesn’t mean you have to suffer from an extreme case of cabin fever. In fact, Seattle has one of the most vibrant festival and event schedules in the country due to its mild temperatures and lack of snowfall. This winter, don’t miss out on some of the season’s best events.

1. Winterfest

From Thanksgiving until the end of the year, celebrate the winter in style at the Seattle Winterfest. This event provides tons of activities for children and adults alike, live entertainment, and demonstrations like ice sculpting. To top it off, you can lace up the skates and hit the Winterfest ice rink. Most of the activities are free, and it all takes place on the grounds of the Seattle Center.

2. Dog Howlidays

If you have an inseparable canine friend, bring it along to Dog Howlidays at Pioneer Square. This free event allows you to dress your dog in festive holiday costumes for a chance to take home the top prize. Plus, you can mingle with other dog owners in your area and enjoy good food and drinks.

3. Argosy Christmas Ship Festival

Every year since 1949, ships in Puget Sound have brought in the Christmas season in style by decorating themselves to fit the holiday mood. On the Argosy Christmas Ship, you can get in on the action as this Christmas-themed ship heads to over 65 ports throughout the city. On board, guests can enjoy choirs, lights, and even a picture with Santa. Tickets for this event are $39 for adults and $21 for children. Make sure that you book yours as soon as possible, as this event tends to sell out quickly.

4. Timbrrr! Winter Music Festival

Taking place on Jan. 27 and 28, 2017, the Timbrrr! Winter Music Festival is Seattle’s premier winter music event. The two-hour drive to Leavenworth in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest is one awesome part of the journey, and once you arrive, you’ll have the opportunity to see some of the best local and national acts. This year’s headliners include indie-rock outfit The Thermals, singer-songwriter Tomo Nakayama, and soul punk band Down North. No matter what your musical tastes are, Timbrrr! Winter Music Festival is sure to please. Accommodation is available on-site, and tickets go on sale in late October.

5. New Year’s Fireworks at the Space Needle

Even though it’s one of the last places on Earth to celebrate the New Year, Seattle does it in style. The Space Needle is ground zero for the event, and fireworks lift off from the top of the iconic tower. If you have some extra cash and a bunch of friends, you can try to book a room at the top, although these often sell out months in advance. Don’t worry if you can’t find the money to celebrate the New Year at the top. The view from the ground is spectacular and free.

With so many great events going on in the Seattle area this winter, there’s no reason you can’t make time to attend at least one. Plus, you’ll have the added satisfaction of knowing you were at one of the best parties of the year.