A Guide to the Best Holiday Displays in the PNW
As the holiday season sweeps over the Pacific Northwest, neighborhoods, parks, and historic venues come alive with enchanting Christmas lights. While many holiday guides might lead you to the charming (but pricey) village of Leavenworth, WA, it may not fit the budget or schedule for many of us this Christmastime.
Thankfully, the PNW offers countless dazzling alternatives, from light tunnels to picturesque waterfront displays, that capture the season’s magic without the hefty travel expenses. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a cozy date night, or simply seeking a bit of festive wonder, these must-see Christmas light displays offer holiday joy for every budget.
1. ZooLights at the Oregon Zoo – Portland, OR
Website: Oregon Zoo
One of Portland’s most cherished holiday traditions, ZooLights at the Oregon Zoo transforms the zoo into a winter wonderland with over 1.5 million lights. You can walk through brilliantly lit pathways, view 3D animal sculptures, and even take a ride on the lighted train. The entire zoo sparkles with themed sections, including rainforests and the North Pole, making it perfect for families and anyone enchanted by the animal kingdom.
ZooLights offers seasonal treats, hot drinks, and photo ops with Santa, creating a warm and welcoming holiday atmosphere. Bundle up, grab a cup of cocoa, and enjoy the magic of ZooLights!
Things to Remember:
- Hand Warmers – Essential for staying warm while exploring outdoor displays.
- Portable Phone Charger – Keep your phone charged for photos throughout the night.
Available on Amazon.com [ad].
2. WildLanterns at Woodland Park Zoo – Seattle, WA
Website: Woodland Park Zoo
Another incredible zoo light display can be found at Seattle’s Woodland Park Zoo. WildLanterns brings together a stunning array of over 800,000 LED lights, with sections dedicated to winter animals and landscapes. Walk through illuminated paths featuring snowy mountains, rainforests, and animal-inspired scenes. There are activities for kids, such as faux snowball fights and a light-up tunnel to explore, making it a great spot for family fun.
Woodland Park Zoo also offers a Holiday Carousel, warm treats, and eco-friendly LED lights, so you can enjoy the display knowing it’s easy on the environment. Plan a visit for a night of sparkle, laughter, and memories.
Things to Remember:
- Festive Insulated Mug – Perfect for bringing along a hot drink to keep warm.
- Festive Walking Shoes – Ensure comfort for walking through large holiday displays.
Available on Amazon.com [ad].
3. Enchant Christmas – T-Mobile Park, Seattle, WA
Website: Enchant Christmas
Enchant Christmas at T-Mobile Park is more than just a light display—it’s a full holiday experience. Known for its elaborate Christmas light maze, Enchant features millions of lights, interactive displays, a Christmas market, and a stunning ice-skating trail. Enchant has different themes each year, so you might find yourself solving a Christmas mystery or helping Santa find his reindeer as you wander through beautifully lit paths.
The experience includes unique holiday vendors, so you can shop for local gifts, enjoy festive treats, and visit Santa’s workshop. Whether you’re bringing the family or going on a holiday date, Enchant is a PNW holiday must-see.
Things to Remember:
- Skating Gloves – Essential for comfort on the ice-skating trail.
- LED Flashlight – Useful for navigating through the maze in case of low light.
Available on Amazon.com [ad].
4. Winter Wonderland at Portland International Raceway – Portland, OR
Website: Winter Wonderland Portland
If you’re looking for a Christmas light display you can enjoy from the comfort of your car, the Winter Wonderland at Portland International Raceway is ideal. Known as the “Largest Holiday Light Show West of the Mississippi,” this drive-through event features more than 250 colorful light displays over a two-mile course. You’ll see scenes inspired by the North Pole, candy canes, and toyland, along with stunning tunnel displays.
Perfect for rainy evenings, this event lets you enjoy the season’s magic without needing to brave the cold. With cozy seating, blankets, and holiday music, you can create a memorable holiday outing with family or friends.
Things to Remember:
- Travel Blanket – A cozy blanket to enjoy during the drive.
- Bluetooth Speaker – Play Christmas music from your phone to enhance the holiday atmosphere.
Available on Amazon.com [ad].
5. Bellevue Botanical Garden’s Garden d’Lights – Bellevue, WA
Website: Bellevue Botanical Garden
Garden d’Lights transforms Bellevue Botanical Garden into an enchanting winter garden illuminated by over half a million lights. Each display is uniquely crafted to look like plants and animals from the garden, creating the effect of “living lights.” You’ll walk along paths surrounded by colorful blooms, hummingbirds, and waterfalls made entirely of LED lights, perfect for anyone who appreciates both holiday lights and natural beauty.
This display is best enjoyed on a mild winter evening, and it’s a peaceful, immersive experience ideal for families or a quiet evening with friends.
Things to Remember:
- Umbrella – Ideal for PNW weather while you enjoy the garden.
- Thermal Socks – Keep your feet warm on cooler nights outdoors.
Available on Amazon.com [ad].
6. Lights of Christmas at Warm Beach Camp – Stanwood, WA
Website: Lights of Christmas
The Lights of Christmas in Stanwood is an immersive holiday experience featuring over one million lights spread across Warm Beach Camp. Along with traditional light displays, you’ll find activities like pony rides, live entertainment, and holiday shopping. Kids can visit Santa, and there are warm holiday treats available throughout the grounds.
Lights of Christmas also offers a unique overnight stay experience in cozy holiday-themed lodges or cabins. This event is perfect for families looking for an extended holiday getaway or anyone wanting to enjoy the full holiday spirit in a beautiful, peaceful setting.
Things to Remember:
- Cozy Beanie – Keep warm while exploring the extensive grounds.
- Reusable Tote Bag – Perfect for carrying holiday goodies and souvenirs.
Available on Amazon.com [ad].
7. Fantasy Lights at Spanaway Park – Spanaway, WA
Website: Pierce County Official Website
Fantasy Lights in Spanaway Park is the largest drive-through holiday light display in the PNW. With over 300 holiday displays along a two-mile route, it’s a must-see if you want to experience the magic from the comfort of your car. Themed sections include a toyland, the North Pole, and underwater scenes, with each area telling its own festive story.
Fantasy Lights is great for families and anyone wanting a low-stress, comfortable way to enjoy the lights. Pack some hot cocoa and snacks to enjoy as you drive through this spectacular display.
Things to Remember:
- Car Phone Mount – For capturing drive-by photos or playing holiday music.
- Thermos – Keep hot drinks warm for the ride.
Available on Amazon.com [ad].
8. Holiday Lights at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium – Tacoma, WA
Website: Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium
Point Defiance Zoo’s Holiday Lights is a beloved tradition in Tacoma, featuring creative animal-inspired light displays throughout the zoo. Wander through pathways lined with penguin, polar bear, and elephant lights. Kids will enjoy visiting with Santa and seeing the real animals, many of whom stay active in the cooler weather.
There’s something for everyone at Holiday Lights, whether you’re interested in animal displays, visiting the holiday gift shop, or enjoying seasonal treats like hot cocoa. This display captures the holiday spirit while highlighting the beauty of wildlife and conservation.
Things to Remember:
- Animal-Shaped Cookie Cutters – Fun for creating holiday treats inspired by the zoo.
- Reusable Coffee Mug – Bring along a warm drink to enjoy on your walk.
Available on Amazon.com [ad].
Pashmina Wrap
9. Christmas Ships Parade – Portland, OR & Seattle, WA
Website: Christmas Ships Parade
For a uniquely PNW holiday experience, the Christmas Ships Parade takes the holiday magic onto the water. Each December, boats decked out in Christmas lights parade along the Willamette and Columbia Rivers in Portland and Lake Union and Puget Sound in Seattle. The boats sparkle against the water, creating a magical scene, especially when watched from the waterfront.
This event is free to view from the shore, making it a wonderful, budget-friendly holiday activity. Grab a blanket, some warm drinks, and head to the water’s edge for an unforgettable evening.
10. Festival of Lights at The Grotto – Portland, OR
Website: The Grotto
The Grotto’s Festival of Lights is a serene and spiritual celebration of the Christmas season. Set in the beautiful surroundings of The Grotto, a Catholic sanctuary and botanical garden, this event combines over 150 light displays with seasonal choral performances in an awe-inspiring outdoor setting. The lighted pathways wind through lush greenery, creating a peaceful ambiance perfect for quiet reflection or a family evening.
The Festival of Lights features live choral performances in the chapel, which adds a unique and meaningful experience to your holiday outing. It’s an ideal destination if you’re looking for a way to reconnect with the season’s deeper meaning in a tranquil and beautiful environment.
Things to Remember:
- Handheld Lantern – Fun, festive and also useful for a soft light source on darker paths.
- Pashmina Wrap – Stay warm while still looking festive and stylish.
Available on Amazon.com [ad]
The Takeaway
The Pacific Northwest comes alive with magical holiday light displays that blend festive cheer with the natural beauty of the region. Whether you’re looking for an immersive light maze, a quiet garden walk, or a Christmas parade on the water, the PNW has something to offer everyone.
Bundle up, gather your loved ones, and let these enchanting light displays fill your holiday season with unforgettable moments.
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As always, I’d love to hear from you! Let me know which of these displays you’ve visited or which ones you’re most excited to see. Feel free to share your tips for a festive PNW holiday below.
Last update on 2025-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
