Whether or not you celebrate Christmas, it cannot be denied that the sights, sounds, and smells of a good Christmas market will entice even the heartiest of Scrooges.
The Pacific Northwest provides visitors with a magical winter wonderland. Cozy small towns are blanketed in fresh snow, evergreen treetops glisten with twinkling lights, and the crisp air fills with the scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. Christmas markets are scattered throughout the region, each offering its own enchanting experience.
From authentic German Christmas markets in Oregon to the beloved Christmas Market in Seattle, here are some of the best Christmas markets in the Pacific Northwest.
Portland Holiday Markets
Located at the Portland Expo Center, The Portland Holiday Market takes place in late November. Here you can really do all of your holiday shopping in one place. No holiday stone is left unturned with over 10,000 square feet of shopping space filled with holiday vendors of all kinds.
Do your holiday shopping at this crafty wonderland full of gifts, food items, jewelry, artwork, home décor, clothing, ornaments, leather goods, bath and body, and so much more! It will be sure to satisfy everyone on your shopping list.
Another option is the Portland Holiday Bazaar, located at Pioneer Courthouse Square in downtown Portland. This one has so much to offer holiday shoppers on select weekend dates in late November through December. The European-inspired market features over 160 local vendors. Visitors can explore various stalls selling unique gifts, handcrafted ornaments, and warm winter apparel. Gift wrapping is also available!
Eugene Holiday Market
Since 1970, The Eugene Holiday Market, housed inside the Lane Events Center, is a great place to find unique gift items for your loved ones. You’ll be supporting local artisans while enjoying live entertainment and an assortment of fresh food at the food court.
Along with live music performances, there are children’s activities, and a visit from Santa Claus. This market is held every Saturday and Sunday from late November up to Christmas.
Silverton Christmas Market
Get ready for a holiday extravaganza like no other at the Silverton Christmas Market at the Oregon Garden Resort! This annual event is a feast for the senses, with one million lights illuminating immersive paths and transforming the gardens into a winter wonderland.
Explore the authentic German Christmas Market and shop for unique gifts from talented artisans. You’ll find everything from handcrafted nutcrackers and smokers to ornaments and other festive treasures. Marvel at the Candy Cane Tunnel, and don’t forget to stop by Santa’s workshop to share your wish list!
After all that shopping, you’ll need a break. Warm up by a cozy fire pit or take a ride down the snowless tubing hill. And of course, no holiday event would be complete without a stein of beer and some live music. Head to the Biergarten for a festive atmosphere and a chance to relax with friends and family.
Seattle Christmas Market
Set amidst the iconic Space Needle, the Seattle Christmas Market offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Explore booths filled with holiday crafts, seasonal treats, and festive wares. Cozy up with a warm cup of cocoa and take in the entertainment, including live music performances and ice-skating shows.
From late November through Christmas Eve, the Fisher Pavilion and South Fountain Lawn at Seattle Center will be transformed into a European-inspired outdoor Christmas village. With festive decorations, daily live entertainment, delectable treats, and Glühwein (hot mulled wine), it is a true feast for the senses. Beautifully handcrafted gifts from 60 local vendors make Seattle Christmas Market THE place to celebrate the magic of the season.
Leavenworth Christmas Market
Nestled among the Cascade Mountains in central Washington, Leavenworth transforms into a real-life Christmas village during the holidays. The streets of this charming Bavarian-styled town are adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. The market offers a wide array of handmade goods, gourmet food items, and locally crafted beers. Be sure to visit the outdoor ice-skating rink and the Nutcracker Museum.
The magical holiday lights come alive from Thanksgiving weekend through February!
Olympia Christmas Market
The Olympia Christmas Market is a traditional farmers’ holiday market that takes place in downtown Olympia. The market features over 100 vendors selling handcrafted gifts, housewares, and food. You’ll also find seasonal items like trees and wreaths, along with yummy baked goods, cheese, meats, and sweet treats that will make the perfect addition to your holiday meal.
Be sure to visit the website for details, as Santa will make an appearance at the market on select dates in December. He will also be strolling around the market with Mrs. Claus for the perfect photo opp, giving out candy canes and generally spreading cheer!
The Olympia Farmers Holiday Market will be open on weekends through December.
Christmas Markets Vancouver, B.C.
Located at Jack Poole Plaza, the Vancouver Christmas Market is a traditional German-style market that takes place in downtown Vancouver. Open daily from mid-November to Christmas Eve, the market features over 80 vendors selling handmade gifts, crafts, and food.
Sip, savor, and celebrate as you make your way around this amazing market. Sip coffee, beer, or mulled wine. Savor sweets, bratwurst, cheeses, and so much more! Celebrate with artisan shops, a parade, live entertainment, a walk-in Christmas tree, and MORE.
Victoria, B.C. Christmas Markets
Victoria’s spectacular waterfront is reason enough to visit during the holiday season. And while they don’t have a traditional Christmas craft holiday market, there are always several smaller holiday events and craft fairs during the winter season. This is a great online resource for finding out the latest in all things Christmassy in British Columbia’s most charming city.
