Seattle’s Westlake Park holiday carousel returns after years-long hiatus

For the first time in more than five years, the Westlake Park holiday carousel is returning for the 2026 holiday season.

The carousel is slated to open the day after Thanksgiving on Nov. 27, accompanied by Seattle’s annual Tree Lighting Celebration at Westlake Park, emceed by Michael Bumpus and Stacy Rost, hosts of “The Bump and Stacy Show” on Seattle Sports, according to the Downtown Seattle Association (DSA).

“We’re excited to bring back these favorite holiday traditions while introducing new experiences for everyone to enjoy,” DSA Director of Public Realm Operations Owen Harrang said. “There will be festive lighting and selfie stations throughout downtown, creating a cheerful environment for residents, workers and visitors alike.”

The carousel, which initially debuted in 1987, will run from Nov. 27 through January 3, 2027.

To accompany the carousel and tree lighting celebration, family-friendly craft-making, costumed characters, and sweet treats will be available throughout the event beginning at 11 a.m. The “massive” holiday tree lighting and star will be lit at 5 p.m., followed by a fireworks show.

“There’s nothing like the energy of downtown Seattle during the holidays, and we can’t wait to share it with you,” Harrang said.

Downtown festivities include tree lot, holiday markets and ice skating

The Pines on Pike Christmas Tree Lot will also return to First & Pike on Nov. 27, offering miniature trees five feet and under, garlands, and wreaths daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Dec. 18.

From Dec. 12-20, Occidental Square will be decked out with an ice skating rink presented by Alaska Airlines, open noon to 6 p.m. daily. The rink is free for everyone and will be paired with a festive market on its opening day, Dec. 12.

DSA also noted a “larger-than-life twist” for the 2026 holiday celebrations in Seattle, where several 25-foot-tall gnomes will inhabit the streets of Seattle, each donning their own personality. The gnomes can be seen throughout the city center from Dec. 4 through Jan. 2.

Last but not least, the Occidental Square Holiday Bazaar, Sips & S’mores on Bell Street, and an interactive train window display at Pacific Place, among various other activations, will “fill downtown with cheer.”

Additional information on what’s happening in downtown Seattle this holiday season can be found here.

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