Thanksgiving in Seattle – Best Things To Do + Events + Activities in 2025

Thanksgiving in Seattle is perfect for festive fun due to city celebrations, nature escapes, and culinary experiences, all surrounded by the charm of the Pacific Northwest. So plan your visit to Seattle at Thanksgiving holidays as there are so many amazing things to do in Seattle on Thanksgiving.

👉🏼Thanksgiving In San Francisco – Best Things To Do + Events + Activities in 2024

Celebrating Thanksgiving in Seattle: Events, Activities, and Travel Tips

Here’s your complete guide to celebrating Thanksgiving in Seattle, with event highlights, must-do activities, weather insights, and tips for an unforgettable holiday.

Seattle Thanksgiving Weather

In November, Seattle experiences cool, wet weather.

• Average Temperatures: Highs around 51°F (10°C), lows around 42°F (5.5°C).
• Rain: November is Seattle’s rainiest month, so be prepared for drizzles and occasional downpours. Packing a waterproof jacket, umbrella, and sturdy walking shoes is essential.
• Sunset: Days are short, with sunset around 4:30 PM. Early morning outings are ideal to make the most of daylight.

Seattle Thanksgiving Events 

Turkey Trot Seattle

• When: Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2024
• Where: Green Lake Park

Kick off Thanksgiving with this festive 5K event at Green Lake Park. It’s open to runners, walkers, and families, making it a fun, active way to celebrate while supporting local food banks.

Seattle Macy’s Holiday Parade

• When: Day after Thanksgiving
• Where: Downtown Seattle

This annual parade features festive floats, marching bands, and giant helium balloons. It’s a beloved Seattle tradition that marks the beginning of the holiday season.

Winterfest at Seattle Center

• When: Starting last week of November, and continuing through December
• Where: Seattle Center

Winterfest is a family-friendly festival with holiday lights, an ice skating rink, and live performances. It’s the perfect spot to embrace the season’s cheer, sip hot cocoa, and explore art installations.

Argosy Christmas Ship Festival

• When: Starting last week of November
• Where: Various departure points around Seattle

This cherished Seattle tradition includes a flotilla of decorated boats with holiday lights and live carolers. You can view the festivities from the shore or book a seat on the ships for a unique, festive experience.

Seattle International Auto Show

• When: Last weekend of November 
• Where: Lumen Field Event Center

The Seattle International Auto Show offers car enthusiasts a chance to see the latest models from major car manufacturers. It’s a great indoor activity, perfect for a rainy Thanksgiving weekend.

👉🏼Thanksgiving In Lake Tahoe – Best Things To Do + Events + Activities in 2024

Things to Do in Seattle On Thanksgiving

Explore Pike Place Market

Wander around Pike Place Market, Seattle’s famous food and craft market, to pick up fresh ingredients for your Thanksgiving feast. You’ll also find holiday-themed gifts and seasonal produce.

Tips: Avoid peak hours and explore the lower floors for unique shops and quieter areas.

Thanksgiving Dinner with a View – Recommended Spots:

• The Space Needle’s SkyCity Restaurant: Enjoy a rotating view of Seattle while savoring a special Thanksgiving menu.
• Canlis: This fine-dining spot has breathtaking views over Lake Union and offers an unforgettable Pacific Northwest-inspired Thanksgiving dinner.

Reservations: Book early as these spots fill up quickly for the holiday.

Visit the Seattle Art Museum (SAM)

Spend an afternoon exploring SAM’s permanent collection and current exhibits. The museum is open throughout the holiday weekend and offers a relaxing indoor activity.

Special Exhibit: Look for any seasonal exhibits or holiday-themed installations.

Stroll Through Discovery Park

Seattle’s largest park offers over 500 acres of forested trails, meadows, and beaches with beautiful views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.

Tips: Dress warmly and consider a morning hike to enjoy the serenity and fall foliage.

Take a Ferry to Bainbridge Island

Take a scenic ferry ride to Bainbridge Island for a refreshing half-day trip. Explore quaint shops, dine at cozy cafes, and enjoy waterfront views.

Tips: Check ferry schedules beforehand, as frequencies are less on Thanksgiving Day.

👉🏼Thanksgiving In Orlando – Best Things To Do + Events + Activities in 2023

Dining Options in Seattle at Thanksgiving

Seattle’s restaurant scene embraces Thanksgiving with both traditional and inventive dining options. Here are some popular choices.

1. The Dahlia Lounge: Known for its Pacific Northwest flavors, The Dahlia Lounge offers a Thanksgiving menu focused on fresh, seasonal ingredients. It’s a great spot for those looking to experience local flavors with a holiday twist.
2. Ray’s Boathouse: This waterfront restaurant is a Seattle icon, offering a Thanksgiving menu featuring seafood and holiday favorites. It’s perfect for a meal with views over Puget Sound.
3. Hotel 1000 – BOKA: A top choice for brunch lovers, BOKA at Hotel 1000 offers a brunch buffet with traditional Thanksgiving items and a modern, upscale setting.

Valuable Tips for Holidays in Seattle at Thanksgiving

• Plan for Rain: A raincoat and waterproof shoes are essential for Seattle’s wet climate. Layers are also helpful for staying comfortable between indoor and outdoor activities.
• Book Accommodations Early: Hotels near downtown and popular attractions fill up quickly during the holiday weekend. Consider staying in neighborhoods like Capitol Hill or Queen Anne for unique accommodations and vibrant local scenes.
• Public Transportation: Seattle’s light rail and bus systems are convenient, especially when parking is limited during the holidays. Download the OneBusAway app to navigate Seattle’s public transit easily.
• Arrive Early for Events: Many holiday events, especially the Macy’s Parade and Winterfest activities, are popular and crowded. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
• Parking and Traffic: There is heavy traffic on Thanksgiving weekend, especially around major shopping areas. If you’re driving, plan for extra travel time and use paid parking apps to locate available spots.

Day Trips from Seattle for Thanksgiving Weekend

If you’re looking to explore the nearby places of Seattle on Thanksgiving, then check out these few nearby destinations.

1. Leavenworth: Just two hours from Seattle, this Bavarian-themed town transforms into a holiday wonderland with festive lights, holiday shopping, and cozy restaurants.
2. Snoqualmie Falls: A short 45-minute drive from Seattle, Snoqualmie Falls offers a breathtaking waterfall view amidst lush fall scenery. It is perfect for a nature escape.
3. Mount Rainier National Park: Approximately two hours from Seattle, this national park has many scenic hiking trails and majestic mountain views, perfect for nature lovers who want to experience a tranquil Thanksgiving weekend hike.

Why Celebrate Thanksgiving in Seattle?

1. Beautiful Autumn Scenery: Late November brings fantastic fall foliage to Seattle’s parks and waterfront areas. Natural landmarks like Mount Rainier and Olympic National Park provide a chance to see the scenic backdrop, adding exceptional warmth to the chilly holiday.
2. Unique Thanksgiving Events: Seattle hosts a variety of Thanksgiving and holiday-themed events that capture the spirit of the season, like Turkey Trots, holiday markets, and family-friendly activities.
3. Culinary Delights: Seattle is known for its incredible food scene, from classic Thanksgiving dinners to locally sourced, fresh food feasts. Many restaurants offer special Thanksgiving menus to enjoy your festive dinner with Pacific Northwest delights.
4. Outdoor Adventures: Seattle is the perfect launchpad for enjoying nature, whether hiking in the mountains, a day trip to scenic nearby islands, or exploring charming coastal towns.

Thanksgiving in Seattle is the complete mix of urban excitement and natural beauty, making it a perfect place to celebrate the holiday. With so many events, dining options, and scenic spots to explore, Seattle is perfect place to experience a memorable Thanksgiving in 2024.

Picture Courtesy – CanvaPro

Follow more on social media channels at 

Facebook, Twitter   , Instagram   Pinterest

Youtube.

Read the Disclaimer, Affiliate & Cookie Policy by clicking here.