As winter wraps Wenatchee in a blanket of white, a sparkling radiance brightens the frosty night. It is the season for all things merry and bright. Once again, homes and businesses are neatly adorned so that a magnificent display of Christmas lights can be eagerly explored during Wenatchee’s holiday season in 2024!
Village of Lights Christmastown
Leavenworth
As winter descends upon the region, a sparkling radiance brightens up the frosty nights with the arrival of the Village of Lights Christmastown in Leavenworth. From November 28 (Thanksgiving) through February 28, 2025, over half a million lights illuminate the beautiful Bavarian Alpine Village from 6 a.m. until 11 p.m. each day. There’s no charge to visit and experience this magical display, making it feel as though you’re stepping into a living snow globe.
The Christmastown Festivities, running from November 29 to December 24, 2024, bring an extra layer of holiday cheer to Leavenworth. In the heart of downtown, the Gazebo becomes a lively hub under a canopy of twinkling lights in the park. Entertainment abounds throughout the month with choirs, carolers, and bands such as the fan-favorite Sugar Plums, who put their unique spin on holiday classics. Local musicians and talented school groups add to the festive atmosphere, delighting cheering crowds. During the first three weekends of December, holiday characters led by Santa and Mrs. Claus march to the Gazebo, welcoming visitors with photo opportunities and festive fun.
Another highlight of Christmastown is the Festhalle, where families can take photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus amidst a beautifully decorated hall. Festive holiday concerts and performances, like the hilarious antics of Manuela Horn and the traditional Bavarian-style Leavenworth Alphorns, add to the joyful experience. Kids will love the daily story corner, writing letters to Santa, and crafting holiday keepsakes to take home. The Festhalle also features Santa costumes from around the world, Gingerbread house competitions, and numerous family photo stations. Visitors can purchase Christmastown merchandise and enjoy free gift wrapping for any gifts bought in town.
Lights at the Lake
Downtown Chelan
During the winter, Lake Chelan becomes a dazzling spectacle, with holiday lights illuminating the serene waters and surrounding landscapes during the city’s annual Lights at the Lake event. The entire valley is adorned with vibrant colors, creating a picturesque scene that reflects off the lake, enhancing its natural beauty. The festive atmosphere is palpable and enchanting, from twinkling displays that line the streets to grand installations that light up the night sky.
One of the standout features of this event is the Driving Holiday Light Tour. This interactive road map guides you through a leisurely holiday car ride with your family, free for everyone to enjoy. Begin your enchanting journey on South Lakeshore Drive and continue into Downtown Chelan. The route will take you through charming neighborhoods, the quaint area of Downtown Manson, and the picturesque wineries and vineyards, turning this drive into a festive family adventure filled with twinkling lights and holiday magic at every turn.
The Lights of Christmas Bus Tour
415 F Street Southwest, Quincy
Embark on a festive holiday journey with The Lights of Christmas Bus Tour. This intimate, private gathering, led by Pete Romano—the man instrumental in making this holiday tradition happen for decades—promises an enchanting evening filled with twinkling lights from Quincy to Dodson Road. The tour boards at 4:45 p.m. on December 22 in the parking lot of the Quincy Valley Historical Society & Museum. As you sip hot chocolate and join in on Christmas sing-alongs, you’ll be transported through a dazzling array of holiday lights that brighten up the night.
Another exciting ride is the Polar BusXPress, an affordable, family-oriented trip to see Santa and Mrs. Claus. This bus boards at 5:30 p.m. on December 13 and 14, with the Conductor stamping your Golden Ticket. Enjoy a heartwarming story, festive music, and plenty of hot chocolate on board. As you journey through beautiful Christmas light displays on your way to the “North Pole” at the Pioneer Church building, children will be thrilled to see Santa and Mrs. Claus beside the big Christmas tree inside. Suitable for children ages 3-12, each child also receives their own Christmas bell to ring, bringing an extra touch of holiday joy to their adventure.
NCW Wine Tours Christmas Lights in Wenatchee
3 North Worthen Street
Experience the holiday magic with North Central Washington Wine Tours, which offers enchanting Christmas Lights in Wenatchee tours this December. Held on December 6-8, 12-15, 19, 21-23, and 27-29, this guided tour takes you through the charming city streets of Wenatchee and East Wenatchee, showcasing the sparkling lights of the Valley.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy a magical holiday ride as you’re whisked away on this magical holiday adventure through the city. Along the way, indulge in hot, nonalcoholic beverages, sing along to festive songs, admire the cheerful decorations, and delight in candy canes for the children. The tour begins at 5:30 p.m. with pick-up at Pybus Market Place, and for 90 minutes, you will be transported through Wenatchee’s winter wonderland of lights, concluding the journey back at Pybus.
With so many holiday displays illuminating the night, the 2024 Wenatchee holiday season will surely be merry and bright!
