As many of you may already know, I am not only the proud owner of a highly sought-after Nanny agency in Seattle - The Nanny Consultant. I am also a devoted mother of three wonderful children who share my passion for outings – especially those during the holiday season. While there are many different blogs out there that suggest what to do during this season, I believe my list is somewhat unique. So, without further ado, here is my list of favorites.
Tulalip Lights (Marysville, WA)
We recently visited Tulalip Lights, which is in its second year, and we were blown away by the effort put into it yet again. This display is one of the best we've seen, and it's only getting better. I have now gone on a week night and weekend and for sure prefer a weeknight due to the crowd. This year, it has doubled in size, making it the largest light display in Washington. The display has 6 million lights, and it's definitely worth a visit. The best part is this is a free event. Every night at 4p, they turn on the lights and will be going until January 15th, 2024 - so there is no rush to get there by the end of December if you have other activities you want to attend. Displays are at Tulalip Resort Casino with 4.2 million lights, Quil Ceda Village, Tulalip Bingo and Slots, and Quil Ceda Village Retail Center. For an additional charge, you can participate in the holiday ice rink, a 40’ by 80’ outdoor ice rink. Mr. and Mrs. Claus, The Grinch, and Buddy the Elf Visits also make appearances.
The Lights of Christmas (Stanwood, WA)
I have been attending this must-see event, The Lights of Christmas, every year since they first opened, as I grew up just a mile away. It is a place that feels like home to me. The display features over one million lights, a talking tree named "Bruce the Spruce,"
who has plenty of jokes to make everyone laugh, Mr. and Mrs. Claus, a holiday market, and plenty of picture opportunities. This drive-through display is a must-see attraction. When you arrive, you have the option to pull over for their famous mini doughnuts - do not skip this; I repeat, these are a must-have. The whole thing takes about 30 minutes, so if you are driving from Seattle, I would pair this with Tulalip Lights. You must buy tickets ahead of time.
The Home Depot Gingerbread House (All Locations)
Each month, my children and I head to the Home Depot to build a masterpiece. This happens the first Saturday of each month from 9a until 12p. Though I will say the two times I have arrived later in the morning, it is often out of supplies, so I recommend getting there early. This month, we are going to be building a gingerbread house on December 2. As for age level, I would say ages 3 to 10 would be perfect for this activity; my 7-year-old can complete the projects on her own, whereas her siblings, who are 4 and 5, still need a bit of help. The thing I love about this project is it is also FREE! Don't forget to sign up in advance.
Snowflake Ball ( Kirkland, WA)
One of the best events in Kirkland, in my opinion, is the Snowflake Ball, which is my daughter's favorite. Last year, we all dressed up in our best attire - I wore a silver sparkling sequin dress, the boys were in suits, and my daughter was in her elegant holiday dress. We felt like we were on top of the world. Before heading out, I cooked a fancy meal for us, which set the mood. We danced and ate until the lights went out and came home exhausted from one of the best nights. There is just something so special about dancing with your child. This event is Friday December 8th, at the North Kirkland Community Center. You need to pre-register online.
Evergreen Lights (Bothell, WA)
Another event that I have been attending for years and years is Evergreen Lights. I used to bring my nanny kids to this display. You just can’t go wrong with this free event. They upgraded a bit last year and now have the bathroom facilities open, which is a major bonus when you have three littles. The kids love the cookies, the train, and the pretend snow, while I love the light display! It runs from 6a to 9p, starting December 1st. I prefer it less crowded, so I like to get there at 5:45p, get the kids buddled up, and immerse ourselves in the fun right as it opens.
Keener’s Christmas (Bothell, WA)
The thing I love about Keener’s Christmas is how much money they raise for different charities each year. It is truly heartwarming. This year, they are supporting Roc Solid Foundation. This light display is drive-through only, and you can go through it again and again. We spend about 10 minutes or so going through, though while quick, it is beautiful, especially after some fresh snow. They run from December 1st to December 31st from 6p to 10p. They are located at 16504 112thPL NE Bothell, WA 98011! Updates can be found on their Facebook page Keener’s Christmas. I like to pair this activity with Evergreen Lights as they are very close to one another.
Kringle's Filling Station (Seattle, WA)
Last year, my kids and I went to Kringles Filling Station for the first time, and we thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a huge success! We particularly enjoyed the hot chocolate, which was being served out of a gas pump. This year, they have added a new slot car track where, for a minimal fee, you can race against another attendee. My daughter pushed away her nerves last year and did some holiday Karaoke, and the boys enjoyed the many games. We already have this one on December’s calendar. You can buy your tickets in advance, which is always nice when you have children. Children 4 and under are free.
KNUTSON FARMS - CHRISTMAS AT THE FARM (Sumner, WA)
For us, this outing to Knutson Farms is quite the drive, so I will be sure to plan a couple of stops along the way. This farm is well worth the drive. It just has all the feels, fun, and excitement one is looking for during the holiday season. The gift shop was full of the perfect gifts for my little ones. They have many activities, including a cow train, tables of activities for the kids, a large sandbox, a tricycle track, and bubbles galore. We easily spent a couple of hours playing here. The coffee shop on-site sells the best hot chocolate! On Friday nights, they have a Christmas market for all of you looking to get some shopping done. They are open until December 23rd.
IT DOESN'T END HERE
There are many other places we visit during the holiday season, though I feel other blogs have it covered when it comes to Seattle outings, such as Zoo Lights at the Point Defiance Zoo, A Very Electrical Christmas at the Seattle Children's Theater, 'Twas The Night the Kirkland Performing Arts Center, Wild Lanterns at Woodland Park Zoo, and the Old Country Christmas at Legacy Farms.
Now, go make memories to last a lifetime!
Kyla Lopez
The Nanny Consultant