Paul Arrington, of the Kent Parks Department, places lights on a tree in the Town Square Plaza on a 52-degree, mostly sunny Monday afternoon. A city crew was busy decorating the square in preparation for Saturday’s Kent Winterfest celebration. MARK KLAAS, Kent Reporter

Paul Arrington, of the Kent Parks Department, places lights on a tree in the Town Square Plaza on a 52-degree, mostly sunny Monday afternoon. A city crew was busy decorating the square in preparation for Saturday’s Kent Winterfest celebration. MARK KLAAS, Kent Reporter

Kent holiday happenings: 9 things to do

Walk, sing, shop or eat at area venues this season

  • Thursday, November 30, 2017 3:06pm
  • Life

On behalf of VisitKent.com

Here’s nine holiday activities in Kent.

From light displays to musical performances, family-friendly events in Kent are a way to embrace the holiday spirit.

1. Kent Commons Holiday Bazaar

Date: Friday, Dec. 1, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 2, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Cost: free

Activity: Bring your list and check it twice before heading to this holiday inspired, maker event. Featuring more than 100 artisans with unique, handcrafted gifts. Weary shoppers can recharge and refuel with food, beverages and musical entertainment.

2. Christmas at Carpinito Brothers

Date: Friday, Dec. 1-Sunday, Dec. 24, 8 a.m.-9 p.m.

Cost: free, tree prices vary

Activity: Peruse one of the state’s largest selections of fresh cut trees while sipping on a complimentary cup of hot cider. Once you find the perfect tree, the staff will safely load and tie down your tree to give you peace of mind on your way home. Don’t miss the opportunity to see two of Santa’s reindeer and Moses the nativity camel.

3. Holiday Light Displays: The Very Merry Christmas House/Christmas in Kent

Date: Friday, Dec. 1-Sunday, Dec. 31, times vary

Cost: free, charitable donations accepted

Activity: Leave the lavish light displays for the seasoned pros and visit either of these stunning holiday displays. Enjoy synchronized lights and music and can’t miss Instagram opportunities – all from the comfort of your car.

4. Kent Winterfest Holiday Celebration

Date: Saturday, Dec. 2, 2-6 p.m.

Cost: free

Activity: Kids will enjoy art projects at the Rusty Raven and a holiday reading at the Kent library. Warm up with a cup of cider or cocoa while enjoying holiday performances by local choirs and bands. Don’t miss the tree and park lighting at 5 p.m., complete with a synchronized show and a visit from Santa.

5. Christmas Rush Fun Run and Walk

Date: Saturday, Dec. 9, start times vary, Hogan Park at Russell Road, 24400 Russell Road

Cost: $20/$35

Activity: Run, jog or walk your way into the holiday season with this Christmas inspired 5K/10K. This year marks the 35th anniversary of this community fun run – helping participants justify that extra serving of pie. Reindeer noses and Santa hats encouraged, not required.

6. Hometown Holiday Concert

Date: Wednesday, Dec. 13, 8 p.m.

Cost: $38 and up

Activity: Join 100.7 The Wolf for its annual Hometown Holiday Concert. Don’t miss this special acoustic concert with music from some of country music’s biggest stars at the accesso ShoWare Center.

7. Roots & Recipes Zine by Project Feast

Date: Friday, Dec. 15, 6-8:30 p.m.

Cost: Suggested donation of $5-$10

Activity: Embrace the giving spirit by supporting Project Feast, a nonprofit seeking to transform lives in South King County. Its latest project, Roots & Recipes, is a magazine celebration of women, food and heritage. Pick up a copy for the foodie in your life while you mingle, and enjoy appetizers and wine.

8. Third Art Thursday Holiday Party

Date: Thursday, Dec. 21, 4-7 p.m.

Cost: free

Activity: An annual holiday party made for art and culture aficionados. Community comes alive with an evening of music, thoughtfully-prepared refreshments and an atmosphere of festive fun.

9. Santa Pictures at Kent Station

Date: Times and dates vary, see calendar for details

Cost: Photo packages start at $15

Activity: Kids (and pets) of all ages will delight in the wonder of Santa, Mrs. Claus and their elves. Early birds can enjoy holiday specials before Dec. 8.

Check out more things to do this winter at VisitKent.com/events.


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