Thanksgiving Activities in Seattle: Best Events, Turkey Trots, and Festive Fun

Seattle and communities across Washington State offer a season rich with beloved annual Thanksgiving events that bring people together, perfect for anyone planning a memorable holiday. With a wealth of Thanksgiving activities in Seattle, the city offers countless ways to make the holiday meaningful and memorable. From outdoor events and seasonal gatherings to hands-on volunteering and unique experiences, Seattle’s Thanksgiving traditions invite both locals and visitors to celebrate in style.

Every year, locals and visitors alike can look forward to a variety of Thanksgiving traditions, from lively turkey trots to bustling holiday markets, and unique dining experiences. Whether you’re interested in starting your day with a family-friendly run, shopping local crafts for the upcoming holiday season, or giving back through volunteer opportunities, Seattle’s Thanksgiving events provide something special for everyone. Explore our guide to annual festivities in Seattle and beyond, and discover ways to celebrate the season and create cherished memories year after year.

Thanksgiving Races & Charity Runs

Start your Thanksgiving morning the Seattle way — with a little movement and a lot of gratitude. Every year, runners, walkers, and families gather across the city for fun runs and charity events that celebrate the spirit of giving back. These races bring the community together to support local food banks and nonprofits, while offering a healthy and festive start to the holiday. Whether you’re running for time, for tradition, or simply to make room for an extra slice of pie, these Thanksgiving races are a feel-good way to kick off the day.

Gobble Wobble Turkey Trot – Seattle

The Gobble & Wobble Turkey Trot in Seattle is a Thanksgiving event perfect for runners, walkers, and families looking to kick off the holiday with a fun and active tradition. Held in Magnuson Park, this scenic 5K, 10K, and 13.1 race winds through beautiful lakefront paths, offering participants stunning views of Lake Washington and Seattle’s natural landscapes. Runners and walkers of all ages are welcome, and festive attire is encouraged—think turkey hats and pilgrim costumes! Not only does the Gobble & Wobble set a joyful tone for the day, but it also benefits local charities, making it a meaningful way to start your holiday with friends, family, and community.

Where: Lincoln Park 8011 Fauntleroy Wy SW, Seattle

Magnuson Park Seattle Turkey Trot

Lace up for a festive, family-friendly run (or walk!) through the scenic loops of Magnuson Park, where crisp fall air and community spirit make each step feel meaningful. With chip timing, multiple distance options, and a kids’ dash, this event offers something for everyone—whether you’re chasing a personal record or just getting outside to celebrate and support local causes.

Where: Magnuson Park, Seattle

Seattle Thanksgiving Day Ride

Hop on your bike or hop along on two wheels for a spirited cruise through Seattle’s scenic streets as the city pauses for gratitude. This fun, all-levels ride brings friends, families, and cyclists together in a festive, shared experience—no matter your pace, it’s all about community, movement, and celebrating the season on wheels.

Where: Starbucks Leschi, 121 Lakeside Ave F, Seattle

Tacoma City Turkey Trot

The Proliance Surgeons Tacoma City Turkey Trot is an annual Thanksgiving tradition in Tacoma’s Proctor District, featuring a 5K Run/Walk and a 1K Kids Run. Each participant receives a commemorative medal, celebrating their achievement. The event kicks off at Fleet Feet Tacoma on Thanksgiving morning, welcoming runners aiming for personal records and walkers seeking a festive start to their holiday. Participants are encouraged to don Thanksgiving-themed costumes and accessories, adding to the community spirit. The Kids 1K Run invites children aged 12 and under to join the fun, with parents welcome to accompany their kids without the need for separate registration.

Where: 3812 N 26th St, Tacoma

Thanksgiving Dining & Cruises

Thanksgiving in Seattle is as much about the experience as it is the meal. From elegant waterfront restaurants to scenic cruises on Lake Union and Lake Washington, there are countless ways to enjoy a memorable holiday feast. Many local venues host special Thanksgiving dinners featuring classic dishes, Northwest-inspired flavors, and stunning views of the city skyline. Whether you’re looking for a traditional turkey dinner, a buffet with all the fixings, or a relaxing cruise where someone else does the cooking, Seattle offers plenty of ways to celebrate in style and comfort.

Waterways Thanksgiving Cruise

Waterways Cruises’ Thanksgiving Day Cruise offers a unique and festive way to celebrate the holiday on Seattle’s beautiful waterways. This annual cruise invites guests to relax and enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving feast while taking in stunning views of Lake Union and Lake Washington. With a delicious buffet, a champagne or sparkling cider toast, and private tables for each party, the cruise provides a memorable setting for family and friends to gather. Perfect for those looking to try something new this Thanksgiving, Waterways Cruises combines the joy of a holiday meal with the beauty of Seattle’s iconic scenery.

Where: Waterways Cruises Lake Union Piers 901 Fairview Avenue North, Seattle

Hotel Sorrento Thanksgiving Feast

Treat yourself to an elegant, abundant holiday dining experience in the warmth of a historic Seattle hotel. This Thanksgiving feast blends tradition and flair, with rich dishes, festive ambiance, and hearty servings that let you skip the cleanup and dive straight into the joy of the season. It’s an inviting option if you want to celebrate with others in style without spending the day in the kitchen.

Where: Hotel Sorrento (Hunt Club / Stella @ Hotel Sorrento) 900 Madison St, Seattle

Water’s Table Lakeside Thanksgiving Feast

The Water’s Table Thanksgiving Feast offers a relaxing and elegant way to celebrate the holiday without the cleanup stress. Overlooking Lake Washington, it’s the kind of festive dining experience that brings people together—where you can savor locally inspired dishes, soak in the views, and enjoy meaningful time with your loved ones.

Where: Water’s Table, Hyatt Regency Lake Washington at Seattle’s Southport, 1053 Lake Washington Blvd N, Renton

Gobble Up Seattle

Gobble Up Seattle is an annual specialty food showcase that brings together local food enthusiasts and artisan vendors for a unique culinary experience. Hosted by Urban Craft Uprising, this exciting event invites visitors to explore a variety of handcrafted foods, gourmet ingredients, kitchen tools, and more from regional makers. Perfect for food lovers looking to stock up for the holidays or discover new local flavors, Gobble Up Seattle features everything from artisanal snacks and sauces to high-quality spices and beverages. Join in this one-of-a-kind food fest to sample, shop, and support small businesses that highlight the best of the Pacific Northwest’s culinary scene.

Where: Maguson Park Hangar 30 6310 NE 74th St Seattle

Thanksgiving Parades & Holiday Kickoff Events

Thanksgiving weekend in Seattle marks the unofficial start of the holiday season, filled with parades, festive lights, and community celebrations. Families gather downtown to watch colorful floats, marching bands, and costumed performers usher in the magic of the season. These events bring a joyful energy to the city, blending Thanksgiving gratitude with the excitement of what’s to come. Whether you’re watching a parade, visiting a tree-lighting ceremony, or enjoying the first wave of holiday displays, Seattle’s kickoff celebrations set the perfect tone for the weeks ahead.

Downtown Seattle Tree Lighting Celebration

The Downtown Seattle Tree Lighting Celebration invites you to usher in the holiday season with magic, sparkle, and community joy. Expect family-friendly crafts, costumed characters, giveaways, and a crescendo moment when the 45-foot holiday tree and iconic star light up under Seattle’s winter evening skies.

Where: Westlake Park, Downtown Seattle

Seattle’s Holiday Wonderland Returns

Seattle Shines Bright — Holidays in Seattle 2024 brings back marquee celebrations like Enchant’s giant light maze, the Seattle Christmas Market, and beloved traditions across the city. From whimsical winter strolls to festive performances, this seasonal lineup invites everyone to soak up the spirit of the holidays in Seattle’s unique style—rich with lights, music, and local charm.

Where: Seattle Center, Winterfest, New Year’s at the Needle

Holiday Magic in Seattle

Holiday Magic in Seattle offers a festive blend of time-honored traditions and sparkling seasonal experiences across the city. From dazzling tree lightings and light mazes to gingerbread displays, holiday boat cruises, and classic performances like The Nutcracker, this seasonal roundup invites locals and visitors alike to savor the spirit of the holidays in every corner of Seattle.

Where: Space Needle, Seattle

Thanksgiving Community Meals and Volunteer Opportunities in Seattle

Every Thanksgiving, Seattle communities come together in a spirit of generosity and support through annual volunteer opportunities and community meals. These events provide a chance for residents to share the holiday’s warmth with neighbors, whether by serving meals to those in need or donating essential items to local food drives. Embracing the season of giving, these cherished traditions allow individuals and families to make a positive impact and connect with the community in meaningful ways, year after year.

Seattle’s Union Gospel Mission

Seattle’s Union Gospel Mission is a compassionate organization dedicated to breaking the cycle of homelessness and poverty in the Seattle area. With a focus on providing meals, shelter, addiction recovery, and life-changing services, the Mission supports individuals as they work toward lasting stability and hope. Through comprehensive programs addressing both immediate needs and long-term goals, Union Gospel Mission empowers people to rebuild their lives. Whether you’re looking to volunteer, donate, or support community initiatives, there are countless ways to get involved and make a difference with Seattle’s Union Gospel Mission.

Where: Men’s Shelter: 318 2nd Ave Extension S, Seattle, Women & Children’s Shelter: 7136 38th Ave S, Seattle

Northwest Harvest

Northwest Harvest is a leading hunger relief organization in Washington State, committed to ensuring equitable access to nutritious food for everyone. With a vast network of food banks, meal programs, and partner organizations, Northwest Harvest works year-round to combat food insecurity and support those in need, while also advocating for policies that address the root causes of hunger. Each Thanksgiving season, they provide several volunteer opportunities, welcoming individuals and families to assist at the SODO Community Market in Seattle with tasks such as greeting guests, bagging groceries, restocking shelves, and sorting donations. Volunteers can also participate in the annual KING 5 Home Team Harvest, a statewide effort to end hunger that typically runs from late October through December. Through donating, volunteering, or supporting their advocacy initiatives, there are many ways to join Northwest Harvest in making a lasting impact on the fight against hunger in Washington each year.

Where: SODO Community Market 1915 4th Ave S Seattle

Donate/Volunteer here

Seattle Holiday Markets and Craft Fairs: Your Guide to Festive Shopping and Local Gifts

Seattle’s holiday markets and craft fairs bring festive cheer and unique shopping opportunities to the city each winter season. From handcrafted gifts and artisan foods to seasonal decorations and specialty items, these markets showcase the talents of local creators and small businesses. Visitors can explore Seattle’s iconic holiday events like the Winterfest at Seattle Center, Magic in the Market at Pike Place, and neighborhood craft fairs across the city. These events provide a perfect way to find one-of-a-kind gifts, enjoy holiday treats, and support the local community, all while soaking up Seattle’s festive atmosphere.

Pike Place Annual Magic in the Market

The Annual Magic in the Market at Pike Place Market is a beloved Seattle tradition that kicks off the holiday season with festive fun for the whole family. Each year, visitors gather at the iconic market to enjoy live music, meet Santa, and watch the holiday tree lighting ceremony that transforms the market into a winter wonderland. With dozens of local vendors offering unique holiday gifts, seasonal treats, and handcrafted items, Magic in the Market provides a perfect opportunity to shop local while experiencing the warmth and excitement of the holidays. This annual event captures the magic of the season and invites the Seattle community to celebrate together.

Where: 85 Pike Street Seattle

Seattle Christmas Market

The Seattle Christmas Market brings the magic of a European holiday fair to Seattle Center, complete with artisan shops, festive eats, live music, a double-decker carousel, and twinkling light displays. Stroll through its charming lanes, sip seasonal drinks, drop a note in Santa’s mailbox, and soak in that holiday cheer with friends and family under a canopy of lights.

Where: Seattle Center, Fisher Pavilion Block, Seattle

Seattle Holiday Arts and Culture: Top Performing Arts Events to Enjoy This Season

Seattle’s vibrant cultural and performing arts scene offers an array of festive events throughout the holiday season. From captivating ballet performances and heartwarming theater productions to enchanting concerts and art exhibits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. These holiday-inspired cultural events provide the perfect opportunity to embrace the season, experience Seattle’s artistic talent, and create cherished memories with friends and family.

George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker

Pacific Northwest Ballet’s George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker® is a beloved Seattle holiday tradition, captivating audiences each year with its enchanting choreography, vibrant costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score. Hosted annually at McCaw Hall, this magical production brings the classic story to life, inviting families and friends to experience the wonder of the season together. With stunning set designs and memorable performances, PNB’s Nutcracker offers a festive escape and a memorable way to celebrate the holidays.

Where: Marion Oliver McCaw Hall 321 Mercer Street Seattle

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Holiday Pops

The Seattle Symphony’s Holiday Pops concert series is a cherished seasonal tradition that fills Benaroya Hall with the festive sounds of the holiday season. These performances bring together classic holiday tunes, orchestral favorites, and joyful surprises, creating a warm, family-friendly atmosphere perfect for kicking off the season. Audiences of all ages are invited to enjoy the magic of live holiday music, with the Seattle Symphony offering a memorable way to celebrate and share in the spirit of the holidays.

Where: Benaroya Hall 200 University Street Seattle

Seattle’s Top Outdoor Activities to Enjoy This Holiday Season

Seattle’s holiday season sparkles with outdoor activities and enchanting light displays that capture the magic of winter. From beautifully lit gardens to festive parks and scenic winter trails, there are countless ways to experience the season’s beauty in the fresh, open air. These events invite families, friends, and visitors to bundle up and enjoy the glow of holiday lights, creating a warm and memorable way to celebrate the holidays outdoors.

Snowflake Lane Holiday Parade

The Snowflake Lane Holiday Parade transforms Bellevue’s downtown into a living winter wonderland, complete with snow, dazzling floats, live drummers, dancers, and festive music. It’s the kind of nightly holiday ritual that invites you to stroll, gaze, and feel the magic—perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting to soak in that seasonal sparkle.

Where: Bellevue Way NE (between NE 4th & NE 8th Streets), Bellevue

Astra Lumina: Enchanted Night Walk

The Astra Lumina: Enchanted Night Walk transforms the Seattle Chinese Garden into a starry, immersive experience where light installations, soundscapes, and cosmic motifs guide visitors along a magical one-mile path. It’s equal parts art, nature, and wonder—an experience that invites you to wander, reflect, and get lost in a luminous world.

Where: Seattle Chinese Garden, 6000 16th Avenue SW, Seattle

If you’re looking to explore even more fun activities in Seattle beyond the Thanksgiving season, be sure to check out our full page of exciting and upcoming fun things to do in Seattle. From seasonal events to must-see attractions, there’s always something happening in Seattle to make your visit unforgettable.