Perhaps you do the bulk of your holiday shopping online, or maybe you cobble together a combination of physical stores and the web. Whatever the case, you’re likely hankering for the occasion to get downtown during the holiday season with family or friends and take in the festive atmosphere that pervades from Thanksgiving through Christmas. Perhaps you scored tickets to the Nutcracker, are planning to wander Gingerbread Village, or the Teddy Bear Suite at the Fairmont Olympic Hotel. Another destination you may not have considered—and that allows you to get in some quality shopping time in as well—is a trip to Pacific Place.

From November 24 through December 24, the intimate shopping center transforms into a veritable winter wonderland, with everything from snow shows and Santa Claus to free musical performances and a Seattle artisan showroom. Come for shopping at premiere stores like Barneys, Tiffany & Co., J.Crew, Michael Kors, and Kate Spade, but stay for the seasonal experiences, maybe followed by lunch or dinner at Pike Place Market or dumplings at Din Tai Fung on the top floor, then a movie at the AMC theater. It’s a full day outing all under one roof!

Here’s a rundown on what’s going on this season, so you can plan your ideal holiday excursion:

Snow Shows

Let it snow (but stay warm)! Once again, the forecast calls for flurries at Pacific Place, with two shows each night so more folks can enjoy the experience of falling flakes. Located inside the atrium, each show will last approximately five minutes, and Santa Claus will make his magical appearances nightly (inside a life-size ornament-shaped chair, of course) as part of the experience. 

Live Music

Who doesn’t enjoy a little live music, particularly when it’s free? Another wonderful tradition at Pacific Place is the holiday entertainment stage, featuring musical performances, including traditional choirs, festive jazz, and world music. Take a break from shopping, or just stop in with the family to listen and watch. Performances are held each Friday through Sunday, and every day the week of Christmas. Click here for times. 

Local Treasures

On the third floor, The Handmade Showroom offers an entirely different sort of shopping experience; one that features Seattle artisans selling everything from handcrafted jewelry and t-shirts to novelty items for kids and quirky items like handmade bow ties and bottle openers with wood-etched maps of Seattle. Check out cool art installations as you shop locally among up-and-coming retailers you won’t find elsewhere. Perfect for that hard-to-buy-for person in your life.

Photos with Santa, Pets Included

Not only does the jolly big guy show up for pictures with the kiddos every night—he even makes special appearances to pose with your furry family member. On December 5 and 12, from 6–8pm, it’s Paws with Claus Night, and he’ll turn up so you can snap a shot of him with your dog or cat. Plus, on December 6 and 8, from 6–8pm, he’ll come dressed in blue and green to share his Seahawks spirit on 12’s Fan Night, so come donning your own 12th Man gear and get a one-of-a-kind photo. Also on hand to spread the cheer? Seahawks mascot Blitz! For more information on hours and prices, click here.

Holiday Marquee Photos

Not everyone wants their picture taken with Santa, but Pacific Place’s oversized, “marquee”-style settings—featuring the life-size words “GIVE,” “LOVE,” and “JOY”—are the perfect backdrop for a unique, holiday-themed selfie or group photo. Look for them on levels 1, 2 and 3 of the shopping center. Use them for your family holiday card, or just have fun finding the perfect angle with friends.

Seattle Gift Wrap Project

Save yourself some hassle and support a good cause. The benefit gift wrap service, on Level 2 near Santa, will ensure your purchases get beautifully wrapped, with all proceeds benefitting the Forgotten Children’s Fund. The gift wrap is sponsored by the Seattle hospitality industry. Click here for more information.

If you spend $500 or more in one day at Pacific Place’s shops, restaurants, or movies, you’ll receive a complimentary one-day parking pass to the Pacific Place Garage. Just stop by the Concierge desk during shopping hours and show your receipts.