Did you know that many Christmas traditions originated in Germany? Whether you celebrate this winter holiday or just want an excuse to eat an obscene amount of gingerbread cookies, you don’t have to cross the Atlantic. Simply head to Leavenworth, the Bavarian-themed town in Washington.
Family Activities
From Thanksgiving through December, Christmastown brings near-constant festivities to Leavenworth’s quaint downtown. Say hi to Santa, Mrs. Claus and Rudolph, sing along to live music and carolers, listen to a holiday-themed read-aloud and craft a souvenir to take home. Admire the gabled roofs and decorative balconies of the area’s shops, then check out the pint-sized architectural displays of the gingerbread house exhibition in the Leavenworth Festhalle. Take a spin through the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum (kids can do a scavenger hunt) or simply stroll outside among the half-million lights that adorn downtown. Pro tip: Traffic and parking can be as stressful as assembling a million-piece toy before your kids melt down, so park behind the Safeway and ride the free Link Bus.
Baby, it’s cold outside, but you’ll still love visiting Sven and his buddies, and warming up around the campfires at the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm (advance tickets required, from $40). Dash through the snow on a sleigh ride with Icicle Outfitters or Eagle Creek Ranch. Or head to the Leavenworth Winter Sports Club for sledding, tubing, downhill skiing, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing (from $13).
Family Dining
Transport your taste buds to Bavaria at the Andreas Keller Restaurant, which hosts live music (cue the euphonium!) and serves traditional fare like pretzels and sausages as well as a gluten-free menu. Blow your kids’ minds with a Coned Bros. “pizza cone” — handheld cones of pizza dough filled with sauce, cheese and your fave fixings. Finish off a meal with a visit to the Gingerbread Factory, which bakes much more than molasses-filled treats.
Where to Stay
Splurge on a family-friendly cabin booked via Love Leavenworth or your favorite home rental platform. Stay mere minutes from Christmastown events at the pet-friendly Evergreen Inn. Or plunge into the year-round outdoor pool before getting cozy in the Bavarian Lodge’s rooms and family suites.
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