Find the top holiday events in Richland! Our guide has all the must-see festive highlights. Whether you've called Richland home for years or just for the holidays, this guide ensures a joyful experience.
One of the season’s favorite events is the Winter Wonderland Festival, showcasing dazzling decorations and family-friendly activities. Another highlight is the spectacular Christmas Light Parade, where festively adorned floats bring holiday cheer to the streets. And definitely don't forget the Tri-Cities Festival of Lights, a luminous display that transforms the city. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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The Top Christmas Events in Richland
See these and even more events listed below!Richland Other Holiday Activities
Winter Wonderland Festival
What to Expect:
Interactive ice sculptures
Description:
Richland's Winter Wonderland Festival transforms Howard Amon Park into a frosty paradise. Visitors marvel at intricate ice sculptures, crafted by skilled artisans from across the Pacific Northwest. The crisp air carries the scent of roasted chestnuts as families explore the park's winding paths. You can try your hand at ice sculpting under expert guidance. This annual tradition began in 1987 as a small community gathering and has since blossomed into a regional attraction. The festival illuminates the park with thousands of twinkling lights, creating a captivating atmosphere that celebrates the beauty of the season.
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Nearby Events
Christmas Light Parade (Kennewick)
What to Expect:
Floating parade on the Columbia River
Description:
Kennewick's Christmas Light Parade glides along the Columbia River, creating a spectacle unlike any other. Boats adorned with dazzling lights cruise the waterway, reflecting off the river's surface in a mesmerizing display. The parade honors the region's rich maritime history, dating back to the Lewis and Clark expedition. Spectators line the shore, sipping hot cocoa and watching the illuminated vessels pass by. You can vote for your favorite boat design using a mobile app. The gentle lapping of waves against the shore provides a soothing backdrop to the vibrant procession, offering a unique twist on traditional holiday parades.
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Tri-Cities Festival of Lights (Kennewick)
What to Expect:
Drive-through light tunnel experience
Description:
The Tri-Cities Festival of Lights in Kennewick boasts a breathtaking drive-through light tunnel. Visitors embark on a journey through a kaleidoscope of colors, immersing themselves in a 360-degree light show. The festival pays homage to the area's agricultural heritage with illuminated displays of wheat fields and fruit orchards. You can tune your car radio to a special station for synchronized music. This innovative approach to holiday lighting began in 2010 and has since become a beloved regional tradition. The tunnel's ever-changing patterns and hues captivate guests, creating lasting memories for families and friends alike.
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Senske Light Show (Kennewick)
What to Expect:
Animated light displays synchronized to music
Description:
Senske's Light Show in Kennewick dazzles with its intricate animated light displays synchronized to holiday tunes. The show transforms the Senske Services headquarters into a pulsating canvas of light and color. This technological marvel began as a small employee project and has grown into a community staple. Visitors can explore the grounds on foot, discovering hidden vignettes and interactive elements. The air buzzes with excitement as families gather to witness the spectacle. You'll find yourself mesmerized by the precision and artistry of the synchronized displays, which bring familiar holiday songs to life in a whole new way.
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Parade of Lights (Pasco)
What to Expect:
Vintage vehicle light parade
Description:
Pasco's Parade of Lights showcases a unique procession of vintage vehicles adorned with holiday lights. Classic cars, trucks, and even tractors roll down the streets, their chrome gleaming under the glow of thousands of bulbs. This event celebrates the region's automotive history, with some vehicles dating back to the early 20th century. Spectators line the route, cheering as each illuminated relic passes by. You can warm up with locally-made apple cider while enjoying the parade. The rumble of antique engines mingles with holiday music, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that transports visitors to a bygone era.
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Lighting of the Tree (West Richland)
What to Expect:
Community-decorated tree with personal ornaments
Description:
West Richland's Lighting of the Tree event centers around a massive evergreen adorned with ornaments contributed by community members. Each decoration tells a story, representing local families, businesses, and organizations. This tradition began in 1995 as a way to unite the growing community. Visitors can add their own ornament to the tree, becoming part of the town's living history. The air fills with the aroma of freshly-baked cookies from local bakeries. You'll be moved by the sense of togetherness as the switch is flipped, illuminating thousands of lights and bringing the community's collective spirit to life.
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Annual Turkey Trot Fun Run (Kennewick)
What to Expect:
Costume contest with Thanksgiving-themed characters
Description:
Kennewick's Annual Turkey Trot Fun Run spices up the traditional Thanksgiving race with a lively costume contest. Participants don creative outfits inspired by Thanksgiving themes, from pilgrims to pumpkin pies. The event originated in 1982 as a small gathering of running enthusiasts and has since grown into a beloved holiday tradition. Runners traverse a scenic route along the Columbia River, taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. You can join the "Gobble Wobble" warm-up session before the race. The sound of cheering spectators and jingling costume accessories creates an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie, kicking off the holiday season with energy and laughter.