Things are going “very well” at the Seattle Christmas market.

Christmas is only ten days away, but don’t despair! The Seattle Christmas Market is still around (to meet all your holiday needs)!

Founded in 2023, the Seattle Christmas Market is located in downtown Seattle, right next to the Seattle Space Needle. Offering German food and drink, entertainment, seasonal decorations, handicrafts and gifts, this modern twist on a traditional German market has something for everyone.

While there’s entertainment such as the light-up tunnel of love, a woodland walk with familiar tales and a merry-go-round, there’s also plenty of food and drink to sample. Gluwine at the Christmas pyramid there is mulled wine and Kinderpunsch for the kids! There are also beer, coffee and apple cider stalls!

There are also many food options. Theirs site provides a detailed list of vendors that have tags for gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, nut-free, dairy-free, and sustainable options. House of Paella offers different paella bowls depending on the day as a delicious gluten-free option. Tarts from a tin also offers gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options for traditional cakes, all with festive holiday designs!

You certainly can! In addition to sweet treats like boxes of chocolate and decorated candy applesThere are many gifts for people of all ages. There are several different stalls selling handmade stuffed animals as well as handmade hats and luxury leather goods.

A Stall of Polish ceramics uses handmade techniques including sponge stamping and hand embellishments to make each piece unique. All parts are oven, microwave, dishwasher and freezer safe! For children, a licorice gourmet stand can make a perfect stocking stuffer. These ropes are two feet long and come in over thirty unique flavors, from sweet rainbow to classic red!

Although traditional Christmas markets are free, this one has an entrance fee. While most German Christmas markets rely on government funding, this event is run independently, with entry fees used to rent the venue and decorate. While there are about five dollar days on the market where select time slots cost as little as five dollars, most single tickets cost $19.99 per person. Fortunately, children under the age of six travel for free.

Despite the price of admission, one vendor told The Blast that business has been going “very well” this year and is expecting an even bigger turnout in the run-up to Christmas. The event, which started last year, drew some complaints about long lines, overcrowding and a bit of confusion over timed entry. Fortunately, the Christmas Market, which runs until December 24 this year, seems to be running much more smoothly this year.

Fans swinging by the igloo at the Winter Playground at the entrance will be able to take a photo with Santa Claus himself, Saint Nicholas. Photography is free and guests are provided with a free print to take home with them. Santa comes at different times every day, so be sure check the schedule before heading out to make sure you get the perfect photo opportunity!

In addition to taking pictures with Santa, there is also a “family favorite” scavenger hunt designed to keep the kids busy. A free scavenger hunt is available at the Market Information Hut located next to the restaurant. The scavenger hunt includes a maze, word search and more! It will be available during the entire period of operation of the market, from November 21 to December 24.

The Seattle Christmas Market is open rain or shine, but if the inclement weather gets too much for you and your family, there are many popular attractions nearby, including the popular Space Needle. The Museum of pop culture will also provide a day of entertainment with attractions that include costumes from real celebrities such as Beyoncé and Michael Jackson.

For the kids, there are also exhibits from the Harry Potter movie franchise and even Harry’s glasses! There is a Death Star II film set designed by Bevel Lemelisk and used in the 1983 film Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi. There are also costumes and props used in movies and shows like Lord of the Rings, Game of Thrones, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and more!