Snowflake Lane in Bellevue: Celebrating 20 Years of Holiday Magic

When the first Snowflake Lane parade took to the streets of Bellevue in 2005, it was meant to be a small, festive event that would bring a touch of holiday cheer to the downtown area. Fast forward 20 years, and it’s become the Pacific Northwest’s premier holiday event, a mesmerizing winter wonderland presented by The Bellevue Collection. Expect falling snow, dazzling lights, festive music, and an array of costumed characters every night from November 29 to December 24, 2024. It's totally one of the most exciting holiday traditions in the Pacific Northwest.


What to Expect at Snowflake Lane 2024

This year’s 20th-anniversary edition will be bigger and better than ever, featuring:

23-Minute Nightly Parade: Each night at 7:00 PM, the parade runs along the sidewalks between Bellevue Square and Lincoln Square, spanning from NE 4th to NE 8th Streets.

176 Cast Members: The show features a mix of performers, from high school students to professional dancers. Many participants consider this event their first job, making it a special milestone for local youth.

16 Festive Floats: The parade showcases floats featuring characters like Snow Princesses, Elves, Sugar Plum Fairies, and even Santa Claus himself!

Nightly Snowfall: The streets of Bellevue transform into a winter wonderland each night.

Dazzling Lights and Music: Over 400 Colorblast lights illuminate the route, while festive music creates a joyful atmosphere.

Candy Giveaway: More than 80,000 pieces of candy are handed out to children along the parade route, adding a sweet touch to the holiday cheer.

Where to Watch Snowflake Lane

There are a couple ways to do this. One is free - and that's the one where you check it out from the street, and it's jam packed with holiday spirit.

On The Street

The best viewing spots are along Bellevue Way NE, between NE 4th and NE 8th Streets. Plan to arrive early to secure a good spot. Even though it’s artificial snow, the evenings can be cold, so consider layering up. Parking is available at Bellevue Square, Lincoln Square, and Bellevue Place, but it’s best to arrive early or use a rideshare service to avoid traffic. For a more relaxed experience with smaller crowds, consider attending on a weekday evening.

At These Restaurants 

During the 2024 Snowflake Lane festivities in Bellevue, several restaurants and venues are hosting special events and promotions to enhance your holiday experience. Here are some notable options:

Mirra

NOW OPEN! Experience the world's first social gameplay arena here in Bellevue, where immersive...

Central Bar & Restaurant

The Cheesecake Factory

BLACK BOTTLE Postern

BLACK BOTTLE Postern is a casual tavern committed to unpretentious, tasty food at fair prices....

Bake's Place

At Bake's we're a little bit different. Not only will you find eclectic, seasonally-inspired...

Forum Social House

Forum Social House is a locally owned and operated restaurant, entertainment and nightlife...

Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi

Experience Bellevue’s best views with an unparalleled dining experience from the 31st floor at...

Experiences to Consider While You're Here

Just a short drive away, the Garden d'Lights at the Bellevue Botanical Garden offers a spectacular display of over half a million lights, creating stunning floral patterns and whimsical animals. Head to Bellevue Downtown Park to experience the winter season Ice Rink, or walk on over to the Avenue Bellevue to see the new Art on the Avenue exhibit - just be sure to make a reservation.

For arts enthusiasts, the BAM Holiday Arts Fair showcases handmade crafts and unique gifts from local artisans, making it a perfect stop for holiday shopping. Kids and families can dive into the festive spirit with Gingerbread Workshops 2024, where participants can design their own sweet creations.

For a more whimsical experience, the Issaquah Reindeer Festival invites guests to meet Santa’s reindeer, while the Seattle Rocks: Holiday Heist brings interactive fun to the mix with holiday-themed escape rooms. Don’t miss the magic of the International Ballet Theatre’s Nutcracker, which brings the beloved classic to life in a captivating performance. Rounding out the season are the Holiday Barn Lighting in at Kelsey Creek Farm and the Mingo Monthly Event at Browne's Wine Tasting Bar on Main Street, adding a rustic and cozy charm to the festive celebrations in and around Bellevue.

Dec 08

20 Years of Magic: Snowflake Lane at the Bellevue Collection

The Bellevue Collection Dec 08, 2024 - Dec 24, 2024

Snowflake Lane returns to Bellevue for its 20th year, bringing holiday cheer to all! Experience the...

Dec 08

Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink Presented by Symetra

Bellevue Downtown Park Dec 08, 2024 - Jan 12, 2025

The Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink returns for its 26th year to the picturesque Bellevue Downtown Park...

Dec 08

Garden d'Lights

Bellevue Botanical Garden Dec 08, 2024 - Dec 31, 2024

Garden d'Lights at the Bellevue Botanical Gardens is one of the most charming and approachable light...

Dec 08

BAM Holiday Arts Fair

Bellevue Arts Museum Dec 08, 2024 - Dec 22, 2024

BAM Holiday Arts Fair Thursdays - Sundays | NOV 29 - DEC 22 | 4 - 8 PM The Holiday Arts Fair invites...

Dec 08

Issaquah Reindeer Festival

Cougar Mountain Zoo Dec 08, 2024 - Dec 30, 2024

The Issaquah Reindeer Festival will return December 1, 2024 Reservation system goes live November 1,...

Dec 08

Seattle Rocks: Holiday Heist

Reality Break Escapes Dec 08, 2024 - Dec 26, 2024

In a moment of weakness, your band makes a devious deal with the holiday-hating Gronch. Disguised as...

Dec 08

International Ballet Theatre presents The Nutcracker

Meydenbauer Center Theatre Dec 08, 2024 - Dec 23, 2024

Celebrate the "Season of Cheer" in Bellevue by sharing in an East side families' holiday tradition...

Dec 18

Mingo- Monthly event

Browne Family Vineyards and Spirits Dec 18, 2024

Bingo but with Music! Hosted by Edsonart Entertainment. Listen to a song and mark your Mingo card....

Dec 08

Art on the Avenue:

Avenue Bellevue Dec 08, 2024 - Mar 31, 2025

A collection of street-level pop-up contemporary art galleries at Avenue Bellevue. “Art on the...

These venues are popular during the holiday season, especially on weekends. It's advisable to make reservations in advance and confirm any specific event details directly with the restaurants. Enjoy your holiday dining and the enchanting Snowflake Lane parade!​

Where to Stay in Bellevue During Snowflake Lane

To fully enjoy Snowflake Lane, consider staying overnight in Bellevue. Here are some of the top hotel options, all within walking distance of the event:

W Bellevue

W Bellevue. Where green meets global glamour. Where rugged and relaxed are reimagined and redefined....

The Westin Bellevue

Natural Beauty Meets Urban Sophistication Upscale sophistication waits at The Bellevue Collection,...

Hyatt Regency Bellevue

Hyatt Regency Bellevue, on Seattle’s Eastside, is in the heart of downtown Bellevue. Nestled between...

InterContinental Bellevue at the Avenue

Elevate your gatherings with InterContinental Bellevue at the Avenue. Our new luxury hotel sets the...

AC Hotel by Marriott

Welcome to AC Hotels by Marriott® By focusing on the little things, we've created something big....

Seattle Marriott Bellevue

Step into the lobby of the redesigned Seattle Marriott Bellevue and feel the comfortable, relaxed...

Courtyard by Marriott Seattle Bellevue/Downtown

Experience the luxury of the newly renovated Courtyard Downtown Bellevue hotel, centrally located in...

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