Seattle Center Winterfest

Connect to a world of sparkling lights, amusements and spirited entertainment at Seattle Center Winterfest. Throughout the five weeks of Winterfest, those in search of uplifting seasonal spirit or delightful diversion will find seasonal decor, our Winter Train & Village, weekend entertainment on the Armory Stage, and a New Year's Eve Celebration. 

Seattle Christmas Market

From November 21 to December 23 the Fisher Pavilion and South Fountain Lawn at Seattle Center will be transformed into a European-inspired outdoor Christmas village and community marketplace. A true feast for the senses with festive decorations, daily live entertainment, sweet and savory treats, hot chocolate and Glühwein (hot mulled wine), and beautifully handcrafted gifts at over 60 local and international vendors, the Seattle Christmas Market is the perfect place to celebrate the magic of the holiday season.

Winter Train and Village

Delight in viewing a late 19th-century model train and village display, installed inside the Armory Food & Event Hall. This annual tradition has been on display for over 40 years! The public is invited to take a turn operating the train, or interact by participating in our Scavenger Hunt. Pick up your entry sheet at the Train Station, and see how many clues you can spot. The train operates 10am to 6pm daily from November 29th through December 31st. Donations accepted to keep the train operating. Audio description and accessible transcripts for the display also available from the Yard Boss at the Train Station.

Winterfest World Bazaar

Shop for your holiday gifts at this special World Bazaar, offering goods created by our Festál community partners. Browse a rotating roster of vendors on weekends, Noon to 6pm between November 29th and December 22nd.

Symetra Ice Spectacle

Our Winterfest Opening Day celebration kicks off at noon at International Fountain with a special Ice Spectacle. Listen to roving carolers while you watch talented artists create original works of art in ice.

Winterfest Campus Lighting

We are keeping the annual tradition of decking out our campus alive with twinkling lights in the trees and other specialty light features across the grounds. Pop by Seattle Center after dark and delight in the wonderland of light! Sponsored by Climate Pledge Arena.

New Year's Eve Celebration

Our free New Year's Eve Celebration offers entertainment and festivities throughout our grounds. Pop by the Armory between 8pm and midnight and hear the soulful sounds of premier Northwest band The Blue Wave. At 10pm, head out to International Fountain for a Fountain of Light show, with DJ Baby VanBeezley. Just before midnight, find your spot outside to view New Year’s at the Needle, the Space Needle’s celebratory extravaganza. Plus, food merchants and other vendors. This is the city's place-to-be on New Year's Eve!

Armory Stage Entertainment

Each weekend from November 29-December 29, we'll feature live performances on the Armory Stage, providing visitors with fun, seasonal entertainment while they check out our Winterfest Train & Village or grab a bite to eat at an Armory food merchant.

Schedule Of Events:

12:30 p.m. - Rainbow City Jazz Band

Rainbow City Jazz Band plays classic swing tunes you know and love mixed with a variety of jazz and other genres including blues, funk, and latin by diverse artists going back through the decades. Their skilled musicians come from all walks of life and with a wide range of identities and experience, coming together as a family to hone techniques for lively jams with passionate solos and walls of sound.
More than making music, though, the ensemble brings people to their feet and onto the dance floor. Whether you are a Lindy Hopper or a couples struggling to stay off each others' toes, this band is best enjoyed when caught up in the joy of dancing.