Since 1949, glistening lights on grand ships have glided across the Puget Sound to celebrate the holiday season. The Argosy Christmas Ships sail to more than 45 waterfront communities every year. Choirs onboard the ships greet those onshore with 20-minute performances of popular carols, while those on land keep warm near cackling bonfires waiting for their arrival.
This year, Seattle Parks and Recreation is hosting 16 bonfire events in its waterfront parks. We’ve compiled a list of events for your perusing and some tips to know before you go.
Saturday, Nov. 29
Viewing from Museum of History and Industry, South Lake Union Park
7:15-7:35 p.m.
This event takes place as part of Lake Union Park’s Greet the Season event that takes place from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. There will be activities for all ages including toy boat building, cookie decorating, card and ornament making, knot tying and dance performances.
Sunday, Nov. 30
Viewing from Gas Works Park
6:25-6:45 p.m.
Bonfire only, no programmed Seattle Parks activities
Wednesday, Dec. 3
Viewing from Pritchard Beach Park
7:50-8:10 p.m.
Bonfire only, no programmed Seattle Parks activities
Viewing from Seward Park
8:25-8:45 p.m.
Light refreshments; donations accepted
Saturday, Dec. 6
Viewing from Matthews Beach Park
9:45-10:05 p.m.
Live music and refreshments; donations accepted
Sunday, Dec. 7
Viewing from Ferdinand Street Park
5:40-6 p.m.
Bonfire only, no programmed Seattle Parks activities
Viewing from Stan Sayres Memorial Park
6:15-6:35 p.m.
Bonfire only, no programmed Seattle Parks activities
Viewing from Mount Baker Beach Park
6:45-7:05 p.m.
Bonfire only, no programmed Seattle Parks activities
Friday, Dec. 12
Viewing from Hiram M. Chittenden Locks
8:10-8:30 p.m.
Lights refreshments
Viewing from Carkeek Park
8:35-8:55 p.m.
Bonfire only, no programmed Seattle Parks activities
Saturday, Dec. 13
Viewing from Lowman Beach Park
4:20-4:40 p.m.
Bonfire only, no programmed Seattle Parks activities
Viewing from Alki Beach Park
5:10-5:30 p.m.
Pre-activities begin at 4:10 p.m., performance by the Holy Names Choir, refreshments, holiday lighting
Tuesday, Dec. 16
Viewing from Golden Gardens Park
9:05-9:25 p.m.
Bonfire only, no programmed Seattle Parks activities
Friday, Dec. 19
Viewing from Magnuson Beach
8:50-9:10 p.m.
Pre-activities beginning at 8 p.m., live music by the Emerald City Jazz Ensemble, refreshments, hundreds of luminaries
Saturday, Dec. 20
Viewing from Madison Beach Park
4:40-5 p.m.
Bonfire only, no programmed Seattle Parks activities
Viewing from Madrona Beach Park
9:45-10:05 p.m.
Bonfire only, no programmed Seattle Parks activities
Tuesday, Dec. 23
Viewing from Gas Works Park
9:45 p.m.-10:05 p.m.
Bonfire only, no programmed Seattle Parks activities
Tips from Parks Crew Chiefs
-Dress for the weather; events happen rain or shine
– Stay a safe distance away from the bonfire at all times
– Bonfires are not built for roasting marshmallows