Guides Archives | Seattle's Child

Dive in! A complete guide to swim lessons in the Seattle area

Seattle's Child Staff — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 03:03:34 +0000

Grab your goggles and towels — it’s time to splish splash and build those swim skills! We’ve rounded up a list of swim schools and locations across the Seattle area that offer lessons for every age, from babies and toddlers to school-age kids and adults. Many programs provide private, semi-private, and group lessons so that you can find the right fit for your family. Remember, swim lessons aren’t just about having fun — they’re essential for building confidence and keeping kids safe around water. Dive in and make swim safety a priority this season!

Seattle area

Private lessons are available at Little Fish for those 2.5+ years of age. (Image courtesy: Little Fish Swim School)

Eastside

Samena Swim in Bellevue offers year round classes. (Image courtesy Samena Club)

North of Seattle

Aqua Tots in Lynnwood has a brand new facility. (Image courtesy Aqua Tots Lynnwood)

South of Seattle

Located in Des Moines, Mount Rainier pool offers classes 6 months to 18 years old. (Photo courtesy Mount Rainier Pool)

West Seattle

British Swim School has six locations across the greater Seattle area. (Photo courtesy: British Swim School)

Multiple locations

Here are swim schools in the Seattle area that have more than five locations offered.

Sunsational Swim School | Multiple locations | $82/lesson | Register here | Classes offered for 6 months and older | Indoor & Outdoor pools | Year round swim lessons | They offer private lessons in your own pool (and move around locations in Metro area), however, if you dont have a pool, you can get access to either: housing community pool (condo, HOA, friend or family pool, gym pool or public pool (ask permission prior to registering) .

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The best dim sum for families in the Seattle area

Caroline JiaYing Grygiel — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 03:07:40 +0000

We live in Seattle, home to the best Hong Kong-style dim sum in the Northwest. Going out as a family for dim sum is an easy and delicious cultural outing. Here’s our guide to seven of the best places to eat dim sum with the family.

At dim sum, no one cares if you have noisy kids. And the food is practically tailor-made for them: coming in small servings, a bite of this, a bite of that. If you have a picky eater, there’s always rice noodles.

Another reason to go out to dim sum? The restaurant business is never easy: when you go out to eat with the family, you support the vitality of our community.

We’ve highlighted where to find top-notch dim sum to try, from the Chinatown-International District (CID) to Bellevue, Renton, near the UW main campus, Shoreline, and back. Remember — you’re there for the food, not the ambiance, and most of these places are no frills. Note that dim sum hours are typically 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.-ish, after which some restaurants switch to a dinner menu. Your bill will vary, of course, depending on your party’s belly capacity. I included our totals for one foodie mom and two hungry boys to give you a reference point.

Joyale Seafood Restaurant

Monday-Friday: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (closed Wednesday), Saturday-Sunday: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
900 S. Jackson St., Seattle
Total (one adult, two hungry kids)*: $51

Joyale is a unicorn in the CID. Not only does it have free 2-hour parking in the Pacific Rim Center garage, but it’s also one of the last hold-outs with cart service. Most dim sum restaurants pivoted away from carts during the pandemic, but there’s something so nostalgic about the Cantonese aunties wheeling by with goodies. Ordering is effortless. You point to whatever looks good (basically, everything), and then service is lightning-fast and brusque. It’s an old-school model that isn’t for everyone, but I find it refreshing.

When you spot the Asian elders and the big fish tank, you know the food is authentic. I hailed down the vat of congee with century egg — comfort food at its finest. For dessert, the egg tarts are perfectly flaky, and the mochi is fresh and soft.

Joyale is one of the few places that still does cart service. (Image: Caroline JiaYing Grygiel / Seattle’s Child)

Din Tai Fung (Multiple locations)

Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday
Bellevue Location: 10455 N.E. 8th St., Bellevue, WA
Total (one adult, two hungry kids)*: $131

In 2010, I was massively pregnant and waited two hours in line at the new Din Tai Fung in Bellevue, the first in the Northwest. (The world-famous chain was founded in Taiwan in 1958.) In Spring 2024, Din Tai Fung moved to a new space on the first floor of Lincoln Square. I headed back with my now-teenager: the same to-die-for soup dumplings, but the dining room doubled in size and got a major glow-up. The vibe at Lincoln Square is upscale and luxe. You’ve heard that people vote with their feet? Here, people vote with their stomachs — the dining room is often mobbed at 4:30 p.m.

You can’t go wrong with the classic Kurobuta pork xiao long bao, or for a bite of decadence, the Kurobuta pork and truffle. Other hits include the shrimp and pork shao mai, vegan dumplings, and cucumber salad. The chocolate and mochi xiao long bao erupted with a sweet surprise, a burst of chocolate lava.

In addition to Bellevue, Din Tai Fung expanded to the top floor of Seattle’s Pacific Place and the University Village, as well as Tukwila’s Westfield Southcenter. At every location, you can watch the kitchen staff whipping up soup dumplings through a plate-glass window.

Din Tai Fung in Lincoln Square. You can watch the kitchen staff making soup dumplings. (Image: Caroline JiaYing Grygiel / Seattle’s Child)

Dim Sum King

Hours: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday-Tuesday, closed Wednesday
617 S. Jackson St., Seattle, WA
Total (one adult, two hungry kids)*: $40

The CID’s Dim Sum King is my go-to for take-out. There are a few tables, but most of the clientele is here to pick up steaming boxes of fresh dim sum. Dim Sum King has the best prices — hello, $1.30 barbecue pork bun! — and the best shrimp rice rolls, hands down, in the Seattle area. We love supporting local businesses, and Dim Sum King is a mom-and-pop shop, literally. Amy Eng is the mom, and she runs the front of house. The dad, Zhen Yong Cai, is the chef. Be prepared to be upsold if you arrive toward the end of the day. I’ll wind up leaving with 30 shrimp dumplings, and I never mind one bit.

Dim Sum King’s Amy Eng. (Image: Barrie Silva Photography)

Sun Sui Wah

Dim Sum Hours: 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday
14505 N.E. 20th St., Suite R, Bellevue, WA
Total (one adult, two hungry kids)*: $96

Hardcore dim sum fans collectively swooned when the vaunted Sun Sui Wah from Richmond, B.C., opened a Bellevue outpost in 2024. Richmond has the best dim sum — that’s just a fact — and now you can get it without an international road trip. We left Bellevue’s Sun Sui Wah with bellies full, wallet empty (that Canadian exchange rate sure would have been nice). It’s the kind of place you save for a special occasion, like a birthday or any other excuse you can come up with.

The lines have died down since the grand opening madness, but if you want to skip the wait entirely, parties of six or more can make a reservation. I waited an hour and a half for a table. Not mad at all; I used the time to shop at Asian Family Market and Taiwanese bakery 85 degrees C, both in the same parking lot.

Sun Sui Wah in Bellevue. (Image: Caroline JiaYing Grygiel / Seattle’s Child)

Homestyle Dim Sum

Hours: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily
664 S. Weller St., Seattle, WA
Total (one adult, two hungry kids)*: $38

Homestyle is a hole-in-the-wall in the CID that doesn’t get any glam press write-ups, no Instagram love, no TikTok fame. Until recently, it didn’t even have a website. It just quietly cranks out dim sum staples really well. No fuss, no muss. The classic menu items, like shao mai and chicken feet, are usually on hand for instant gratification. It’s worth the 10-minute wait, however, for the cilantro shrimp dumplings and chive shrimp dumplings. I always buy extra food to take home for weeknights when I don’t feel like cooking. The sticky rice wrapped in lotus leaves and the steamed pork buns both reheat well in a steamer.

Triumph Valley Renton

Dim Sum Hours: 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday-Sunday
3750 E. Valley Rd., Renton, WA
Total (one adult, two hungry kids)*: $65

Triumph Valley is Renton’s gift to the dim sum universe. And now, North End residents rejoice over a Shoreline location. Triumph Valley is famous for the crispy shrimp rice roll, at $13.95. The salted egg yolk mochi is intriguing; a yellow puddle trickles out when you bite into it. Beyond these two headliners, try the pan-fried pork, shrimp and chive dumplings, the gigantic shao mai, and the kid-pleasing red bean sesame balls. We thought we’d dodge the weekend crush by dropping in to the Renton location on a weekday. My strategy worked, sort of. No wait for a table, but also the slowest service in the history of dim sum.

Triumph Valley in Renton. (Image: JiaYing Grygiel)

Jade Garden

Hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily
424 7th Ave. S., Seattle, WA
Total (one adult, two hungry kids)*: $50

Jade Garden is the OG dim sum institution in the CID. It’s a second-generation family-run restaurant, owned by Eric Chan and his parents. It’s the place I always recommend to dim sum newbies and out-of-town visitors. You won’t be disappointed with anything you order. Our favorites are the savory radish cakes, the pan-fried prawn and chive dumplings and the potstickers. Jade Garden has a special place in my heart, as the scene of countless dim sum brunch meet-ups with friends over two decades.

Jade Garden takeout. (Image: JiaYing Grygiel)

*Note: These prices were based on visits around January 2025.

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A Parent’s Guide to 2026 Seattle-Area Summer Camps & Classes

Seattle's Child Staff — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 16:07:14 +0000

Camps and classes in the Seattle area are filling up fast for Summer 2026. Browse our Seattle Summer Camps and Classes Directory to find summer camps in Seattle for kids of all ages — from toddler and preschool programs to Seattle teen summer programs. You’ll find day camps, overnight camps, and specialty classes that make it easier to match your child’s interests, schedule, and comfort level.

With more than 75 organizations listed, you’re bound to find Seattle kids summer programs that spark curiosity and confidence — from art, dance, and STEM to academic enrichment, gardening, sports, and hands-on experiences with animals and nature.

Summer is all about kids exploring new places, building independence, and making new friends. But choosing the right Seattle day camps for kids can feel overwhelming. Driving time, cost, childcare needs, and your child’s readiness for trying something new all play a role — especially when comparing summer camps for 3-year-olds, 4-year-olds, and 5-year-olds in Seattle versus programs designed for older kids and teens.

Find Seattle Summer Camps by Age

Looking for the right fit? Start here:

Toddler & Preschool Camps (Ages 2–4) — including summer camps for 3, 4, and 5 year olds in Seattle
Elementary Camps (Ages 5–9) — art, STEM, sports, and academic enrichment
Tween & Teen Programs (Ages 10–18) — leadership, technology, and specialty camps

The following listings include paid placements from select summer camp partners.

2026 Featured Summer Camps and Classes

Orangutan Academy

Orangutan Academy is one of Seattle’s premier summer STEAM camps! We offer fun, safe, indoor and outdoor, educational activities for children in grades K-8! Ten camps in 2026 cover STEAM, history, and chess topics. Weekdays 8:45 a.m. – 3 p.m. with extension to 5:00 p.m. Full week, single day, and half-day options.

Let’s Play Pickleball!

Get ready for sunshine, smiles, and serious pickleball action! Come learn and excel in one of the fastest-growing sports in America. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics or an already seasoned player aiming to improve your game, our camp will provide expert coaching, exciting competition, and plenty of pickleball fun!

Steve & Kate’s Camp

Campers choose from a variety of activities in real-time, including sewing, coding, maker crafts, sports & more! Buy any number of days to use at any time. Unused days are automatically refunded at summer’s end.

Camp Galileo

Get ready for an unforgettable summer at Camp Galileo, filled with STEAM projects, collaborative design challenges, and classic camp fun. Weekly sessions at 5 Seattle locations. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. camp day with AM & PM extended care. Use code 26SEACHILD25 to save $25/week. Applicable to future purchases only.

Here’s some guidance when deciding to try out something new:

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Black History Month: Events and resources for Seattle families

Seattle's Child Staff — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 03:00:26 +0000

Black History Month in Seattle is a chance for families to explore history, creativity, and community through events, exhibits, and hands-on activities across the region. From museum programs and library storytelling to cultural celebrations and youth workshops, February offers meaningful ways for kids and caregivers to learn together.

Whether you’re looking for family-friendly events, kids activities, or ways to support Black-owned businesses in Seattle, this guide brings together month-long programs and one-day celebrations happening throughout the Puget Sound.

February Family Events for Seattle Black History Month

Multi-Day Black History Month Events in Seattle & Tacoma

Black History Month Activities | February 1-28 | 5-7 p.m. | People’s Community Center, Tacoma | Free | Head down to Tacoma, and enjoy Black History activities and trivia for youth every day during the month of February.
Melodies of the Diaspora: Celebration 100 Years of Black History Month | February 1-28 | View during open hours of Bellevue City Hall or at Bellevue Art Museum on Thursdays and Fridays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. throughout February | Bellevue Arts Museum is pleased to present a special exhibition honoring the 100th anniversary of Black History Month. Curated by Jay Taylor, Fancy Vargas, and Jerry Lee, the multi-site exhibit will include paintings, photography, sculptures, textiles, and fashion. Presented as a visual timeline across BAM and Bellevue City Hall, the exhibition brings together local Black artists to reflect on ancestral legacy, cultural resilience, and the future of Black history through contemporary art.
Up and Atom; Invention Design Challenge Inspired by Black Inventors | Tuesdays, January 27 and February 3, 10, 17, and 24 | 4 to 5:30 p.m. | Kobetich Branch, Tacoma Public Library | Free | Best for grades K-5, Learn more about Black inventors and engineer your own invention! Whether it’s a helpful gadget, a cool new toy, or a way to make life easier, every idea counts!
Black History Month Scavenger Hunt | February 3-28 | 12 – 7 p.m. | Free | Multiple locations, learn more here | Free | Join us at any Tacoma library branch during open hours between February 3-28 for a fun and educational Black History Month scavenger hunt! From everyday items to groundbreaking innovations, participants will learn how Black inventors have shaped the world we live in.
Black Artist Spotlight | February 3-28 | 12-8 p.m. | Moore Branch, Tacoma Public Library | Free | Visit the Moore library each week in February to learn about Black artists who shaped the world! Each week in the Children’s area, we will feature a different artist’s story and work, as well as provide materials for patrons to create their own masterpieces!
Storywalk at Alderwood Park: Keyana Loves Her Family by Natasha Anastasia Tarpley | Fridays, January 30, February 2, 13, 20, and 27 | All day | Alderwood Park | Free | Walk along and read the Storywalk at Alderwood Park during the park’s open hours. The January/February title, Keyana Loves Her Family by Natasha Anastasia Tarpley, celebrates family and carefree childhood. From the bestselling author of I Love My Hair!, Keyana has big plans for her family movie night, but when things start to fall apart, she learns how to rely on the support of her loved ones.
Call to Conscience Black History Month Museum | Various dates, February 3- 27 | Times vary by event | Columbia City Theater | Some events are free, some have a fee $17.85+ | Tickets here | Celebrate Black History Month, where Rainier Avenue Radio is converting the historic Columbia City Theatre into a museum for the entire month of February entitled “Call to Conscience Black History Month Museum.”
Northwest African Art Museum’s Freedom Day | February 5 – February 8 | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. | Northwest African Art Museum | Free | On these four consecutive Freedom Days, we honor the enduring life and legacy of Carter G. Woodson, celebrating the 100th Anniversary of Negro History Week, which he started on February 7th, 1926.
Black Artists Exhibition | February 11- March 13 | Times vary by day | Tacoma Community College | Free | The Gallery is located in Bldg. 4 at Tacoma Community College, near the corner of 12th and Mildred streets. Visitor Parking is available in Lot G. (6501 S. 19th Street, Tacoma, WA 98466) | Curated by a panel of art jurists, the exhibition features work by more than 20 South Sound artists. With media including painting, drawing, photography, and glass art, some of the exhibition’s works provide windows into personal history and collective culture. Other pieces are non-representational.

Sunday, February 1

Melodies of the Diaspora, Celebrating 100 Years of Black History Month Opening Reception | Sunday, February 1 | 3-6 p.m. | Bellevue Arts Museum | Free, register here | At this opening reception for the month-long exhibit, enjoy live music, light refreshments, and remarks from community members.

Thursday, February 5

Living Voices: Fly for Freedom | Thursday, February 5 | 5:30-6:30 & & 6:30-7:30 p.m. | MOHAI at Joshua Green Foundation Theater on the second floor | Free, during First Thursday | Experience a new historical multimedia program featuring the little-known stories and contributions of working women in the World War II aeronautics industry, amplifying the experiences of Black women through the Rosie the Riveters who built planes in Boeing’s factories, the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs), the Tuskegee Airmen, and the Double Victory campaign. This event takes place during our Free First Thursday hours. Seats are first-come, first-served.

(Image courtesy the Museum of History & Industry)

Saturday, February 7

Celebration of Life and Commemoration of Black History | Saturday, February 7 | 3-5:30 p.m. | New Beginnings Christian Fellowship in Kent | Free, register here | This is a free, family-friendly event featuring African drumming, a children’s make-and-take crafts room, Delbert Richardson’s Unspoken Truths Traveling African American Museum, community info tables, musical performances, a keynote program, and more.
Black Night Market | Saturday, February 7 | 2- 8 p.m. | Tacoma Armory | Free admission | The fourth annual Black History Month market will be in the Tacoma Armory this year. Free admission for live performances, food, and local vendors.
Seymour’s Kids Club: African Song & Dance | Saturday, February 7 | 10:30- 11:30 a.m. | Washington State History Museum | Free with registration, register here | Experience the lively rhythms of traditional drumming and dance from West and South-Central Africa, performed by talented artists from Zambia and West Africa! For all ages.

Sunday, February 15

The 100th Black History Month Commemoration and Celebration | Sunday, February 15 | 3-5 p.m. | Lakes High School, Lakewood | $28.52, students are free, buy tickets here | Vibrant Schools of Puget Sound marks the centennial milestone of Black History Month commemorations with a program that blends storytelling and performance in a community-centered setting. The event features a keynote by Dr. Carl Mack, founder of The Black Heritage Calendar, plus entertainment by local artist Michael Powers (jazz guitar).

Thursday, February 19

Favorite Poems | Thursday, February 19 | 4-5 p.m. | Steilacoom Library | Free | Explore some favorite poets and poems that explore African-American history and culture. Ages 13 and up.

Saturday, February 21

Black History Month Soiree on Bainbridge Island | Saturday, February 21 | 6 to 9 p.m. | Bainbridge Island Museum of Art | $10 + tax | Register here | Enjoy a night of dancing while shopping at Black-owned businesses and enjoying live music and performances.
Hilltop Healthy Kids & Families Carnival | Saturday, February 21 | 12 to 4 p.m. | People’s Community Center, Tacoma | Free | Join us for the 16th annual Hilltop Healthy Kids & Family Carnival featuring live music, tons of fun, and free services for kids and families. The event includes a live DJ, free T-shirts, free food, games, toys, prizes, bicycles, gift card raffle. free Dental Cleaning (adults/children), free blood pressure screening (adults/children), and free haircuts (limited appointments, first-come, first-served – register here.

Sunday, February 22

Afro-Indigenous Music and Folklore Interactive Storytelling | Sunday, February 22 | 2-3:30 p.m. | Graham Library | Free, register here | Experience Afro-Indigenous music and folklore through the interactive storytelling of Taylor Nicole. Learn about the music and instruments, listen to a short story and collaborate to create a story. Ages 13 and up.

Monday, February 23

Black History Month Crafts | February 6-16 & 23-28 | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. | The Museum of Flight | Admission $29 for adult, $21 for children, free for children 0-4 | Tickets here | Celebrate Black History Month in the Alaska Airlines Aerospace Education Center by learning about Black trailblazers in aviation and aerospace, creating paper crafts and honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech by adding your dreams for the world to the Tree of Dreams.

Wednesday, February 25

Pleasant Movement | Wednesday, February 25 | 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. | Interim Lakewood Library | Free | Enjoy movement and music with Mr. Pleasant, designed to bring dance and learning together! All ages.
Quilt Exhibit with Freddie Smith | Wednesday, February 25 | 3-5 p.m. | Gig Harbor Library | Free | Enjoy Tacoma textile artist Freddie Smith’s collection of beautiful quilts and learn how she turns fabric scraps into works of art. Ages 9 and up.

Saturday, February 28

African American Folktales and Legends | Saturday, February 28 | 2-3 p.m. | Fife Library | Free | Join acclaimed storyteller Eva Abram, creator of Rainwater Storytelling, as she brings folktales and legends to life in celebration of Black History Month. All ages.

Support Black-Owned Businesses & Explore Black History Month Resources in Seattle

February is also a time many families look for ways to support Black-owned businesses in Seattle, from bookstores and cafés to local makers and community organizations. Below, you’ll find a mix of local guides, kid-friendly reading, and learning resources to help your family connect more deeply with Black history and culture this month.

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2025 Guide: Holiday & Christmas lights around Seattle

Jillian O'Connor — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 03:00:31 +0000

Few traditions light up the season quite like piling into the car, bundling up for an evening stroll, or watching your kids’ faces glow under thousands of twinkling bulbs. This year, Seattle and the surrounding communities offer everything from major spectacle shows to intimate neighborhood favorites. Whether you’re looking for Christmas lights in Seattle, drive-thru holiday displays, garden paths, or free community celebrations, here’s your 2025 guide to the region’s best holiday lights.

Wild Lanterns at Woodland Park Zoo

Many families still search for “Seattle Zoo Lights,” but the Woodland Park Zoo’s holiday event is now called Wild Lanterns, featuring new illuminated displays each year.

Wild Lanterns at the Woodland Park Zoo | November 14-January 18, 2026 | 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle | Prices vary by day, peak weekend is $40.95/adult and $35.95/child (3-12), 2 and younger free. Buy tickets here. | The creators of Wild Lanterns have put together a brand-new show this year and the event promises to dazzle visitors with large light displays and interactive areas. See the website for hours and more details.

What’s new at WildLanterns this year?

Zoolights at Point Defiance Zoo

Also knownn as the Tacoma Zoo Lights, the long-running Zoolights display transforms Point Defiance Zoo into a glowing winter wonderland with over a million lights.

Zoolights at Point Defiance Zoo | November 28-January 4, 2026 | 4:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. | Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, 5400 N Pearl St, Tacoma, WA 98407 | Cost: $14-$40, children 2 and younger are free. Buy tickets here | With over a million, the Point Defiance Zoo transforms its exhibits and pathways into a sparkly winter wonderland with lighted classics like the octopus, flame tree, and tiger face. Don’t forget to meet the groovy goats, then warm up with a cup of hot chocolate.

Parent Review: 2025’s Zoolights Experience

Large Light Shows & Fairgrounds Events

Fantasy Lights at Spanaway Park | November 28, 2025 -January 4, 2026 | Open daily 5:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Spanaway Park, 14905 Bresemann Boulevard South, Spanaway 98387 | Cost: $15-$20 per vehicle. Watch for $10 discount days | Cozy up in your car as you drive through more than 300 elaborate displays with thousands of sparkling lights. Choose a weekday, early in the season, to avoid crowds.

Lights of Christmas at Stanwood | November 28-December 28, 2025 | Select nights. | Warm Beach Camp & Conference Center, 20800 Marine Drive, Stanwood 98292 | $20 – $40 per car, find admission information here | Located an hour north of Seattle, this drive-thru light show in Stanwood is a must. As you drive, turn on the radio and listen to the display guide, Bruce the Spruce, as he takes you through each light display. Many activity stops along the route, including Joyland and Santa’s Village, which offer fun activities for the whole family, photo opportunities, and snacks.

Holiday Magic at The Fair | December 5-23, 2025, select days | Washington State Fair Events Center, 110 9th Ave SW, Puyallup, WA 98371 | $22.50/adult, $17.50 for ages 3-12 and free for kids 2 and under, purchase tickets online for the best pricing. | Purchase your tickets to the Holiday Magic event at Washington State Fair Events Center and enjoy interactive exhibits, light displays, an ice rink, festive food, shopping, and more.

(Image courtesy Washington State Fair Facebook)

Parks, Gardens & Outdoor Holiday Displays

Swanson Nursery Holiday Festivities | November 8, 2025 – January 1, 2026, open daily | Swanson Nursery, 9701 15th Ave NW, Seattle 98117 | Free entry | Visit Santa, pick up your tree and home decor, plus see Swanson’s annual model train village for your family train outing! Don’t miss the Santa’s Yurt, an interactive kids’ space. Plus all of the usual holiday fun, including Santa Photos by appointment, holiday décor and ornaments, Christmas trees, and a special golden ticket promotion in the café.

Bonsai Solstice | Saturday, December 13, 2025 | 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. | Pacific Bonsai Museum, 2515 South 336th St, Federal Way 98003 | Free | Take an evening stroll amid the soft holiday lights surrounding the Pacific Bonsai Museum’s collection of trees. Stay for holiday treats and enjoy free hot chocolate, listen to holiday music and view the Bonsai trees twinkling an array of lights. This is a family-friendly tradition that warmly embraces the generous spirit of the holidays.

Bellevue Botanical Garden presents Garden d’Lights | November 29-December 31, 2025. Select days | 4:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Bellevue Botanical Garden, 12001 Main Street, Bellevue | $10/person, children 10 and younger free. Buy tickets here | As you follow the pathways through the garden, you’ll discover a variety of brightly lit displays, plant and animal shapes, rock formations, butterflies, bees, and birds. Be prepared: It’s a 1-mile walk. Watch for $5 nights, weekdays, during the show’s first two weeks.

2025 Guide to Garden D’Lights

Green Lake Path of Lights | Saturday, December 13, 2025 | 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. | Green Lake Park, 7201 East Green Lake Dr N, Seattle 98115 | Free, donations are welcome | Enjoy the annual seasonal event at Green Lake, this year with a special hot air balloon display (4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.). Walk the inner path around the lake, lined with thousands of luminaries. Dress for the weather.

Parent Review: Green Lake Pathway of Lights

Evergreen Christmas Lights | December 1-24, 2025 | Open every night | 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Evergreen Church, 3429 240th St SE, Bothell 98021 | Free | A Bothell tradition: Hundreds of thousands of lights will cover an entire church building and will be synchronized to music. Stop into the pavilion for warm cookies, treats, a winter village, and a train exhibit.

Family Guide to Evergreen Christmas Lights

Garden D’Lights (Image: Ellie White / Seattle’s Child)

Neighborhood & Community Lights Around Seattle

Candy Cane Lane | December 6, 2025 – January 1, 2026. Sun to Thurs: 4 p.m. – 9:30 p.m., Fri & Sat: 4 p.m. – 11 p.m. | Park Rd NE and NE Ravenna Blvd, Seattle 98105 | Free | Visit this neighborhood light show in Seattle and enjoy the beautiful lights! Pedestrians are welcome on any night, but this year, there will be four pedestrian-only nights when the streets will be closed off. The Pedestrian Nights in 2025 are December 6, December 7, December 10, and December 12.

2025 Family Guide to Candy Cane Lane

Tree Lighting Ceremonies | Rain or shine, head to your local tree-lighting ceremony. Watch a parade, sip hot chocolate, and catch the magic of holiday displays. Arrive early to stake out a prime spot for viewing. Dates and locations vary. FREE. Here’s a short list of events:

Pike Place Market – November 29, 2025
Snohomish – November 29, 2025
Mountlake Terrace – December 5, 2025
Auburn – December 6, 2025
Bellevue – December 6, 2025
Bothell – December 6, 2025
Kent – December 6, 2025
Lakewood – December 6, 2025
West Seattle – December 6, 2025
Woodinville Tree Lighting – December 6, 2025

The start of something magical … (Image: Jillian O’Conner / Seattle’s Child)

Day Trip: Leavenworth Christmas Lights

Village of Lights: Christmastown in Leavenworth | November 27-February 28, 2025 | Open daily | See website for hours/days | Downtown Leavenworth, 820 Front Street, Leavenworth, 98826 | Free | Drive over to Leavenworth, where the town celebrates the holidays with over half a million lights, music and entertainment, holiday characters, kids’ activities, roasted chestnuts, Santa photos, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions about Holiday Lights in Seattle

Q: Where can I see Christmas lights in Seattle in 2025?
A: Popular spots include Wild Lanterns at Woodland Park Zoo, Green Lake Pathway of Lights, Garden d’Lights in Bellevue, and neighborhood shows like Candy Cane Lane.

Q: What happened to Seattle Zoo Lights?
A: Woodland Park Zoo’s former “WildLights” event is now called Wild Lanterns, but many families still search and refer to the old name when planning visits.

Q: Are there drive-through Christmas lights near Seattle?
A: Yes — Fantasy Lights in Spanaway and Lights of Christmas in Stanwood both offer drive-thru holiday experiences. Candy Cane Lane in Seattle’s Ravenna neighborhood is quite short, but also can be driven through.

Q: What are the best free holiday light displays?
A: Green Lake Pathway of Lights, Candy Cane Lane, Evergreen Christmas Lights, and many city tree-lighting ceremonies are free to the public.

Q: When do Seattle holiday lights usually start?
A: Most major displays begin mid to late November, with peak viewing between Thanksgiving and mid-December.

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Where to drop off letters to Santa around Seattle (2025 Guide)

Julie Hanson — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 03:04:20 +0000

The holiday season is here, and many kids are getting ready to send off their wish lists to the North Pole. Several Seattle-area spots set up special letters to Santa mailboxes each year — plus national programs that ensure those notes reach Santa (and sometimes even earn a reply!). Here are the 2025 locations where families can drop off letters to Santa around the Seattle area.

Seattle-Area Letters to Santa Mailboxes

Swansons Nursery

Known for its holiday festivities, Swansons Nursery in Seattle gives kids the opportunity to write a note to Santa. Located in Santa’s Yurt, children can drop off their letters and participate in other festive activities. The nursery’s festive environment, featuring reindeer and holiday displays, makes it a delightful spot for families.

Kirkland Downtown Association

Have your kids write their letters to Santa and drop them off in the Letter to Santa mailbox located at the corner of Kirkland Ave. and Lake St., or at Urban Plaza in Downtown Kirkland. The mailboxes will be out from November 19 to December 19, 2025.

Edmonds Chamber of Commerce

The beloved Edmonds Santa Mailbox is officially open for the season, ready for wish lists, drawings, and sweet holiday messages. Families can drop off letters now through December 14, with the final pickup for North Pole-bound letters on December 13.

You’ll find the bright red mailbox outside the Log Cabin Visitor Information Center at 5th Avenue North and Bell Street in Downtown Edmonds.

This long-running program receives more than 2,500 letters each year, all answered by volunteer “elves.” To help support this community tradition, the Chamber welcomes donations — even a few dollars or a book of stamps can cover reply postage. Stamp donations can be delivered to the Chamber Office or the Log Cabin.

Tips to receive a letter back from the North Pole:

Make sure your child’s name and return address are clearly written on the letter.
To have your child’s original letter returned, include a plain self-addressed stamped envelope.
Each reply is handwritten using story templates the elves create themselves. For a more personal response, kids can add questions or caregivers may include a private note.
Reply times can vary, and volunteers process letters as quickly as life allows — kindness and patience are appreciated.

How to Mail a Letter to Santa through USPS

USPS: Operation Santa

The USPS offers a thoughtful holiday service where your child can receive a letter back from Santa. Be sure to send your wishlist to Santa before December 6. Here’s how. Children can write a letter to Santa and address it to:

Santa’s Mailing Address (USPS Operation Santa)

Santa Claus
123 Elf Road
North Pole, 88888

Make sure to include a return address on the envelope so Santa knows where to send his reply. Drop the letter in the mail. The USPS Operation Santa program ensures these letters are received and, in many cases, adopted by charitable organizations, individuals, or employees who fulfill the wishes. Track Your Letter: The USPS website offers more information on how the program works, including how to track your letter and potentially adopt a letter to help make another child’s holiday wishes come true.

National Programs Accepting Letters

Nordstrom’s Dear Santa Program

Write this way! Send an email or write your wishlist on your favorite stationery to let Santa know what you’d like for Christmas. Download a letter template here. Between November 28 and December 19, you can deliver your letter to a Nordstrom store or write it there. Find a store near you.

More Santa Fun for Seattle-Area Families

Keep the holiday magic going! Explore more Santa-themed guides and events:

Photos with Santa: Find the best places for festive, kid-friendly Santa portraits this season.
Breakfast with Santa: Start the morning with pancakes, holiday cheer, and a visit from the big guy.
Holiday Family Events: Your complete roundup of light displays, parades, markets, and can’t-miss seasonal fun.

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2025 Guide to Seattle Holiday Markets & Craft Fairs

Jasmin Thankachen — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 16:06:25 +0000

Looking for holiday markets near Seattle where you can actually find gifts for everyone on your list? For the 2025 season, Seattle-area holiday markets, craft fairs, and toy shows offer some of the best places to shop local makers, discover handmade gifts, and support Washington artists and community groups — all in one festive outing.

Holiday markets are great places to discover locally made gifts that support Washington artisans and businesses. Consider collecting gifts at a market that gives back — several holiday markets in the Seattle area support local organizations and communities.

2025 Seattle Holiday Markets & Craft Fairs Opening in November

Edmonds Holiday Market | November 15 & 16, 2025 | Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. | 201 2nd Ave. S. at Dayton Street | Browse the aisles of vendors, snack at food shops, and support local businesses.

Seattle Christmas Market | November 20-December 24, 2025, closed November 27 | Timed entry tickets required, and prices vary | 305 Harrison Street, Seattle | Inspired by traditional German Christmas markets, this month-long celebration takes place at Seattle Center. Browse aisles of artisan crafts, gifts, traditional food and drink, interactive installations, live performances, seasonal decorations, and more. Join the event newsletter for more details.

City of Renton Holiday Bazaar | November 21 & 22, 2025 | 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free | Renton Community Center | Get a head start on your holiday shopping and support local artists. Featuring handmade, upcycled items for purchase. More than 7,000 visitors are expected, so be sure to get there early for the best selection.

Nordic Museum’s Julefest: A Nordic Christmas Celebration | November 21-23, 2025 | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Members and children: free, Non-members: $5-$20 | Nordic Museum | Explore Nordic dance, treats, and music at this cultural holiday market. Shop for one-of-a-kind gifts for loved ones. Celebrating its 48th year, the Nordic Museum hosts local retailers and artists while exposing visitors to Nordic holidays and traditions. Experience traditional foods, live music, and more.

Crossroads Bellevue: Holiday Makers Market | November 22, 2025 | 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m | Free | Crossroads Bellevue | The Makers Market features an array of gifts made by local artisans. Spend the day shopping, listening to live music, enjoying foods from around the world, and more.

Holiday Bookfest | Saturday, November 22, 2025 | 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. | PNA, 6532 Phinney Ave N, Seattle 98103 | Free | Meet Pacific Northwest authors and get signed copies of their books for yourself or holiday gifts at Holiday Bookfest at the Phinney Center. For this much-anticipated event, treasured local authors of fiction, memoir, travel, nature, cookbooks, kids’ books and more will gather in one room, pens in hand.

United Indians Native Art Market | November 22-23 & December 20-21, 2025 | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free, donations gladly accepted | Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center | Head over to the Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center for the annual Native Art Market. A variety of Native American art, jewelry, crafts, textiles, and other authentic gifts will be on display and for purchase. Admission is free, but please arrive early, as parking is limited.

Holiday Farmers Market and Crafts Fair at Third Place Commons | November 23 and December 14, 2025 | Outdoor Craft Fair, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.; Indoor Craft Fair, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Free | Third Place Commons | Grab your grocery bags and head to this market just in time for Thanksgiving. A great place to buy your produce and other supplies for your holiday meals, then browse the selection of handmade items from local artisans.

Duwamish Native Art Market | November 28 | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Duwamish Longhouse and Cultural Center, 4705 W Marginal Wy SW, Seattle 98106 | Free entry | Head to the Duwamish Longhouse and Cultural Center for the annual Native Art Market. On display and for purchase will be a variety of Native American art, jewelry, crafts, textiles and other authentic gifts to add to your giving list. Admission is free, but please arrive early, as parking is limited.

Holly Jolly Holiday Market at Thomas Family Farm | November 28-29, 2025 | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Free | Thomas Family Farm | Featuring more than 80 vendors, food trucks and more! This is a great place to start your holiday shopping and support your local community at Thomas Family Farm in Snohomish. There will be food and espresso trucks on site, and Santa will be visiting on Friday.

Geek Craft Expo | November 28-30, 2025 | Friday, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., & Sunday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Madison Park Hangar 30, 6310 NE 74th St, Seattle 98115 | Check prices online. Buy tickets here | Looking for a gift for a loved one or a little something for yourself? Go to the Geek. This craft expo features items handmade by local vendors. This event is family-friendly and welcomes all ages.

Novelty Hill Farm Holiday Markets| November 28 – December 14, 2025: Black Friday plus Saturdays and Sundays | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free | Novelty Hill Farm | Visit Novelty Hill Farm in Duvall for their annual weekend holiday markets. Featuring a variety of artisans, shoppers can find a selection of hand-crafted items made locally. Shop for unique gifts and visit the on-site Christmas tree farm!

Seattle Winterfest | November 28-December 31, 2025 | Market hours vary | Seattle Center, Seattle | Free | Kick off your holiday festivities with a trip to Seattle Center, where you’ll find a train village, a holiday market and a variety of entertainment. Don’t miss the ice artists carving spectacular sculptures at the International Fountain on opening day. See the entire schedule of events here.

Magic in the Market | November 29, 2025 | 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Lighting ceremony at 5:00 p.m.) | Free | Pike Place Market | Make memories at the 30th annual Magic in the Market. Located at Pike Place Market with over nine acres of shopping and holiday cheer. Snap a photo with Santa, enjoy DIY kid’s crafts, live holiday music, and much more!

2025 Seattle Holiday Markets, Craft Fairs & Toy Shows in December

Victorian Country Christmas Festival | December 4-7, 2025 | Thursday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Tickets $11-13. Kids 12 and under are free | Washington State Fair Event Center | A Victorian Country Christmas is returning to the Washington State Fair Events Center, transforming the venue into a magical winter wonderland. This beloved holiday tradition offers something for children and adults alike, with hundreds of unique vendors, captivating live entertainment, and festive attractions.

Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Discovery Center: Giving Marketplace| December 5-6, 2025 | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free | Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Discovery Center | Find unique gifts from dozens of vendors, with the proceeds supporting immigrants and refugees, women and girls, global health, education, the environment, and much more at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Discovery Center. Enjoy family-friendly holiday activities, then discover ways to take action on issues you care about.

Urban Craft Uprising: Winter Show | December 5-7, 2025 | Friday is a preview ticketed night, 5-9 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Seattle Center Exhibition Hall | This winter show is dedicated to local artisans and crafters. Featuring over 150 vendors, find decor for your home, a unique gift for a loved one, or explore the latest trends in art.

Phinneywood Winter Festival | December 5-7, 2025 | December 5, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. and December 6 & 7, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Tickets are $25 on Friday preview night (21+), $10 Saturday and Sunday, children 12 and under free | Phinney Center | 6532 Phinney Ave. N., Seattle | The Phinney Ridge Neighborhood Association will be spreading holiday cheer with its 45th annual holiday market, and artists will share their unique gifts for purchase. Ticket purchases help fund hot meals, senior services, memory-loss programs, kids’ activities, tool lending, and more. Attendees are invited to bring donations for their canned food drive in support of FamilyWorks.

Holiday Magic at The Fair | December 5-23, 2025. Select days. | Washington State Fair Events Center, 110 9th Ave SW, Puyallup, WA 98371 | Check website for prices and purchase tickets online for the best pricing. | Purchase your tickets to the Holiday Magic event at Washington State Fair Events Center and enjoy interactive exhibits, light displays, an ice rink, festive food, shopping, and more from December 6-23, 2024 on select days (December 6-8, 12-15, 18-23, 2024).

Bothell Holiday Market | Saturday, December 6, 2025 | 12 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. | 102nd Ave NE and Main St Downtown Bothell 98011 | Free | Head to Festival Street for holiday music, food trucks, a holiday market, and more. Santa will be under the tree at 5 p.m. at 102nd Ave NE and Main St., Downtown Bothell. Local merchants will offer free goodies and activities for kids.

Puyallup Santa Parade and Holiday Market | December 6, 2026 | 12 p.m. – 7 p.m. | Downtown Puyallup | Free | The spectacularly lighted Santa Parade will wind its way down Meridian St in Puyallup. There will be bands, floats, walking units and more. The Holiday Market is open from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.; the Santa Parade starts at 5 p.m.

Holiday Market at Carnation Farms (Cancelled due to floods)| December 13, 2025 | 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. | Free | Carnation Farms | Visit the Holiday Market at Carnation Farms and enjoy hot food and drinks from Culinary Team, take a history tour around the main grounds with their Archivist, snap a selfie in the holiday-themed photo booth, and pick up winter decor from the local Artisan Vendors. You’ll find homemade soaps, clothes, art, sweets, gifts, and more to bring in the season!

PNW Artisans Holiday Fair | December 13 and 14, 2025 | 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.| Fairgrounds in Monroe, 14405 179th Ave SE, Monroe 98272 | Free event, items to purchase| Find that one-of-a-kind gift at this market located at the Monroe Fairgrounds. The event will feature numerous vendors offering a diverse range of items, including handcrafted candles, artwork, toys, leatherwork, baskets, cutting boards, and treats such as caramels, cakes, and more.

More Holiday Fun Around Seattle

Planning even more festive outings? We’ve rounded up the best the season has to offer. Check out these guides for lights, markets, Santa meet-ups, and family traditions all around the region:

Holiday Lights Around Seattle — where to find dazzling displays, neighborhood traditions, and drive-through shows.
Photos With Santa: Where to Find Him This Year — malls, museums, pop-ups, and community events offering Santa visits.
Breakfast With Santa — festive morning meals, themed buffets, and special appearances from the big guy.
Our 2025 Guide to Holiday Family Fun — festivals, tree lightings, performances, and can’t-miss seasonal magic across the Seattle area.

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How to donate, recycle, or dispose of a car seat in Seattle & King County

Ellie White — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 18:14:00 +0000

If you’re staring at a bulky car seat your child has finally outgrown, you’re not alone — this is one of the most common questions Seattle-area parents ask: Where can I donate a car seat? And if the seat is expired, damaged, or has been in an accident, the question becomes even bigger: How do I safely dispose of a car seat in Washington?

Because car seats are safety devices, many thrift stores and nonprofits cannot accept them. And while most families would love to avoid tossing one in the landfill, King County does not offer car-seat recycling through curbside pickup or transfer stations.

The good news? There are organizations that accept gently used, undamaged car seats — plus one statewide recycling option and clear steps for safely disposing of a seat that can no longer be used.

Use the guide below to determine the right option for your situation.

DONATION — Where to Donate a Gently Used Car Seat (Unexpired, Never in an Accident)

Before donating, all organizations require:

The seat is unexpired
The seat has never been involved in a car crash
The seat is clean, functional, and in good condition

Below are Seattle-area organizations that accept gently used car seats and help get them to local families who need them.

Westside Baby

Car seat program expected to reopen January 5, 2026.

Westside Baby’s car seat donation program is currently paused due to capacity limitations, but the organization plans to begin accepting donations again in early 2026. Seats must be unexpired, crash-free, mold-free, and never cleaned with harsh chemicals. Families are encouraged to hold on to eligible seats and check Westside Baby’s website for updates and drop-off locations.

KidVantage (Bremerton, Shoreline, Issaquah)

With locations in Bremerton, Shoreline, and Issaquah, KidVantage accepts gently-used car seats. To determine if your car seat is eligible for donation, first fill out the Car Seat Acceptance form. If you determine that you can donate your car seat, the next step is to schedule a drop-off appointment on their website. This year, KidVantage is on track to donate over 2,000 carseats, 17% of which were donated by community members.

Pregnancy Aid of South King County (Des Moines)

Located in Des Moines, Pregnancy Aid of South King County accepts gently-used car seats on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Wednesday is the best day to bring your car seat in as they have a staff member on site who can determine if they will be able pass the car seat on to a new family.

New Beginnings Closet (Bremerton)

This Bremerton shop accepts donated car seats. You can drop them off anytime, Monday through Friday, under the covered car port next to the store (make sure you don’t leave it uncovered so that it doesn’t get wet in our Northwest rain!).

Organizations That Do NOT Accept Car Seats

Regardless of condition, Mary’s Place, Goodwill, Northwest Center, Value Village, and Treehouse for Kids do not accept car seat donations.

An “Incoming” bag of donated car seats awaits inspection at WestSide Baby, where gently used seats are processed and matched with local families who need them. (Image courtesy WestSide Baby)

RECYCLING — How to Recycle a Damaged, Expired, or Unusable Car Seat

Most parents hope to recycle rather than toss a damaged or expired car seat. Unfortunately, King County’s transfer stations and curbside haulers do not offer car seat recycling, regardless of condition. There is, however, one recurring local option:

Target Car Seat Trade-In Event (Statewide)

Each spring and fall, Target hosts a recycling event where you can bring in any car seat — expired, damaged, broken, or crashed. According to their website, Target partners recycle the materials and give you a 20% off coupon toward select baby gear. Event dates vary by year (usually around late September/early October and April/May).

DISPOSAL — How to Safely Throw Away a Car Seat in King County

If your seat is expired, recalled, damaged, or has been in a crash and no Target event is available, you’ll need to dispose of it at home. Car seats belong in the garbage, not recycling. For safety, experts recommend:

Cut the harness straps to prevent reuse
Remove padding, foam, and metal when possible
Write “EXPIRED” or “UNSAFE” in permanent marker
Place the seat in your household garbage bin

This ensures the seat cannot be picked up and mistakenly reused.

FAQs About Car Seat Safety & Disposal

Do I always need to replace a car seat after a car accident? Not always. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), car seats only need to be replaced after a moderate or severe crash. A car seat does not automatically need to be replaced after a minor crash. What counts as a minor crash? NHTSA defines a crash as minor only if ALL of the following are true:

The vehicle could be driven away from the crash site.
The vehicle door closest to the car seat was not damaged.
No one in the vehicle was injured.
No airbags deployed.
There is no visible damage to the car seat.

If all five criteria apply, the car seat may still be safe to use.

What about more serious crashes? If your crash was moderate or severe, the seat must be replaced — even if it looks undamaged. NHTSA is clear:
Never use a car seat that has been in a moderate or severe crash. Always check your car seat’s manual as well. Some manufacturers require replacement after any crash, regardless of severity.

Do car seats really expire? Yes. Most expire after 6–10 years due to plastic degradation and evolving safety standards. Check the label for your seat’s exact expiration date.

Why can’t car seats be donated more often? Liability, safety requirements, and inspection capacity make it difficult for nonprofits to verify that a used seat meets safety standards.

More Resources for Seattle-Area Parents

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Guide to Seattle-Area Turkey Trots and Thanksgiving Fun Runs

Seattle's Child Staff — Sun, 23 Nov 2025 23:55:02 +0000

Before the mashed potatoes, before the parade, and definitely before the post-meal nap — lace up your sneakers and join one of the many Turkey Trots on Thanksgiving Day, or get silly at one of the family Fun Runs happening on the weekends before the holiday. Or you skip the run and come out to cheer your kid on at the 2025 Seattle Kids Marathon! These community races are all about movement, connection, and giving back. Many events raise money or collect food for local charities, so every mile can help make a difference. Costumes, strollers, music – sometimes dogs on leashes – and always good vibes add up to fun and healthy great times for the whole family.

And if you’re already planning ahead for winter fun, check out our separate roundup, which includes December festive runs too.

Saturday, November 15, 2025

Super Hero 5K | Saturday, November 15 | 10 a.m. | Green Lake Park | Kids free (no bib, medal, or swag, just an untimed race) $32- $48.70 | Register | All ages | Unleash your inner hero and run like the wind. Whether you’re faster than a speeding bullet or more of a leisurely jog while sipping coffee type, the event is perfect for all fitness levels. Capes are optional but highly encouraged. Leashed dogs and strollers welcome.

Saturday, November 22, 2025

Jumping Mouse Turkey Trot | Saturday, November 22 | 9 a.m. | The Larry Scott Trail, Port Townsend | $15 – $35 | Register | All Ages | Whether you’re running, walking, or trotting with family and friends in the 1-mile kids’ trot or the 5K, every step you take helps support Jumping Mouse Children’s Center and its mission to provide transformative therapy and advocacy for children’s mental health. Dogs and strollers are allowed.

Tacky Turkey Sweater 5 K | Saturday, November 22 | 8 a.m. | $38 adults, $30 Kids’ 5 K under age 14, Kids dash free with no bib or medal, just an untimed race. | Register | All ages | Gobble, Jog, and Strut Your Stuff! Dig out your most outrageous, over-the-top, turkey or holiday-themed sweater (the tackier, the better!) and jog, waddle, or strut your way through a 5K course filled with laughter, fall vibes, and questionable fashion choices. Service dogs only.

Carnation Turkey Trot | Saturday, November 22 | 9 a.m. | Remlinger Farms | ages 7 and under, $15, free for volunteers, others $38 | Register | All ages | The 5K course will take you all along the country roads and paths on the farm. No cars will be on the course. The Kids Dash is about 100 yards and will be held right before the 5K, so everyone can be there to cheer on the little Gobblers. On the day of the event, please bring non-perishable food items to benefit the Tolt UCC Food Pantry in Carnation.

Thursday, November 27 (Thanksgiving Day)

Auburn Turkey Trot | Thursday, November 27 | 9 a.m.| Sunset Park, Auburn | Preschoolers are free, Ages 18 and under, $25, ages 19 +, $40 | Register | All ages | Join Auburn on Thanksgiving morning for this family-friendly 5K run/walk! The race will begin and end at the park and follow a nearly flat route through the heart of Lakeland Hills. Thanksgiving costumes are encouraged. Dogs aren’t allowed, but strollers and preschoolers are welcome.

Holmes Chiropractic Care Turkey Trot | Thursday, November 27 | 8 a.m. | Judson Street, Gig Harbor | 12 and under free, others, $30 | Register | All ages | This family-friendly 5K goes around the harbor and is for all ages and abilities. In the spirit of giving, participants are encouraged to bring two cans of food for donation, supporting local charities such as BackPack for Kids and the FISH Food Bank. No dogs allowed.

Holmes Chiropractic Care Turkey Trot (Image: Dr. Timothy Holmes)

Issaquah Turkey Trot | Thursday, November 27 | 9 a.m. | Downtown Issaquah | Ages 10 and under, $15, ages 11 and up, $35 | Register | All ages | This event is a casual run, jog, or walk over a 3-mile distance. If you don’t want to do an entire 5K, this course offers lots of shortcuts. The race welcomes Thanksgiving costumes and accessories for the costume contest. Leashed dogs, kids on bikes, and strollers are welcome; see rules on website.

Mukilteo Turkey Trot | Thursday, November 27 | 7:30 a.m. | Kamiak High School, Mukilteo | $18.36-$45.30, kids and student pricing available | Register | Get your run in before the big feast! The course will have some gentle rolling hills but will be mostly flat and fast on closed roads within the Harbour Pointe Community in Mukilteo. Strollers are welcome, but no dogs allowed.

Ten Trails Active Club 5K Turkey Trot | Thursday, November 27 | 8:30 a.m. | 23089 SE Fir St., Black Diamond | Free | Register | Registration capped at 200, no race day registration. | All ages | The event is open to folks of all skill levels. There will be prize categories for both walkers and runners, and if you’re lucky, you may even get to bring home one of our Thanksgiving Day desserts that will be raffled off after the event! We will be collecting food donations for a local food bank. Strollers allowed.

(Image courtesy Ten Trails Turkey Trot)

Thanksgiving Day Apple Cup 5K | Thursday, November 27 | 9:30 a.m. | Green Lake Park | $15-$30 | Register | All ages | Celebrate both Thanksgiving AND Apple Cup at the same time! Come run in your Husky or Cougar colors, or if you are not either, sport your own colors or dress up as a turkey! You may also drop off any canned food items if you would like to donate. Dogs not allowed, strollers welcome.

Woodinville Turkey Trot | Thursday, November 27 | 9:30 a.m. | Wilmot Park, Woodinville | $5-$40 | Register | All ages | A Kids’ Parade will be led by the Woodinville HS Marching band. At our Kids’ Dash, the kids 6 and under will run a short course of about 200 yards on the trail. The morning should get your Thanksgiving Day off to a great start before that turkey dinner.

Friday, November 28

Bonney Lake Donut Run | Friday, November 28 | 9 a.m. | Fleet Feet Bonney Lake | Free | Register | All ages | This annual event is the perfect way to kick off your Black Friday festivities with family and friends. Enjoy a fun and festive atmosphere as you take part in a scenic 5k run. Best of all, participants can indulge in delicious free donuts and coffee at the finish line!

Saturday, November 29

2025 Seattle Kids’ Marathon | Saturday, November 29 | 9 a.m. | Bell Harbor, Pier 66 | $29.12 | Register | Kids can run a marathon at their own pace by running at home, one mile at a time. Parents or coaches track miles, and on race day, kids run 1.2 miles. After the race, kids get a medal and enjoy post-race goodies with their families, such as a hot chocolate garden, vendors, music, and more. One adult can run with a child, but must have a race bib. No dogs or strollers allowed.

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Seattle Fall Fun Guide: 40+ things to do with kids this season

Seattle's Child Staff — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 16:04:00 +0000

Crisp air, golden leaves, and pumpkin-spiced everything — fall is here, and it’s one of the best seasons to explore things to do in Seattle with kids. Your family may love crunching through trails, picking apples straight from the tree, or finding fun ways to play indoors when the rain rolls in, and we’ve got it all. There’s no shortage of ways to make the most of the season.

Here are dozens of kid-approved adventures — hikes and harvest festivals to art projects and cozy afternoons at home — to help you savor every autumn weekend.

Outdoor Fun

See the larches. Golden needles, mountain air, and kid-sized wonder — there’s nothing like fall larch season in the Pacific Northwest. Head to one of these stunning hikes where kids can crunch leaves and spot the trees glowing gold. Find family-friendly larch hikes near Seattle.

Visit a pumpkin patch. No fall is complete without a family trip to the pumpkin patch. Hunt for the perfect pumpkin, hop on a hayride, and sip hot cider surrounded by autumn color. Check out our guide to Seattle-area pumpkin patches.

Take a fall hike. Bundle up and breathe in the crisp air on one of these easy, kid-friendly fall hikes. From forest trails to lakeside loops, these walks are perfect for spotting changing leaves. Explore our favorite fall hikes.

Pick apples at a local farm. Apple picking season is short — and sweet! Load up the car, grab a basket, and head to one of these nearby orchards for a day of fresh air and juicy fruit. Find u-pick apple farms near Seattle.

Meet some furry friends. Animal sanctuaries offer kids a heartwarming way to connect with creatures great and small. Spend the day learning, petting, and supporting local rescues. Plan a family visit to an animal sanctuary.

Go troll hunting. They’re big, whimsical, and hiding in plain sight! Danish artist Thomas Dambo’s giant troll sculptures are scattered around the region — and discovering them feels like a fairy-tale quest. Find all five trolls near Seattle.

Make a nature collection. Turn an ordinary walk into a mini adventure by gathering fall leaves, acorns, and other treasures. It’s a simple way to help kids connect with the season’s colors and textures. Learn how to make a nature collection.

Stroll a wetland boardwalk. Watch ducks paddle and herons hunt along peaceful wetland trails. These family-friendly boardwalks make nature exploration easy for all ages and stroller types. See five Seattle-area wetlands to explore.

Play at a themed playground. Let imaginations run wild at playgrounds inspired by castles, trains, and even sea creatures. You’ll find creative play structures all around the Seattle area. Discover our top picks for themed playgrounds.

Ride a family-friendly bike trail. Beyond the Burke-Gilman, there are plenty of trails perfect for little legs and training wheels. Pack snacks, helmets, and go explore the region on two wheels. Find kid-friendly bike trails to try.

Visit a farm or petting zoo. Kids can meet goats, feed chickens, and learn where food comes from at local farms. Many spots offer hayrides, markets, and open barns all autumn long. See our favorite family farms and petting zoos.

Explore a garden park. Even in fall, Seattle’s garden parks burst with color and calm. Wander the paths, watch koi ponds, or simply enjoy the peace of a crisp day outdoors. Explore five kid-friendly garden parks.

Volunteer together. Doing good feels even better in sweater weather. Find family-friendly volunteer projects that teach kids about kindness and community impact. See ways to volunteer as a family.

Join a fun run. Dress up, stretch out, and hit the course! Fall fun runs combine exercise with festive themes — from Halloween costumes to turkey trots. Check out fall fun runs around Seattle.

Watch the salmon run. Nothing says Northwest fall like spotting salmon leaping upstream. Head to the Issaquah Salmon Hatchery to watch nature’s migration up close. Read our family review of the hatchery.

A vintage truck makes the perfect photo op at Bailey Farm, one of the many pumpkin patches near Seattle. (Image courtesy Bailey Farm)

Indoor Fun

Explore indoor play & activities. Rainy day? No problem. Seattle offers tons of indoor playgrounds and creative activity centers where kids can climb, imagine, and play while you sip something warm. Check out our definitive guide to inside activities around Seattle.

Take a swim lesson. When the weather cools down, head indoors and make a splash. From tots to teens, Seattle-area pools offer lessons that build confidence and safety in the water. Find swim lessons near you.

Catch a show. Seattle’s stages are buzzing this fall with kid-friendly plays, musicals, and performances for every age. From puppets to fairy tales, these shows make a perfect family outing. See our fall theater guide.

Play in the sand — indoors! The rain can’t stop sandcastles at Sandgarden in Issaquah. Kids can dig, pour, and build to their hearts’ content while parents relax in a comfy beach-vibe setting. Read our parent review.

Visit a museum. Seattle’s museums are full of hands-on exhibits and fascinating discoveries for every age — from MoPOP’s pop-culture icons to MOHAI’s deep dive into local history. Read more about MoPOP, Pacific Science Center, Frye Art Museum, MOHAI, and The Museum of Flight.

Visit for free on First Thursdays. Mark your calendar for the first Thursday of each month, when many Seattle museums open their doors for free. It’s the perfect way to explore new exhibits without spending a dime. Find free First Thursday museum days.

Be inspired by young artists. Check out the latest exhibit at King Street Station, where teen curators bring fresh perspectives to Seattle’s arts scene. It’s a thoughtful, creative experience for kids and parents alike. Learn more about the exhibit.

Bounce, climb, and zip. Sky Zone in Mountlake Terrace offers a giant ninja course, zip lines, slides, and trampolines for hours of high-energy play. Rainy-day wiggles? Solved. Get the details.

Inflate the fun. Arena Sports’ Inflatable Fun Zone is a hit for preschoolers and grade-schoolers alike. Let them climb, bounce, and burn energy while you cheer them on from the sidelines. Read our parent review.

Play a game together. Grab a table at Mox Boarding House, where families can enjoy board games, food, and cozy vibes — or pick up a new favorite to take home. Discover Mox.

Explore local game shops. Want even more ways to play? Seattle-area game stores invite you to shop, stay, and roll the dice with fellow gamers of all ages. Find game stores where you can play and buy.

Flip out over pinball. Step into a world of lights and sound at the Seattle Pinball Museum. Admission covers unlimited play — and endless nostalgia. Plan your visit.

Explore beneath the waves. The Seattle Aquarium’s new Ocean Pavilion brings shimmering sea life and interactive experiences to downtown. Perfect for a drizzly afternoon. See what’s new at the Aquarium.

Visit a local library. Cozy up with a good story at one of the Puget Sound region’s coolest libraries, or drop in for a free storytime for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. Tour our favorite libraries or find a storytime near you.

Browse a bookstore. Pair books and bites at independent bookstores that welcome young readers — and their parents’ coffee cravings. Explore Seattle-area bookstores with cafés.

Grab a cozy cup. When you need a caffeine boost and the kids need space to play, head to one of Seattle’s many kid-friendly coffee shops. See our favorites.

Kids can jump, climb, and burn off energy at Sky Zone and other indoor playgrounds around Seattle. (Image courtesy SkyZone)

Spooky Fall Fun

Go mini golfing with monsters. Glow-in-the-dark golf, spooky decor, and silly fun await at Monster Mini Golf in Bellevue. Kids will love the themed holes and arcade games — it’s all frightfully good fun without the scares. Plan your visit.

Enjoy not-so-scary Halloween fun. You don’t need jump scares to celebrate spooky season! From pumpkin patches and parades to costume contests and trick-or-treat trails, there are plenty of ways for families to join in the Halloween spirit. Find not-so-scary Halloween ideas here.

Find a family Halloween event. From Boo-fests to harvest carnivals, the Seattle area is packed with Halloween happenings for every age and comfort level. Grab your costumes and get exploring! See our full guide to in-person Halloween events.

Celebrate spooky season for free. Halloween fun doesn’t have to cost a thing. Check out free Trunk-or-Treats, downtown trick-or-treat walks, and community carnivals happening throughout October. Explore top free Halloween events near Seattle.

Host a pumpkin-carving party. Grab your pumpkins, stencils, and snacks for a cozy carving night at home. Turn it into a family or neighborhood tradition with music, games, and prizes for the silliest or spookiest design. Get our pumpkin-carving party tips.

Families can join community Trunk-or-Treat events and other not-so-scary Halloween celebrations around Seattle.

Cozy Fall Fun at Home

Get crafty with fall art projects. When the weather turns chilly, bring the colors of fall indoors. From leaf collages to apple prints, these easy art ideas will keep little hands busy and imaginations bright. Try these fall craft projects and this simple art activity.

Make spooky snacks. Turn snack time into a Halloween celebration with these fun, frightfully cute recipes. Think banana ghosts, monster apples, and spiderweb cupcakes your little trick-or-treaters will love. Get the recipes.

Roast perfect pumpkin seeds. Don’t toss those seeds after carving — roast them! This easy recipe turns leftovers into a crunchy, lightly salted snack that’s fun to make with kids. Here’s the secret to perfect roasted pumpkin seeds.

Read together. Curl up with a blanket and a stack of good books. The Alliance for Education’s fall book list highlights stories that spark curiosity, kindness, and creativity for readers of all ages. Browse the book list.

Create a nature collection. Head outside, gather leaves, pinecones, and acorns, then turn them into art at home. It’s a simple way to blend outdoor exploration with cozy indoor creativity. Learn how to make one.

Celebrate Diwali with crafts. The Festival of Lights brings color and joy to fall. Kids can make their own paper diyas and lanterns while learning about the holiday’s traditions and meaning. Make festive Diwali crafts.

Have we convinced you that Seattle has something magical waiting around every corner this season?! Bookmark this guide for fall things to do in Seattle with kids and check off a few ideas each week — your memories are waiting to be made.

“Colorful tissue paper lantern crafts glowing with warm light, made by kids during a fall art project at home. (Image: Ashley Breckel Anderson / Seattle’s Child)

The post Seattle Fall Fun Guide: 40+ things to do with kids this season appeared first on Seattle's Child.