The Best Time to Visit Leavenworth: Complete Seasons and Events Guide

Wondering when the best time to visit Leavenworth is?

Living just one state over in Montana, Leavenworth, Washington is a place my husband and I love to visit. We definitely have our favorite time to go, but I’ll share that with you in a bit.

In this post, I’m going to walk you through what each season has to offer so you can pick the perfect time for visiting Leavenworth. Whether you’re after a winter wonderland or a sunny mountain escape, you’ll find the best time that matches your ideal getaway.

By the end, you’ll know exactly what makes each season special in this charming Bavarian town and how to make the most of your trip, no matter when you go!

When is The Best Time to Visit Leavenworth?

This is probably not going to be the answer you want to hear, but it really depends on what you’re looking to experience in Leavenworth.

Leavenworth is actually pretty amazing all year round, with exciting activities for every season.

Spring brings blooming flowers and festivals, while summer is perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking and river rafting. Fall in the Cascade Mountains is so stunning, with vibrant colors that will leave you speechless, and then winter in Leavenworth is like a real-life Hallmark movie.

Personally, my favorite time to visit is during the winter holidays.

Christmas in Leavenworth is truly magical and unforgettable. With the entire town lit up with over half a million twinkling lights, it’s like a winter wonderland.

Each season offers something unique, so let’s take a closer look at what you can expect throughout the year and help you find the best time for your visit.

What Each Season Brings to Leavenworth Washington

Leavenworth has all four seasons, plus the best part – 300 days of sunshine.

Temps can peak at a pleasant 77 degrees in July and August but can plummet to 18 degrees in December. But, no matter the season, there’s always something fun and exciting to do.

Let’s take a look!

Winter in Leavenworth

Winters in Leavenworth are pure magic and full of holiday spirit! It’s no surprise it’s called the “Ultimate Christmas Town” in the US.

From as early as late October all the way through March, you can expect five solid months of snow. December has the most, averaging nearly 18 inches of fresh powder. Plus, it’s the coldest month, with temps ranging from 26°F to 34°F.

But don’t let the temps keep you away. There’s so much to love about winter here!

Whether you’re skiing, sipping hot mulled wine, or taking a romantic horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow, there’s no shortage of festive things to do in Leavenworth.

And don’t forget to stroll through downtown Leavenworth to see the twinkling Christmas lights—it’s the kind of magic that creates unforgettable memories, no matter who you’re with.

Just bundle up, and you’ll have a blast!

Best Things to Do in Leavenworth in The Winter

• Window shop along Front Street – Stroll through this charming Bavarian village.
• Visit the Nussknacker Haus or check out the quirky Nutcracker Museum – The largest Nutcracker museum in the US.
• Ski in fresh powder at Leavenworth Ski Hill – Whether you’re a pro or a newbie, this spot is great for all levels.
• Take a magical horse-drawn sleigh ride – Enjoy the wintry wonderland with a classic sleigh ride.
• Feed the reindeer at Leavenworth Reindeer Farm – Yup, you can get close and personal with real-life reindeer.
• Grab some yummy sweet treats from the Gingerbread Factory.
• Explore the festive Christkindlmarkt – The ultimate holiday market for unique gifts!
• Join in the fun at the Leavenworth Ice Festival – Ice carving, snowball fights, and winter games—it’s a blast!

Tips on Visiting Leavenworth in The Winter

• The Christmas lights stay up until the end of February! If you visit in January or February, you’ll still get that holiday charm, but with smaller crowds and cheaper hotel prices. It’s a great way to enjoy the holiday magic while saving a bit of cash.
• If you don’t like driving on snowy, icy roads, there’s an Amtrak train from Seattle to Leavenworth. It drops you at Leavenworth Icicle Station, just five minutes from downtown.
• If You need to arrange for transportation to your hotel. I recommend the Leavenworth Shuttle and taxi service.
• Lock in and book any Christmas-specific activities in advance so you don’t miss out. The sleigh rides, visits to the reindeer farm, or snowmobiling tours fill up fast. So, book ASAP.
• Be flexible with your schedule. Mother Nature can be unpredictable, so have a backup plan in case of weather throws a wrench in your plans.
• Parking can be tricky, especially on weekends and holidays. To save yourself the hassle, consider the shuttle or taxi. But Leavenworth is also very walkable, so you can just walk to almost everything.

Spring in Leavenworth

If you are planning on visiting Leavenworth in the spring (March to May), it is absolutely fabulous as everything starts to bloom!

The temp is starting to rise, ranging between 39°F to 60°F, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Sure, you might get around 6 inches of rain, but it’s spread out over the season, so it’s really not that wet. And the great thing is you’ll get longer sunshine hours!!

I’ve got you covered with some must-dos and insider tips for a spring getaway to Leavenworth. It’s a great time to explore this little town and the Cascades with less crowds!

Let’s take a look.

Best Things to Do in Leavenworth in The Spring

• Attend the Maifest festival filled with lively events, traditional German music, dancing, and colorful parades.
• With snowmelt comes rapids. Go whitewater rafting on the Wenatchee River.
• Visit Enzian Falls and see their most popular residents, the Enzian goats.
• Birdwatch as Spring brings birds out in full force!
• Go hiking! The Enchantments are one of the most iconic hikes, but you’ll need a permit due to its popularity.
• Savor the local wineries, hop between tasting rooms, and enjoy the vineyard views.
• Go biking on one of Leavenworth’s scenic trails.

Tips on Visiting Leavenworth in The Spring

• The shoulder season in Leavenworth is March and May. This means lower prices for hotels.
• Hit the trails early if you’re planning to hike to avoid muddy trails from snowmelt in the afternoons.
• Colchuck Lake Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in the area that you don’t need a permit for.
• Bring rain gear. Spring showers are common, so pack a rain jacket or umbrella just in case.
• Attention dog lovers– Bernese Mountain Dog Day is usually celebrated during Maifest. Enjoy dog shows, costume, and agility competitions.
• Soak in the local flavor and attend festivals like: Maifest, Ale Fest, and Spring Bird Fest.

Summer in Leavenworth

You’re going to love Leavenworth in the summer—it’s short but so worth it.

From June 16th through September 13th, you can enjoy temps averaging 73°F and hardly a drop of rain!

Leavenworth really comes alive in the summer. Whether you’re up for exploring scenic trails on horseback, hiking through stunning landscapes, or just kicking back and relaxing, there’s something for everyone.

Best Things to Do in Leavenworth in The Summer

• Tube float down the Wenatchee River
• Go hiking – Perfect trails for all levels, so lace up those boots!
• Eat! – Leavenworth has tons of Bavarian-themed eateries. Like pretzels, sausages, and strudel!
• Visit Leavenworth Waterfront Park – Walking trails, water activities, and beaches to enjoy.
• Sample Bavarian-style brews – Hit up a beer garden and try some of the best brews in town!
• Check out the Farmer’s Market – Every Saturday from May 4th to August 31 st experience fresh produce, local crafts, and good vibes all around.
• Take a scenic drive and explore the Cascade Mountains—consider a scenic drive along Stevens Pass.

Tips on Visiting Leavenworth in The Summer

• Book Accommodations Early! Summer is a super popular time to visit Leavenworth, so lock down your stay ASAP.
• Embrace the long days. With extended daylight hours, you have more time to enjoy everything Leavenworth has to offer, so plan for a full day of adventure.
• Bring sunscreen. The sunny days are beautiful, but the mountain sun is strong—don’t forget sunscreen and a hat!
• When hiking, make sure to arrive very early to snag parking.

Fall in Leavenworth

Fall weather in Leavenworth kicks off with warm, dry, and sunny days in September, but by the end of November things get way cooler, with a good chance of snow.

September and October are pleasant, with 78°F during the day and 43°F at night, with only about two days of rain. There is plenty of sunshine to enjoy fall outdoor activities.

Fall is absolutely beautiful, but it is also the busiest time to visit! People flock to this charming Bavarian village to catch the gorgeous fall foliage and one of the best festivals around – Oktoberfest!

It’s also one of the most popular seasons for hiking!

Best Things to Do in Leavenworth in The Fall

• Attend Oktoberfest – Enjoy beer, bratwurst, and live music!
• Wenatchee River Salmon Festival – Celebrate the salmon run and learn about local wildlife.
• Hiking – Hit those gorgeous trails. Two easy hikes are Icicle Gorge Nature Loop and Blackbird Island.
• Apple Picking – Nothing says fall, like picking fresh apples right from the tree.
• Zip-lining –zip through the vibrant fall canopy.
• Wine Tasting – Sip your way through local wineries or warm up with a mug of mulled wine.
• Autumn Leaf Festival – You won’t want to miss this charming small-town celebration of fall with a parade and local crafts!

Tips on Visiting Leavenworth in The Fall

• Plan ahead – Fall is crazy popular, so make sure you book your accommodations early. The best spots fill up fast!
• Visit midweek for fewer crowds – Fall weekends, especially during Oktoberfest, can get busy. Visiting midweek means fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience.
• Dress in layers – The weather can be all over the place—warm days, chilly nights, maybe even some rain. Layers are your friend!
• Check leaf-peeping forecasts – If you want to catch those peak fall colors, stay updated on the local foliage reports. Timing is everything!
• Check road conditions – As fall progresses, higher elevations may experience early snow, so check for road conditions if you’re driving through the mountains.

Snapshot of Leavenworth’s Events and Festivals

This town knows how to throw a party and keep the good times rolling, with events for every season. From Oktoberfest in the fall to Christmas festivities, there is always something happening. Get ready to join in on the celebrations!

🔸 Village of Lights/Winter Karneval – A magical event complete with twinkling lights-a true winter wonderland transformation.
When? January 11-13, 2025
🔸 Bavarian Icefest – Expect glistening ice sculptures, music, and traditional Bavarian fun!
When? January 15-16, 2025
🔸 Maifest – Experience live music, maypole dancing, and vibrant arts and crafts.
When? May 9-10, 2025
🔸 Leavenworth International Alphorn Festival – Enjoy traditional alphorn music.
When? May 24-26, 2025
🔸 International Accordion Celebration – Get ready to tap your feet and dance to some captivating melodies! This event features competitions, classes, and all sorts of fun accordion antics.
When? June 26-29, 2025
🔸 Autumn Leaf Fest – Food booths, music, and parades.
When? October 10-12, 2025
🔸 Ale Fest – Sample some of the best regional craft beers.
When? October 4-5, October 11-12 & October 18-19, 2025
🔸 Oktoberfest – Enjoy Bavarian music, food, dancing, and plenty of beer.
When? September 26-28, 2025, October 3-5, 2025 & October 10-12, 2025

Pro Tip: Be sure to check the Leavenworth Calendar for exact dates and details.

The Cheapest Time To Visit Leavenworth

The cheapest time to visit Leavenworth is typically in January and February.

After the busy holiday season, the town becomes quieter, and hotel rates drop significantly. Visiting during these winter months still offers the charm of the Christmas lights (which stay up until the end of February) but with fewer crowds and better deals.

Midweek stays during the off-season will also help you save more on lodging and activities.

The Least Crowded Time To Visit Leavenworth

March through May are the rainy months in Leavenworth, which makes it the least busy time to visit, especially in April.

But If you really want to avoid crowds, plan your trip for weekdays rather than weekends, as weekends can still attract tourists even during off-peak months.

All-Around Best Time To Visit Leavenworth

The sweet spot for visiting Leavenworth is during January and February, especially midweek in the winter.

You’ll get the full magical experience of this charming town with fewer crowds and lower hotel prices. There’s nothing quite like walking through the twinkling lights and snow-covered streets in the quiet of winter.

If you’re looking for a more festive experience and don’t mind the crowds, fall during Oktoberfest is also a fantastic time to visit. Just make sure to book early, as this celebration is one of the biggest of the year!

Plus, fall offers some of the best hiking in the Cascade Mountains, with cooler temps and stunning autumn colors.

Worst Time to Visit Leavenworth

There really isn’t a bad time to visit Leavenworth.

However, late fall (November) can be a little dull and quieter after the leaves have fallen and before winter begins.

March to early April might be a little muddy for outdoor activities, and you might get a little more rain. But if you’re not worried about a little mud and rain, go for it!

Where to Stay in Leavenworth

No matter your budget, Leavenworth has plenty of great options for staying. Whether you’re looking for something cozy and charming or a more luxurious stay, I’ve listed the best hotels in Leavenworth to suit any budget.

Icicle Village Resort – We chose this beautiful resort when we stayed in Leavenworth, Washington.
Bavarian Lodge – Nestled right in the center of the village, it’s close to everything!
Hotel Leavenworth -A charming alpine-style hotel that’s budget-friendly.

FAQ’s: Visiting Leavenworth

Let’s hit on some questions that are worth knowing before you plan your visit! I don’t want to leave any stone unturned, so I hope that this answers all your questions.

How many days is enough in Leavenworth?

On our road trip to Leavenworth, we spent three days, and honestly, that was the perfect amount of time. You can hit all the highlights without feeling rushed or missing out on anything!

Is October a good time to visit Leavenworth?

October is a great time to visit Leavenworth! The leaves are showing off their color, and Oktoberfest is seriously a must-do!

Is Leavenworth worth visiting in November?

November might not be as visually stunning since the fall foliage has already dropped, but it is definitely a quieter time to visit. Plus, you’ll score cheaper accommodations and flights! So, yes, it’s great if you want a trip that’s easy on the pocketbook.

Is Leavenworth decorated in November?

All the twinkling lights of the holiday season usually don’t go up under Thanksgiving, in late November. They stay up until the last day of February.

Is it hard to get to Leavenworth in the winter?

Getting to Leavenworth in the winter can be challenging due to snow and icy roads, especially over Stevens Pass. Be sure to check road conditions before you go, and definitely have snow tires or chains. If you’re not comfortable driving, there are shuttle and tour options available from Seattle, or take the Amtrak train.

How long does Leavenworth have lights?

They have over half a million lights from Thanksgiving to the last day in February.

How busy is Leavenworth at Christmas?

Very busy! Christmas time is peak season at its max. Expect crowds and long waits at restaurants. Accommodations are the most expensive also.

That’s a Wrap on The Best Time to Visit Leavenworth

There you have it—my complete guide on the “Best Time to Visit Leavenworth!”

With all the awesome events and festivities year-round, it might be tough to choose when you should go, but I hope I’ve given you enough pointers to help you choose. And if you’re still torn, just plan another trip—I know I am!