Nothing is more romantic than the holidays in Yakima where many of the vineyards are covered in snow, and you can warm up with a cup of locally-made cider, mulled wine or hot cocoa. The downtown Yakima Winter Wonderland events include a lighting of the enormous community Christmas tree, tours of downtown on horse-drawn carriages, performances by local artists, and of course, a visit from Santa—just in the first week of December!

Free horse-drawn carriage rides are available throughout the month, as merchants in the historic district host a holiday open house on some special Saturdays. Check out the ornament-making workshops at Yakima Maker Space, and don’t miss the performances by the Yakima Youth Symphony which take place throughout the holiday season.

Baby, It’s Cold Outside …

Enjoy the Sunnyside Lighted Farm Implement Parade on December 3, and don’t miss the Toy Train Christmas that takes place until December 17. Also on December 3, there’s the Holiday Crafts and Antiques Bazaar at Mighty Tieton, where you can pick up gifts, decorations and more from local artists.

On December 3 and 4, A Christmas Pops Spectacular is featured by the youth symphony, and bars and restaurants throughout town are offering holiday specials. Slip into one of the many tasting rooms for some seasonal pairings, and make this December one to remember.