Last updated on May 28th, 2026
Leavenworth is a little slice of Bavaria tucked away in the Cascade Mountains of Washington State, and it delivers big on the Christmas spirit. With so much to see and do, we’re sharing exactly how to have a magical Christmas in Leavenworth, Washington this winter!
In 2018, we made our first (of many) trips to Leavenworth during the holiday season, and wow, did it exceed our expectations! Famous for being a Bavarian-inspired village, we can confirm that this adorable town is as close to resembling a European Christmas market as you can imagine—without actually stamping your passport!
We got to walk around front street, listen to carolers, and munch on some seriously good bratwurst all while soaking in the holiday spirit. Plus, in the winter, the streets are lined with over half a million Christmas lights. That’s a ton of lights!
In this post, we’re sharing exactly how to experience a truly magical Christmas in Leavenworth, Washington. We’ll cover everything from when to see the Christmas lights, where to get the tastiest seasonal Bavarian snacks, and the best outdoor activities to experience this time of year! Plus, we’ll provide tons of helpful tips to make your holiday adventure to Leavenworth even more amazing.
About Leavenworth, Washington
Just a two-hour drive east of Seattle, is Leavenworth, Washington. Visiting this town is one of the most fun things to do in Washington! This cute little Pacific Northwest town is situated in the heart of the Cascade mountains and has an interesting story as to how it became the Bavarian-themed village it is today.
In the 1960s, Leavenworth faced some economic hardship after the railroad relocated and the logging industry dwindled, so the town sought a way to revive its fortunes.
Inspired by the success of Solvang, a Danish-themed town in California, they decided to transform Leavenworth into a Bavarian village to attract tourists. This decision was made, in part, because the surrounding Cascade Mountains resembled the Bavarian landscape. The idea was to create a unique tourist destination that would differentiate Leavenworth from other towns in the region.
The transformation began with architectural changes to the buildings in the downtown area. Facades were redesigned to resemble traditional Bavarian buildings, complete with timber framing, window shutters, and decorative murals. Businesses followed suit, adopting Bavarian-themed names and offering German-inspired cuisine and goods.
To further enhance the Bavarian atmosphere, festivals and events, such as Oktoberfest and the Christmas Lighting Festival, were introduced throughout the year to celebrate Bavarian culture. These events attract thousands of visitors annually, providing a significant boost to the local economy.
Best Things to Do in Leavenworth, Washington at Christmas
1. See the Christmas Lights in Downtown Leavenworth
During the holiday season, Leavenworth is known as the “Village of Lights” because they go all out with over half a million Christmas lights! It’s seriously so magical!
And, did you know that you don’t have to wait until December to experience the magic of Christmas in Leavenworth, Washington? In fact, the town’s famous Christmas lights illuminate the streets from Thanksgiving all the way through the end of February!
Plus, holiday festivals, such as the Winter Karnival, Christmas Town, and the Lantern Parade, all happen in December. You can also check out events like the Bavarian Ice Fest in mid-January. So, even if December doesn’t work for you, there’s still plenty of time to enjoy the Christmas spirit in Leavenworth!
You can always check out Leavenworth’s calendar of events to see what’s happening year-round!
A+K Tip: While the lights are a must-see, consider visiting on a weekday or after the Christmas rush to enjoy the lights with fewer people around.
2. Indulge in Bavarian Delights
One of our favorite memories from Leavenworth has got to be wandering around town and trying all the hearty Bavarian food! Bratwurst, schnitzel, glühwein (hot spiced wine), and pretzels as big as your head…need I say more?
Our absolute go-to spot for grub in Leavenworth is München Haus. Trust me, it’s the ultimate bratwurst experience!
For something sweet, you’ve got to check out the Bavarian bakery for mouthwatering German pastries like streusel and Berliner. Or swing by the Gingerbread Factory for traditional lebkuchen cookies.
Craving something other than German cuisine? Yodelin Broth Company and Beer Garden both offer a cozy atmosphere and hearty fare, while Heidleburger Drive In is perfect for satisfying those burger cravings after a day of winter adventures. And if you’re craving pizza, Rudloof’s Pizza is another solid choice.
3. Leavenworth Sleigh Rides
Have you ever dreamt of dashing through the snow in a one-horse open sleigh? Well, in Leavenworth, you can!
Mountain Springs Lodge, just a quick 25-minute drive from Leavenworth, offers three different sleigh rides, and honestly, they all sound so fun. Each ride lasts between 40 to 50 minutes, and they all end with a hot cup of apple cider by a fire.
Definitely consider bringing a blanket to keep warm during the ride, or you might want to pick up a special one from their gift shop (they were $35 when we checked).
A+K Tip: Try to book a seat in the first row for the best views!
4. Visit the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm
Christmas in Leavenworth wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm! It’s hands-down one of the coolest experiences you can have in Leavenworth, especially if you’ve got kids along for the ride.
Here, you can hold massive reindeer antlers, feed the animals right from your hand, and meet the rest of the herd. Seriously, it’s super cool, and the reindeer are just so cute!
Tours start at $25 per person (with an affordable $5 rate for children under three years old).
And if you happen to work up an appetite, Blitzen Brew, the farm’s concession stand, serves up some incredibly tasty treats like Alaskan Reindeer Sausage and hand-rolled Norwegian Potato Lefse.
A+K Tip: Book the tour online in advance since it’s one of the most popular things to do in Leavenworth during Christmas time, and slots fill up super quick.
5. Explore the Nutcracker Museum
Head over to the Nutcracker Museum, where you’ll find the largest collection of nutcrackers in the United States! It’s literally filled to the brim with over 9,000 nutcrackers from all over the world. Some are really, really old, making it a total blast to explore. Plus, don’t miss the chance to see the world’s largest nutcracker, standing at a towering 6 feet tall!
Additionally, they’ve got a gift shop where you can buy your own souvenir Nutcracker or even a paint-your-own Nutcracker kit. Admission is just $5 per adult, so it’s totally worth checking out during your time in Leavenworth!
6. Skiing and Snowboarding at Stevens Pass
Skiing or snowboarding at Stevens Pass is an absolute winter must-do when you’re in Leavenworth. Stevens Pass is just a 45-minute drive west of Leavenworth on Highway 2.
With 52 major runs and an elevation that promises a good snow cover, Stevens Pass has a good mix of terrain for every level of skier and snowboarder.
A+K Tip: Do yourself a big favor and try to plan your visit for a weekday (you’ll skip the bulk of the crowds). But if weekends are your only option, aim to get there by 8 AM to snag good parking and hit the slopes before everyone else. And, definitely buy your lift tickets online in advance to help you skip the lines.
Leavenworth Ski Hill
For those looking for something a tad closer to Leavenworth and perhaps a bit more low-key, the Leavenworth Ski Hill is a good option. It’s literally minutes from downtown Leavenworth and, while it doesn’t have the variety of runs found at Stevens Pass, it offers a couple of ski runs, a tubing hill, and a chance to try ski jumping (on a very, very beginner-friendly scale).
It’s perfect for families or anyone just wanting to dip their toes into the skiing world without venturing too far. (Plus, we absolutely adore the old-school feel here). You can purchase an adult day pass here for $29.
7. Enjoy a Winter Soak at Scenic Hot Springs
Did you know that within an hour’s drive from Leavenworth are some amazing natural hot springs? Scenic Hot Springs features three separate tubs, each with varying temperatures. It’s a bit more private, too, with a max of 10 people allowed at any one time. So, yes, you’ll likely share this soaking experience with others, but it’s a fun way to meet new people!
Getting to Scenic Hot Springs is a bit of an adventure, but totally worth it, and we’re pretty sure it’s going to climb to the top of your Leavenworth must-do list.
It’s about a 50-minute drive from Leavenworth, past Stevens Pass, with quite a steep uphill 2-mile hike to get to the springs. You can expect the hike to take around an hour (or a bit longer if it’s snowed recently). If there’s a lot of snow, you’ll definitely want snowshoes.
Also, there are no trash bins at the hot springs, so whatever you bring in, you’ve got to take out.
Reservation: Check the Scenic Hot Springs website well in advance to snag a reservation. They can be scarce, especially on weekends or holidays.
8. Experience A Winter Festival
From November through the end of January, this Bavarian-inspired town comes alive with some seriously festive winter celebrations!
Every Thanksgiving weekend, Front Street Park and the Leavenworth Festhalle host Christkindlmarkt, a Bavarian-style Christmas market that features vendors and artisans showcasing their wares (hello, Christmas shopping!). Plus, there are tons of festive activities to get you in the spirit, and let’s not forget about the mouthwatering authentic Bavarian foods!
Celebrated in January, the Bavarian Ice Festival features ice carving competitions and snow sculpture contests, so there’s plenty to see and do. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take a plunge into the icy waters of the Wenatchee River (how cool is that?).
You can check out all the winter festivals here.
9. Sip Traditional Glühwein (German Mulled Wine)
One of the best ways to experience the winter magic of Leavenworth is by indulging in a glass of Glühwein. This traditional German beverage is a holiday staple, featuring hot mulled wine infused with aromatic spices like cinnamon sticks, star anise, and orange.
One place you can experience a glass of authentic glühwein is at Bergdorf Cellars, a super cute wine shop located on Front Street. You can also check out some other local favorite wine rooms downtown, such as Ryan Patrick Wines and Patterson Cellars Tasting Room. Eagle Creek Winery and Icicle Ridge Winery are great places to visit to experience wine tasting at the vineyards themselves.
A+K Tip: Look for wine tasting tours that offer a shuttle service so you can enjoy the beverages without worrying about driving.
10. Go for a Snowshoeing Adventure
After the Cascades get a good dusting of snow, one of the best things to do in Leavenworth is to explore on a pair of snowshoes! Here are a few of our favorite spots for snowshoeing around town:
Icicle Ridge: This is a great hike that overlooks Leavenworth and the mountains, giving it a mix of “city” and nature views.
Skyline Lake Trail: This trail offers stunning views and a moderate challenge, making it a rewarding choice for those looking to spend a few hours in the snow.
Sleeping Lady Resort: Not only can you rent equipment here, but you’ll also find beautifully maintained trails that weave through the resort’s scenic property.
Lake Wenatchee State Park: A bit farther out, this park offers expansive trails by the lake that are perfect for snowshoeing and skiing, offering breathtaking views and a good chance of spotting wildlife.
Stevens Pass Nordic Center: For those who want a variety of trails (and the convenience of rentals), this center has you covered. It’s great for beginners and seasoned skiers alike.
Leavenworth Winter Sports Club: They maintain several trails in the area and are a good source for local snow conditions and events.
If you need to rent equipment, Der Sportsmann is a local go-to for rentals. They’re incredibly helpful, especially if you’re new to snowshoeing or skiing, and they can point you towards the best trails for your skill level and interests.
11. Warm Up with a Cup of Coffee at Argonaut
After a day filled with festive adventures in Leavenworth, there’s no better way to warm up and recharge than with a cup of coffee at Argonaut. We absolutely love this cozy spot, and we make a point to stop there every single trip. And if you’re craving variety, J5 Coffee is another super popular option in town.
12. Slide Down the Hillside on a Sled
Sledding in Leavenworth after a fresh snowfall is an absolute blast, and there’s actually quite a few places you can go!
Front Street Park Sledding
Right in the heart of downtown, Front Street Park is the go-to spot for families, especially if you’ve got kids. The sledding hill here is super popular and perfectly located, so you really can’t miss it.
A+K Tip: It’s a smart move to BYOS (bring your own sled) if you can. The ones for sale nearby tend to be a bit pricey, and the selection is somewhat limited.
Waterfront Park Sledding Hill
While the kiddos might dominate the scene at Front Street Park, those seeking a bigger thrill (and fewer crowds) should make their way to Waterfront Park. Just stroll southeast on 9th Street and hang a left at the T in the road. This will lead you straight to a sledding hill that’s a bit more under the radar.
Leavenworth Ski Hill Tubing
For those who have their hearts set on tubing, Leavenworth Ski Hill is your destination. Here, you can grab a tube and zoom down the hill for a 90-minute session, all for $20 per person.
13. Sample German Brews
If you’re looking to dive into Leavenworth’s brewery scene during the winter, you absolutely have to make a stop at Icicle Brewing. It’s a must-visit spot in town and, hands down, the top brewery in Leavenworth. For those who love dark beer, you can’t miss out on their Dark Persuasion. This German cake stout is an absolute treat! (you can also enjoy their brews at München Haus!)
Another hot spot for brews in Leavenworth that you’ll want to check out is Blewett Brewing Company. Trust me, it’s worth a visit for their fantastic selection of craft beers!
Additionally, these breweries host various events in November and December, including movie nights, game nights, and trivia.
14. Go Snowmobiling
If you’re venturing to Leavenworth this winter and are eager for an adventure beyond the typical ski slopes, snowmobiling is something you might want to consider. And with over 150 miles of trails, there’s so much to explore! (We’ve yet to try it out ourselves, but it’s high on our list after hearing rave reviews about the experience).
The tours are offered by Leavenworth Snowmobile, based out of Mountain Springs Lodge in the town of Plain, just a short drive from Leavenworth. They have a range of options from 1 to 3 hours, which is perfect because you can choose one that fits into your day and matches your adventure level.
Plus, there’s a chance you could spot some wildlife, like moose, which would be pretty awesome! In addition to the tour, they provide all the gear you might need, like a snowsuit, gloves, boots, and helmet, so you’re all set for the ride!
15. Stroll Downtown Leavenworth
Throughout the entire Christmas season, there’s a whole bunch of festive activities to enjoy downtown, including sampling roasted chestnuts, a yearly children’s Cookie Crawl, a Gingerbread House Exhibition, opportunities to snap photos with Santa himself, a gift-wrapping station to take the stress out of holiday shopping, and so much more!
You can also check out Christmas Town at the Gazebo. When we were there, it was such a blast—choirs, carollers, and bands performing daily, right in the heart of town. We could either stop and enjoy the show or just listen to the music as we wandered around.
If you are looking for a few shops to pop in and browse on front street, places like Pine Hill Mercantile, Paprika, and Kris Kringl are some of our favorites!
16. Eat Local Ice Cream at Whistlepunk
Whistlepunk Ice Cream Co. is a must-visit destination for anyone with a sweet tooth. All of their ice creams are made with the finest local ingredients. Seriously, make it your mission to swing by for a scoop (or two!)
Some local favorites include Bertha’s Caramel Brownie and Blackberry fool. I still reminisce about the lemon bar cone I had one summer—it was pure sunshine in a scoop. And don’t skip the waffle cone, it’s so good!
Tips for Visiting Leavenworth in the Winter
Visit after Christmas
Consider visiting after Christmas when the lights are still up but the crowds have started to dwindle. This way, you can enjoy the festive activities without the hustle and bustle of peak holiday season.
Paid Parking
Be prepared for parking challenges, especially during weekends and holidays. Many parking lots charge a fee, often around $20 a day via the Kiosks or the ParkMobile App, so factor this into your budget. Consider arriving early to secure a spot or explore alternative transportation options like shuttles or taxis.
Book in Advance
Research and book any Christmas-specific activities or events in advance to avoid disappointment. Whether it’s sleigh rides, visits to the reindeer farm, or snowmobiling, booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out on the holiday fun.
Be Flexible with your Schedule
Mother Nature can be unpredictable, so have a backup plan in case of weather surprises. Consider having indoor activities or alternative outdoor activities in mind in case of inclement weather.
Prepare for the Weather
Leavenworth can experience heavy snowfall and cold temperatures in the winter, so be prepared. Check the weather forecast before your trip and plan accordingly. Snowstorms can make driving to or from Leavenworth challenging, so stay updated on road conditions.
Dress for the Cold
Dress warmly with layers, hats, gloves, and sturdy shoes. Opt for waterproof and insulated outerwear to stay dry and comfortable in the snow. (You can check out our top travel gear and packing list here).
Winter Weather Conditions in Leavenworth
In Leavenworth, snowfall occurs between November and March, with December typically receiving the highest amount of snow, making it ideal for a white Christmas. Here’s a breakdown of the average monthly snowfall during the winter:
November: Around 5.4 inches (Highs: 42°F, Lows: 33°F)
December: A whopping 17.4 inches (Highs: 34°F, Lows: 22°F)
January: Roughly 15.9 inches (Highs: 34°F, Lows: 20°F)
February: About 7.2 inches (Highs: 40°F, Lows: 29°F)
March: Just a sprinkle, around 2 inches (Highs: 48°F, Lows: 34°F)
How to Get Around Leavenworth in the Winter
Getting around Leavenworth is a total breeze! This adorable Bavarian-themed town is super compact and pedestrian-friendly. Plus, there are loads of transportation options to choose from. Whether you’re strolling around on foot, hopping on public transport, or cruising in your car, exploring Leavenworth is an absolute blast!
Leavenworth Christmas Train
You absolutely can’t miss the Leavenworth Christmas Train by Amtrak! This special winter ride is seriously awesome, running every Saturday in December. Hop aboard from Seattle and get ready for an epic trip to Leavenworth, where you’ll experience the annual tree-lighting festival in the most fun way possible!
Public Transit
Traveling around or beyond Leavenworth is a breeze on a budget with Link Transit. Their routes connect Leavenworth to nearby communities, making it stress-free to venture out without the hassle of driving. You can easily plan your trips using the schedules and routes available on the Link Transit website.
Shuttles and Taxis
If you’re looking for a more direct route or simply not up for a walk, don’t worry, Leavenworth has you covered. Leavenworth Shuttle & Taxi is the go-to for shuttles, especially convenient for reaching hiking spots outside of town or organizing group outings.
Driving
For those with their own wheels, or if you’re renting a car, navigating Leavenworth by car is pretty straightforward. If you’re expecting some snowy conditions, it’s a good call to go for a car rental with all-wheel drive or grab some snow chains (especially for driving over Stevens Pass). Also, aim to hit the road earlier in the day to avoid driving in the dark!
Walking Around Town
Walking around town in Leavenworth during winter is such a blast, especially with its pedestrian-friendly streets! Plus, with the main attractions clustered in the downtown area, you can easily hop from shop to shop or grab a hot cocoa at one of the cafes without worrying about driving or parking.
Best Places to Stay in Leavenworth, Washington for Christmas
Looking for the perfect place to stay in Leavenworth? This Bavarian town offers a range of lodging options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some great options for lodging that promise to make your stay absolutely phenomenal:
Downtown Hotels
Hotel Pension Anna
If you’re after that genuine old-world feel, look no further. With Bavarian furnishings straight from Austria and Germany, this place totally nails it. Plus, it’s located right in the heart of town!
Blue Elk Inn
This spot has classic Bavarian vibes on the outside but is totally renovated (and dog-friendly) on the inside! Plus, it’s only a 10-minute walk to downtown Leavenworth.
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Cozy B&Bs and Inns
Storybook Riverside Inn
Nestled along the scenic Wenatchee River, this hotel offers breathtaking views and is great for those looking for an adult-only accommodation.
Enzian Inn
This alpine-inspired Inn features charming Austrian antique furnishings, and wow, is it stunning! Plus, guests can enjoy access to indoor and outdoor pools, a family game room, and more.
Luxury Resorts
Posthotel
Indulge in the ultimate romantic retreat at Posthotel, boasting a dreamy spa, inviting pool, and luxurious rooms that promise an unforgettable experience.
Bavarian Lodge
With an unbeatable location of this downtown hotel, this is a top choice because of its lodge-style ambience.
Icicle Village Resort
This resort has it all! It’s super close to downtown and has year-round heated pools and hot tubs and a full-service Alpine Spa!
Vacation rentals
Valhalla-One bedroom condo (1 bedroom, 1 bathroom)
Icicle Village Resort (1 bedroom, 1 bathroom)
Abenteuer Haus downtown (2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms)
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About the Author
This blog post was written by our writer Nicoll. Learn a bit about her below!
After six years of full-time travel, Nicoll is now a mountain-loving mama living in Colorado with her husband Jake, their sweet baby girl Teagan, and their pup Gunner. She loves hiking, riding her dirt bike, and finding joy in the little things.
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