Christmas Events for Kids in Washington (2026)

Christmas Events for Kids
Written by Kelsey Cecil

18 min read

Washington has 20 Christmas events for kids we could confirm for the 2026 season, from WildLanterns in Seattle on November 13 to Garden d'Lights in Bellevue, which runs through January 3. 13 of them are free, and every listing links straight to the host. It is one stop on our guide to Christmas events for kids in every state.

The short version

  • 20 kids’ Christmas events confirmed in Washington for 2026, in Seattle, Olympia, Spokane and Tacoma
  • First: WildLanterns, Seattle, November 13. Runs latest: WildLanterns, Seattle, through January 17
  • Free: Seattle Center Winterfest, Tree Lighting Celebration at Westlake Park, LoveOly WinterFest, Gingerbread House Workshop, Creativity Corner: Home Sweet Holiday Home, Holiday Sing Along, Family Gingerbread Cookie Decorating, A Season for Singing with Nancy Stewart, Holiday House Building: A Super Tuesday STEM Special, Story Time with the Snow Sisters, A Mariachi Holiday, Olaf's Frozen Adventure Story Time with the Snow Sisters and Olaf's Frozen Adventure Story Time with the Snow Sisters
  • Checked on each host’s own page; each listing links straight to it
Watercolor illustration: Rally the corgi stands on a red train seat looking out at falling snow, a lit Christmas tree and a white dove. Text: Choo choo! The train starting could be heard. Hello cute white bird!
Rally watching the snow and a lit Christmas tree, from the pages of Rally Takes the Train.

Below is every event we could confirm, grouped by city, with the date, time, cost and the small things parents ask about (sign-ups, ages, what is included). Looking for a Santa train instead? Those are on our Washington Christmas train rides page.

Washington Christmas events for kids at a glance

Kids’ Christmas events
20 confirmed for 2026
Cities
Seattle, Olympia, Spokane and Tacoma
Season
November 13, 2026 to January 17, 2027
Free events
13
Kinds of events
holiday crafts, holiday lights, holiday show and holiday story time
Last checked

City guides in Washington

Plan your December

When each Washington Christmas event for kids happens

The first is WildLanterns in Seattle on November 13; the last runs to January 3. Each bar spans an event’s dates, not every hour in them, so check the host’s page for times.

Look inside the book

Story time with Santa in Washington? Bring Rally home.

Rally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor. It makes a cozy bedtime story after a big day with Santa. Turn a few pages here.

Page 1 of 8

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

Like it so far? See the full book

25 hand-painted pages, paperback, $16.99 with fast shipping from Amazon.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Every page is real watercolor on paper, painted by hand by Leslie Dunn. Nothing in this book was made with AI.

Christmas events for kids in Seattle

13 confirmed events for kids in Seattle, including nearby Bellevue, Covington, Des Moines, Federal Way, Maple Valley, Mercer Island, Pacific and Redmond, soonest first.

Seattle: WildLanterns

Holiday lightsWoodland Park Zoo · Seattle

Host
Woodland Park Zoo (opens in a new tab)
Where
Woodland Park Zoo, 5500 Phinney Avenue N, Seattle, WA 98103
When
Friday, November 13, 2026 to Sunday, January 17, 2027 (nightly except Nov 16 to 18, 23, 26, 30; Dec 7, 14, 24, 25; Jan 4 to 6, 11 to 13), 4 to 9 pm
Cost
Ticketed; see zoo site for prices, members save 20%
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

WildLanterns lights up Woodland Park Zoo from Nov. 13, 2026 to Jan. 17, 2027, nightly from 4 to 9 pm with last entry at 8:30 pm. The zoo is closed on some nights, including Nov. 16 to 18, Nov. 23, 26 and 30, and Dec. 7, 14, 24 and 25, so check the calendar before you go.

Kids can explore the Interactive Zone, designed for children of all ages, and Zoomazium Nightlights offers an indoor, low sensory space with themed activities from 4:30 to 8:30 pm. Low Sensory Nights are set for Nov. 15 and Dec. 1, and Dec. 13 is Pop Star Night. Tickets are sold online, and members get a 20% discount.

Parent tip: Zoomazium Nightlights is a good indoor break for small kids; note that Night Owls evenings are 21 and over.

See dates and details from Woodland Park Zoo (opens in a new tab)

Seattle: Seattle Center Winterfest

Holiday lightsFreeSeattle Center · Seattle

Host
Seattle Center (opens in a new tab)
Where
Seattle Center Armory, 305 Harrison Street, Seattle, WA 98109
When
Friday, November 27, 2026 to Thursday, December 31, 2026 (Winter Train & Village daily 10 am to 6 pm; stage shows weekends), 10 am to 6 pm
Cost
Free (donations accepted for the train display)
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Seattle Center Winterfest runs Nov. 27 to Dec. 31, 2026. Inside the Armory, the Winter Train and Village, a late 19th century model train and village display that has been a tradition for 50 years, runs daily from 10 am to 6 pm. Kids can take a turn operating the train between 10:30 am and 5:30 pm and do a scavenger hunt.

Weekends bring free performances on the Armory Stage, from the Northwest Boychoir and KlezKidz to the Dickens Carolers. Ice carvers work at Mural Amphitheatre on Saturdays at noon, and Friday movie nights at 6:30 pm show holiday films such as Elf and How the Grinch Stole Christmas. After dark, the campus trees glow with lights.

Parent tip: Grab a scavenger hunt sheet at the Train Station; Friday movie nights start at 6:30 pm in the Armory.

See dates and details from Seattle Center (opens in a new tab)

Seattle: Tree Lighting Celebration at Westlake Park

Tree lightingFreeDowntown Seattle Association · Seattle

Host
Downtown Seattle Association (opens in a new tab)
Where
Westlake Park, 401 Pine Street, Seattle, WA 98101
When
Friday, November 27, 2026, 11 am to 6 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Downtown Seattle Association's annual Tree Lighting Celebration takes over Westlake Park the day after Thanksgiving. Festivities start at 11 am with family friendly craft making, costumed characters, sweet treats and other surprises in the park.

The main event comes at 5 pm, when the huge holiday tree and the star are lit, immediately followed by a fireworks show. The celebration is free. The Westlake Park Holiday Carousel also runs nearby from Nov. 27 to Jan. 3, so families can make a full afternoon of it. Expect big crowds downtown for the lighting, and plan transit or parking ahead. The celebration is presented by Amazon, and the association's Love Your Seattle site lists more seasonal events around downtown.

Parent tip: Come early for the daytime crafts and characters, and pick a viewing spot before 5 pm.

See dates and details from Downtown Seattle Association (opens in a new tab)

Bellevue: Garden d'Lights

Holiday lightsBellevue Botanical Garden · Bellevue

Host
Bellevue Botanical Garden (opens in a new tab)
Where
Bellevue Botanical Garden, 12001 Main Street, Bellevue, WA 98005 (near Seattle)
When
Saturday, November 28, 2026 to Sunday, January 3, 2027 (nightly except Dec 25; $5 nights Nov 30 to Dec 3 and Dec 7 to 10; sensory friendly night Dec 8), 4:30 to 9:30 pm
Cost
$10 ages 11 and up ($5 on select weeknights); kids 10 and under free
Ages
All ages; kids 10 and under free
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Garden d'Lights, now in its 32nd year, turns the Bellevue Botanical Garden into a winter wonderland of more than half a million lights shaped like plants, flowers, birds, animals and cascading waterfalls. It runs Nov. 28, 2026 to Jan. 3, 2027, every night except Christmas Day, with first entry at 4:30 pm.

Tickets for ages 11 and up are $10 on general nights and $5 on the first two weeks of Monday to Thursday nights, and kids 10 and under are always free. A sensory friendly night on Tuesday, Dec. 8 has no live music and half capacity. Tickets are sold online only, are date and time specific, and allow entry during a 30 minute window.

Parent tip: Buy timed tickets online and arrive within your 30 minute window; a scavenger hunt map is posted in mid November.

See dates and details from Bellevue Botanical Garden (opens in a new tab)

Seattle: Gingerbread House Workshop

Holiday craftsFreeKing County Library System · Seattle

Host
King County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
Skyway Library, 12601 76th Avenue S, Seattle, WA 98178
When
Tuesday, December 1, 2026, 4:30 to 5:30 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Ages 5 to 12; ages 5 to 8 with an adult
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Skyway Library is kicking off December with a gingerbread house workshop for kids. Each child gets to build and decorate a house of their own, and all materials are provided, so there is nothing to bring except some creativity.

The workshop is for ages 5 to 12, and children 5 to 8 need to have an adult with them. Space is limited, so the library asks families to register online or call the library at 206.772.5541. It is free and sponsored by the Friends of Skyway Library. Reasonable accommodation is available by emailing access@kcls.org at least seven days ahead. Plan to carry a finished house home carefully.

Parent tip: Register or call 206.772.5541, since space is limited; bring a box or bag to carry the house home.

See dates and details from King County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Maple Valley: Holiday Sing Along

Holiday showFreeKing County Library System · Maple Valley

Host
King County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
Maple Valley Library, 21844 SE 248th Street, Maple Valley, WA 98038 (near Seattle)
When
Tuesday, December 8, 2026, 6:30 to 7:15 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Maple Valley Library invites the whole community to gather and sing holiday songs together. Jen from Dace's Rock 'n' More leads this all ages sing along, so families with kids of any age can join in, from toddlers to grandparents.

The program runs about 45 minutes on a Tuesday evening and is free. The listing does not mention registration. It is sponsored by the Maple Valley Library Guild. Reasonable accommodation for people with disabilities is available on request by emailing access@kcls.org at least seven days before the event. It is a relaxed weeknight option for families who want some holiday music without a ticket or a late night.

See dates and details from King County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Mercer Island: A Season for Singing with Nancy Stewart

Holiday showFreeKing County Library System · Mercer Island

Host
King County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
Mercer Island Library, 4400 88th Avenue SE, Mercer Island, WA 98040 (near Seattle)
When
Sunday, December 13, 2026, 11:15 am to 12:15 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Family program, all ages welcome with adult
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Nancy Stewart brings her family music program, A Season for Singing, to the Mercer Island Library. The show explores the holiday traditions of children around the world and where some favorite customs come from, starting with questions like why we decorate with holly, all through songs families can join.

The library describes it as a family program for all ages with an adult, and the audience listing points to toddlers through early elementary kids. It is free and registration is not required. The program is sponsored by the Friends of the Mercer Island Library and runs about an hour on a Sunday late morning, which leaves the afternoon open.

See dates and details from King County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Covington: Holiday House Building: A Super Tuesday STEM Special

Holiday craftsFreeKing County Library System · Covington

Host
King County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
Covington Library, 27100 164th Avenue SE, Covington, WA 98042 (near Seattle)
When
Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 6 to 7 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Ages 5 and older; ages 7 and younger with an adult
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Covington Library's Super Tuesday STEM series has a holiday special in December. Kids build a 2D holiday house out of graham crackers and goodies, a festive spin on the engineering and design challenges the series usually offers.

The program is for ages 5 and older, and children 7 and younger must be with an adult. Siblings are welcome. Registration is required, and the library asks families to arrive by 6 pm. It is free and sponsored by the Friends of Covington Library. If you prefer a less messy version of a gingerbread house project, the flat graham cracker format is a good fit for younger builders.

Parent tip: Register ahead and arrive by 6 pm; children 7 and under need an adult with them.

See dates and details from King County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Pacific: Story Time with the Snow Sisters

Holiday story timeFreeKing County Library System · Pacific

Host
King County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
Algona-Pacific Library, 255 Ellingson Road, Pacific, WA 98047 (near Seattle)
When
Thursday, December 17, 2026, 10:30 to 11:15 am
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages welcome
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Snow Sisters bring an interactive story time to the Algona-Pacific Library on a December weekday morning. Presented by Tales of Enchantment Princess Parties, the program includes stories, music and fun, and young guests are welcome to wear a costume of their favorite character.

After the stories, families can meet the sisters and take photos. The library notes that you must be in line by 11:15 am to have your photo taken. The program is free, all ages are welcome, and registration is not required. It is sponsored by the Friends of the Algona Pacific Library, and the morning time works well for preschoolers and younger siblings who are not yet in school.

Parent tip: Be in the photo line by 11:15 am; costumes are welcome.

See dates and details from King County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Redmond: A Mariachi Holiday

Holiday showFreeKing County Library System · Redmond

Host
King County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
Redmond Library, 15990 NE 85th Street, Redmond, WA 98052 (near Seattle)
When
Saturday, December 19, 2026, noon to 1 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Mariachi Monarcas brings the sounds of mariachi to the Redmond Library for a festive holiday performance. The concert mixes traditional Mexican music with beloved holiday favorites, a lively way for kids to hear how the season is celebrated through music and culture.

The library describes the program as fun for all ages, from babies to grandparents, and it runs one hour on the Saturday before Christmas week. It is free, and the listing does not mention registration. The concert is sponsored by the Friends of the Redmond Library. It is a good pick for families looking for a short, cheerful outing that is a little different from the usual carols.

See dates and details from King County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Covington: Olaf's Frozen Adventure Story Time with the Snow Sisters

Holiday story timeFreeKing County Library System · Covington

Host
King County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
Covington Library, 27100 164th Avenue SE, Covington, WA 98042 (near Seattle)
When
Wednesday, December 30, 2026, 2 to 2:45 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages welcome
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Snow Sisters, presented by Tales of Enchantment Princess Parties, visit the Covington Library for a Frozen themed story time during winter break. The program mixes interactive stories with music and fun, and young guests are welcome to come dressed as their favorite character.

After story time, children can meet the sisters and pose for photos. To get a photo, you need to be in line by 2:45 pm, when the program ends. The event is free, all ages are welcome, and no registration is needed. It is sponsored by the Friends of the Covington Library, and it falls in the quiet stretch between Christmas and New Year when kids are out of school.

Parent tip: Be in the photo line by 2:45 pm; costumes are welcome.

See dates and details from King County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Federal Way: Olaf's Frozen Adventure Story Time with the Snow Sisters

Holiday story timeFreeKing County Library System · Federal Way

Host
King County Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
Federal Way Library, 34200 1st Way S, Federal Way, WA 98003 (near Seattle)
When
Thursday, December 31, 2026, 11 to 11:45 am
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages welcome
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Federal Way Library is hosting the Snow Sisters for a Frozen themed story time on the morning of New Year's Eve. Presented by Tales of Enchantment Princess Parties, the program features interactive stories, music and fun, and children are encouraged to dress up as their favorite character.

Once the stories wrap up, kids can meet the sisters and have their photo taken with them. You need to be in line by 11:45 am to get a photo. The event is free, open to all ages, and does not require registration. It is sponsored by the Friends of the Federal Way Libraries and makes an easy morning outing before New Year's Eve plans.

Parent tip: Be in the photo line by 11:45 am; costumes are welcome.

See dates and details from King County Library System (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Olympia

5 confirmed events for kids in Olympia, including nearby Lacey, soonest first.

Olympia: LoveOly WinterFest

Holiday paradeFreeLoveOly (Olympia Downtown Alliance) · Olympia

Host
LoveOly (Olympia Downtown Alliance) (opens in a new tab)
Where
Downtown Olympia, 5th Avenue and Washington Street, Washington St SE & 5th Ave SE, Olympia, WA 98501
When
Sunday, November 29, 2026, 10 am to 4 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Family-friendly
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

LoveOly WinterFest opens the holiday season in downtown Olympia, centered at the corner of 5th Avenue and Washington Street. The day brings a local artisan market, free holiday crafts for kids, live entertainment and seasonal treats. Thanks to sponsors, WinterFest activities are free and open to the community. It is part of LoveOly's Downtown for the Holidays celebration.

In the afternoon the LoveOly Jinglebell Parade travels from Cherry Street to Sylvester Park from 2 to 3 pm, and the Sylvester Park Tree Lighting follows at 4:30 pm in partnership with the Washington State Department of Enterprise Services. Families with kids of any age can come for a craft and some shopping earlier in the day, then find a spot along the parade route and stay for the tree lighting as it gets dark. Much of the day is outdoors, so dress for the weather.

Parent tip: Festival activities run 10 am to 4 pm; stake out a parade spot before 2 pm and stay for the 4:30 pm tree lighting at Sylvester Park.

See dates and details from LoveOly (Olympia Downtown Alliance) (opens in a new tab)

Lacey: Creativity Corner: Home Sweet Holiday Home

Holiday craftsFreeLacey Museum and Cultural Center (City of Lacey) · Lacey

Host
Lacey Museum and Cultural Center (City of Lacey) (opens in a new tab)
Where
Lacey Museum and Cultural Center, Lacey, WA (near Olympia)
When
Thursday, December 3, 2026 to Thursday, December 31, 2026 (Thursdays and Fridays 11 am to 3 pm; Saturdays 10 am to 4 pm)
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Lacey Museum and Cultural Center runs a monthly Creativity Corner, and for December 2026 the project is Home Sweet Holiday Home. Visitors decorate their own gingerbread-style holiday house, and there is an optional photo to remember it by. The craft is free and open to all ages.

Creativity Corner is available during museum hours on Thursdays and Fridays from 11 am to 3 pm and on Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm, from December 3 through December 31. It works well as a low-key stop for families with small children who want a quick holiday craft without a ticket or a set start time, and it pairs easily with a look around the museum. The listing does not mention registration, so plan on simply dropping in during open hours.

Parent tip: Drop in during museum hours (Thu and Fri 11 am to 3 pm, Sat 10 am to 4 pm); the craft is free and indoors.

See dates and details from Lacey Museum and Cultural Center (City of Lacey) (opens in a new tab)

Lacey: Signing Santa 2026

Santa visitSigning Santa organization and City of Lacey Parks, Culture & Recreation · Lacey

Host
Signing Santa organization and City of Lacey Parks, Culture & Recreation (opens in a new tab)
Where
Chambers Prairie Elementary, Virginia Street SE, Lacey, WA (near Olympia)
When
Friday, December 4, 2026, 6:30 to 8 pm
Cost
Check the host's page
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Signing Santa is a community holiday evening presented by the Signing Santa organization together with Lacey Parks, Culture & Recreation. It brings together children who are deaf or hard of hearing along with their families, friends and the wider community. The event is a chance for kids to share the spirit of giving, make new friends and help raise awareness of the Deaf community.

The evening is held at Chambers Prairie Elementary in Lacey. It is a welcoming choice for families with deaf or hard of hearing children who want a Santa visit in their own language, and for any family interested in supporting the Deaf community during the holidays. The city's event page does not list a price, age range or registration requirement, so check with Lacey Parks or the Signing Santa organization if you have questions before you go.

See dates and details from Signing Santa organization and City of Lacey Parks, Culture & Recreation (opens in a new tab)

Lacey: Cookies with Mrs. Claus

Story time with Mrs. ClausCity of Lacey Parks, Culture & Recreation · Lacey

Host
City of Lacey Parks, Culture & Recreation (opens in a new tab)
Where
Jacob Smith House, Intelco Loop SE, Lacey, WA (near Olympia)
When
Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 5:30 to 8 pm
Cost
Registration required; price not listed
Ages
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Mrs. Claus spends the evening at the Jacob Smith House in Lacey, decorating cookies alongside children and sharing stories about Santa and Christmas. Each child gets a plate of cookies to decorate, and they can eat them on the spot or carry them home. Kids also have the chance to pose for a selfie with Mrs. Claus and ask her their questions about Santa and life at the North Pole.

This is a cozy, hands-on outing that suits younger children who enjoy a craft and a chance to talk with a storybook character. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The City of Lacey requires pre-registration through its online recreation catalog, so plan ahead rather than showing up at the door. The city's page does not list a price, so check the registration site for current fees and time slots.

Parent tip: Pre-registration is required through the Lacey Parks online catalog, and an adult must stay with each child.

See dates and details from City of Lacey Parks, Culture & Recreation (opens in a new tab)

Lacey: Breakfast with Santa

Breakfast with SantaCity of Lacey Parks, Culture & Recreation · Lacey

Host
City of Lacey Parks, Culture & Recreation (opens in a new tab)
Where
Lacey Community Center, Lacey, WA (near Olympia)
When
Saturday, December 12, 2026, 9 to 10:30 am
Cost
Pre-registration required; price not listed
Ages
Kid-friendly; children must be accompanied by a registered adult
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Lacey Parks turns the Lacey Community Center into a visit to the North Pole for a morning of breakfast with Santa. The buffet includes kid-friendly items such as yogurt, muffins, fruit, cereal, juice, hot cocoa and coffee. Crafts and games run throughout the morning, along with a few Christmas surprises, and each family receives a free commemorative digital photo with Santa. Additional photos and poses can be purchased at the event.

This breakfast sells out every year and space is limited. Pre-registration is required and there is no onsite registration, so families should sign up early through the city's registration link. Children must be accompanied and supervised by a registered adult. If your little one needs a high chair, bring your own, since the city asks families to supply them.

Parent tip: Register early since it sells out every year and there is no onsite registration; bring your own high chair if needed.

See dates and details from City of Lacey Parks, Culture & Recreation (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Spokane

1 confirmed event for kids in Spokane, including nearby Spokane Valley, soonest first.

Spokane Valley: Tree Lighting

Story time with SantaCity of Spokane Valley · Spokane Valley

Host
City of Spokane Valley (opens in a new tab)
Where
Spokane Valley, WA (near Spokane)
When
Friday, December 4, 2026, 5:30 to 7 pm
Cost
Free refreshments; admission not listed
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The City of Spokane Valley kicks off the holiday season with a festive tree lighting featuring Santa, along with performances by a children's choir and a band. Free cookies and cocoa are served, which makes it an easy, relaxed evening outing for families.

After the tree is lit, the fun moves indoors for storytime with Santa in the library, a nice option for younger children who would rather sit and listen than stand in the cold. The event runs from 5:30 to 7 pm, so it works well even for little ones with an early bedtime. The city's holidays page does not name the exact location or say whether there is any cost, so check the city's tree lighting page before you head out. The city points families to SpokaneValleyWA.gov/TreeLighting for full details.

Parent tip: Check SpokaneValleyWA.gov/TreeLighting for the location before you go; storytime with Santa follows the lighting inside the library.

See dates and details from City of Spokane Valley (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Tacoma

1 confirmed event for kids in Tacoma, soonest first.

Tacoma: The 30th Annual Model Train Festival

Model trainsWashington State Historical Society · Tacoma

Host
Washington State Historical Society (opens in a new tab)
Where
Washington State History Museum, 1911 Pacific Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98402
When
Friday, December 18, 2026 to Friday, January 1, 2027 (daily, closed Dec 24 and 25)
Cost
Included with museum admission; kids 5 and under free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Washington State History Museum in Tacoma brings back its Model Train Festival for a 30th year, from Friday, December 18, 2026, through Friday, January 1, 2027. The museum is closed December 24 and 25 and opens on Mondays during the festival. Admission covers the festival, kids 5 and under get in free, and members are free.

The museum notes that outside discounts and library passes are not valid during the festival, so plan on regular admission. The building is mobility-accessible with ramps and elevators, and wheelchairs are available at admissions. It is one of the few kids' holiday events that runs through the week after Christmas.

Parent tip: Library passes and outside discounts are not accepted during the festival. Buy tickets online or at the museum.

See dates and details from Washington State Historical Society (opens in a new tab)

Near a state line? Our guides to Christmas events for kids in Oregon, Christmas events for kids in Idaho and Christmas events for kids in Montana list more confirmed events, and the national search sorts every event by distance from your town.

A story for the drive home

A morning with Santa or an evening of holiday stories tends to end the same way: tired kids, a long drive and one more book before bed. Our picture book follows Rally the corgi on his first train ride to see his grand-paw-rents, and every page is painted by hand. If your family is spending December missing someone, it was written for that too. For the car, print our free corgi and train coloring pages.

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

A bedtime story after seeing SantaRally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor by Leslie Dunn. $16.99 on Amazon, ages 0 to 8.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Washington Christmas events for kids: questions parents ask

What Christmas events for kids are in Washington in 2026?

We confirmed 20 Christmas events for kids in Washington for 2026 on each host’s own page: WildLanterns in Seattle (November 13), Seattle Center Winterfest in Seattle (November 27), Tree Lighting Celebration at Westlake Park in Seattle (November 27), Garden d'Lights in Bellevue (November 28), LoveOly WinterFest in Olympia (November 29), Gingerbread House Workshop in Seattle (December 1), Creativity Corner: Home Sweet Holiday Home in Lacey (December 3), Signing Santa 2026 in Lacey (December 4), Tree Lighting in Spokane Valley (December 4), Holiday Sing Along in Maple Valley (December 8), Cookies with Mrs. Claus in Lacey (December 9), Family Gingerbread Cookie Decorating in Des Moines (December 11), Breakfast with Santa in Lacey (December 12), A Season for Singing with Nancy Stewart in Mercer Island (December 13), Holiday House Building: A Super Tuesday STEM Special in Covington (December 15), Story Time with the Snow Sisters in Pacific (December 17), The 30th Annual Model Train Festival in Tacoma (December 18), A Mariachi Holiday in Redmond (December 19), Olaf's Frozen Adventure Story Time with the Snow Sisters in Covington (December 30) and Olaf's Frozen Adventure Story Time with the Snow Sisters in Federal Way (December 31). Every one is listed below with times, cost and a link to the host.

What Christmas events for kids are in Seattle, Washington?

For families in and around Seattle, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: WildLanterns (Nightly, Nov 13 to Jan 17, 4 to 9 pm (closed some nights), ticketed; see zoo site for prices, members save 20%); Seattle Center Winterfest (Daily, Nov 27 to Dec 31; stage shows on weekends, free (donations accepted for the train display)); Tree Lighting Celebration at Westlake Park (Fri, Nov 27, 11 am to 6 pm; lighting at 5 pm, free); Garden d'Lights (in Bellevue, Nightly, Nov 28 to Jan 3, from 4:30 pm (closed Dec 25), $10 ages 11 and up ($5 on select weeknights); kids 10 and under free); Gingerbread House Workshop (Tue, Dec 1, 4:30 to 5:30 pm, free, registration required); Holiday Sing Along (in Maple Valley, Tue, Dec 8, 6:30 to 7:15 pm, free); Family Gingerbread Cookie Decorating (in Des Moines, Fri, Dec 11, 3:30 to 4:30 pm, free); A Season for Singing with Nancy Stewart (in Mercer Island, Sun, Dec 13, 11:15 am to 12:15 pm, free); Holiday House Building: A Super Tuesday STEM Special (in Covington, Tue, Dec 15, 6 to 7 pm, free, registration required); Story Time with the Snow Sisters (in Pacific, Thu, Dec 17, 10:30 to 11:15 am, free); A Mariachi Holiday (in Redmond, Sat, Dec 19, noon to 1 pm, free); Olaf's Frozen Adventure Story Time with the Snow Sisters (in Covington, Wed, Dec 30, 2 to 2:45 pm, free); Olaf's Frozen Adventure Story Time with the Snow Sisters (in Federal Way, Thu, Dec 31, 11 to 11:45 am, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Seattle section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Olympia, Washington?

For families in and around Olympia, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: LoveOly WinterFest (Sun, Nov 29, 10 am to 4 pm; parade 2 pm, tree lighting 4:30 pm, free); Creativity Corner: Home Sweet Holiday Home (in Lacey, Thursdays to Saturdays, Dec 3 to 31, free); Signing Santa 2026 (in Lacey, Fri, Dec 4, 6:30 to 8 pm, see the host for cost); Cookies with Mrs. Claus (in Lacey, Wed, Dec 9, 5:30 to 8 pm, registration required; price not listed); Breakfast with Santa (in Lacey, Sat, Dec 12, 9 to 10:30 am, pre-registration required; price not listed). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Olympia section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Spokane, Washington?

For families in and around Spokane, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Tree Lighting (in Spokane Valley, Fri, Dec 4, 5:30 to 7 pm, free refreshments; admission not listed). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Spokane section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Tacoma, Washington?

For families in and around Tacoma, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: The 30th Annual Model Train Festival (Dec 18 to Jan 1 (closed Dec 24 and 25), included with museum admission; kids 5 and under free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Tacoma section of this page.

Are there free Christmas events for kids in Washington?

Yes. 13 of the 20 events here are free: Seattle Center Winterfest in Seattle, Tree Lighting Celebration at Westlake Park in Seattle, LoveOly WinterFest in Olympia, Gingerbread House Workshop in Seattle, Creativity Corner: Home Sweet Holiday Home in Lacey, Holiday Sing Along in Maple Valley, Family Gingerbread Cookie Decorating in Des Moines, A Season for Singing with Nancy Stewart in Mercer Island, Holiday House Building: A Super Tuesday STEM Special in Covington, Story Time with the Snow Sisters in Pacific, A Mariachi Holiday in Redmond, Olaf's Frozen Adventure Story Time with the Snow Sisters in Covington and Olaf's Frozen Adventure Story Time with the Snow Sisters in Federal Way. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.

Where can kids see Santa in Washington this December?

Santa appears at Signing Santa 2026 in Lacey (December 4), Tree Lighting in Spokane Valley (December 4) and Breakfast with Santa in Lacey (December 12). Times and booking rules are in each event’s listing above.

Where are there Christmas story times for kids in Washington?

Holiday story times on this page: Tree Lighting in Spokane Valley, Cookies with Mrs. Claus in Lacey, Story Time with the Snow Sisters in Pacific, Olaf's Frozen Adventure Story Time with the Snow Sisters in Covington and Olaf's Frozen Adventure Story Time with the Snow Sisters in Federal Way. Library story times are usually free; story times with a meal or show are ticketed.

Where can we have breakfast or a meal with Santa in Washington?

Meals with Santa confirmed for 2026: Breakfast with Santa in Lacey (Sat, Dec 12, 9 to 10:30 am). These usually sell out, so book as soon as you pick a date.

Are there kids' Christmas events in Washington on Christmas Eve or after Christmas?

Yes: WildLanterns in Seattle (through January 17), Seattle Center Winterfest in Seattle (through December 31), Garden d'Lights in Bellevue (through January 3), Creativity Corner: Home Sweet Holiday Home in Lacey (through December 31), The 30th Annual Model Train Festival in Tacoma (through January 1), Olaf's Frozen Adventure Story Time with the Snow Sisters in Covington (through December 30) and Olaf's Frozen Adventure Story Time with the Snow Sisters in Federal Way (through December 31).

How much is WildLanterns in Seattle?

Ticketed; see zoo site for prices, members save 20%. WildLanterns is on Friday, November 13, 2026 to Sunday, January 17, 2027 (nightly except Nov 16 to 18, 23, 26, 30; Dec 7, 14, 24, 25; Jan 4 to 6, 11 to 13), 4 to 9 pm at Woodland Park Zoo. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Seattle Center Winterfest in Seattle?

Free (donations accepted for the train display). Seattle Center Winterfest is on Friday, November 27, 2026 to Thursday, December 31, 2026 (Winter Train & Village daily 10 am to 6 pm; stage shows weekends), 10 am to 6 pm at Seattle Center Armory. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Tree Lighting Celebration at Westlake Park in Seattle?

Free. Tree Lighting Celebration at Westlake Park is on Friday, November 27, 2026, 11 am to 6 pm at Westlake Park. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Garden d'Lights in Bellevue?

$10 ages 11 and up ($5 on select weeknights); kids 10 and under free. Garden d'Lights is on Saturday, November 28, 2026 to Sunday, January 3, 2027 (nightly except Dec 25; $5 nights Nov 30 to Dec 3 and Dec 7 to 10; sensory friendly night Dec 8), 4:30 to 9:30 pm at Bellevue Botanical Garden. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is LoveOly WinterFest in Olympia?

Free. LoveOly WinterFest is on Sunday, November 29, 2026, 10 am to 4 pm at Downtown Olympia, 5th Avenue and Washington Street. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Gingerbread House Workshop in Seattle?

Free, registration required. Gingerbread House Workshop is on Tuesday, December 1, 2026, 4:30 to 5:30 pm at Skyway Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Creativity Corner: Home Sweet Holiday Home in Lacey?

Free. Creativity Corner: Home Sweet Holiday Home is on Thursday, December 3, 2026 to Thursday, December 31, 2026 (Thursdays and Fridays 11 am to 3 pm; Saturdays 10 am to 4 pm) at Lacey Museum and Cultural Center. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

When is Signing Santa 2026 in Lacey in 2026?

Friday, December 4, 2026, 6:30 to 8 pm, at Chambers Prairie Elementary. The host has not posted a price on its page, so check there before you go.

How much is Tree Lighting in Spokane Valley?

Free refreshments; admission not listed. Tree Lighting is on Friday, December 4, 2026, 5:30 to 7 pm at Spokane Valley. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Holiday Sing Along in Maple Valley?

Free. Holiday Sing Along is on Tuesday, December 8, 2026, 6:30 to 7:15 pm at Maple Valley Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Cookies with Mrs. Claus in Lacey?

Registration required; price not listed. Cookies with Mrs. Claus is on Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 5:30 to 8 pm at Jacob Smith House. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Family Gingerbread Cookie Decorating in Des Moines?

Free. Family Gingerbread Cookie Decorating is on Friday, December 11, 2026, 3:30 to 4:30 pm at Des Moines Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Breakfast with Santa in Lacey?

Pre-registration required; price not listed. Breakfast with Santa is on Saturday, December 12, 2026, 9 to 10:30 am at Lacey Community Center. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is A Season for Singing with Nancy Stewart in Mercer Island?

Free. A Season for Singing with Nancy Stewart is on Sunday, December 13, 2026, 11:15 am to 12:15 pm at Mercer Island Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Holiday House Building: A Super Tuesday STEM Special in Covington?

Free, registration required. Holiday House Building: A Super Tuesday STEM Special is on Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 6 to 7 pm at Covington Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Story Time with the Snow Sisters in Pacific?

Free. Story Time with the Snow Sisters is on Thursday, December 17, 2026, 10:30 to 11:15 am at Algona-Pacific Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is The 30th Annual Model Train Festival in Tacoma?

Included with museum admission; kids 5 and under free. The 30th Annual Model Train Festival is on Friday, December 18, 2026 to Friday, January 1, 2027 (daily, closed Dec 24 and 25) at Washington State History Museum. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is A Mariachi Holiday in Redmond?

Free. A Mariachi Holiday is on Saturday, December 19, 2026, noon to 1 pm at Redmond Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Olaf's Frozen Adventure Story Time with the Snow Sisters in Covington?

Free. Olaf's Frozen Adventure Story Time with the Snow Sisters is on Wednesday, December 30, 2026, 2 to 2:45 pm at Covington Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Olaf's Frozen Adventure Story Time with the Snow Sisters in Federal Way?

Free. Olaf's Frozen Adventure Story Time with the Snow Sisters is on Thursday, December 31, 2026, 11 to 11:45 am at Federal Way Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Are there Christmas train rides for kids in Washington?

Yes, but they have their own guide. Santa trains and holiday train rides are listed in our Washington Christmas train rides guide, so this page sticks to story times, Santa visits and other events off the rails.

How do you confirm these events?

We list an event only after we find this season’s date on the host’s own website or an official city or tourism calendar. We last checked every listing on November 2, 2026. Hosts change details, so always confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Event names belong to their hosts. Rally Takes the Train is a family picture book and is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by any host listed here. Confirm dates, times and prices on each host’s own site before you go.

Kelsey Cecil
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