SEATTLE AVENUE

The Christmas Ship festival has been a Northwest tradition for 58 years. Its main purpose is to bring communities together to celebrate the holiday season. From our flotilla of ships to the crowds of people who gather onshore, this celebration is one of the gems of the holiday season.Each night, from December 1st through 23rd, the Christmas Ship sails to different Puget Sound waterfront communities, over 45 in total. Choirs onboard sing 20-minute performances to these communities, all broadcast via a state-of-the-art speaker system. Christmas Ship Schedule.

On shore, thousands of people gather around roaring bonfires (I’ll be at Alki) anticipating the arrival of the Christmas Ship. You can buy a ticket to sail board the Christmas Ship or one of the Parade ships that follow, or join with friends and neighbors to gather together for your own caroling tradition. If you own your own boat, feel welcome to join in the festival and help form the largest holiday floating parade in the world!!!

And yes, there is a charitable connection. In addition to good cheer, family and friends, a portion of all ticket sales benefits The Seattle Times Fund For The Needy.