Tacoma comes alive during the holiday season with numerous fun activities, local attractions, and special events. You can enjoy colorful light displays, live holiday shows, seasonal food, and unique craft markets. The city has something for everyone, whether you are visiting for a day or spending the holidays here. In this guide, we will explore the best holiday experiences Tacoma has to offer, from waterfront events and festive arts to seasonal food and shopping.
Explore Festive Waterfront Events
As the holiday season approaches, Tacoma’s waterfront becomes a place of festive cheer. The area fills with bright lights, seasonal decorations, and special events that make it perfect for families, friends, and visitors. Here’s what Tacoma’s Waterfront offers during the holiday season:
Tacoma’s Ruston Way Waterfront Lights
Ruston Way Waterfront is a great place to enjoy a holiday walk. The two-mile path along South Puget Sound is filled with bright lights that make the area cheerful for families and friends. You can stroll along the trail, visit nearby parks, or simply enjoy the views of Mount Rainier and the Olympic Mountains.
Along the waterfront, there are many spots to take a break and relax. You can enjoy a warm drink or a snack at one of the restaurants while looking at the holiday decorations. Ruston Way is a perfect place to enjoy both holiday cheer and the natural beauty of Tacoma.
Christmas Ship™ Festival by Argosy Cruises
The Christmas Ship™ Festival is a popular holiday event in the Pacific Northwest. You can hop aboard the Spirit of Seattle™ for a 1.5-hour cruise to a waterfront community. During the cruise, you will enjoy performances by a community choir and listen to Santa’s reading of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.
The cruise also offers a full-service bar with specialty cocktails, local wine and beer, and non-alcoholic drinks. There are several ways to experience the festival, where you can join the main cruise or watch the choir performances from the waterfront onshore. Each option provides a unique way to celebrate the season, whether from the water or on land.
Immerse Yourself in Holiday Arts & Culture
For your cultural holiday experiences, Tacoma offers many ways to enjoy arts and performances during the season. Two of the best ways to explore Tacoma’s holiday arts scene are attending performances at the Pantages Theater and visiting seasonal exhibits at the Tacoma Art Museum.
Holiday Performances at the Pantages Theater
For a memorable holiday performance, the Pantages Theater is a top choice. This historic theater has been hosting live shows since 1918 and offers holiday-themed ballets, plays, and concerts each year. You can watch many talented performers bring stories and music to life in an engaging environment.
Tacoma City Theaters also works with many local arts groups like the Tacoma City Ballet and Tacoma Opera to offer seasonal performances. Attending these performances at the Pantages Theater is a fun way to enjoy Tacoma’s culture and celebrate the holidays with family and friends.
Tacoma Art Museum Winter Exhibits
The Tacoma Art Museum is a wonderful place to enjoy art and culture. During the winter, the museum hosts special exhibits and holiday-themed art installations. You can explore a variety of artworks, including paintings, glass pieces, and studio jewelry.
The museum also offers events and programs that celebrate the region’s culture. Exhibits like the Haub Family Collection of Western American Art showcase both historical and modern art. The Tacoma Art Museum provides a welcoming space where everyone can enjoy and explore holiday art.
Experience Winter Magic with Local Attractions
As winter approaches, Tacoma offers many local attractions for families and visitors to make the most of the holiday season. These attractions combine entertainment and culture, giving everyone a chance to create memorable moments during the holiday season.
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium’s Zoolights
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is a popular spot for visitors of all ages. Each winter, the zoo hosts the annual Zoolights event, filling the park with millions of lights and animal-themed displays. Guests can walk along decorated paths, enjoy holiday activities, and see their favorite animals in a fresh, festive setting.
Zoolights also includes activities for kids and interactive displays for families to enjoy together. Visitors can explore themed areas, take photos with glowing animal figures, and try seasonal treats. The event makes learning about wildlife fun while celebrating the holiday season.
LeMay – America’s Car Museum Holiday Events
LeMay - America’s Car Museum provides a fun holiday experience for both car lovers and families. During the season, the museum showcases classic and modern cars and hosts holiday-themed programs for visitors of all ages. Guests can explore the large collection of American cars and learn about the history of automobiles in a festive setting.
You can join themed events, workshops, and interactive exhibits that celebrate both the season and car culture. With spacious galleries and engaging displays, the museum gives a fun and educational experience, making it a great place to enjoy the holiday season.
Savor Tacoma’s Holiday Food & Drink Scene
Along with festive sights and activities, Tacoma also offers a lively food and drink scene during the holidays. The city features a mix of cozy cafes and elegant dining spots that showcase fresh local ingredients and creative dishes.
Seasonal Dining in Downtown Tacoma
In downtown Tacoma, many restaurants offer special holiday menus during the winter season. You can choose from casual cafes or more fine-dining options, all featuring dishes made with fresh seasonal ingredients. The festive atmosphere makes these restaurants a great choice for family meals or quiet dinners with friends.
Some downtown restaurants also provide beautiful views of the city or the waterfront, which adds to the dining experience. Places like Duke’s Seafood and McMenamins Elks Temple combine delicious food with comfortable surroundings. You can enjoy traditional holiday dishes, fresh seafood, or creative fusion meals while celebrating the season.
Local Breweries and Wineries
Tacoma also has many local breweries and wineries that offer special holiday drinks and tasting events. These local breweries serve seasonal beers and limited-edition brews. Places like Pint Defiance, Peaks & Pints, and 7 Seas Brewing Tacoma let visitors try a wide variety of beers on tap, in bottles, or cans.
Wineries and bottle shops also offer seasonal wine tastings and bottles for purchase. You can learn how the wines are made and enjoy them at home. During the holidays, many breweries and wineries also host special events, making them a fun place to celebrate and enjoy Tacoma’s local flavors.
Shop Local at Holiday Markets
Holiday fun feels incomplete without shopping, and Tacoma offers a lively market scene filled with festive choices. These markets feature unique gifts, handmade items, and seasonal foods, making them a perfect place to find something special for family and friends.
Tacoma Holiday Food & Gift Festival
The Tacoma Holiday Food & Gift Festival is a popular event held every October at the Tacoma Dome. The festival has more than 550 booths where visitors can browse art, crafts, specialty foods, and unique gifts. It is designed to give a complete holiday shopping experience while highlighting local talent and creativity.
Besides shopping, the festival provides entertainment for all ages. You can enjoy live holiday music, watch cooking demonstrations, and join interactive activities at the Holiday Workshop Stage, making the experience even more festive and memorable.
Why Tacoma is Perfect for Holiday Cheer
Tacoma truly shines during the holidays as the city offers scenic waterfront views, festive lights, cultural performances, family-friendly attractions, and seasonal food and drink experiences for everyone to enjoy. You can stroll along Ruston Way, join the Christmas Ship™ Festival, or explore holiday markets and museums. Tacoma combines natural beauty with community spirit, creating a holiday celebration you will remember.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best holiday events for families in Tacoma?
Families can enjoy Zoolights, the Holiday Food & Gift Festival, performances at the Pantages Theater, festive walks along Ruston Way, and the Christmas Ship™ Festival on Puget Sound during the holiday season.
When does the Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship™ Festival™ depart from Tacoma?
The festival typically departs from Tacoma during the holiday season. You can find the exact dates and times on the Argosy Cruises website each year.
Are there indoor holiday activities in Tacoma for rainy days?
Yes, Tacoma offers many indoor options for rainy days, including holiday performances at the Pantages Theater, exhibitions at the Tacoma Art Museum, seasonal dining experiences, and the Tacoma Holiday Food & Gift Festival.
Where can I find local holiday shopping in Tacoma?
You can explore markets like the Tacoma Holiday Food & Gift Festival, downtown shops, and artisan stalls to find unique gifts, crafts, and specialty foods.
What are the top holiday light displays in Tacoma?
Top displays include the Christmas Ship™ Festival, Ruston Way Waterfront lights, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium’s Zoolights, and holiday decorations downtown, which make fun spots for family walks and photos.