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Ho-Ho-Holiday Fun on a Budget for Seattle-Area Families in 2023

Best holiday activities — mostly free — to make your season sparkle

Nancy Chaney
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Published on: November 17, 2023

Ho-Ho-Holiday Fun on a Budget for Seattle-Area Families in 2023

A young child's hand holds a dreidel to spin for Hanukkah - events for kids and families around Seattle celebrating Hanukkah
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Hands On Hanukkah craft sessions take place at various locations around town.

2023 Hanukkah happenings

Mercer Island’s Stroum Jewish Community Center hosts kid-focused Hanukkah events around town, including free Hands On Hanukkah craft sessions, held at multiple locations on select dates Dec. 1–14. Preregister with the J for precise dates and locations.

Community menorah lightings

Fun family attractions such as balloon twisting, music, chocolate gelt and doughnuts are part of Chabad of Snohomish County’s giant menorah lighting at Lynnwood City Hall. Free. When: Sunday, Dec. 10, 4–5 p.m.

A light and stunt show will light up Renton Landing at this celebratory event featuring Hanukkah treats, a fire-truck gelt drop and giant menorah lighting. Free. When: Sunday, Dec. 7, 5:45–7 p.m.

Gather at Junction Plaza Park for West Seattle’s beloved annual Pop-up Hanukkah with a grand menorah lighting, songs and doughnuts. Free. When: Sunday, Dec. 10, 5–6 p.m.

Celebrate the second night of Hanukkah with Chabad of Capitol Hill at this community menorah lighting at Volunteer Park in Seattle. Free. When: Monday, Dec. 7, 5:15–6 p.m.

Celebrate the festival of lights under the gaze of a beautifully lit, nine-foot-tall Menorah at the Shoreline Menorah Lighting. Enjoy delicious hot Latkes, cream and jelly-filled doughnuts and a chocolate coin “Gelt drop” performed by the Shoreline Fire Department ladder truck. When: Sunday, Dec. 10, 1:30–3 p.m.

Sweet treats

Mighty-O Donuts serves up limited-edition sufganiyot (jelly-filled doughnuts). Check the shop’s Facebook page for updates.

Next up: reindeer splurge

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