Seasonal December 06, 2022
The seaside town of Gig Harbor, Washington is a welcoming destination any time of year, but during the holiday season this charming waterfront hamlet transforms into a magical Christmas town that will delight young and old alike. Festively decorated store fronts mesmerize passers-by, and local vendors invite visitors to come in from the cold and peruse their wares.
Sherry Adams
Occasionally, Mother Nature scatters snow just in time for the holidays. Nothing says magic like the waterfront, glittering under a blanket of freshly fallen snow. But even when the skies are clear, Gig Harbor is a small town that will remind you of a simpler time, reminiscent of a Norman Rockwell painting.
Sherry Adams
Gig Harbor is beautiful any time of the year, but this charming little gem of a town has something extra special at Christmas time. The true meaning of the holiday season is unmistakable as the community bands together to support small businesses and local charities.
Sherry Adams
As you stroll down Harborview Drive, you might catch a glimpse of Santa’s elves (town workers) setting up the town’s Christmas tree in Skansie Brothers Park, which is lit at the annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony.
Sherry Adams
Every year on the first Saturday in December, people gather downtown to officially ring in the holiday season with the lighting of the Gig Harbor Christmas tree. Live entertainment and a visit from Santa himself complete the festive event.
The city bursts into festive cheer in Gig Harbor. If you’re looking for unique Christmas gifts, look no further than downtown shops for locally curated goods, clothing, toys and books.
Boats of all sizes line the harbor for a festive display of twinkling lights and whimsical decorations. From tiny kayaks to majestic yachts, the illuminated boat parade delights crowds year after year, circling the harbor in a luminous display of holiday cheer.
Join in the fun as brightly decorated cars shine uptown for all to admire. This is a popular community event that anyone who loves the holidays can attend. The illuminated car parade will put you in the Christmas spirit. Food and toy donations are raised for local charities and Santa takes a break from his busy schedule to join in the celebrations.
Put on some Christmas music and take an evening cruise around the harbor during the holiday season. Sparkling lights, fragrant garlands and ornate trees are everywhere you look. You can’t help but get in the holiday spirit in such a cheerful environment.
If you’re longing for the Christmas of your childhood and want to escape to a small town with a sense of community and love for the holidays, Gig Harbor is the place for you! The inviting sights and sounds of this beautiful city will have you coming back year after year.
Have you visited the charming town of Gig Harbor, Washington? We’d love to hear from you. Tell us about your experience in the comments.
Address: Gig Harbor, WA, USA
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