If you’ve ever visited Europe during the holidays, you know just how special Christmas markets are. They’re bright, cheery, and beautiful. And in Seattle, you can feel some of that same magic at the Seattle Christmas Market.
Started in 2023, the Seattle Christmas Market takes Winterfest to the next level, setting up shop right in the heart of Seattle Center.
Seattle Christmas Market Highlights
Much like European Christmas markets, the Seattle Christmas Market has more than 80 huts filled with artisan vendors. You can purchase decorations, clothes, candy, and so much more. In Europe, the vendors are the centerpiece of each Christmas market. Hence the name “market”.
But at the Seattle Christmas Market, the headliner seems to be the two-story Christmas carousel. Lines are never excruciatingly long, and each ride is pretty short, keeping the line moving pretty quickly. If you have kids (and even if you don’t), you’re likely going to take a spin or five on the carousel.
As with European Christmas markets, drinking is another popular activity at the Seattle Christmas Market. There is a large gluhwein stand in the center of the market, shelling out warm German mulled wine. Beer is also served inside the market. We have attended the Seattle market a couple of times now, and while drinking happens, it’s not a wild party by any means.
On top of the vendors, a carousel, and drinking, there is plenty of food at the Seattle Christmas Market. The most popular purchase is usually the raclette (that’s our go-to at least). We’ve also enjoyed goulash, bratwursts, pretzels, and crepes. There are plenty of sweet treats as well. There is a large seating area modeled after a German beer garden for feasting.
If you’re looking for even more, the Seattle Christmas Market features live music, photos with Santa, and loads of Christmas lights. The most popular light display is Lovers’ Lane — where you see hoards of couples kissing (and taking selfies) under the mistletoe. There is also a walk-through Christmas tree.
Seattle Christmas Market Tickets
Unlike European Christmas markets, you pay to enter the Seattle Christmas Market. And it’s not very cheap. General admission tickets start at $20 for adults. Plus, you have to choose a specific 30-minute time slot to enter. There are discounted days and times. Click here to explore ticket prices. Once you’re in, the carousel is free to take as much as you’d like, but everything else costs money (and again, nothing inside is very cheap).
A New Holiday Tradition
If you can’t make it to Europe this holiday season, the Seattle Christmas Market is a nice substitute. Is it perfect? No. But is it something fun to do with your family during the holidays in Seattle? Definitely. You can add it to your holiday traditions list with Gingerbread Village, Seattle Festival of Trees, and the Issaquah Reindeer Festival.
Have you attended the Seattle Christmas Market? How was your experience? Leave a comment below or connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. We’d love to hear what you thought. You can also check out Seattle Bloggers for more great places to explore during the holidays!
