Whether you’re sipping cocoa under twinkly lights or watching your kids in a Christmas pageant, there’s no better place to celebrate the winter season than the Wenatchee Valley.

This guide rounds up the best holiday events, winter fun, and faith-filled traditions for families to enjoy from late November through Christmas and into the New Year.

Featured Holiday Events & Festivals

Leavenworth Village of Lights: Christmastown

Location: Downtown Leavenworth
Dates: Thanksgiving weekend through Christmas Eve (lights stay up into February)
Details: Arguably the most magical place in Washington during Christmas. Enjoy daily lighting ceremonies, visits from Santa, carolers, sledding, chestnut roasting, and more.

Wenatchee’s Downtown Cookie Stroll

Location: Downtown Wenatchee
Date: First Saturday of December
Details: Collect delicious cookies and support local businesses!

Numerica Festival of Trees

Location: Wenatchee Convention Center
Dates: Late November
Details: A beautiful indoor forest of decorated trees, wreath auctions, live performances, and family fun—all benefiting the Numerica Performing Arts Center.

Christmas in Cashmere

Location: Cottage Avenue, Downtown Cashmere
Dates: Early December
Details: Light displays, music, holiday shopping, bonfires, kids’ crafts, and Santa visits in a small-town setting.

Lake Chelan Winterfest (Pre-Christmas Fun)

Location: Chelan
Dates: January 16-25
Details: Fireworks, bonfires, ice sculptures, wine walks, live music, and winter play. Great for a weekend getaway after the rush of Christmas.

Family-Friendly Activities & Traditions

Santa Sightings & Photo Ops

• Pybus Market – Annual Santa visits + craft booths and hot cocoa.

• Coast Wenatchee Center Hotel – Santa Brunches.

• Local Malls and Tree Farms – Watch for advertised Santa hours and photo sessions.

• Wenatchee Santa — Our favorite North Pole native pops up all over town! Here’s his schedule: https://www.facebook.com/WenatcheeSanta98801/

• Brave Warrior Project — Check here for their Santa photo ops!

Holiday Light Displays

• Downtown Wenatchee & East Wenatchee – Business fronts decked out and walkable.

• Neighborhood Tours – Check local Facebook groups for the best-decorated homes or organize your own “Light Tour Bingo!”

Tree Lightings & Community Events

• Wings ‘N Wishes, East Wenatchee – This free community event is the perfect way to make memories and celebrate together.

• Light Up the Park, Entiat – Food trucks, live performances, and no shortage of Christmas magic,

Faith-Based Christmas Events

Advent Programs

Some churches offer Advent wreath lighting, devotionals, and weekly events leading up to Christmas. Perfect for helping kids understand the meaning behind the season.

Shop Local for Gifts & Cheer

• Downtown Wenatchee — You don’t have to go far to find the best toys and gifts for everyone on your list.

• Front St. Leavenworth — Wander into every store and get your shopping done in one day!

• NCW Christmas Market (Town Toyota Center) – Dozens of vendors with handmade gifts.

• Leavenworth Reindeer Farm Gift Shop – Festive shopping with a reindeer photo op!

• Chelan Christmas Market – Local artisans and winter treats.

• Pybus Holiday Market — One in November and another in December; all your favorite local vendors in one spot!

Bonus: Winter Adventures

While not strictly “Christmas,” these cold-weather activities add magic to the season:

• Tubing at Echo Valley or Ski Hill (Leavenworth)

• Ice Skating at Town Toyota Center (Wenatchee)

• Horse-drawn Sleigh Rides in Leavenworth

• Snowshoeing at Lake Wenatchee State Park

How to Use This Guide

Bookmark this guide and check back often—we’ll update it throughout the season as more dates and details become available. And don’t forget to follow @valley_moms on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for weekly holiday updates!