Celebrate the Holidays on San Juan Islands

“What’s this? There’s color everywhere. What’s this? There’s white things in the air. What’s this? I can’t believe my eyes; I must be dreaming. Wake up, Jack!” Although it seldom snows, holidays are as magical in the San Juan Islands as Tim Burton’s mythical Christmas Town. Twenty-one thousand lights on the two towering Dutch Elm trees at Memorial Park in Friday Harbor make a charming holiday greeting to those arriving by ferry. The trees were planted nearly a century ago as a memorial to fallen soldiers in the First World War. In Friday Harbor, the whole town goes all out to light up the night with elaborate displays by individual businesses, and illuminated snowflakes line the streets.

Step back in time to a magical European-style Christmas Market on December 10th, 2021. The historic Brickworks building in Friday Harbor will glow with sparkling lights illuminating an island crafts market with local food vendors, the farm produces, live holiday music, a spirits garden, and activities for kids and grownups alike.

This season, celebrate with a winter forest hike, find a deserted driftwood-strewn beach, build a fort, and then finish up with a great meal in a cozy cabin or cottage, fireside. The Islands get half the rainfall of Seattle and twice as much sunshine; COVID-safe outdoor adventure can be found on your doorstep.

Giving a gift from the San Juan Islands is the next best thing to being there. This holiday season, shop online and bring the Islands right to your doorstep. The Holiday Gift Guide www.visitsanjuans.com/gift-guide features gifts for the foodie, nature fanatic, art lover and more.

And sending a little extra comfort and joy to you through these San Juan Islands-inspired holiday cocktail recipes—a gift to you from the restaurants and resorts on Orcas Island, Lopez Island and San Juan Island, direct to your home.