Seasonal Delights

From special holiday menus to stunning light displays, SLU has plenty of seasonal cheer to go around. Set aside some time between now and the new year to celebrate and treat yourself. Check out these fun neighborhood events:

Creos Optik Installations

Explore Optik, interactive light installations by Urban Conga and Creos at Van Vorst Plaza. Spin each unit to create vibrant cascades of color and sound, transforming them into playful musical instruments. Open daily from December 1 to February 1.

Day 1 Playfield Illuminate Installations

Step into a winter wonderland at the Day 1 Playfield. Walk through a glowing tunnel, relax by a snowy mountain scene, and snap your holiday card photo. Visit between December 9 and February 1 for a picture-perfect experience.

Holiday Tasting Menu at Paju

Celebrate the holiday season with a special 7-course chef’s tasting menu at Paju (513 Westlake Avenue North) from December 24 to December 31 (closed on Christmas). Known for its innovative approach to Korean cuisine, Paju’s holiday menu features a delectable lineup: Citrus Salad, Fluke Hwe, Dungeness Crab Mandu, Acorn Noodle with Winter Black Truffle, Sea Bream, Wood-Grilled Rack of Lamb, and a festive Yule Log for dessert.

The exclusive, prix-fixe menu is priced at $190, with optional wine pairings available for an additional $120. Reserve now through Tock.

Holiday Lights Grand Finale Cruise

Celebrate the season aboard the historic VIRGINA V with a magical Holiday Lights Cruise on Monday, December 23. Begin the evening with a dockside happy hour from 6:30 to 7:30pm, followed by a delightful assortment of holiday desserts and beverages as you set sail on Lake Union. Enjoy breathtaking views of sparkling holiday lights and experience the final holiday light show with a special performance at Gasworks Park at 9:10 PM. The cruise concludes with a return to the dock at 10:00 PM. Tickets are $125 for adults, $110 for members, and $90 for kids 10 and under. Reserve here.

New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise

Ring in the New Year aboard a luxurious Waterways yacht with a champagne toast and the best views of Lake Union’s dazzling fireworks! Enjoy an unforgettable evening featuring a gourmet four-course dinner crafted by the Executive Chef, DJ entertainment, and festive party favors. The evening begins with a champagne welcome as you board at 9pm from Waterways Cruises at Lake Union Piers, 901 Fairview Avenue North in Seattle. Depart at 9:30pm for a three-and-a-half-hour cruise on Lake Union and Lake Washington (weather permitting) and return at 12:30am after a spectacular midnight fireworks display. Ages 16+ are welcome, and while attire is flexible, a sweater or jacket is recommended for enjoying the outdoor decks. Reserve here.

New Year’s Eve at Tutta Bella Seattle at REN

Ring in the New Year with an unforgettable dining experience at Tutta Bella’s new location at REN! On Tuesday, December 31, celebrate the start of 2025 with a specially curated four-course meal before heading out to enjoy Seattle’s best fireworks show. Choose your reservation time slot for an evening of delicious cuisine and festive cheer at 1100 Virginia Street in Seattle.

The event runs from 5 to 11pm and is open to all ages. Tickets include a welcome cocktail, your choice of appetizers, salads, mains, and a dessert sampler, along with a glass of Prosecco, draft beer, or house wine (non-alcoholic options available). Additional drinks will be available for purchase. Reserve here.