Holiday Magic in Gig Harbor — A Town Wrapped in Twinkle Lights 🎄

There’s something extra special about the holidays in Gig Harbor — and as a local Realtor who lives and breathes this community (Hi, I’m Hannah!), I’m excited to share a guide full of festive favorites for you & your family!

Downtown Gig Harbor

1.) Gig Harbor’s Annual Tree Lighting

Date: Dec 6th @ 4:30 pm

Kick off the holiday season in true Gig Harbor style at the 2025 Tree Lighting Ceremony in Skansie Brothers Park. Every year, locals and visitors gather along the waterfront as the iconic harbor tree sparkles to life, surrounded by live music, festive treats, and that unmistakable small-town magic. Bundle up with cocoa, stroll the twinkle-lit waterfront, and celebrate the start of the season with a tradition that feels like home — no matter how long you’ve lived here.

2.) Holiday Markets at Gig Harbor High School & Peninsula High School

Date: Tide Fest - Dec 6th & & 7th

Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM

Sunday, 11 AM to 4 PM

Admission $5

Date: Winterfest - Nov. 29th & 30th

Saturday, 9 AM to 5 PM

Sunday, 11 AM to 4 PM

Admission: $6:15

Seasonal shopping at two of the community’s most beloved holiday markets: Gig Harbor High School’s Tide Fest and Peninsula High School’s annual Winterfest. Both events bring together talented local makers, artists, and small businesses offering handmade gifts, décor, treats, and one-of-a-kind finds you won’t see anywhere else. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect stocking stuffer or supporting local artisans, these festive markets are a must-visit tradition for families across the harbor. Perfect for a full day of browsing, sipping cocoa, and getting into the holiday spirit!

3.) Downtown Gig Harbor Annual Boat Parade

Date: Dec 13th @ 5:00 pm

A true hometown favorite, the Gig Harbor Lighted Boat Parade brings the magic of the holidays to the water. Dozens of boats—wrapped in twinkle lights, holiday décor, and plenty of creativity—cruise through the harbor, reflecting a glittering glow across the shoreline. Families gather along the waterfront with cocoa and blankets, cheering as each festive vessel passes by. It’s a joyful, only-in-Gig-Harbor tradition that captures the spirit of the season and brings our community together in the most scenic way.

4.) Holiday Village at Ancich Park

Free photos with Santa on Dec 13th/14th and 21st/22nd at Holiday Village from 12pm-2:30pm. More details about free photos with Santa are listed below. 

Step into a little world of holiday magic at the Holiday Village in Ancich Waterfront Park. This cheerful, photo-ready display transforms the harbor into a festive wonderland with charming cottages, twinkling lights, and whimsical décor perfect for families, date nights, or your annual holiday card. Kids can explore the themed setups, enjoy sweet treats, and soak in the excitement of the season — all with the sparkling harbor as the backdrop. It’s one of Gig Harbor’s most beloved traditions and a must-visit stop for creating warm memories all December long.

Dec 6th - 7th: 10am - 6pm

Dec 11th - 14th: 10am - 6pm

Dec 18th - 21st: 10am - 6pm

5.) Lighted Car Parade

Date: Dec 20th @ 5:00 pm

Get ready for a night of festive fun as the Gig Harbor Lighted Car Parade rolls through town on December 20th. Decked out in holiday lights, inflatables, and plenty of cheerful décor, cars, trucks, and community vehicles cruise through the streets spreading joy to every neighborhood they pass. Families bundle up along the route to wave, cheer, and soak in the sparkle as the parade brings holiday magic right to their doorstep. It’s a heartwarming Gig Harbor tradition that’s as fun to watch as it is to be a part of — a perfect way to celebrate the season together.

Happy Holidays!