Panicking because you don’t know what to do this weekend and you're short on cash? Don't worry—below, find all of your options for last-minute entertainment that won't cost more than $10, ranging from the Hometown Holidays Night Market and Tree Lighting to the Punk Rock Flea Market, and from an evening with local authors and expert observers Susanna Ryan and Nathan Vass to the opening of Crystalline Picnic at FoodArt Collection. For even more options, check out our complete EverOut Things To Do calendar and our list of cheap & easy things to do in Seattle all year long.
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- Friday Night Films
Miloš Forman's Amadeus tells the story of the famous Viennese composer and his Italian rival, Antonio Salieri, who became obsessed with Mozart's downfall. Enjoy wine, cheese, and a post-film discussion at this free screening.
(Mercer Island, free) - Sandy Osawa: Screening of 'Maria Tallchief: America's First Prima Ballerina'
Learn the story of Maria Tallchief—a Native woman from Oklahoma whose talent and partnership with George Balanchine led to the creation of the New York City Ballet—from a screening of Seattle-based filmmaker Sandy Sunrising's documentary. The director and her husband will be in attendance.
(First Hill, $5) - Strangers in Town
How did global migration reach Garden City, Kansas, and how has it transformed the city's housing, social services, education, and infrastructure? Learn all about it at this free documentary screening of Strangers in Town.
(University District, free) FOOD & DRINK
- Adult Milk & Cookies
From the word "adult" in the title, I thought Adult Milk & Cookies was some obscure fetish that nobody (not even anyone at The Stranger) knew about. Turns out, it’s an event hosted by the Growler Guys along with TV writer/cook Scottie Jeanette Madden, author of Recklass in the Kitchen, during which Fremont Brewing beer is paired with cookies. Fremont Brewing’s 13.1 percent ABV Imperial Oatmeal Stout already tastes like an incredible cookie, but this is an exciting opportunity to learn about (and enjoy) some less obvious pairings.DAVID LEWIS
(Wedgwood, no cover) MUSIC
- A Children's Hospital Toy Drive Show
Bring cash and/or unwrapped kids' toys to this fundraiser for Seattle Children's Hospital, with live music from local rockers Four Lights, HELLGOD, Bobby's Oar, and Loud Sleepers.
(University District, $8) - The Crüd Güns, Mūppet Fetish, Monobosco
Grind, thrash, and destroy with local metal bands the Crüd Güns, Mūppet Fetish, and Monobosco.
(Tukwila, $7) - The Environment, Like Lions, Tinsley, Jake Crocker
Seattle pop singer William Cremin is the body and brains behind the Environment, a band formed out of the carcass of the Torn ACLs. They'll be joined by Like Lions, Tinsley, and Jake Crocker.
(Capitol Hill, $10) - Great American Trainwreck, The High Seagrass
Enjoy a night of Americana classics and originals from local bands Great American Trainwreck and the High Seagrass.
(Ballard, $8) - Leif Totusek 1-2-3
Local jazz pros Leif Totusek, Larry Jones, and Phil Sparks will combine their powers.
(Green Lake, free) - Sealife, Lyfe Indoors, Mt. Fog, Crash Site
Sway to lo-fi loops and solo tunes from Sealife, Lyfe Indoors, Mt. Fog, and Crash Site.
(Greenwood, $8) - Swing 3PO
Local swing outfit Swing 3PO will play classics from the Great American Songbook, as well as original compositions.
(Downtown, free) - The Together Collective
Groove to soulful jams with Seattle's Quinn & the Together Collective.
(Wallingford, free) - Tomo Nakayama, Sophia Duccini
Tomo Nakayama makes, if anything, deeper sense to me 16 years after I discovered him in the wake of 9/11. His music was calming folks—although I understand that isn’t his primary intention—in the shadow of 9/11, Election Day, or whatever confines us within the famous Hoodie of Dread. He’s still sensible, still tuneful, understated, urging us to look at the sky, the moon, nature, and commonplace things, commonplace feelings, even. A good friend of mine got Siri to say, “You should be satisfied with what you have,” and has no idea how he got Siri to say that. Tomo knows of what he sings, telling us to at least consider satisfaction with what we have. And then build from there. ANDREW HAMLIN
(First Hill, free) - The Ugly Sweater Party
If you wear your most hideous sweater, you could be the lucky individual who wins a crisp $100 bill. DJs HD and DJX2050 will be spinning hip-hop, Top 40, and R&B all night.
(Downtown, $5) - Unsilent Night
NYC composer Phil Kline's blend of electronica and holiday caroling is performed all over the world in the winter months. Engage in some non-denominational sing-song by downloading the mobile app via the movement's website and going on a 45-minute walk with community members.
(Capitol Hill, free) - Winter Formal
Local bedroom-rockers and folk-poppers Power Strip, Amethyst de Wolfe, Flying Fish Cove, Artem/s, and Sprig will provide live tunes to ring in the winter season.
(University District, $5) PARTIES & NIGHTLIFE
- Sparkle Party! Glitter Lips, Sex Tips and Downtempo Beats
Burlesque star Ruby Mimosa will show you how to apply her signature glitter lip. Take notes, sip complimentary bubbly, groove to downtempo beats from DJ Baby Ban Beezly, and pick up some sex tips.
(Capitol Hill, free) - Super Bueno Launch Party
Inspired by the Summit at Snoqualmie, Burton and evo's newest unisex snowboard collaboration, the Super Beuno, was crafted specifically for shredders of Pacific Northwest mountains. Check out behind-the-scenes videos of its production, enjoy complimentary drinks from Aslan Brewing Company, grab a taco from the aptly named food truck Super Bueno, and snag a customizable tote bag to benefit the Chill Foundation.
(Fremont, free) - Toys for Tots - Ugly Christmas Sweater Party
Try to win a $50 game card by dressing in your ugliest Christmas sweater for a good cause (Toys for Tots). You can also sing seasonally appropriate karaoke, knock back $5 shots (or free soft drinks if you're a designated driver), and play free games when you bring in an unwrapped toy to donate.
(Downtown, free) PERFORMANCE
- Captive Christmas Returns
Twisted Seattle drag performer Heavy Scene Macaque will host a night of Christmas malevolence with unfortunate "guests" Dolce Vida, Britt Brutality, Mona Real, and Solana Solstice.
(Downtown, $7/$10) - Rat City Cruise
"KISSmas" drag awaits you at the Swallow.
(White Center, free) READINGS & TALKS
- Jeff VanderMeer: Dead Astronauts
Jeff Vandermeer novels (e.g. Annihilation, Borne) are kind of hard to describe succinctly, but here goes: In a post-apocalyptic landscape overrun with biotech, three shapeshifting quasi-human/animal/landscape hybrids—a blue fox, a giant fish, and a homeless woman—try to avoid destruction and the tyranny of the sinister Company. At this event, hear the acclaimed author talk about Dead Astronauts, his newest novel (released last year), in conversation with Paul Constant.
(Capitol Hill, free) - Susanna Ryan and Nathan Vass
Chase Burns writes on Ryan's Seattle Walk Report: "Seattle Walk Report is exactly what it sounds like: reports of walks in Seattle. Popularized on Instagram (@seattlewalkreport), the project was started in 2017 by an anonymous illustrator (now known to be Susanna Ryan). Seattle Walk Report's 150-plus pages of twee, guidebook-style comics create an endearing collection of the small details that make Seattle a home." Ryan will be joined by Nathan Vass, a Seattle metro bus driver (you may have met him on the 7/49 line) and filmmaker/photographer. Rich Smith writes of Vass's collection of essays: "In 'Fecal and Philosophical Matters,' one of the many poignant pieces in The Lines That Make Us: Stories from Nathan's Bus, a collection of photos and essays chronicling Vass's 12 years driving the night shift on the 7/49 bus route, Vass tells the tale of a panhandler in a wheelchair who got hit by a bag of shit tossed from the window of a BMW. When Vass pulled his bus up to the stop on Eastlake and Harvard, the panhandler asked if he could catch a ride to the Urban Rest Stop downtown to get cleaned up. Vass obliged and wheeled him onto the bus himself. The thankful passenger wept with shame and gratitude, telling Vass that four other drivers had turned him away. But Vass is just the kind of guy who will take that risk to help the powerless every time."
(Lake Forest Park, free) SHOPPING
- 21st Annual Fred Hutch Craft Fair and Raffle
Billing itself as a "one-stop-shop for all your holiday gifts," this holiday market will feature handmade items and a raffle; the proceeds from the latter will benefit cancer research at Fred Hutch.
(South Lake Union, free) VISUAL ART
- Brooke Borcherding
2018 Carmel Art Festival winner Brooke Borcherding uses small color-blocks to structure variegated landscapes in her oil paintings. Admire the art and pick up a goodie bag during Fremont First Friday.
(Fremont, free) WINTER HOLIDAYS
- Holiday Lights and Firehouse Munch
Enjoy classic holiday activities such as a tree lighting, caroling, arts and crafts, and photos with Santa, along with free drinks and treats served by the Mercer Island Fire Department.
(Mercer Island, free) - Lake City World Dance Party
Learn dances from all over the world and bring your favorite dish to share in a potluck.
(Lake City, free) - Mountlake Terrace Tree Lighting Ceremony
Keep warm with cocoa, coffee, and cookies as Santa makes his grand entrance on a fire truck and a water tower lights up with 1,800 LED bulbs.
(Mountlake Terrace, free) - Pictures with Santa at the Cuff
Leather-loving patrons (21+) can sit on Santa Paul or Mrs. Santa Shawna's lap and tell them all their material desires. Proceeds will benefit Entre Hermanos.
(Capitol Hill, $10) - Snow Day SLU Grand Opening Party
Enjoy holiday-themed entertainment, food trucks, a festive beer garden, a snow globe photo booth, a winter-themed market, and more at this opening of this year's Snow Day in Denny Park.
(South Lake Union, free) - Twinkle Twinkle
Forget the chestnuts—instead, roast some marshmallows on an open fire to make s'mores and sip on a cup of hot cocoa, while enjoying the beautifully illuminated park and the sweet sounds of the Dickens Carolers.
(Downtown, free)FRIDAY-SATURDAY
FILM
- Interbay International Film Festival
At this inaugural festival, see films related to Seattle Film Institute students, alums, and faculty members.
(Interbay, $5) MUSIC
- 18th Annual All-Star Porn Jam
There isn't any actual porn at this event, but the evening does promise to be "more fun than a tequila-fueled tractor pull" and to provide plenty of thrilling tunes performed by Seattle rockers. All proceeds benefit NW Harvest and PAWS.
(Ballard, $10) - Jazz Night School Fall Festival & Final Performances
The burgeoning musicians of the Jazz Night School present their final performances of the autumn session, with the Big Band Blue kicking things off bright and loud, and small jazz ensembles, Latin ensembles, and jazz vocalists all getting a turn at the mic across three nights of community fun.
(Columbia City, free) PERFORMANCE
- New Moves Concert 2019
Cornish dance students will perform new works in this annual show.
(Capitol Hill, $10) SHOPPING
- Giving Marketplace
When you purchase a holiday gift at this market, your proceeds will benefit any number of local and global charities.
(Seattle Center, free) VISUAL ART
- Andrew Stuart: Downstage
See photos of Dave Grohl, Kat Von D, Fleetwood Mac, and other musicians by photographer Andrew Stuart.
(Bellevue, free)
Closing Saturday - Dream the Combine and Clayton Binkley: Lure
For the next few weeks, three of the floor-to-ceiling storefront windows are being left wide-open during business hours, three mouths of a giant steel structure constructed inside the gallery. The facade of the building is wrapped in blue construction netting, which extends into the space, covering all sides of the structure itself. The color and texture are meant to get your attention and call you inside. The structure-sculpture is a collaboration between Minnesota-based artist-architect duo Jennifer Newsom and Tom Carruthers—collectively known as Dream the Combine—and local artist-engineer Clayton Binkley. Together, they create inhabitable structures and installations that explore the body in relationship to space, light, and environment. They recently worked on a project funded by the Museum of Modern Art and MoMA PS1 called Hide & Seek. Lure, the MadArt exhibition, explores similar concepts, emphasizing how to bring different groups of people inside of the space, especially within the context of the techie playground of South Lake Union. JASMYNE KEIMIG
(South Lake Union, free)
Closing Saturday - John Brophy: Sages and Sirens
Perfectionist portraitist Brophy first plans his painting in a 3D rendering program, then uses this image as a model for an oil-on-panel piece, sometimes using paints he's made himself. He is, in fact, going for that uncanny-valley look, so don't be surprised if you feel an uneasy prickle at the back of your neck as you look on his depictions of Freddie Mercury, Abe Lincoln, and others.
(Capitol Hill, free)
Closing Saturday - Listen
In this show curated by Monica Tie, artists Natasha Marin, Yoona Lee, Rohena Alam Khan, and Carolyn Hitt create work based on "stories unheard," emphasizing personal experiences that go ignored or unvalidated.
(Capitol Hill, free)
Closing Saturday WINTER HOLIDAYS
- Sheraton Grand Seattle Gingerbread Village
For the 27th year in a row, diabetes research center JDRF Northwest has invited local architecture firms to use their skills for a holiday tradition: crafting an elaborate gingerbread village that uses 1,850 pounds of gingerbread, 150,000 pieces of candy, 350 pounds of fondant, and 15 gallons of egg whites, according to press materials. This year's theme is #ElfLife, featuring pixies, gnomes, and pucks from across genres.
(Downtown, free)FRIDAY-SUNDAY
PERFORMANCE
- UTS Presents "Anon(ymous)"
In this take on Homer's Odyssey, here staged by the Undergraduate Theater Society, a young refugee named Anon wanders the United States in search of his family.
(University District, $10) SHOPPING
- Holiday Craft Market
A trip downtown during the holidays warrants a visit to Urban Craft Uprising's annual market, where you'll find all sorts of handmade gifts throughout the season.
(Downtown, free) - King Street Makers Market
More than 50 Pacific Northwest makers will gather in King Street Station to fulfill your holiday gift-giving needs.
(Pioneer Square, free) - Seward Park Clay Studio Holiday Show and Sale
Buy handcrafted clay goods—from functional kitchenware to works of art—at this holiday market.
(Rainier Valley, $10 suggested donation) - Urban Craft Uprising 15th Annual Winter Show
You'd be hard-pressed to find zilch for your loved ones at Urban Craft Uprising's tried-and-true indie craft show. With over 150 vendors selling a huge variety of hand-crafted goods—from jewelry to clothing to paper goods to candles to housewares—you're bound to find unique gifts for the holidays.
(Seattle Center, free–$10) VISUAL ART
- The Bug Show
Take a gander at preserved bug bodies that first emerged on our planet over four million years ago.
(Sodo, free)
Closing Sunday - Seattle Sampling Artists' Studio Tour
Pick up gifts for your loved ones from local artists in their own studios during this self-guided tour.
(Various locations, free) WINTER HOLIDAYS
- Clam Lights Presented by Ivar's Restaurants
Every night, Ivar's powers up the park with thousands of Christmas lights depicting various clammy characters. Is this where clams go to heaven after you eat them at Ivar's?
(Renton, free) - Evergreen Lights 2019
Over half a million lights will dance around to live music every night of December. Watch the show from a heated viewing area and keep extra warm with cocoa and cookies.
(Bothell, free) - Fremont Festivus 2019
Enjoy a weekend of non-denominational holiday events in Fremont, including the Lenin Lighting (Fri), the Roamin' Holiday Bazaar (Sat-Sun), and the Fremont Music Festival (Sat).
(Fremont, free) - Garden d’Lights
Whimsical flora and fauna, birds, animals, and cascading waterfalls get the holiday light treatment at Bellevue Botanical Garden's annual display. (To be clear, actual birds and animals will not be strung with lights.) Wander the grounds and take photos among the "half a million" bulbs.
(Bellevue, $5) - Maple Leaf Lights
Take some time to appreciate the lengths to which people have gone to illuminate their houses with impressive Christmas light displays.
(Maple Leaf, free) - Snow Day SLU
Denny Park's winter light display will provide a magical, twinkly respite with a light display, food trucks, a beer garden, live entertainment, and a winter market. Check out the Grand Opening Party for some extra fun.
(South Lake Union, free) - Snowflake Lane
Every year, downtown Bellevue turns into a winter wonderland not just for one night but for a whole dang month, with (fake) falling snow, jolly live music, and a nightly parade filled with dancers and toy drummers.
(Bellevue, free) - Winterfest
From a winter train village to an ice rink, and from music and dance performances to ice sculpting, Winterfest promises free festive cheer for all ages. This weekend brings performances from the Seattle Girls Choir and the Northwest Boys Choir (Sat) and the Cornish College Music Ensembles (Sun).
(Seattle Center, free)SATURDAY
COMEDY
- Beyond the Tippe: Comedy Showcase
"Beacon Hill's second favorite comedy show" will return, this time boasting Seattle's Bri Badili, LA's Alexis Bradby, and New York's Atheer Yacoub.
(Beacon Hill, free) - NW Peaks Comedy Stand Up Comedy Show: All Ladies Show
Be brought to hilarity by an all-lady lineup, including headliner Cheri Hagan Hardman, Samantha Rund, Malyn Staton, and Gretta Gimp.
(Hillman City, $5/$10) - The Reader
A tarot reading for a brave audience member will inspire an improv set in this "half-tarot, half-comedy" show.
(Belltown, $10) COMMUNITY
- Civic Saturday
Eric Liu will host Civic Saturday, described as "a civic analogue to church": a service that celebrates the American civic tradition through readings, songs, silent reflection, poetry by Naa Akua, and a sermon by Liu himself.
(First Hill, free) - Repair Cafe
Handy volunteers will do their best to fix anything you've got that's broken (from busted hemlines to electrical equipment).
(Capitol Hill, free) - Urban Tree Walk
Discover leafy friends without trekking through the forest on this urban tree walk.
(North Seattle, free) - West Seattle and Ballard Link Extensions Delridge Station Neighborhood Forum
Throw in your two cents about the future of Seattle light rail stations at this forum.
(West Seattle, free) FESTIVALS
- Ballard HolidayFest 2019
It's no surprise that Ballard—Seattle's most Scandinavian neighborhood—takes the holidays as a chance to celebrate the wintry creatures of Nordic folklore. This family-friendly affair promises "Tomten adventures," photos with Santa, snackable treats and hot chocolate, and more.
(Ballard, free) - Lake City Winterfest
Lake City kids can meet Santa, eat cookies, sip cider, and get their faces painted.
(Lake City, free) - Metaphysical & Wellness Fair
You have several chances to join dozens of intuitive readers and non-traditional healers for a day (or days) of astrology, crystals, body work, and more.
(Bellevue, free) FOOD & DRINK
- Art Market, Phorale and Beer Release
Peruse pottery, jewelry, aprons, cards, paper mache, ornaments, and more from local vendors, try a surprise beer release from Tin Dog Brewing, and nosh on Asian Tex-Mex fusion fare from Phorale.
(West Seattle, free) - Ballard Yard Bar Grand Opening
The Downtown Dog Lounge is opening a bar in their backyard so that humans can have just as much fun as their pooches. Celebrate by dressing yourself and your four-legged companion in holiday sweaters and enjoying beer, wine, apple cider, and giveaways.
(Ballard, $10) - Socialist Bake Off: A Queer and Feminist Wintry Bonanza
Talk queer and feminist issues and revolutionary Indigenous history while tucking into a freshly baked treat at this bake-off hosted by the Seattle Democratic Socialists of America. You can enter your own creation in the contest or just show up to be a judge.
(Downtown, free) MUSIC
- Angry Snowmans, Communist Eyes, Arch Enemies
Hey-ho—HO-HO… hey-ho—HO-HO! What if there was a cover of the Ramones’ punk classic “Blitzkrieg Bop” called “BLITZEN Bop” and the lyrics were all about being disgruntled Santa’s elves, who are trying to overthrow the oppressive North Pole regime? What if these Canadian elves took a whole bunch of classic punk tunes by Dead Kennedys, Misfits, Social Distortion, the Rezillos, and others, and rewrote them all as fist-banger Christmas carols? What if this same band of rebel elves wanted to wear some crappy, half-assed Santa garb, and play all these songs for you live, right around the holidays? It’s a win-win with Angry Snowmans. Standout songs include “Someone’s Gonna Get Their Halls Decked In,” “Santa Is a Fatso,” and “Children Are Mean.” KELLY O
(Eastlake, $7/$10) - Brazilian Touch Saturday: Sea Samba
DJ Tata will bring Brazilian Samba to Seattle to combat your winter chills.
(Sodo, $10) - Caesarean, Wyoming Young and Strong, Diyu, Darkmysticwoods
Dig into a night of PNW metal with Caesarean, Wyoming Young and Strong, Diyu, and Darkmysticwoods.
(Tukwila, $5) - Chris LeVaughn Live
Join singer-songwriter Chris LeVaughn and his sultry voice in Beacon Hill.
(Beacon Hill, free) - Duvcon, Steel Tigers of Death, Carnotaurus
It's a "rock n roll extravaganza with extra hot sauce" up in Shoreline, thanks to Duvcon, Steel Tigers of Death, and Carnotaurus.
(Shoreline, $8) - An Exciting Evening of Live Swing Music with David Francis and Les Jeunes Artistes
Swing to live jazz from David Francis and Les Jeune Artistes.
(First Hill, free) - Haute Sauce: Swervewon, Famous, JCUE, D Triple J
Swervewon, Famous, JCUE, and D Triple J will be your DJs at this edition of "Seattle's home for hip-hop and dance music."
(Capitol Hill, $10) - JD Hobson
If a twangy blend of "outlaw country," Americana, and Delta blues is what you're after, Seattle's JD Hobson will deliver the goods.
(Downtown, free) - Odax, In Droves
Enjoy classic metal and heavy rock from Seattle's Odax and Port Townsend's In Droves.
(University District, $8) - Sea Caves, Rabble, KT Neely, Aaron Semer
For every Starbucks in Seattle, there’s a singer-songwriter… or so it seems. It can be a chore to differentiate between the snooze-inducers and the real-deal artists. As the new album Cape Disappointment proves, Aaron Semer belongs in the latter camp. While I admit that this style is not really my bag, I can discern that Semer’s authoritative acoustic-guitar strums and perceptive, gripping lyrics command respect. His songs bear a subtle gravitas and abound with vivid lyrical details, with shadings of Warren Zevon and Ian Hunter’s world-weary wit and emotional depth. The urgent, sociopolitically savvy “(Little Back Square on My) Profile Pic” is an anthem in the making. He’ll be opening this date that also serves as the Seattle release show for Across the Water, the new outing from dreamy Portland indie pop outfit Sea Caves. DAVE SEGAL
(University District, $8/$10) - Sparkle Orchestra Crashes Mega MAGA March
As the far-right group the Colored Conservatives (formerly known as Operation Cold Front) hold a pro-Trump rally in Westlake Park, Seattle's (anti-Trump) Sparkle Orchestra will invite you to playfully disrupt the bigotry by playing an instrument of your choosing—be it a trumpet or a combination of cooking utensils—to drown out the noise. Bring new or gently used warm clothes to donate to those in need.
(Downtown, free) PARTIES & NIGHTLIFE
- Kate's 13th Annual Holiday Ball
Dance to live music by Jim Park & the Unoriginals in your ugly sweater.
(Wallingford, free) - Ugly Sweater Party
Dance to live music from local rockers 25 Cent Ride and Dogstrum in your most unsightly jumper.
(West Seattle, free) READINGS & TALKS
- Frida Clements: The Snuggle is Real
Taste seasonal confections from Seattle Chocolates' holiday line and meet Frida Clements, author and illustrator of the Scandinavian-inspired book The Snuggle Is Real.
(Capitol Hill, free) - Peter Zheutlin: The Dog Went Over the Mountain
Inspired by his rediscovery of Steinbeck's Travels with Charley, Peter Zheutlin decided to take a trip across the country with his dog, Albie. Hear about his adventures as told in his memoir, The Dog Went Over the Mountain.
(Lake Forest Park, free) - Tamara Berry: Potions Are for Pushovers
Tamara Berry will read from her new book about a fake town witch who sells mysterious elixirs to her gullible neighbors.
(University District, free) RESISTANCE & SOLIDARITY
- WTO+20 Rally
Join the Washington Fair Trade Coalition and others for a rally on the 20th anniversary of the World Trade Organization protests.
(Pioneer Square, free) SHOPPING
- Arboretum Holiday Sale
Find great gifts for all the plant parents you know, from botanical decorations to wreaths and specialty items. There will also be hot drinks and kids' activities.
(Montlake, free) - Ballard Elks Holiday Craft Market
Shop for holiday gifts from 30 local artists and craftspeople. Admission is free, but shoppers are asked to bring food, toy, or pet supply donations for the lodge's Christmas Baskets for the Needy program.
(Ballard, free) - C & P Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair
Pick up jewelry, art, holiday decorations, and more at the West Seattle coffee shop.
(West Seattle, free) - Hall-i-Day Celebration!
Shop from local clothing, art, and beauty brands without sacrificing your coveted Saturday-evening party time—meaning, Chef Tarik will provide tasty food and drinks and there will be family-friendly karaoke.
(Hillman City, free) - Holiday Bazaar at the Lakewood Seward Park Community Club
Support local artists at this holiday market. Food and drinks will be available for purchase.
(Hillman City, free) - Holiday Night Market
When you're not shopping for vintage goods, ceramics, plants, jewelry, prints, and other gifts by mostly-LGBTQ+ makers at this "sultry winter soirée," you can get some new ink from local stick-and-poke artist Joshua Dahlquist or machine artist Unruly Patchouli.
(Central District, free) - Intruder Back Issue Blowout!
Snag back issues of Seattle's now-defunct Intruder Comics Newspaper and meet some former contributing artists at this one-night sale.
(Ballard, free) - Market Of the Beast December
The weird and wonderful occultists and oddity collectors in your life will not be forgotten this holiday season—shop apothecary goods, witchy pottery, and tons more from local makers.
(Capitol Hill, free) - More Fats More Femmes Holiday Market
Celebrate your babely bod while shopping for plus size vintage and pre-owned clothing and accessories at this stacked size-inclusive holiday market hosted by Indian Summer owner Adria Garcia, ex-IS manager (and current Stranger music calendar editor) Kim Selling, and current IS shopkeep Abby Cooke. They'll have pieces from a wide variety of styles, from size 12 to 32+, as well as jewelry and zines from local vendors Mona Real, Nomi Helene, Eve Sanford, Unruly Patchouli, Cordelia Funk, Knead Kink, and Archive Six.
(Capitol Hill, free) - POOPU Holiday Market
Hunt for unique artsy wares at the POOPU (Properly Organized and Orderly Pop-Up), including glassware by Asp & Hand, jewelry by Cosmic Twin, books and apparel by Julia K, ceramics by Shannon Hobbs, and much more.
(Capitol Hill, free) - Pop Up Mercado: Paz y Luz
Shop for art, apparel, music, jewelry, and other handmade gifts. If you bring kids along, they can stay busy with age-appropriate activities.
(Burien, free) - Punk Rock Flea Market Holidaze Edition
Your favorite underground shopping experience will feature over 80 vendors hawking clothes, arts and crafts, food items, bikes, droids, skateboards, and everything else you can think of to satisfy the eclectic interests of the weirdos in your life.
(Mount Baker, $1) - Rainier Beach Arts and Crafts Market
Local artists and artisans will sell their woodwork, ceramics, jewelry, sculptures, artisanal foods, and more for all your crafty gift needs.
(Rainier Valley, free) VISUAL ART
- Esther Loopstra: Inner and Outer Realities
Esther Loopstra will show paintings inspired by her travels. There will be snacks and holiday gifts.
(Capitol Hill, free) - E.T. Russian: Double Clear
In this interactive and accessible exhibition, Seattle artist E.T. Russian meditates on choosing what to live for. Russian is interested in making art that appeals to a broader audience than the one typically catered to, not limiting the experience of enjoying his art to just one sense, but multiple senses at once. Using animation, sculpture, and poetry, Double Clear follows gargoyles encountering surreal events as they fly over cemeteries, bridges, and water. JASMYNE KEIMIG
(Capitol Hill, free)
Opening Saturday WINTER HOLIDAYS
- 25th Annual Holiday Open House
Enjoy complimentary hot cider, shade-grown coffee, homemade cookies, and free gift wrapping at this Seattle Audubon open house.
(Wedgwood, free) - Annual Ugly Sweater Party
To prevent your dogs from begging for a bite of your lunch from Chavoya's Hot Dogs, treat them to a canine-friendly bonbon from the Seattle Barkery Food Truck. You can also get a professional photo taken for this year's round of holiday cards, so you'd be wise to wear your most hideous holiday sweater.
(Lake City, free) - Asian American Santa & Local Artist Gift Fair
Get your photo taken with Asian American Santa! You'll cherish your children's Santa photos forever, whether they're smiling gleefully or bawling like they're sitting on a giant, hairy stranger's lap. You can also shop for gifts made by local artists.
(Chinatown-International District, free) - Build a Free Holiday Swag!
Craft a decorative wreath or "holiday swag" with fresh materials from the University District Farmers Market while you sip hot drinks and munch on treats.
(University District, free) - Celebrate Woodinville Winterfest Tree Lighting 2019
Run or walk a 5 or 10K course before settling at DeYoung Park for holiday wreath-making, hot cocoa-sipping, cookie-decorating, and other festive activities culminating in a Santa procession and tree lighting.
(Woodinville, free) - Filson Santa
A particularly outdoorsy Santa will swing by Filson to take photos with kids and families. Enjoy drinking chocolate, hot cider, and complimentary gift wrapping while you wait.
(Sodo, free) - The Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition
Dozens of caroling teams will once again gather downtown to sing holiday ditties in support of the Pike Market Senior Center & Food Bank, which offers free meals, free groceries, one-on-one counseling, and other services to low-income and homeless people in Seattle. The top caroling teams will compete in a very festive "sing-off" on the Figgy Pudding main stage at the end of the night.
(Downtown, free) - Holiday Open House
Meet bunnies, puppies, a mini horse named Snow White, and more furry creatures while you cozy up with cocoa and cupcakes.
(Downtown, free) - Hometown Holidays Night Market and Tree Lighting
Kick off West Seattle's Hometown Holidays with a tree lighting ceremony. You can also look forward to Santa pictures, ornament-making, and an artisan night market.
(West Seattle, free) - Julefest
Over 30 Scandinavian vendors will bolster this Julefest celebration at dusk, featuring a Lucia Bride escorted by the Sons of Norway Vikings, a bonfire, and a reading of the Winter Solstice Proclamation by none other than the Viking King.
(West Seattle, free) - Luminaria Walk
Stroll along a pathway illuminated by glowing luminaria displays while you sip hot cocoa.
(Wedgwood, free) - Lynnwood Christmas Tree Lighting
Lynnwood will ring in the holiday season with live music, food trucks, carnival rides, a festive photo booth, a tree lighting, and a visit from Old Saint Nick.
(Lynnwood, free) - Photos with Bad Santa
An unruly Santa Claus and his mischievous elves will snap a photo with you (so long as you're wearing your ugliest ugly sweater).
(Central District, $10) - Santa's Coming to Town Holiday Events
Mill Creek's one-day celebration will run the gamut of family-friendly holiday activities, including Santa photos, free train rides, a Santa parade, and a tree lighting.
(Mill Creek, free) - St. Peter's Holiday Fair
Find ethnic crafts, multicultural books, accessories, special holiday items, and more for loved ones. Don't miss a ukelele performance by the Nikkei Horizons Aloha Band and a visit from Father Christmas. For fuel, there will be plenty of on sushi, baked goods, and Japanese sweets.
(Chinatown-International District, free)SATURDAY-SUNDAY
GEEK
- Disney/Harry Potter/Marvel/Star Wars/Anime Event
Emulate your favorite character from Disney, Harry Potter, Marvel, Star Wars, or anime at this free cosplay event. There will also be an artist alley, Butterbeer, and special exhibits.
(Downtown, free) MUSIC
- Your Holiday Song with the Market Street Singers
Ballard denizens the Market Street Singers will celebrate the holidays with classic choral songs.
(Ballard, free) SHOPPING
- 39th Annual Winter Festival & Crafts Fair
Scoop up one-of-a-kind gifts for your loved ones from over 120 makers (including locally made wreaths), see dance traditions from around the world, and sip mulled wine and other hot drinks. Don't forget to bring canned food donations for FamilyWorks Food Resource Center.
(Phinney, $4) WINTER HOLIDAYS
- Candy Cane Lane Holiday Lights Festival
1920s-era Tudor homes in Ravenna have been boasting impressive light displays every holiday season since 1949. Stroll along Northeast Park Road taking in Nutcracker-themed havens complete with sleighs, reindeer, sugar plum fairies, and blow-up candy canes galore.
(Ravenna, free) - Redmond Lights
Get in the holiday spirit at Redmond City Hall with a tree lighting, crafts, and live entertainment. Then, keep the merriment going with a light-filled stroll down the Redmond Central Connector to the Redmond Town Center, where you'll be met with a live ice sculptor, a carousel, and more live performances.
(Redmond, free)SUNDAY
FOOD & DRINK
- Princess Tea Party!
Don a flouncy gown and sparkly tiara for this proper tea party to celebrate the release of geek-themed tea shop Friday Afternoon's new princess tea collection. As you nibble on dainty cookies and sip the new offerings with your pinkies out, you'll get to mingle with Belle, Snow White, Ariel, Mulan, Cinderella, and Jasmine.
(Wallingford, free) - Winter Feast Food Truck Fest
Snap up some street food while you shop for gifts at this holiday festival, with food trucks galore and a market with over a hundred local vendors.
(Fremont) - Winterfest Market at Skål
Norse up your belly with beer, mead, and gløgg as you shop for Nordic- and Viking-related goods.
(Ballard, free) MUSIC
- Brian DiJulio and the Love Jacks, The Adam Williams Band
Kirkland's own Brian DiJulio and the Love Jacks will headline with support from the Adam Williams Band.
(Belltown, $10) - Close Talker, Sleepover Club
Saskatoon pop-rock trio Close Talker will have you busting out your slinkiest dance moves with their warm, glissading riffs. They'll be joined by Everett pop-punks Sleepover Club.
(Belltown, $7) - The DJ Sessions Presents Silent Disco Sundays
Throw on some wireless headphones and dance your Sunday afternoon away at this outdoor silent disco—cold weather is no match for steamy DJ cuts.
(Wallingford, $10) - FCSA Kindiependent Music Series - Johnny Bregar
Kids' musician Johnny Bregar will play a show for all ages.
(West Seattle, $5-$10) - Holiday Sing-Along with Sing Noel
Gather your loved ones for a holiday sing-along with eight-part harmony group Sing Noel (also known as the 32nd Street Singers) as they lead the room in singing interactive and traditional holiday favorites, plus some classic drinking songs, with a full audience participation 12-part version of "The Twelve Days of Christmas."
(Columbia City, free) - KEXP Decks the Dock 2019: A Kids Dance Party
This family-friendly holiday music celebration will take place indoors, so you can dance to live sets from Eli Rosenblatt, Mikey Mike the Rad Scientist, and DJ Abbie without freezing your buns off. Hot beverages and snacks will be provided.
(Downtown, free) - Sunday Jazz
Round out your weekend with an evening of live music with the Triangular Jazztet.
(West Seattle, free) - Terror/Cactus, The Ghost Ease, Guayaba, Juracán
Terror/Cactus are hypnotic, psychedelic electro-cumbia influenced by Tropicalia and science fiction—they are complex and engaging, and will keep you dancing and thinking about all the ways music can be a million amazing things at once. KIM SELLING
(Capitol Hill, $8/$10) PERFORMANCE
- GreenStage Monthly Shakespeare Reading
Join GreenStage for an informal bar reading of Shakespeare's All's Well That Ends Well.
(Ballard, free) - A Midwinter Fever Dream
"Mean Girls meets A Christmas Carol," according to press materials, in this Black Box Theater production.
(Seattle Center, pay what you can) READINGS & TALKS
- @rlysrslit presents: Poetry & Pizza
Fill up on New York- or Chicago-style pizza while you hear readings from local poets Rachel Delmar, Jalayna Carter, Chris Gusta, and Joshua Robert Long.
(Eastlake, free) - Futures: Trends in Science and Technology and their Implications for Art and Performance
How do current trends in science and technology and art and performance collide? In this one-day series of lectures and discussions, you'll learn about specific areas of study and how they influence creative work.
(Capitol Hill, free) - Holiday Story Time with ReAct Theatre
ReAct Theatre performers will bring children's holiday tales like Olive the Other Reindeer and How the Grinch Stole Christmas to life.
(Rainier Valley, free) - Jacqueline Williams: The Hill With a Future
Learn a slice of local history from Jacqueline Williams, the author of The Hill With a Future: Seattle's Capitol Hill 1900-1946.
(Capitol Hill, free) - Karthika Naïr: Until the Lions
Esteemed Paris-based Indian poet Karthikia Naïr will come to Seattle with her new collection Until the Lions: Echoes from the Mahabharata, which gives a voice to female and other marginalized voices in the ancient Indian religious text.
(Downtown, free) - Laureen Nussbaum: Shedding Our Stars
Holocaust survivor and author Laureen Nussbaum will read from her memoir.
(Wallingford, free) - Never Again is Now: China’s Uyghur Muslim Community
China's Uyghur Muslims, who make up less than one percent of China's population and largely reside in the region of Xinjiang, have long been persecuted by the leaders of their otherwise hegemonic country. A recent data leak revealed that so-called voluntary education and training programs for the minority group are more like prisons. UW anthropologist Darren Byler will share his research on the camps and will welcome local Uyghur descendants to talk about the oppression their relatives are facing.
(Capitol Hill, free) - SAL Youth Poet Laureate & Writers in the Schools Annual Group Reading
Seattle Arts & Lectures' Writers in the Schools program invites you to hear original work from their 2019-2020 Youth Poet Laureate cohort.
(Capitol Hill, free) SHOPPING
- Holiday Bazaar
Snap photos with "Cocoa Chris Cringle" and shop from local makers like Catherine Grisez, Joan Englemeyer, and others.
(Columbia City, free) - We Are Witchy Presents: The Basement Bazaar
Browse handmade gifts from local makers, dance, snap pics with Santa, and inhale cheesy slices in the basement of the New Jersey-inspired pizzeria Dino's Tomato Pie.
(Capitol Hill, free) VISUAL ART
- Crystalline Picnic
Rich Stevens, Kate Wiebe, and Skylar Fleming—who collectively inhabit alter egos called the Rock Candy Mountain Siblings—use sculpture and painting to elaborate a mythology about the children of a mad soda scientist, who've hidden in a secret cave eating rock candy for 25 years before emerging in the outside world. As usual for Jeremy Buben's FoodArt Collection, expect work that's both witty and appetizing (and inedible, but the opening reception will have snacks and drinks).
(Capitol Hill, free)
Opening Sunday WINTER HOLIDAYS
- Children's Christmas in Scandinavia
Beginning with the Santa Lucia Pageant, this traditional Swedish Christmas celebration will have crafts for kids and adults and a visit from Santa.
(Ballard, $5) - Holiday Hotshop
Celebrate the holiday season with Santa photos, glassblowing demos, cocktails, snacks, free pony rides, and art shopping.
(Ballard, free) - Julestue
Experience new Yuletide traditions at this Danish julehygge, which promises crafts (like woven hearts and stars and oranges with cloves), stories of Danish Christmas elves, kringle and gløgg, and a visit from Julemanden (aka Santa).
(North Seattle, free) - La Posada
Take part in a Mexican holiday tradition by checking out a special art exhibit and shopping from a pop-up market composed of local artists from the Nepantla Cultural Arts Gallery.
(Burien, free) - Lucia Fest
Lucia is a Swedish holiday tradition wherein people in white gowns light candles and sing in celebration of the mythical Saint Lucia, the bearer of light. UW Swedish language students will join the Swedish Women’s Chorus, the Svea Male Chorus, and "the best bakers of the Swedish Club" for this festive event.
(Queen Anne, free)
