Last updated: November 11, 2024
Celebrate the holidays in University Place with our expert event guide. From hometown residents to holiday guests, our guide highlights the best festive activities in University Place.
One of the standout events this season is the Pacific Northwest Ballet's lively presentation of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker, enchanting audiences with its classic choreography and stunning visuals. Another delightful experience is the Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship Festival, where beautifully decorated vessels sail the waters, spreading holiday cheer with festive music. And the Winterfest is something you definitely don't want to miss, featuring a variety of family-friendly activities and seasonal attractions. For more details on these and other fun events and activities, check out the rest of the page below!
Contact information and details below.
Twinkling lights and festive food in a holiday setting.
Holiday Magic at the Washington State Fair in Puyallup, WA, features twinkling lights, festive food, and holiday activities both indoors and outdoors.
Where: Puyallup | More Info: Holiday Magic
Twinkling light displays and festive floats.
The Puyallup Lighted Santa Parade features decorated floats, marching bands, and festive music as it winds its way down Meridian Street in downtown Puyallup. The event includes a Holiday Market with vendors offering unique gifts and crafts.
Where: Puyallup | More Info: Puyallup Lighted Santa Parade
Late 19th-century model train and village display.
Seattle Center's Winterfest, presented by Symetra, offers a variety of seasonal activities including a late 19th-century model train and village display, live entertainment at the Armory Stage, and a European-inspired outdoor Christmas market. The event features festive decorations, daily live performances, and a New Year's Eve celebration with entertainment and festivities throughout the grounds.
Where: Seattle | More Info: Winterfest
Family-friendly holiday market with local artisans and festive activities.
The Kris Kringle Market in Lacey, Washington, is a family-friendly holiday event featuring local artisans, live glass blowing demonstrations, and festive activities like visits with Santa and live reindeer. Enjoy a variety of handcrafted items, savory and sweet treats, and a warm inviting atmosphere.
Where: Olympia | More Info: Kris Kringle Market
World-class ballet with elaborate sets and costumes.
Pacific Northwest Ballet presents George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker, featuring Tchaikovsky’s classic score, gorgeous costumes, and impressive performances in a picture-perfect setting.
Where: Seattle | More Info: Pacific Northwest Ballet (PNB) presents George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker
Family-friendly holiday experience with live choir performances and festive decorations.
The Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship Festival is a cherished Northwest tradition since 1949, featuring a decorated Spirit of Seattle sailing to various Puget Sound waterfront communities. Enjoy a 1.5-hour cruise with a community choir performance, reading of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, and a full-service bar offering specialty cocktails and local beverages.
Where: Seattle | More Info: Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship Festival
Complimentary holiday parade with festive music and snowfall.
Snowflake Lane is a nightly holiday parade featuring colorful floats, toy drummers, dancers, and falling snow, set along Bellevue Way between Bellevue Square and Lincoln Square.
Where: Bellevue | More Info: Snowflake Lane
Family-friendly holiday celebration with live music and festive activities.
Join the City of University Place for the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting in Market Square, featuring holiday music, children's activities, and popular food trucks. The event includes live reindeer, character performers, and stilt dancers, culminating in the lighting of the Christmas tree at 6 p.m.
Where: University Place | More Info: Annual Christmas Tree Lighting
Seasonal ice skating with sensory-friendly sessions and live performances.
Pop-Up Ice Skating Rink in Isthmus Park, Olympia, offers a 5,000 sq. ft. ice rink with various skating sessions and special events for all ages.
Where: Olympia | More Info: Pop-Up Ice Skating Rink
Traditional Norwegian and Scandinavian cultural experiences.
Join Poulsbo Sons of Norway for a festive celebration featuring Norwegian street food, Scandinavian vendors, and a Lucia Bride ushered to shore in a Viking boat. The evening culminates with an annual bonfire and the Viking King’s Winter Solstice Proclamation.
Where: Poulsbo | More Info: Poulsbo Scandinavian Christmas
