Celebrate the Holidays in Bellevue: Getting to festive fun sustainably
Posted on November 29, 2024Bellevue transforms into a holiday wonderland each year, offering a variety of magical events for all ages. Whether you're skating at the park or strolling through sparkling gardens, there's something for everyone. Here’s your guide to six standout celebrations. Click on the interactive pdf below to locate transit options for each event!
1. Bellevue Ice Rink (Nov 15 – Jan 15)
The Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink has been a beloved holiday tradition since it began 27 years ago. It's a family-friendly must-visit with 9,000 square feet of real ice, free skate lessons, themed nights, and on-site concessions. Come rain, shine, or snow, enjoy skating in the only outdoor covered rink on the Eastside.
2. Tree Lighting Ceremony (Nov 29)
Celebrate the start of the holiday season with Santa lighting a stunning 30-foot tree at the Hyatt Regency Bellevue. Following the Snowflake Lane parade, enjoy festive music, hot cocoa, and cookies.
3. Snowflake Lane (Nov 29 – Dec 24)
Nightly at 7 PM, Bellevue Way transforms into a dazzling winter spectacle. Snowflake Lane features live toy drummers, festive music, falling snow, and colorful floats, drawing 10,000 visitors nightly. This free event runs along Bellevue Way and NE 8th Street near Bellevue Square.
4. BAM Holiday Arts Market (Nov 29 – Dec 22)
Explore unique, handmade holiday gifts and enjoy interactive art exhibits at the Bellevue Arts Museum. The market, held Thursdays through Sundays, coincides with Snowflake Lane, making it a perfect evening outing for art lovers and holiday shoppers.
5. Garden d’Lights (Nov 30 – Dec 31)
Experience the Bellevue Botanical Garden aglow with over 500,000 twinkling lights. This dazzling display is a Pacific Northwest favorite, offering free admission for children under 10.
6. New Year’s Eve Night Market (Dec 31)
Ring in 2025 at Old Bellevue’s vibrant makers market featuring 40+ local craft, food, and beverage vendors. Enjoy live music, seasonal photo opportunities, and family-friendly activities from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Travel Tips for a Sustainable Holiday
Beyond the tips above, find your route by checking out Google Maps, One Bus Away, and the Bellevue Bike Map. Make sure to check out BellHop, the electric shuttle service for getting around downtown this holiday season. In many cases, BellHop can be used to get you from your transit stop to the doorstep of your destination. Check your route’s schedule to know that it still runs at your departure time.
Bellevue encourages sustainable transportation by utilizing King County Metro or Sound Transit buses and light rail to reduce holiday congestion. Carpooling, biking, or walking also helps reduce emissions and parking challenges.
Celebrate the season in Bellevue and make unforgettable holiday memories while supporting green transportation and lessening roadway stress!
Click on the image to view the full interactive PDF.
