We’ve said it before. We’ll say it again. Visiting Leavenworth, Washington at Christmas is an absolute must. Not only is it the most iconic Christmas town in Washington, but it’s also actually considered one of the best Christmas towns in the entire world. 

That being said, planning a trip to Leavenworth during the Most Wonderful Time of the Year isn’t always easy. With all the crowds, weather issues, and inflated hotel costs to consider, it can be a bit daunting. But it’s worth it. Here’s how to plan an enjoyable Christmas in Leavenworth.

First, if at all possible, visit Leavenworth during the week.
Peachland Joe / Flickr
The tree lighting ceremony is hyped up as a magical event, and admittedly, it's fun. It also happens to be unbelievably crowded.
The tree lighting ceremony, while popular, is just that — the lights come on after a bit of fanfare.
Srikanta N/Flickr
But the lights are also on during the week, and they're just as magical. In fact, you'll enjoy them a lot more if you're not battling crowds.
Accommodations can be expensive in the area this time of year, especially on the weekends — so consider a budget-friendly place like the Adventure Inn.
management / TripAdvisor
This no-frills motel is right in the middle of the fun, and you can typically get a room there on a weeknight. For any weekend stay, you'll want to plan in advance.

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If you really want to come to the Lighting Festival, consider taking a shuttle.
Visit Leavenworth WA Facebook
Clipper Vacations and Sound Shuttle typically offer chartered day trips from the Seattle area to the festival. Not only will you be there and back in a day, but you'll avoid worrying about icy roads and parking woes.
If you do stick around for more than a day, take advantage of the free hotel shuttles or walk if possible so you can enjoy the day and evening on foot.
Visit Leavenworth WA Facebook
Parking can be a hassle, and pedestrians are everywhere. Plus, as long as you're bundled up, walking around the downtown area is pure magic.
Another tip for full enjoyment — make dinner reservations in advance, and go off the beaten path.
SOUTH Leavenworth Facebook
South is a Mexican restaurant in this Bavarian village, which sounds a bit strange... but the food is outstanding, and while reservations are accepted, it's rarely crowded on weeknights.
There's so much to do in Leavenworth this time of year, it's simply impossible to have a bad time.
r_anirban / Flickr
Little ones and kids at heart love the sledding hill. You can get your holiday shopping done in a day or two and taste wine from two dozen tasting rooms in the process. And of course, you'll be content to just take in the illuminated mountain scenery.

Take a closer look at Christmas in Leavenworth:

No matter when you go, Leavenworth is a fantastic place to visit. And remember, since the Christmas lights stay up until late February, you can even make the trip after the holidays. While Christmas in Leavenworth is rather magical, make sure to see what it’s like in the warmer months.

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More to Explore

Christmas in Washington

Will Suphan | October 19, 2023

What are the best Christmas towns in Washington?

The best Christmas towns in Washington include:

  • Kennewick
  • Leavenworth
  • Stanwood
  • Anacortes

As one of the greenest and most beautiful states, Washington has many towns that are perfect settings for holiday cheer. Kennewick casts lighted reflections on the Columbia River with their Christmas Lighted Boat Parade, where you can see a different kind of Christmas float. Leavenworth does Christmas in a traditional Bavarian style where the entire downtown is lit up and shops are bursting with holiday crafts and food. Stanwood's Warm Beach Camp holds a Lights of Christmas Festival where over one million lights are on display. For Christmas on the coast, head over to Anacortes where you can enjoy the spectacular Nutcracker Holiday Gift Show.

Learn more about the best Christmas towns in Washington. 

What are some ways that holidays in Washington are special?

Some ways that holidays in Washington are special include:

  • Cider made with Washington apples
  • Lynden Creamery eggnog
  • Polar Express trains

There are many reasons that Washington is such a wonderful place to be during the holidays. The state is known for its apples, and they make the most scrumptious apple cider to warm up those winter nights. Some of the best eggnog around comes from the Lynden Creamery. If you love train rides, there are several Polar Express trains. The Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad hosts a truly magical one as it chugs along through the evergreen wintery landscape.

Discover more about ways that holidays in Washington are special. 

What are the best holiday festivals in Washington?

The best holiday festivals in Washington include:

  • Winter Glow Spectacular
  • Reindeer Festival
  • Lake Chelan Winterfest

Washington has some absolutely lovely holiday happenings. The Winter Glow Spectacular in Spokane starts with fireworks and hosts a film festival along with booths full of delicious food and amazing crafts. Cougar Mountain Zoo in Issaquah hosts a Reindeer Festival where visitors can interact with reindeer, send letters to Santa at Santa's Post Office, and ride on the Grand Traveling Sleigh. Lake Chelan Winterfest has ice sculptures, wine tasting, lots of activities for the kids, and some wonderful live music. It's been a tradition for 30 years!

Find out more about the best holiday festivals in Washington. 

 

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