Holiday Cheer Awaits: Snohomish County’s Best Holiday Markets to Visit This Season! 🎄
It’s that magical time of year in Snohomish County, when twinkling lights, festive music, and the aromas of spiced cider and fresh pine fill the air. Holiday markets are setting up shop all over the area, offering the perfect chance to pick out unique, handmade gifts, enjoy seasonal treats, and support local artisans. Whether you’re a holiday shopping pro or just out for some festive fun, here are some of the top markets around Snohomish County to get you in the holiday spirit!
🎅 The Downtown Holiday Market
When: Late November – Early December
Where: Historic Downtown Snohomish
Why Go: Picture yourself strolling through charming, festive streets while enjoying a cup of hot cocoa or cider! The Downtown Holiday Market in Snohomish is a true holiday wonderland with over 50 vendors offering handcrafted gifts, seasonal décor, local treats, and artwork. This is a great spot to find unique, handmade treasures while basking in Snohomish’s small-town holiday magic.
Highlights: Live carolers, holiday lights, and plenty of cozy cafes to warm up in between shopping stops.
🎄 Everett Holiday Craft Fair
When: First weekend of December
Where: Edward D. Hansen Conference Center, Everett
Why Go: For shoppers looking for a wider range of holiday items, this large craft fair in Everett has you covered! With over 100 vendors selling everything from locally made jewelry to home décor, clothing, and food items, you’ll find something for everyone on your list. This indoor fair is also perfect for a rainy day adventure.
Highlights: Enjoy live music, holiday-themed workshops, and a photo booth with Santa himself!
🧸 Mill Creek Festival of Trees and Holiday Market
When: Early December
Where: Mill Creek Town Center
Why Go: Mill Creek transforms into a winter wonderland with beautifully decorated Christmas trees, holiday lights, and festive booths featuring handcrafted items, holiday treats, and more. Shop around the Town Center’s market while taking in the beautiful tree displays, all created by local groups for charity.
Highlights: This is a great event for families! There’s a special tree-lighting ceremony and plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy. Kids will love the chance to decorate ornaments, and the tree display is always dazzling!
🕯 Marysville’s Merrysville for the Holidays
When: First Saturday in December
Where: Marysville’s Comeford Park
Why Go: This one-day festival is packed with holiday cheer! In addition to the traditional holiday market with vendors selling crafts, ornaments, and homemade gifts, there’s a parade, a tree-lighting ceremony, and even fireworks.
Highlights: The Electric Lights Parade is a showstopper, featuring glowing floats and costumed performers. The night ends with a grand fireworks display—ideal for a family night out!
🍫 Arlington’s Hometown Holiday Market
When: Every Saturday in December
Where: Legion Park, Arlington
Why Go: Arlington goes all out for the holidays! Each Saturday, the Hometown Holiday Market brings together local vendors, musicians, and holiday enthusiasts. This outdoor event feels like a charming, European-style Christmas market, with holiday crafts, artisanal gifts, fresh wreaths, and delicious seasonal treats like kettle corn and hot chocolate.
Highlights: Enjoy wagon rides, live reindeer, and plenty of photo opportunities. This market is super family-friendly, and the holiday lights in Legion Park make for a beautiful evening experience.
🍪 Sultan Winterfest
When: Mid-December
Where: Sultan High School
Why Go: This cozy community festival and market is a hidden gem in the heart of Sultan. Winterfest offers an assortment of vendors selling handmade items, jewelry, holiday decorations, and baked goods. A truly local experience, it’s a great place to find unique gifts and enjoy the warm, festive atmosphere.
Highlights: Kids can make their own crafts, meet Santa, and listen to live holiday music. Plus, you’ll find plenty of homemade goodies from local bakers to bring home (or enjoy right there!).
🥧 Holiday Bazaar at Thomas Family Farm
When: Late November
Where: Thomas Family Farm, Snohomish
Why Go: If you love Snohomish’s famous farms, you’ll be thrilled with this festive addition. Thomas Family Farm’s Holiday Bazaar is filled with local vendors selling everything from handmade soaps and candles to baked goods, holiday décor, and unique art pieces. It’s a cozy market with a rustic farm charm, set against the backdrop of the picturesque Snohomish countryside.
Highlights: Sample local cider, shop for one-of-a-kind gifts, and enjoy the farm’s welcoming ambiance. Perfect for a weekend afternoon out!
🛍 Bothell’s Annual Holiday Market at Country Village Shops
When: Early December
Where: Country Village Shops, Bothell
Why Go: This holiday market is a Bothell tradition, set up in the charming Country Village. You’ll find a curated selection of crafts, homemade treats, and gifts for everyone. It’s an ideal destination for an afternoon of holiday shopping, complete with decorated storefronts, live music, and kids’ activities.
Highlights: Enjoy pony rides, photos with Santa, and a beautiful tree-lighting ceremony to end the evening. The Village’s quaint charm and festive décor make this market a seasonal favorite!
Tips for a Festive Market Day Out:
- Dress Warmly: Snohomish County’s weather can be brisk, especially in the evenings, so layers are your friend!
- Bring Reusable Bags: Markets have lots of goodies, so you’ll want sturdy bags to carry everything home.
- Support Local: These markets are filled with local vendors, so your purchases support small businesses and artisans in the area.
- Plan for Family Fun: Many markets have kid-friendly activities, so bring the whole family for a full day of festive fun!
The holiday markets in Snohomish County capture the warmth and magic of the season while offering something unique at every turn. So grab your mittens, a warm drink, and get ready to explore! Happy holiday shopping, Snohomish County!