The Holidays on Alki Beach: A West Seattle Waterfront Tradition

Holiday lights, waterfront carols, neighborhood gatherings, and a few favorite ways to enjoy Alki Beach in West Seattle during the Holiday Season.

Alki Beach may be best known for its summer afternoons, sandy shoreline, and views across Puget Sound, but there's something equally appealing about this West Seattle neighborhood during the holidays. The pace slows as the days grow shorter. The waterfront paths are a little quieter, restaurants offer a welcome place to warm up, and the lights across Elliott Bay become part of the evening scenery. It's also a time when neighbors come together for some distinctly Alki traditions, from Thanksgiving morning along the waterfront to holiday lights and Christmas carols arriving by boat.

If you're looking for a different way to celebrate the season in Seattle, here are a few reasons to spend some time on Alki Beach this year.

Start Thanksgiving Morning with a Waterfront Run

Thursday, November 26, 2026 | 8 AM | Alki Beach Park

For some West Seattle residents, Thanksgiving morning begins with running shoes and a walk or jog along the beach. The annual West Seattle Runner Gobble Gobble Group Run returns to Alki for its 17th year, bringing neighbors together for a casual three-mile out-and-back along the waterfront.

Runners and walkers of all abilities are welcome, and participants can turn around whenever they like. There's coffee afterward, a holiday raffle, and an opportunity to bring food donations for the local food bank. The group meets at the first covered shelter across from Alki Coffee Co. It's a relaxed way to start the holiday, get some fresh air, and spend time with the community before the day's festivities begin.

West Seattle Runner Event Details

Alki Holiday Lights Brings the West Seattle Together

Friday, November 27, 2026 | 6–9 PM | Alki Avenue SW

One of the neighborhood's favorite seasonal gatherings returns the evening after Thanksgiving. Organized by the Alki Community Council, Alki Holiday Lights brings neighbors and visitors together along Alki Avenue between 57th and 63rd Avenues SW, including the area around the Alki Bathhouse.

The evening includes holiday lights, treats, games, and opportunities to connect with the community. Volunteers help bring the celebration together each year, giving the event a distinctly neighborhood feel. The festivities are coordinated with one of Seattle's most recognizable holiday traditions: the Argosy Christmas Ship Festival.

If you're planning to attend, arrive early enough to enjoy the neighborhood activities before the ship's evening performance.

Alki Holiday Lights Event Details

Listen to Holiday Carols from the Christmas Ships

Friday, November 27, 2026 | 8:35–8:55 PM | Alki Beach

There aren't many places where you can stand on a beach in November and listen to Christmas carols coming from a brightly illuminated boat. The Argosy Christmas Ship Festival has been part of Northwest holiday celebrations for more than 75 years, and Alki Beach is one of its waterfront stops.

On November 27, the decorated Christmas Ship will arrive offshore with the Dickens Carolers performing aboard. The music is shared with people gathered along the shoreline, so you can enjoy the performance without purchasing a cruise ticket. There's also an earlier performance near Salty's on Alki Beach from 5:35–5:55 PM. Watching the ship from shore, with the lights reflected on the water and neighbors gathered along the beach, is one of those experiences that feels especially connected to living in a waterfront community.

Bring a warm coat, find a spot along the shoreline, and enjoy the music.

2026 Argosy Christmas Ship Schedule

Make Time for a Winter Walk Along Alki Beach

You don't need a scheduled event to enjoy Alki during the holidays. A winter walk along Alki Avenue offers a different perspective on a neighborhood that many people associate with sunshine and summer crowds.

On a clear afternoon, the Olympic Mountains provide a beautiful backdrop. Closer to sunset, the changing light across the water makes even a familiar walk feel a little different. The paved waterfront path is ideal for a leisurely stroll, whether you're meeting a friend, taking the dog out, or simply getting outside between holiday gatherings. When the weather turns chilly, there are cafes and restaurants along Alki Avenue where you can stop for something warm.

Shop for Local Art at Alki Arts

Saturday, December 5, 2026 | 5–7 PM

For holiday shopping that's a little more personal, Alki Arts in Morgan Junction is hosting its annual Small but Mightyexhibition.

The December show features small original works from more than 20 artists, with an opening reception on December 5 and another opportunity to visit during the West Seattle Art Walk on December 10.

The gallery is located at 6030 California Avenue SW.

It's a thoughtful alternative to traditional holiday shopping and a chance to support artists from the local creative community.

Alki Arts Events

West Seattle Junction Hometown Holidays - Not Alki, but Just as Special

Saturday, December 5, 2026 | 4–8 PM

A short drive from Alki, the West Seattle Junction hosts its annual Hometown Holidays celebration.

The December 5 festivities include a holiday night market, live music, carolers, a pet costume contest, and the community tree lighting at 6 PM.

It's a good opportunity to browse local shops, discover small businesses, and enjoy an evening in another part of West Seattle.

Additional shopping events and holiday activities are scheduled throughout December.

West Seattle Junction Holiday Schedule

Celebrating the Season along the Puget Sound

Alki Beach has a way of reminding us that some of the best neighborhood experiences are also the simplest. A morning walk beside the water. Running into someone you know at a community gathering. Watching a brightly lit boat approach the beach on a chilly November evening. The holiday season brings a few extra reasons to get outside, connect with neighbors, and appreciate this corner of West Seattle. And while Alki's busy summer days receive much of the attention, winter offers its own reasons to love being here. Whether you've called Alki home for years or are discovering the neighborhood for the first time, the holidays are a lovely time to explore the waterfront.

Event schedules may change. Check with organizers before attending.