Some of Everett’s favorite holiday events are back in a big way this season … joined by a few exciting newcomers to the calendar as well!
From ice skating to Santa cruises, artisan markets to seasonal entertainment, the City of Everett’s Wintertide 2022 is packed full of exciting, family-friendly activities in and around downtown Everett, and stretching from mid-November to early January.
Kicking things off – and a must-attend event – is the Tree Lighting Ceremony, on Colby Avenue, between Hewitt and California. Beginning at 4 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 25, warm up with cocoa and cookies and wait for Santa to roll in atop an Everett fire truck, just in time to flip the switch on a tree-full of twinkling lights at 5 p.m. Stay for photos with Santa, while snow machines and holiday music set the perfect backdrop. And there’s always time for more cocoa, too!
(Don’t forget to take advantage of Everett’s FREE Everpark parking garage – right in the middle of the action!)
With Downtown Everett bedecked in holiday finery, it’s the perfect opportunity to get out and support your local shops and services. In fact, the Downtown Everett Association has added tons of extra lights to the mix, and many downtown businesses are also decorating their storefronts for a magical setting for your holiday shopping.
Watch for the Jolly Old Elf on select Thursday evenings in December as he takes a break from the activities at the North Pole to cruise Everett in a big red fire truck. The Santa Cruise will visit families at central neighborhood hubs – remember to dress for the weather and stay clear of the fire engine as it arrives and departs.
Want to give back? Everett Fire is collecting new and unopened toys for Christmas House, and nonperishable food for Volunteers of America. Bring donations to your neighborhood “Cruise” or drop them off at one of these fire stations:
- 2801 Oakes Ave.
- 3619 Rucker Ave.
- 2201 16th St.
- 1600 Madison
- 5920 Glenwood Ave.
- 9520 Evergreen Way
- 11221 Silver Lake Rd.
On Dec. 10, it’s time to get festive at Wetmore Plaza. The Wintertide Festival and Makers Market run from noon to 8 p.m., with free admission, holiday performances, food trucks and a beer garden. Bring your camera or smartphone and snap a photo with Santa, then gather around the bonfire for s’mores, cocoa or a little mulled wine.
Of course, Santa isn’t the only busy one as the holidays approach. Local artists and artisans have been hard at work and are excited to share their creations at the Everett Makers Market. Browse the beautiful wares of more than 50 local artists and makers, set beneath large, festively decorated canopies – ensuring you stay dry while enjoying the charm and feel of an outdoor market.
While you’re out and about, visit the Evergreen Arboretum and Gardens, whose Wintertide Lights shine brightly from Dec. 1 to 31. Open for the holidays from 4 to 8 p.m., admission is free, but donations to the Everett Parks and Community Services food drive would be much appreciated.
And when you just want to settle back and indulge in a seasonal performance, check out these inspired artistic offerings.
The festivities continue at the Port of Everett, where Dec. 3 brings the annual Holiday on the Bay event, with its holiday market, Food Truck Alley, tree lighting, visit from Santa, outdoor lighted boat parade and more! And head to the Port through Jan. 9 to take a spin around the ice skating rink.
The holidays await! Learn more and plan your Wintertide experiences at visiteverett.com
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