🎅 Holiday Events in Gig Harbor, WA (2025 Guide): Things to Do in December

gig harbor christmas tree lighting

Kicking of the Holiday Events in Gig Harbor is Our Most Popular Christmas Tree Lighting Event in the Harbor

Gig Harbor Tree Lighting Ceremony

  • Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025 – 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM

  • Location: Skansie Brothers Park – Gig Harbor Waterfront (Map)

  • What to expect: Live music, holiday vendors, free cookies & cocoa, and the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree to kick off the holiday season. (Gig Harbor Now)

gig harbor boat parade

Gig Harbor Lighted Boat Parade

  • Date & Time: Saturday, December 13, 2025 — 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM 

  • Where: Parade begins at Arabella’s Landing marina and circles the harbor. Best viewing from waterfront parks like Skansie Brothers Park, Jerisich Dock, the Maritime Pier, Ancich Waterfront Park or harbor-view restaurants.

  • Good to know: Free to watch. Bring blankets, warm drinks, and plan ahead for dinner if you want a waterfront-seat view. (ParentMap)

gig harbor santa village

Gig Harbor Holiday Village 2025

  • Dates & Hours:

    • Dec 6–7 — 10:00 AM–6:00 PM

    • Dec 11–14 — 10:00 AM–6:00 PM

    • Dec 18–21 — 10:00 AM–6:00 PM 

  • Location: Ancich Waterfront Park (inside the Ancich Netshed) 3525 Harborview Dr, Gig Harbor, WA 98332

  • Bonus: Free entry. Six holiday-themed photo displays perfect for greeting cards or family memories.

  • Santa Photos: Dec 13–14 & Dec 20-21 from 12:00 PM–2:30 PM. Cocoa, cider and treats available while supplies last. Bring your own camera!
    (www.gigharborchamber.net)

gig harbor lighted car parade

Gig Harbor Lighted Car Parade

  • Date: Saturday, December 20, 2025 – starting ~5:00 PM

  • Route: Begins in Uptown Gig Harbor, winding through downtown waterfront neighborhoods along Harborview Drive.

  • Perfect for: Families, couples or friends wanting a low-key, festive drive-by to enjoy holiday lights and community spirit.”
    (visitpiercecounty.com)

gig harbor light boat ride

Gig Harbor Harbor Lights Boat Tours

  • Date: Friday, December 12, 2025 -4:30 PM to 6:00 PM (1.5-hr tour)

  • What it is: A sailboat cruise around the harbor to enjoy holiday lights from the water — includes hot chocolate, cookies or seasonal drinks and holiday music. 

  • Tip: Small group (up to 6 people)  a cozy, magical way to experience Gig Harbor at night.
    Reserve here: (https://www.gigharborboatshop.org/veteran-light-tours-1www.gigharborchamber.net)

Why December in Gig Harbor Is Magical

Gig Harbor in December isn’t just about holiday events it’s about community. The cozy waterfront, softly glowing lights and gathering spots make it a place where families, couples and friends can reconnect. Whether you’re wrapping up a holiday boat cruise, gathering around a glowing tree or hunting for that perfect handmade gift at a winter market, you’re tapping into a tradition rooted in connection, small-town warmth and seasonal wonder.

Pro Tips & Planning Details

  • Dress in layers: December evenings by the water can be chilly and damp. Bring warm clothes, blankets, and maybe a thermos for hot cocoa.

  • Parking & traffic: Around the waterfront and Uptown will be busy during parades and lighting events. Aim to arrive early or use waterfront parking lots, then walk.

  • Photography ready: For holiday cards or memories: bring a good camera or phone, especially if you plan to visit Holiday Village or watch the Lighted Boat Parade from the shore.

  • Check for updates:  Websites and event listings sometimes change dates or times. Always double check the official event page (e.g. for the Gig Harbor Yacht Club or Gig Harbor Waterfront Alliance close to the date.

🎁 Closing Thoughts

December in Gig Harbor offers a genuine small-town holiday experience: parades that light up the harbor, cozy boat tours under the stars, handcrafted markets filled with local charm, and community traditions that bring neighbors together. Whether you live here or are visiting, this town transforms into a winter wonderland and this guide helps you capture every bit of its magic.

Community Holiday Markets & Fairs

  • Winterfest Arts & Crafts Show: held at Peninsula High School. While exact 2025 dates started at end of November (Nov 29–30), it often spills into early December and sets the seasonal mood.
    (phswinterfest.com)

  • TideFest Arts Fair at Gig Harbor High School, taking place Dec 6–7, 2025. Holiday-themed arts, crafts, gifts, food vendors — a great spot for unique, handcrafted gifts.
    (tidefest.org)

  • These markets are ideal for supporting local artists, finding one-of-a-kind gifts, and contributing to the Gig Harbor holiday spirit.