Christmas in the Valley: A Season of Light, Family, and Wonder

There’s a special kind of magic that settles over the Wenatchee Valley once the first snow falls. Lights twinkle downtown, cider simmers on the stove, and families bundle up to celebrate the season together.

The days may be shorter, but somehow, life feels fuller—filled with laughter, tradition, and the kind of warmth only found in community.

Whether you’re chasing snowflakes, strolling through Christmas lights, or cozying up at home with cocoa and a good movie, winter in the valley is a time to slow down, savor, and celebrate.

Here are some of our favorite ways to do just that.

Holiday Lights and Festive Towns

No one does Christmas quite like our little corner of Washington.

• Leavenworth Village of Lights – One of the most magical sights in the state, with twinkling lights, music, and Bavarian charm that lasts all season long.

• Downtown Wenatchee – Shop local, enjoy the lights along the Avenue, and grab a peppermint mocha or cider from a nearby café.

• Chelan Winterfest (January) – Ice sculptures, fireworks, family fun, and small-town magic by the lake.

• Pybus Market – The heart of the valley comes alive with holiday pop-ups, live music, and festive decorations.

• Nelson Family Light Show — The former Cashmere Mill site, right next to 5431 Sunset Hwy, Cashmere, WA 98815, Christmas lights start Thanksgiving night!

• Annie’s Fun Farm Light Show — Drive out to Annie’s and watch their huge wall of Christmas lights shimmer to music!

Tip: Dress warm, bring your camera, and make it a tradition to visit one new festive spot each year.

Local Markets and Seasonal Shopping

Support local makers and discover one-of-a-kind gifts at these festive shopping spots:

• Leavenworth Village of Lights: Christmastown
  Location: Downtown Leavenworth
  Dates: Thanksgiving weekend–Christmas Eve (lights stay up into February)
  The most magical place in Washington during the holidays—lighting ceremonies, Santa visits, carolers, sledding, and chestnut roasting.

• Wenatchee’s Downtown Cookie Stroll
  Location: Downtown Wenatchee
  Date: First Saturday of December
  Collect cookies from local shops while supporting small businesses downtown.

• Numerica Festival of Trees
  Location: Wenatchee Convention Center
  Dates: Late November
  Walk through a forest of decorated trees and wreaths, enjoy live performances, and support the Numerica Performing Arts Center.

• Christmas in Cashmere
  Location: Cottage Avenue, Downtown Cashmere
  Dates: Early December
  Light displays, bonfires, carolers, crafts, and Santa visits in a charming small-town setting.

• Small Town Holidays
  Location: Chelan
  Dates: November 28–January 1
  Lakefront light shows, Santa sightings, holiday markets, and festive events all season long.

Add a stop for a warm drink or treat—try Mela, Sure to Rise Bakery, or Cafe Columbia for something sweet.

Faith, Family, and Holiday Traditions

Amid the hustle of the season, don’t forget what it’s really about. Attend a local Christmas service, read the nativity story with your kids, or take a quiet evening to reflect on the year.

Start new family traditions like:

• Baking cookies for neighbors

• Reading through an Advent devotional

• Hosting a simple candlelight dinner at home

The most meaningful moments aren’t found under the tree—they’re built in the time we spend together

Christmas magic at home

When it’s too cold to venture out, lean into the cozy. Make cocoa, pull out the board games, and light a candle (or three).

Try ideas like:

• Family movie marathons (bonus points for matching pajamas!)

• DIY ornament crafting

• Hot cocoa bars or fondue nights

• Reading a Christmas book each night leading up to December 25

The valley may be quiet this time of year, but home is where the warmth truly is.

Snowy Adventures

When the valley turns white, the fun really begins.
Grab your gloves, pack the sleds, and head for the hills—literally.

• Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort – Perfect for skiers of all levels, plus a cozy lodge for cocoa breaks.

• Echo Valley Ski Area (Chelan) – Affordable, family-friendly skiing and snow tubing.

• Lake Wenatchee State Park – Great for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snow play.

• Squilchuck State Park – A local favorite for sledding with little ones.

There’s nothing quite like rosy cheeks and tired smiles after a day of winter play.

Make the Most of This Season

Whether your winter plans include exploring Leavenworth’s lights or curling up on the couch, there’s something beautiful about this season of togetherness.

Find joy in the simple things. Slow down. Let the valley remind you that even in the darkest, coldest months—light always shines.

Explore more festive fun and local happenings in our full Winter & Christmas in the Valley Guide.