When snow settles over the hills and the first strings of lights go up downtown, the Lake Chelan Valley slips into its coziest season. From November 27 through December 31, Small Town Holidays brings Chelan and Manson together for five weeks of shopping, sipping, and celebrating, with something on the calendar for every kind of holiday traveler.
Kick Off the Season with Plaid Friday
Skip the big box crowds the day after Thanksgiving and trade them for flannel. Plaid Friday is the official start of Small Town Holidays, a celebration of the independent shops and restaurants that give the valley its charm. Wear your favorite plaid, hunt for Plaid Friday deals, and stay into the evening for caroling, a festive parade, and Santa’s arrival for the Christmas Tree Lighting in Historic Downtown Chelan.
Shop Small, Gift Big
Lake Chelan’s boutiques are made for unhurried holiday shopping. Browse cozy winter gear, home decor, local art, and gourmet treats, then round out your list with a bottle from one of the valley’s award-winning wineries. Every purchase supports a local business, and you’ll head home with gifts that carry a little piece of Lake Chelan with them.
Follow the Lights
Once the sun goes down, the Lake Chelan Valley sparkles. Wander through glowing displays like the Village of Lights, see the trees decked out at Tispy Tree Town at Tipsy Canyon Winery, and stroll downtown where shop windows are dressed for the season. Bundle up, grab a hot cocoa, and make an evening of it.
Sip Something Warm
Tasting rooms trade summer patios for crackling fires, and many offer seasonal pours, small bites, and live music on weekends. Local cideries and breweries join in too, so there’s a cozy spot for every taste. Book a local tour or bring a designated driver, and spend an afternoon tasting your way around the lake.
Make It a Winter Adventure
Pair your holiday plans with a little time outdoors. The surrounding hills offer cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, and snowmobiling, with quiet lake views around every bend. After a day in the snow, warm up by the fire and do it all again tomorrow!
Plan Your Holiday Getaway
About three hours from Seattle, Lake Chelan is an easy escape for a long weekend or the start of a new family tradition. Lakeside resorts, cozy inns, and vacation rentals make it simple to settle in and stay a while. And if one visit isn’t enough, save the date for Lake Chelan Winterfest in January, with two weekends of ice, fire, and fireworks over the water.
Find the entire Small Town Holidays event schedule, Plaid Friday deals, and lodging options at SmallTownHolidays.com. See you in the Lake Chelan Valley this holiday season!
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