By: Seattle Refined

Ellensburg is a charming historic town that truly comes alive during the holiday season. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the downtown area offers a delightful mix of festive events, local shopping, and dining options that will help you create lasting memories with family and friends. From special holiday markets to unique twists on classic traditions, art galleries, outdoor art displays and murals, museums and more there's something for everyone. Below, we've rounded up some of the top events in Ellensburg that you won't want to miss this holiday season.

Moments to Remember - Holiday Tree Lighting: Nov. 29, 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Witness the Holiday Tree Lighting at Unity Park and watch the park transform into a winter wonderland! Enjoy festive choir and dance performances, caroling, photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and more. Highlights include:

• Hot cocoa and treats to warm you up
• Remarks and caroling by Make Music Ellensburg's Valley Voices Community Choir
• Performances by the Central Washington Dance Academy and DubStep Studio at the State Farm Insurance windows
• A petting zoo with furry friends from Menastash Grange

Plaid Friday: Nov. 29

Skip the Black Friday madness and head downtown for Plaid Friday! Wear your favorite plaid and enjoy exclusive deals and treats at participating local businesses, all while supporting the community.

Shop Local: Nov. 30 through Dec. 17

Spend $25 at local businesses and enter to win cash prizes with Shop Local. It’s a great way to find unique gifts and support Ellensburg’s shops!

Holiday Girls Night Out: Dec. 4, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Gather your friends for Holiday Girls Night Out, a festive evening of shopping, dining, and raffle prizes. Participating businesses will donate items for gift baskets to be raffled off during the event.

Holiday Night Market: Dec. 4, Dec. 11, and Dec. 18, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. each night

Visit the Holiday Night Market on three Wednesday evenings, featuring local vendors, food, and festive fun across multiple downtown locations. It’s the perfect place to shop for holiday gifts!

The Nutcracker & The Battle for the Key: Dec. 13 and Dec. 14

Don’t miss The Nutcracker & The Battle for the Key by the Ellensburg Dance Ensemble. This reimagined holiday classic features stunning choreography and enchanting characters. Buy tickets here!

Paint & Sip | Watercolor Christmas Cards: Dec. 15, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Get creative at Paint & Sip and make your own watercolor Christmas cards, guided by artist Erin Oostra. Limited spots are available, so be sure to register early!

These events are a lot of fun and will surely conjure up the holiday spirit in your soul, but we challenge you to find your own hidden gems in this wonderful city too, start planning your trip today at MyEllensburg.com! Round up your family and friends and make this holiday season special by enjoying the festive atmosphere and local traditions that make Ellensburg, Washington, a must-visit destination year after year!