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

This one stretches the definition of cheap, but it’s unique and cool and worth considering. Head to Cougar Mountain Zoo in Issaquah for its annual Issaquah Reindeer Festival to visit real-live reindeer. Catch a glimpse of Santa, his decked-out sleigh and see the reindeer, of course.

Details: The festival runs Dec. 1–23 and 26–30. Book timed-entry tickets online for $15–$18 which will save you a bit off walk-up admission.