Seattle’s Holiday Season Kicks Off Thanksgiving Weekend

By Linda Lowry – Social in Seattle 

Seattle doesn’t wait for December to shine; the holidays here begin the moment the turkey leftovers are packed away. This Thanksgiving weekend, the city and its neighbors are alive with music, culture, sports, and sparkle. It’s the kind of kickoff that reminds us why Seattle is more than a place, it’s a community that celebrates together.

Seattle Torrent Season Opener – November 28

This year’s holiday kickoff is historic: Seattle’s first-ever Women’s NHL team, the Seattle Torrent, takes the ice at Climate Pledge Arena. Their inaugural Professional Women’s Hockey League season begins tonight, marking a new chapter in Seattle sports. Led by captain Hilary Knight and a roster stacked with talent, the Torrent are ready to make waves.

Opening night is just the beginning, be sure to check out their full season schedule and attend the rest of their home games to support women’s hockey at the highest level. Seattle has long been a city that rallies behind its teams, and now we have the chance to cheer on a new legacy in the making.

Encanto Arts Holiday Concierto – November 29, Carco Theatre, Renton

Seattle’s holiday season opens with a night of soaring voices and vibrant rhythms at the Encanto Arts Holiday Concierto at Carco Theatre in Renton. Founded by tenor José Iñiguez, this annual tradition blends opera arias, boleros, and holiday classics into one unforgettable evening.

Meet the Artists

• José Iñiguez, Tenor – Founder of Encanto Arts, José brings operatic power and heartfelt storytelling to the stage, weaving classical technique with cultural pride.

• Jacqueline Medina Itzel Green, Soprano – Known for her luminous voice and expressive range, Jacqueline adds elegance and emotional depth to the program.

• Luis Cano; Mariachi in English– A local favorite, Luis infuses the evening with festive energy and tradition, connecting audiences to the vibrant spirit of mariachi.

• Encanto Orchestra – The ensemble provides a rich musical foundation, blending classical and contemporary sounds into a tapestry that elevates every performance.

United on stage, these artists deliver a performance that honors diversity and belonging, filling the season with joy. The true gift lies in the music itself, an embrace of culture and community that ushers in the holidays.

Sounds of the Sound 8 – November 29, Town Hall Seattle

Seattle’s musical heartbeat continues at Town Hall, where local choirs and ensembles gather for Sounds of the Sound 8. The concert amplifies voices from across the region, filling the hall with harmonies that remind us of the power of community song.

Meet the Artists – Sounds of the Sound 8: New Beginnings

• Josephine Howell – The powerhouse behind the production, Josephine is a celebrated vocalist and producer whose performances blend gospel, blues, and soul with electrifying stage presence. She anchors the evening with artistry that uplifts and inspires.

• Jazz Ensembles – Local jazz musicians bring improvisation and swing, adding a layer of sophistication and spontaneity to the program.

• Blues & Gospel Artists – Grounding the showcase in tradition, these performers channel soulful resonance and spiritual depth, reminding audiences of music’s roots in community and resilience.

• Afro Beat & Cuban Rhythm Performers – Global energy pulses through the hall as these artists infuse danceable beats and vibrant rhythms, connecting Seattle to the wider world.

• Pop & Classical Musicians – Bridging contemporary and timeless sounds, these performers round out the program with harmonies that highlight the diversity of Seattle’s music scene.

Narae 2025: Together We Soar – November 30, Benaroya Hall

Seattle’s holiday season takes flight with Narae 2025: Bisang (Together We Soar), a breathtaking showcase from Morning Star Korean Cultural Center. Through dance, storytelling, and choral collaborations, the program highlights the richness of Korean American culture while inviting the broader community to share in its joy.

Originally envisioned as a 40th anniversary celebration, Narae has grown into a large-scale cultural event thanks to new partnerships and support from the Korean government. Free to attend, it offers not only artistry but also a gift of connection and pride to the city, an invitation for all to soar together this season.

Organizer Sinae Joy shared the inspiration behind the name: “Narae means ‘wings’ in Korean, and we wanted to symbolize our community embracing culture and soaring together. This year’s theme, ‘Together We Soar,’ reflects both heritage and hope.”

The program is designed to uplift and connect audiences through artistry. “We wanted performances that feel joyful and inclusive,” Sinae explained. Highlights include traditional Korean drumming, the fan dance Forest, and collaborations with local choral groups performing Korean repertoire. “Nature and flight are central motifs this year, every piece is about rising, moving, and celebrating life.”

Beyond the artistry, the impact is deeply intentional. “Our goal is to create a space where Korean Americans feel pride, and where friends unfamiliar with Korean culture feel welcome,” Sinae said. “We want people to leave with a sense of belonging and joy, no matter their background.”

The event is free to attend, shifting its focus from fundraising to cultural showcase and community engagement. “We want as many people as possible to experience this celebration.”

Seattle Center Winterfest & Seattle Christmas Market – Launching Thanksgiving Weekend

Seattle Center becomes the city’s holiday hub with Winterfest and the new Seattle

Christmas Market. Visitors can watch live ice sculpting, ride the Winter Train, enjoy performances on the Armory Stage, and stroll through artisan huts filled with handcrafted gifts. Festive food and drink, from mulled wine to sweet treats—add European-style charm, while twinkling lights and family activities make the Market a must-do destination. Together, Winterfest and the Christmas Market create a gathering place where Seattle’s holiday traditions meet global flair.

Here’s a fuller look at what makes the Winter Market and Winterfest a holiday hub worth exploring:

• Ice Sculpting Demonstrations: Watch artists carve dazzling creations from blocks of ice, a Winterfest signature.

• Winter Train & Village: A miniature train and model village delight kids and families, offering a nostalgic holiday experience.

• Armory Stage Entertainment: Weekend performances feature local musicians, dancers, and community groups, keeping the atmosphere lively.

• New Year’s Eve Celebration: Winterfest culminates with a festive countdown, music, and sparkling lights across the campus.

• European-Style Artisan Huts: More than 80 vendors offer handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and seasonal treasures, modeled after Bavarian markets.

• Festive Food & Drink: Indulge in mulled wine, hot cocoa, bratwurst, and sweet treats that bring Old World flavors to Seattle.

• Carousel Rides & Family Activities: A charming carousel and kid-friendly activities make the market a family favorite.

• Photo Ops Under Twinkling Lights: Stroll through illuminated pathways and capture holiday memories with friends and family.

• Live Entertainment: Choirs, musicians, and cultural performers add to the festive atmosphere throughout the season.

30th Annual Magic in the Market – November 30, Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market glows with festive spirit during its 30th annual Magic in the Market celebration. This beloved tradition blends artisan crafts, holiday flavors, and community joy, making it one of Seattle’s most cherished seasonal gatherings. The highlight remains the Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition, where teams of carolers fill downtown streets with music while raising funds for the Pike Market Senior Center & Food Bank.

Top 5 Must-Do’s at Pike Place Market this holiday season:

1. Browse Artisan Crafts: Discover handmade gifts, ornaments, and local treasures from Market crafters.

2. Snap Santa Photos: Capture a festive memory with Santa in the heart of the Market.

3. Join the Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition: Cheer on caroling teams as they spread holiday cheer and support a vital cause.

4. Taste Seasonal Treats: Indulge in holiday flavors from Market vendors, from spiced cider to sweet confections.

5. Enjoy Live Entertainment & Lights: Take in performances and soak up the twinkling holiday décor that transforms the Market into a winter wonderland.

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Pike Place Market’s holiday celebration is more than tradition, it’s a distinctly local flavor of joy, music, and community connection that makes the season shine.

Space Needle Holiday Brunch – November 30

Seattle’s skyline sparkles brightest from the Space Needle, and this year’s holiday brunch takes the tradition to thrilling new heights. Guests savor festive menus while surrounded by panoramic views of the city, mountains, and Sound, but the real showstopper is the new revolving glass floor, giving visitors the sensation of floating above Seattle.

Its indulgence wrapped in wonder: sip champagne while gazing out at snow‑capped peaks, then step onto the glass floor for a heart‑racing perspective that makes the brunch unforgettable. Whether you’re celebrating with family or friends, the Space Needle offers a holiday experience that blends iconic tradition with exhilarating innovation.

Top 3 Must-Do Moments at the Space Needle Holiday Brunch

1. Step onto the Revolving Glass Floor: Experience the thrill of floating above Seattle as the floor slowly rotates, giving you a breathtaking new perspective of the city.

2. Savor Festive Menus with Panoramic Views: Indulge in holiday flavors while gazing out at snow‑capped mountains, Elliott Bay, and the sparkling skyline.

3. Capture Iconic Holiday Memories: From champagne toasts to skyline selfies, the Space Needle offers unforgettable photo ops that make your celebration shine.

Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink & Snowflake Lane – Launching Thanksgiving Weekend

Across Lake Washington, Bellevue transforms into a holiday wonderland with two of the region’s most beloved traditions. The Bellevue Ice Rink, now in its 28th year, invites families to lace up skates and glide under the stars in the heart of the city. With festive music, twinkling lights, and hot cocoa nearby, it’s the perfect mix of nostalgia and winter magic.

Just steps away, Snowflake Lane bursts to life every night with dazzling light displays, falling snow, and a parade of toy soldiers, drummers, and dancers marching to holiday music. Crowds line the sidewalks to watch Bellevue Way sparkle with energy, making it one of the Northwest’s most spectacular holiday traditions.

Together, the rink and parade turn Bellevue into a destination where families can celebrate, play, and soak up the season’s joy. Whether you’re skating hand‑in‑hand or singing along with the parade, Bellevue offers holiday magic that feels larger than life. 

As the holidays unfold, Social in Seattle will continue spotlighting the people, places, and traditions that make our city shine. Here, the season isn’t just about events, it’s about the stories we share together. Stay tuned, Social in Seattle is your front‑row seat to the sparkle, the sound, and the spirit of the holidays.