Where to find Santa parades, holiday markets and Seafood Fest this weekend in Tacoma
Although we’re feeling a bit “Bah, humbug!” by the fact that it’s predicted to not be a white Christmas this year, that’s not stopping the Tacoma holiday season from getting into full swing this weekend.
If you’re looking to meet Santa, ice skate or enjoy some winter festivities, look no further. We drafted an extensive to-do list.
Friday: Ice skating and tree lighting
▪ Check out the first day of Sprinker Recreation Center’s Ice Lights, which runs Dec. 1-31. Ice skate to holiday music under over 35,000 lights and special effects, see the giant holiday tree, try ice bumper cars and oogle at animated displays. On Saturday from 10:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. local ice skaters will show off their talents and perform in the spectacular Ice Lights Exhibition. Events run from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., and 6-10 p.m. Friday. Address: 14824 C St. S., Tacoma.
▪ From 5-7:30 p.m. Friday check out University Place’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting in Market Square, along with performers and holiday cheer. There will be live music from the Stacy Jones Band, which will welcome Santa (he’ll be available for photos at the Civic Building Atrium in the evening). The tree lighting starts at 6 p.m. Other activities are live character performances, outdoor children’s games and activities, a stilt dancer, live reindeer from Rainier Reindeer Ranch, popular food trucks and space to sit by outdoor fires. Address: 3609 Market Place W., University Place.
Saturday: Seafood Fest and Puyallup Santa parade
▪ Saturday kicks off the 2023 Seafood Fest at the Waterfront Market at Ruston, featuring some fin-tastic food from local vendors all over the Puget Sound. “Come, be a part of this Shrimply amazing event and let the good times roll! We guarantee a whale of a time, tons of laughs and of course the freshest catch that will make you say, ‘Holy Mackrel, this festival is off the hook!’” the Waterfront Market advertised on Facebook. The event goes from noon to 6 p.m. Address: 5101 Yacht Club Road, Tacoma.
▪ From noon to 7 p.m. Saturday, Puyallup’s free holiday market will be in full swing, featuring a variety of handcrafted food and gifts. At 5 p.m. a lighted Santa parade will wind its way down South Meridian, with bands, floats and more. Address: Pioneer Park Pavilion, 165 4th Ave. SW, Puyallup.
Sunday: Tacoma holiday market and parade
▪ The annual Tacoma Sunday Holiday Market is taking place at Courthouse Square from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The curated marketplace will be full of vintage clothing, gifts, wreaths, flowers, sneakers, designers, makers and DJs. Food trucks, coffee and cocktails are available for purchase. You also can get photos with Black Santa. The event is family and pet friendly, and attendees are encouraged to bring a new unwrapped toy for a toy drive to benefit Tacoma Rescue Mission. Address: 1102 A St., Tacoma.
▪ Sunday will mark the 10th year of the Tacoma Santa Parade down South Tacoma Way. Local vendors will be selling unique gifts, food and treats from noon until 6 p.m. At 4:30 p.m. the Santa parade will begin at 50th Street and head south. Visit https://www.tacomasantaparade.com/ to find a map of the route. To register for the Ugly Sweater Contest visit Elf Headquarters between noon and 4 p.m.
