Bainbridge Island, Wash. – Bundle up and trade the bustle and bright city lights for the cozy warmth of a
holiday weekend under magical starry nights and towering evergreens on Bainbridge Island. The island’s
holiday calendar has something for everyone from tiny tots to the merry at heart and runs from the day after Thanksgiving through the New Year.

Take a turn around the winter wonderland skating rink at Pleasant Beach Village from Nov. 25 to Dec. 31, light up the night and rejuvenate your senses with an evening Solstice Walk at the world-renowned Bloedel Reserve Dec. 19 to Dec. 22, enjoy festive holiday performances and concerts, and enjoy hot toddies as you peruse artisan gifts along Winslow’s historic main street – all with just a short ferry ride or drive from Seattle or Tacoma.

“The island is a magical destination any time of year, but it really gets dressed up for the holidays and offers families extraordinary experiences around every corner,” Executive Director of Visit Bainbridge Island Chris Mueller said. “It’s a place to slow down, take a breath of fresh air, rejoice in gathering and make memories that last a lifetime. So be sure to book your weekend away today.”

Join IslandWood and #optoutside for a free, open trails day from Noon to 4 p.m. Nov. 25 and stop by historic. Bainbridge Island Farms to pick out the perfect Tannenbaum enjoy yummy treats and hot drinks as well. The farm offers pre-cut and U-Cut options, beautiful wreaths, and more to take home to enjoy all season long.

On Nov. 26, join the Bainbridge Island Downtown Association for a day filled with tradition, kicking off with Shop Small Saturday. Stroll the historic main street chockfull of acclaimed restaurants, sweet treats, and boutique retailers, including kid-approved Calico Toys and Eagle Harbor Book Co., to find the perfect gift. At 6 p.m. join the community for the annual Tree Lighting at the city’s Town Square featuring live performances by the Bainbridge High School Band, the district’s 100+ student choir, Bainbridge Ballet Nutcracker, and Crescendo Singers. Enjoy S’mores with The Squad and sip hot cider. According to tradition, Santa arrives by firetruck to light the tree.

Can’t make it that weekend, every Thursday in December the downtown association also host Holiday Lights – Festive Nights with free festive music or holiday movies and a hot cider station along Madrone Lane. You can shop late as merchants will be open till 8 p.m.

Venture to the island’s west side and you’ll find a wonder-filled winter playground at Pleasant Beach Village, located in the historic Lynwood Center neighborhood. The resort offers a slate of holiday activities for kids and kids-at-heart including Gingerbread House parties, free visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and a winter wonderland skating rink, which serves up delectable après skate fare from Joe’s Restaurant, complete with seasonal hot beverages for kids – and adults. Enjoy seasonal live music all season long as part of the Manor House Concert Series which features gospel, soul, jazz, and hill country rock artists.

There’s also a complimentary shuttle runs from the ferry terminal to Pleasant Beach Village and back for families looking to spend the day dining and shopping at the village or staying at the extraordinary Inn at Pleasant Beach Village. The shuttle operates from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesdays-Sundays.

For art lovers, Dec. 2 to Dec. 4, the island hosts the annual Bainbridge Island Winter Studio Tour. The free event runs daily 10 a.m. to 5p.m. and features 46 artists with open studios and galleries. Then head over to Bainbridge Island Museum of Art which is hosting a Winter Night Market a two-day event celebrating the best of the season with shopping, crafts, food, drink, and entertainment for all ages starting at 4 p.m. on Dec. 2 and Dec. 3. Bainbridge Brewing also celebrates its 10 th anniversary that weekend, so be sure to pop into the ale house on Dec. 2 or the Brewery and Taproom on Dec. 3 for the Year Ten Double IPA, live music, and fantastic food.

Nature lovers are invited to bundle up and celebrate the holiday season at Winter of Wonder, an all-ages outdoor experience at Bloedel Reserve, Dec. 1 to Jan. 8. The 150-acre public garden and forest preserve invites guests to see the garden in its seasonal splendor with illuminated trails and imaginative woodland creatures.

Kids Discovery Museum – among the region’s best children’s – hosts the Holidays at KiDiMu all month long. There you’ll find sock skating Nov. 25-Jan. 1, Gingerbread House decorating from Dec. 2-11, and special winter and holiday-themed museum STEM activities. They are also hosting a special experiential nature- making journal class with Bloedel Reserve for children under 12 years at the reserve from 1-3 p.m. Dec. 10. Your admission also gives you full access to the reserve.

And back by popular demand, ring in the new year – a tad early – with your favorite minis by joining the KiDiMu Noon Year’s Eve Party on from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 31. Put on that party dress or tux and get ready to boogie with hats, noise makers, firework art activities and a special noon countdown!

Bainbridge Island’s Lodging Association offers a wide variety of cozy overnight accommodations where you can soak up the season island-style. Hotels and individual hosts deck out their rentals in full holiday style, many with views of sparkling city lights twinkling in the distance. Book two or more nights with any hotel or rental property through Jan. 31 and receive a copy of the island’s treasured “30 Walks on Bainbridge Island” book to help you access the incredible trails system. And be sure to take advantage of The Marshall Suites sweet deal – the first 50 people to book a stay Dec. 1 to Jan. 31 will also receive a two-piece box of coveted, island-made Bon Bon Candies fudge.

Celebrate the Holidays on Bainbridge Island this year, where holiday magic is everywhere! Go to http://www.bainbridgeislandholidays.com for a full calendar of seasonal events and lodging options. And don’t forget to share your memories with us by using the hashtag, #bainbridgeholidays.

Visit Bainbridge Island is the official destination marketing organization (DMO) committed to promoting Bainbridge Island as a special place to visit, stay, and play. As a 501(c) 6 nonprofit organization, Visit Bainbridge Island works with the island’s arts, entertainment, restaurants, wineries and distilleries, natural outdoor attractions, and hospitality industry to enhance economic growth and sustainability through innovative tourism programs and partnerships. We encourage both day and overnight guests to come enjoy the natural beauty and vibrant spirit of our island community. Start planning today at www.visitbainbridgeisland.org or follow us on Instagram or Facebook @visitbainbridgeislandwa.