Your Complete Guide to a Magical Christmas in Leavenworth, WA

(Updated October 2024)

Are you ready for some yuletide magic, Christmas lights galore, and a dash of winter wonderland? Well, you’re in for a treat because we’re about to explore the coziest Christmas Village in the US – Leavenworth, Washington!!

My husband and I visited Leavenworth, a charming Bavarian town, in December 2022, just two weeks before Christmas, and it was absolutely magical! It’s like a real-life Christmas card that’s come to life!

In this blog, I’m going to spill all the cocoa beans on how to make the most of your holiday vacation. From a million Christmas lights that could rival the stars to a one-horse-open sleigh ride, I’ve got it all!

And yes, I’ll even introduce you to some very special, hooved, and antlered friends of mine!

So, grab a cup of hot cocoa, cozy up, and get ready to unwrap the ultimate guide to Christmas in Leavenworth.

A festive winter scene in Leavenworth, Washington, with streets covered in snow and lined with Bavarian-style buildings illuminated by colorful Christmas lights. In the foreground, a smiling Kate from Kate's Crossing Blog is in a tan coat and scarf, wearing a yellow beanie, poses with arms outstretched. Families and children can be seen enjoying the holiday atmosphere, some sledding down the snowy street. The trees are wrapped in bright white lights, adding to the magical "Christmas in Leavenworth" feel.

📌 Quick Guide to Christmas in Leavenworth

When to Visit: December – January
Where to Fly into: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport – Book flights here!
Rental Car: We use DiscoverCars for the best rental car prices.
Best Places to Stay: My top picks – Icicle Village Resort, Bavarian Lodge, or Hotel Leavenworth
Best Tour: Leavenworth Exclusive Tour from Seattle

Your Ultimate Guide to Spending Christmas in Leavenworth, WA

Leavenworth, Washington, is a picturesque village that looks like it’s been plucked straight out of a storybook, all dressed up in Bavarian style, with its buildings looking like gingerbread houses.

But first, before we get into all the Christmas spirit, you might be wondering how Leavenworth became a Bavarian town in the middle of nowhere USA and is it even worth visiting?

A vibrant nighttime view of the Bavarian-style buildings in downtown Leavenworth, Washington, beautifully adorned with colorful Christmas lights. The buildings, painted in festive hues of red, green, and white, feature intricate decorations, glowing snowflakes, and icicle lights. People stroll through the snowy street, enjoying the magical holiday atmosphere under a clear dark sky.

How Leavenworth Became a Bavarian Themed Town

Leavenworth hasn’t always been the charming Bavarian-themed Christmas Village it is today.

Back in the 1960s, it was a sleepy little town struggling to keep afloat after the railroad moved and the timber industry dried up. To prevent themselves from becoming a ghost town, they decided to do something very different.

Taking inspiration from Solvang, a Danish-themed town in California, they decided to reinvent itself. To attract tourists, they transformed Leavenworth into a Bavarian-themed village—and it worked like a charm! Now, it’s one of the top spots for a unique getaway around the holidays.

Tucked in the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth’s setting looks a lot like Bavaria, which makes the transformation feel even more real. Every year, especially around the holidays, the town turns into the ultimate Christmas destination.

With over half a million twinkling lights, Christmas markets, and plenty of winter fun, it’s easy to see why Leavenworth has earned the title of “The Most Christmasy Town in America.”

Where is Leavenworth, Washington?

You’ll find the charming town of Leavenworth, located in the heart of the Cascade Mountains, which is almost smack dab in the middle of Washington state.

It’s about 2.5 hours east of Seattle, making it the perfect getaway from the city, with tons of outdoor activities nearby, like hiking and skiing.

The drive will take you over the scenic Stevens Pass, with beautiful mountain views, especially in the winter when the snow blankets everything.

Best Time to Visit Leavenworth’s Christmas Town

The best time to visit Leavenworth’s Christmas Town depends on what kind of holiday experience you’re after.

The famous Christmas lights go up starting Thanksgiving weekend and stay lit until the end of February, so you’ve got a nice window to enjoy the magic.

If you want to catch the holiday festivals—like the Winter Karnival or the Lantern Parade—plan your visit in December. Be sure to check the Christmas Town Schedule for exact dates and details.

Now, if you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, your best bet is to visit mid-to-late December or early January, when the town gets an average of 15-17 inches of snow.

Consider visiting in January for way smaller crowds! The lights are still up, and the snow is still falling, but the pace is a bit slower, giving you a more intimate experience without losing the holiday cheer.

Insider Tip: We found the sweet spot to visit is on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. That way, you avoid the weekend chaos but still get a taste of the liveliness on Friday before things get too crowded.

Kate's Crossing blog, stands in a snowy landscape holding cozy blankets while pointing to a wooden sign that reads "Santa Sleigh." She is bundled up in a white beanie, scarf, and a winter coat, ready for a sleigh ride in Leavenworth, Washington. The backdrop features snow-covered trees and mountains, capturing the festive and wintery spirit of the area.

How to Get to Leavenworth, WA

Now that you’re all excited to visit Leavenworth for Christmas let’s make sure you get there without a fuss. Sure, hopping on a magical sleigh sounds fun, but you have some other options to consider. Like getting there by car, shuttle, bus, or train.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to get there:

Flying to Leavenworth

Unfortunately, you can’t fly directly into Leavenworth.

Your best option is to land at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). Then it’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Seattle to Leavenworth.

There is a smaller airport, Pangborn Memorial Airport, in East Wenatchee, about 30 miles from Leavenworth. But you can only fly there domestically, and there are limited flights from Seattle, so most visitors just stick with flying into SEA and then drive to Leavenworth.

Upon landing in Seattle, you can easily rent a car to make the scenic drive or you can catch the Bus or hire a shuttle.

Driving to Leavenworth

If you live within driving distance, just pop “Leavenworth, Washington” into your maps app and hit the road.

But if you’re like most people, you’ll probably be driving from Seattle. The trip usually takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, and you have two different routes to choose from.

The most popular route is via Highway 2, which takes you through Stevens Pass—a scenic, mountainous drive with great views.

But, If you prefer a less mountainous option, you can take I-90 to Cle Elum and then head north on Highway 97. This route is slightly longer but can be a better option during snowy conditions.

Taking The Bus From Seattle

If driving yourself over a mountain pass in the winter doesn’t sound fun, then you can take the Bus.

Amtrak and Northwestern Trailways only run two buses a day from downtown Seattle to Leavenworth, WA. This is the cheapest option and takes about 3-4 hours.

The morning bus will arrive at Leavenworth’s Icicle Station around 12:30, and the afternoon bus will arrive around 7:30 p.m.

Insider Tip: The bus station is not at the airport. To get to the bus at the Amtrak/King Street Station from the airport, you can take the Central Link Light Rail to downtown Seattle or catch a taxi or Uber. I highly recommend just taking an Uber for no fuss!

Hire a Shuttle to Seattle

If you’re like me and buses are just not your thing because you get really motion-sick whenever you ride one, then just hire a shuttle! It might cost you a little extra, but trust me, it’s well worth it!

Leavenworth has two shuttle services you can hire:

Number one pick: Leavenworth Shuttle & Taxi (509)-548-7433
Second pick: Wenatchee Valley Shuttle & Leavenworth Trolley Co. (509)-293-5773

Taking the Train to Seattle

If you’re looking for an Eco-friendly transportation option, take theAmtrak Cascades train. It leaves Seattle’s King Street Station and takes you to Leavenworth’s Icicle Station on the edge of town.

The train ride takes about 3-5 hours, but the journey is a gorgeous scenic adventure through the Cascade Mountains!

Insider Tip: You’ll want to sit on the north side of the train heading to Leavenworth, WA, to get the best views. But you can also head up to the train’s special observation car, which is open to everyone on the train.

Once you arrive in Leavenworth, you’ll want to schedule a shuttle or taxi from the Icicle Station to your accommodation when you reach Leavenworth. The train station is on the outskirts of town, and you probably won’t want to walk to your hotel in the snow and cold with all your luggage when you arrive.

Be sure to arrange this before you leave Seattle!

Kate from Kate's Crossing Blog and her husband sit cozily on a tufted white bench, wrapped in a red and black plaid blanket while holding mugs of hot mulled wine. Kate wears a white beanie and plaid scarf, while her husband sports a baseball cap and outdoor jacket. Behind them are black-and-white photos, creating a relaxed and warm atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a winter day in Leavenworth, Washington.

How Many Days Do You Need to Visit Leavenworth

When it comes to how many days you need to visit Leavenworth, my husband and I definitely have different opinions on this one!

I say you could easily spend 4-5 days soaking up all the Christmas magic and enjoying the best things to do around town. My husband, who isn’t quite as obsessed with Christmas as I am, thinks you could see it all in two days.

So, I’ll compromise and say a minimum of 3 days is perfect, but push it to 4 if you really want to go slow and savor the magic of this charming Bavarian village.

But if you are really short on time, check out my Leavenworth Day Trip Itinerary, where I show you how to squeeze it all into one day!

Kate from Kate's Crossing Blog and her husband stand in front of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree inside a cozy lodge, embracing and smiling for the camera. Kate is bundled up in a winter coat and beanie, while her husband wears a baseball cap and jacket. The room is decorated with festive holiday decorations, including a large nutcracker and a stone fireplace. The glowing tree is wrapped with red ribbon and ornaments, creating a warm, festive atmosphere perfect for celebrating Christmas in Leavenworth, Washington.

Where to Stay in Leavenworth

Now that you’ve figured out how to get there and how many days you’ll be staying, it’s time to find the best place to stay for your Christmas adventure. Whether you want to go all out or prefer something a little more cozy or budget-friendly, I’ve got you covered.

Here are my top picks for each budget:

Luxury Retreat

Icicle Village Resort – We chose this beautiful resort when we stayed in Leavenworth, Washington. It was a little further away from the main holiday events in the town square, but it was still within walking distance. Our room had a cozy fireplace, And they served a free, delicious continental breakfast every morning. It even has a heated outdoor swimming pool!

Value Stay

Bavarian Lodge – Nestled right in the center of the village, it’s close to everything! It’s perfect for a romantic getaway.

Budget-Friendly

Hotel Leavenworth -A charming alpine-style hotel with easy access to downtown Leavenworth. Known for its cozy ambiance and excellent service.

Best Vacation Rentals

Penthouse condo – Downtown (2 bedroom, 2 bath, Breathtaking Mtn Views!)

1227 Haus – Downtown Leavenworth (3 bedroom, 2 bath, Hot Tub!)

If you want a full rundown of all the best hotels and cozy cabins, read my article on The Best Places to Stay in Leavenworth and the surrounding area.

Best Things to Do in Leavenworth at Christmas Time!

Leavenworth is practically bursting at the seams with festive things to see and do during the holiday season. From the gingerbread factory to Santa’s reindeer, here are the best things to do in Leavenworth at Christmas time!

Watch Leavenworth’s Iconic Christmas Lighting Ceremony

Leavenworth’s Christmas lighting ceremony is the highlight of the holiday season and takes place over three weekends in December.

Known as the “Village of Lights“ during this time, the town is illuminated by over half a million twinkling Christmas lights, transforming downtown into a magical wonderland. While the main ceremony happens in December, the famous lights stay up from Thanksgiving through the end of February, so you can enjoy the festive glow long after the holidays.

During the ceremony, the streets are alive with street musicians, carolers, and Christmas characters you can snap a photo with. You’ll catch the scent of roasting chestnuts and hot mulled wine as you wander through town. It’s impossible not to feel the holiday spirit.

A charming street in Leavenworth, Washington, lined with Bavarian-themed shops decorated for the holiday season. The storefronts feature garlands, red bows, and festive signs, including a large pretzel symbol for a pastry shop. A Danish flag hangs outside "The Danish" bakery, while people walk along the sidewalk, bundled up in winter coats.

Explore Downtown Leavenworth

Leavenworth’s Bavarian-style village is the heart of the Christmas spirit.

Imagine wandering through streets lined with half-timbered buildings, cozy shops, and shopkeepers dressed in traditional Bavarian attire. It’s as if you’ve stepped into a real-life Alpine fairy tale.

One of the best things to do during the holiday season is to simply explore downtown Leavenworth.

The entire village is covered in Christmas lights, festive music fills the air, and every corner is decked out with holiday decorations. You can pop into local shops for a unique gift or warm up with hot mulled wine and hardy German food at one of the many Bavarian-style restaurants.

Whether you’re browsing the shops or just soaking up the festive vibes in the town square, Leavenworth is truly magical!

A colorful sign for the "World Famous Nutcracker Museum" hangs outside a Bavarian-style building in Leavenworth, Washington. The sign features a large carved figure of a bearded man wearing traditional Bavarian clothing and holding a beer stein, resembling a nutcracker. Festive garlands and red bows decorate the building, adding to the holiday spirit in this charming Christmas town.

Visit the Nutcracker Museum

A trip to Leavenworth during Christmas wouldn’t be complete without stopping by the Nutcracker Museum.

Home to the largest collection of nutcrackers in the United States, this museum features over 9,000 nutcrackers from around the world. From classic soldier nutcrackers to ones inspired by different cultures, each with a unique story of its own.

As soon as you walk in, you’ll be greeted by the largest nutcracker, standing at a whopping 6 feet tall.

It’s quirky and festive, and admission is only five bucks, so be sure to stop in and support them.

Kate from Kate's Crossing Blog is dressed in a winter coat, plaid scarf, and white beanie kneeling next to a group of reindeer in a snowy setting in Leavenworth, Washington. She smiles while petting one of the reindeer, which has large antlers and is wearing a red harness.

Meet Santa’s Reindeer

Visiting the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm was hands down my favorite thing to do in Leavenworth.

Meeting Santa’s reindeer up close was like being a kid on Christmas morning! You get to feed them, pet them, and even touch their antlers—it’s pretty awesome how friendly they are, and their big feet are kind of adorable.

The farm also has a big Christmas gift shop full of fun stuff, and I even snapped a picture with Santa himself. There are plenty of cute photo spots, including a one-horse open sleigh.

If you’re looking for something fun and festive, this is a must-do in Leavenworth.

Plus, the farm is a great place to learn about reindeer. They teach you about the reindeer’s habitats and their role in holiday traditions. It’s the perfect mix of fun and learning!

Insider Tip: Try to reserve an early visit while the reindeer are hungry and active on their feet for better photos! Later in the day, all they want to do is lie down and sleep. Be prepared to take lots of reindeer selfies.

Kate from Kate's Crossing and her husband smile while sitting bundled up in blankets on a wooden sleigh during a winter sleigh ride in Leavenworth, Washington. They are surrounded by other riders, all enjoying the snowy landscape of frosted trees and a snow-covered trail. The bright winter day and serene scenery create a joyful and cozy holiday experience in this festive setting.

Take a Sleigh Ride Through The Snow

My Leavenworth Sleigh Ride experience was nothing short of magical.

The sleigh ride was about 40-50 minutes through snow-covered forests and meadows—fun, romantic, and everything you want in a winter wonderland. Halfway through, we stopped at a barn and warmed up with some hot spiced cider by an open fire.

If you’re looking for a memorable winter experience, I highly recommend it!

Insider Tip: Bring your own blankets – one for sitting on and another for snuggling up in, as the sleighs do not provide them. If possible, reserve a front-row to enjoy the best views and a more intimate experience.

Kate and her husband stand in front of a large stone fireplace inside a cozy cabin, smiling and holding a sign that reads "Believe." The mantle is decorated with stockings, wreaths, and holiday greenery, creating a festive Christmas atmosphere. The warm, rustic setting, complete with wood beams and a mounted animal head above the fireplace

Visit The Icicle Ridge Winery

A stop at Icicle Ridge Winery is a must when visiting Leavenworth, especially if you’re a fan of Hallmark movies! This cozy, picturesque winery was even featured in the Hallmark Christmas movie Cloudy with a Chance of Christmas.

With its romantic vibes and stunning views, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a romance movie yourself. It’s the perfect spot to relax with a glass of wine and soak in the festive atmosphere.

A basket of food featuring a grilled sausage topped with crispy fried onions in a toasted bun, served alongside seasoned French fries and a pickle spear. The meal is presented in a paper-lined basket, offering a hearty and satisfying dish, likely enjoyed at a local eatery in Leavenworth, Washington, during the holiday season.

Eat Yummy Bavarian Food

Leavenworth’s restaurants go all out during the holidays, offering deliciously hearty Bavarian food that will leave you craving more.

You’ll find plenty of authentic German cuisine, from bratwurst to schnitzel, giving you a true taste of Germany right in the heart of Washington.

Kate of Kate's Crossing Blog in a winter beanie and jacket sips from a large glass of beer at an outdoor beer garden in Leavenworth, Washington. She is seated at a wooden picnic table near a fire pit, with other patrons enjoying the cozy atmosphere of the outdoor space. The warm ambiance and festive winter attire suggest a relaxing moment during the holiday season.

Try the German Beer

If you’re a beer lover, you’ve got to try the German beer in Leavenworth! Some of the mugs are as big as my head, and trust me, you’ll want to drink every last drop.

Many of the breweries have outdoor patios where you can people-watch while horse-drawn buggies trot by. Sitting under heat lamps or next to a fire ring with a brew in hand is seriously one of the best ways to soak in the Bavarian vibe.

Sip on Hot Glühwein (German Mulled Wine)

Sipping on hot Glühwein is one of the best ways to warm up while you enjoy Leavenworth. The smell of spices and warm wine will lure you in from off the streets.

It’s a delicious mix of wine infused with spices like cinnamon sticks, star anise, and orange. You’ll find both red and white Glühwein around town, but personally, I’m all about the red.

Kate of Kate's Crossing Blog is in a winter coat, plaid scarf, and white beanie smiles while holding two festive ornaments in a holiday shop in Leavenworth, Washington. The store is filled with Christmas decorations, kitchenware, and seasonal gifts, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Kates red gloves and colorful ornaments add to the festive charm of the shopping experience during the holiday season.

Get Your Christmas Shopping Done in Leavenworth’s Holiday Stores

Leavenworth is the perfect place to get your Christmas shopping done.

The town is packed with holiday stores, and you’re guaranteed to find something special. Whether it’s handmade ornaments, Bavarian gifts, or festive decor, you won’t leave empty-handed. Plus, shopping here just feels more fun with all the holiday vibes in the air!

Here are the Christmas stores I loved most:

Kris Kringl – a Christmas wonderland of three floors packed with everything you could possibly imagine you would ever want for Christmas decorating!

Garnishes Boutique – A unique boutique with a delightful secret in the back—a chocolate store! We bought a box of their delicious chocolates to eat on the drive home. Worth it!

Get a Sweet Treat From The Gingerbread Factory

You’ve got to stop by The Gingerbread Factory when you’re in Leavenworth! They’re known for their amazing gingerbread cookies, but they’ve also got lots of holiday-themed treats and gifts.

Go ahead and grab a cookie to munch on while you wander, or pick up some sweet goodies to take home. Their gingerbread is sure to put you in the holiday spirit.

Kate in a red winter coat and white beanie holds a cup of coffee outside Little Reds Espresso & Bakery in Leavenworth, Washington. The cozy shop is decorated with festive garlands, a snowman figurine, and colorful holiday lights. A wooden sign featuring a red truck promotes the bakery, while a nearby arrow points to "Hot Cocoa" and "Pick Up." The snow-covered landscape adds to the festive, wintery atmosphere.

Best Places to Eat and Drink in Leavenworth

One of my favorite reasons for visiting Leavenworth is for the Bavarian-style food—it’s hearty, comforting, and so damn delicious!

Many restaurants here require a reservation, and trust me, you’ll want to make them ASAP, or you’ll be stuck with takeout (don’t do that!). You’ll definitely want to experience the best food this town has to offer.

My husband and I practically ate and drank our way through all the restaurants, beer gardens, and wineries in town, and we’ve narrowed down the best spots for you. Here are our top picks:

☕ Best Coffee in Leavenworth

Little Reds Espresso and Bakery is the cutest coffee shop I ever did see!

Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a specialty espresso drink, along with a yummy selection of baked goods.

And, they will leave you funny little notes on your coffee cup! Who knows what they might say!

🌭 Best Places to Eat in Leavenworth

My favorite places to eat were Larch Restaurant and Andreas Keller.

I’m not kidding when I say I had one of the best meals of my life at Larch—my mouth is watering just thinking about it! And if you’re up for a beer and a wiener, Rein Haus has the best!

🍺 Best Beer in Leavenworth

If you’re looking for the best brews in Leavenworth, Icicle Brewing Company is the spot.

It was so much fun sipping our beer while enjoying the snowy scene under heat lamps and fire rings, all while watching one-horse open sleighs trot by. They had such a cozy atmosphere and tasty craft beers!

🍷 Best Glühwein in Leavenworth

Bergdorf Cellars needs to be at the top of your wine-tasting adventures in Leavenworth, Washington. They have the best hot Glühwein in town. Trust me, we tried them ALL!

We loved theirs so much that we bought two bottles to take home!

Make sure you stop in to warm up on a hot cup of their Glühwein!

Kate in a red winter coat, white beanie, and scarf stands smiling outside a shop in Leavenworth, Washington. She holds a green shopping bag, having just stepped out of the store, which is decorated with festive garlands and a small Christmas tree by the window.

Tips & Tricks for Visiting Leavenworth During Christmas

Visiting Leavenworth during the holidays is magical, but it can get busy, so it’s good to go prepared. Here are some helpful tips and tricks to make your trip’s as smooth as whipped cream on a cup of hot chocolate.

❄️ Pack for the weather! – Leavenworth turns into a winter wonderland, so warm layers and sturdy boots are a must. Don’t forget a cozy hat, gloves, and a scarf to keep you toasty warm.

❄️ Check the road conditions – especially if you’re traveling during heavy snowfall. WSDOT (Washington State Department of Transportation) provides updates, so be sure to keep an eye on their website.

❄️ Reserve Accommodations ASAP – Leavenworth is very popular, and rooms fill up faster than Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve. So book early! Especially if you want a budget-friendly option or something in town.

❄️ Visit Midweek – If possible, plan your visit during the middle of the week to avoid huge crowds. The weekends are the busiest, so take that into consideration before you book your trip.

❄️ Explore Beyond December – Leavenworth is beautiful all winter long. Consider visiting in January or February for a less crowded but still magical post-Christmas experience.

Kate of Kate's Cossing Blog is dressed in a red winter coat, and a white beanie walks down a snow-covered street in Leavenworth, Washington, carrying a shopping bag. The Bavarian-style buildings lining the street are adorned with festive decorations, while the surrounding snow-covered mountains create a picturesque winter backdrop.

FAQ’s

Got more questions about visiting Leavenworth during Christmas? I’ve got you covered with the most common questions people ask. Here’s everything you need to know before planning your holiday trip!

Is Leavenworth worth visiting at Christmas?

Absolutely! Leavenworth feels like walking straight into a Hallmark movie during the holidays, with over half a million lights strung up, festive events, and a magical Bavarian village vibe.

How long is Leavenworth decorated for Christmas?

The Christmas lights go up starting Thanksgiving weekend and stay lit until the end of February. You’ve got plenty of time to enjoy Leavenworth, and it’s holiday cheer, even if you visit after the holidays.

How busy is Leavenworth at Christmas?

Leavenworth gets very busy during December, especially on weekends, with crowds coming for the Christmas festivals and lights. If you want to avoid the biggest crowds, consider visiting midweek or in January when it’s a bit quieter but still festive.

Can you see Leavenworth in a Day?

Yes, you can see the main highlights of Leavenworth in a day, but you’ll definitely be rushing through it. A day is enough to walk through the village, grab a meal, and maybe do one or two winter activities.

Do you need a car in Leavenworth WA?

Once you’re in Leavenworth, you can easily get around on foot. Everything is close by, and walking through the snow-covered village is part of the fun! If you’re not staying in town or want to enjoy fun activities outside of town, a car will definitely come in handy.

Is it safe to drive to Leavenworth in winter?

Yes, it’s safe to drive to Leavenworth in the winter, but be prepared for snow and icy roads, especially through Stevens Pass. Make sure your car is winter-ready, take your time, and always check road conditions before heading out.

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That’s a Wrap on Christmas in Leavenworth, WA

Now that you’ve got everything you need to plan a magical Christmas in Leavenworth, go ahead and let your inner child out.

Trust me, this town is absolutely magical! You’re gonna love every minute of it!