out and about this holiday season

Don’t let the winter weather stop you from getting out and about this holiday season. Fill your thermos with hot cocoa, bundle up with hats and coats, and head out to enjoy one or more of these wonderful ways to spread holiday cheer.

WINTER MARKETS AT POINT RUSTON Saturdays on December 5, 12, and 19 Enjoy live music and explore the offerings of over 40 vendors, all with products grown or made in Washington State. Shoppers will be able to find seasonal vegetables, treats to take home, gifts for the holidays, and more. GIG HARBOR LIGHTED BOAT PARADE Watch the boats circling the harbor all along the Gig Harbor waterfront. December 11

OLYMPIA HOLIDAY FARMERS MARKET Saturdays and Sundays, November 6 - December 19

As the nights get longer, enjoy the season of lights with one or more of these illuminating experiences. WINTER SOLSTICE LIGHTS Lakewold Gardens November 19-28

ZOOLIGHTS Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium November 26, 2021 - January 2, 2022

WINTER WILDLAND Northwest Trek December 26, 2021 - January 2, 2022

FANTASY LIGHTS Spanaway Park November 26, 2021 - January 2, 2022

36 SHOWCASE MAGAZINE

If you are seeking an indoor festive experience in venues with plenty of physical distancing, consider one of these options.

Wander through the decorated trees at CHRISTMAS IN THE FOREST held at the Olympia Hotel at Capitol Lake (formerly Hotel RL Olympia), this year celebrating “Hope and Joy” and raising funds for the Providence Southwest Washington Foundation.

Immerse yourself in the world of Vincent Van Gogh with the unique exhibition, IMAGINE VAN GOGH, presented by Tacoma Arts Live at the Tacoma Armory.

Plan a special gathering to make gingerbread houses. This year Greentrike will present its annual GINGERBREAD JAMBOREE as individual private parties where families are provided with kits that include everything needed to build their own sweet constructions.

Please check websites for details regarding health precautions related to any of these events.

vHILLARY RYAN