Holiday Events in Gig Harbor 2025: Parades, Santa Photos, Markets & Family Fun
The holidays are here, and Gig Harbor is bursting with magical events and traditions for all ages! From creative workshops to sparkling parades, this vibrant community has something for everyone. Here’s your guide to making the most of the season.
Holiday Village at Donkey Creek Park
From December 7th to December 28th, Donkey Creek Park will be decked out in holiday splendor. Visit this free, family-friendly attraction to explore six holiday-themed photo displays, perfect for creating your next holiday greeting card. Stroll through the village during park hours and capture the magic of the season.
Gnome Hunt: A Family Adventure
Throughout December, embark on the 2nd Annual Gnome Hunt! Hidden in and around businesses in the waterfront district are 15 mischievous gnomes waiting to be found. Discover them all and enter to win a $100 gift card to a waterfront business of your choice.
Want to add a personal touch? This year, children can create and donate their own gnomes in partnership with Stitch O’ Roo. Sign up for the November 9th Gnome Making Class and be part of the fun!
Cookies & Cocoa at the City Tree Lighting
Kick off the holiday season with the annual city tree lighting on Saturday, December 7th, from 4:30 to 6:30 PM at Skansie Brothers Park. Enjoy complimentary cookies and cocoa, live music, and festive activities for all ages. Santa will make a special appearance, spreading holiday cheer and creating cherished memories.
Free Photos with Santa
Bring your family (and well-behaved pets) to Donkey Creek Park for free photos with Santa. Snap pictures on your own device while enjoying complimentary cocoa, cider, and treats, thanks to local sponsors BBQ2U, The Old Cannery Furniture Warehouse, and B’s Bagels.
Santa Photo Dates:
- December 14th & 15th: 12 PM – 2:30 PM
- December 21st & 22nd: 12 PM – 2:30 PM
Be sure to arrive early as lines may close 30 minutes prior to the event end time.
History Museum Holiday Market
Come and shop at the Museum’s first annual Holiday Market! Each vendor booth is thoughtfully curated, featuring a wide range of unique, artisanal products. You can find handcrafted goods such as beeswax products, holiday greens, beautiful, beaded jewelry, artwork, and more! Local artisans, small businesses, and independent creators will showcase their wares.
There will also be several photo ops throughout the museum for fun family holiday pictures. Admission is $5 for non-members and free for members.
Dates:
- December 13th, 10 AM – 5 PM
- December 14th, 11 AM – 3 PM
Location:
Gig Harbor History Museum | Gig Harbor Waterfront
Santa’s Boatshop
On December 14th & 15th, 2024, grab your kiddos and head down to the Gig Harbor Boat Shop for their annual Santa’s Boat Shop! Kids of all ages can build and paint a wooden-toy version of a classic Gig Harbor workboat. Please plan approximately one hour to build and paint your boat.
Details:
- Ages 3 and up.
- Children must be accompanied by an adult.
- Cost: $25 per child or $20 for GHBS members.
Lighted Boat Parade
On December 13, 2025, head down to the waterfront and enjoy this Gig Harbor tradition put on by the Gig Harbor Yacht Club. The parade begins around 5 PM and there are several great viewing locations like Skansie Brothers Park, Jerisich Dock, Ancich Waterfront Park, and the Bogue Viewing Platform.
Pro Tip: Grab dinner reservations for your family at one of our amazing waterfront district restaurants!
Lighted Car Parade
Grab your favorite spot along Harborview Drive in the waterfront district and save your seat for the 5th Annual Lighted Car Parade. The parade leaves Uptown around 5 PM and winds its way through the downtown waterfront district.
It’s a sight to see and fun for the entire family!
Create Lasting Memories in Gig Harbor
These events capture the heart of the holiday season, bringing community members together in the spirit of joy and giving. Don’t miss out on the festivities that make Gig Harbor such a magical place to celebrate.
Pro Tip: Bundle up, bring your camera and get ready to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. We can’t wait to see you there!
