If ever there were a quintessential Christmas town, it’s Leavenworth. Only a couple hours from Seattle, it’s an easy getaway for a day or a weekend to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit.
The setting? A Bavarian-themed village nestled in the Cascade Mountains. The holiday festivities kick off on Nov. 29, when the whole town lights up with half a million lights and transforms into a Christmas wonderland. Chances are there will be snow on the ground, just adding to the magic. The lights stay on through February, but December is when the town celebrates the holidays in style, with live entertainment, carolers, holiday characters, kids’ activities, Santa, and more.
Folks gather on Front Street for the festivities. Unique shops, an array of excellent restaurants, and wineries welcome visitors to share in the holiday cheer. If you have some unique gifts to pick up, this is the place to do it. Browse dozens of shops, such as the Nussknacker Haus, with its offering of nutcrackers and ornaments, Schocolat with fine handcrafted chocolates, or Würlygigz for the latest in toys and games.
For dining, you will find German food as well as some outstanding restaurants offering local farm-to-table fare. If a beer hall is your style, head to Stein for scratch pub fare with a Bavarian twist and dozens of beers on tap.
For an elegant, single-seating, chef-inspired dining experience, Mana delivers with foraged, organic, and locally grown ingredients. Hungry for wood-fired Mediterranean-inspired shareables? Grab a table at Sulla Vita. For a classic German meal, try at Andreas Keller Restaurant. For brunch, pop in at Bear Bear.
Leavenworth is all about hospitality, evidenced by the many choices of lodging for every desired experience and budget. For an authentic mountain lodge experience, look no further than Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort. For authentic Bavarian hospitality, check in at the European-style Hotel Pension Anna (book the circa 1902 chapel if it’s available).
If you have kids and pets in tow, book a family suite at Blue Elk Inn, breakfast included. What is there to do in Leavenworth in winter besides marvel at the decorations, clap along to the entertainment, shop, eat, and drink? Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snowy countryside, all snug in a blanket, of course.
