Two weeks from tonight, the Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship makes its annual visit to Alki Beach, 8:35-8:55 pm (after serenading Salty’s on Alki 5:35-5:55 pm). The later stop at the beach is during a community event that just keeps getting bigger every year – Alki Holiday Lights – here’s the official announcement from the Alki Community Council:
Alki Beach will sparkle with holiday cheer on Friday, November 27, as the Alki Community Council presents Alki Holiday Lights, a free, family-friendly celebration featuring Santa, festive activities, beach bonfires, and the opening-night visit of Argosy Cruises’ Christmas Ship Festival.
From 6:30–8:30 p.m., families can enjoy free photos with Santa at Alki Bathhouse, along with cookies, hot cocoa, holiday crafts, glow toys, and children’s craft activities. Holiday characters will roam Alki Avenue, while neighborhood restaurants and businesses offer seasonal treats and specials.
At 8:35 p.m., the Christmas Ship arrives off Alki Beach, bringing a beloved Northwest holiday tradition to Seattle’s birthplace. Beach bonfires, courtesy of Seattle Parks and Recreation, will add to the festive waterfront atmosphere.
“Alki Holiday Lights is about bringing neighbors, families and local businesses together to celebrate the season,” said Charlotte Starck, president of the Alki Community Council. “There’s something magical about seeing children meet Santa, families gathered around beach bonfires, and the Christmas Ship lighting up the water. It’s a wonderful way to kick off the holidays.”
“I grew up on Alki, and the Argosy Christmas Ships are a core childhood memory. The Alki Bathhouse used to host Christmas activities with free cookies and cocoa that made the evening festive and brought our community together,” said Zak Nyberg, vice president of the Alki Community Council. “Alki Holiday Lights aims to continue those traditions, celebrating the season with our beach neighborhood while helping drive winter foot traffic to local businesses. Christmas holds a special place in my heart, and this nostalgic celebration builds on what makes our community special.”
This page on the ACC website has more info on what’s happening that night. See a video of last year’s highlights here.