December's Top 5 Port Townsend Activities

An Evening at Key City Theatre

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Enjoy an evening of holiday cheer at the theater! 

“Spirit of the Yule” is set in Port Townsend circa 1889 and is “Christmas Carol” adaptation. Scrooge, a female in this version, is haunted by ghosts attempting to get the evil business woman to change her wicked ways. “Spirit of the Yule” runs from November 30th - December 23rd at Key City Theatre.


Christmas Tree Hunting in Olympic National Forest

Haven’t gotten your Christmas tree? Why not adventure into Olympic National Park and procure your own? Take a romantic walk in the woods as you look for your perfect tree!

For just $5 you can purchase a Christmas tree permit at any Olympic National Forest office. Permits are good for one u-cut tree. The closest location to Port Townsend is the Quilcene, about a 35 minute drive.

Check out this video from the National Park Service on tips for successful Christmas tree hunting!


Celebrate the Holidays, Victorian-style

Photo c/o The Bishop Victorian

Photo c/o The Bishop Victorian

Step back in time on Saturday, December 16th with the Open Parlor Tours and Big Brass Yule Tide Ball.

Visit decorated 19th century Victorian homes and buildings with costumed docents and Christmas music & sweets. Open Parlors include the Old Consulate Inn, Commander’s Beach House, The Bishop Victorian, and several homes. Tours run from 1pm to 4pm and purchase tickets for $15 per person.

End your afternoon of exploration with the Big Brass Yule Tide Ball. Enjoy live music from The Olympic Big Brass Band, dancing & drinks, holiday festivities. The ball takes place in downtown Port Townsend at the American Legion Hall from 7pm to 11pm. Tickets cost $10 in advance or $15 at the door.


Port Townsend 24th Annual Gingerbread House Contest

Nothing says Christmas like gingerbread houses.

Check out Port Townsend’s 24th Annual Gingerbread House Contest from December 16th - January 14th. The judges encourage participants, both children and adults, to get creative. Expect to see a variety of different gingerbread homes with all types of edible and inedible decorations.

The Gingerbread House Contest is on display at 1007 Water Street (next to Whistle Stop Toys).

Photo c/o Port Townsend Main Street

Photo c/o Port Townsend Main Street


Hello, 2018!

Photo c/o Fort Worden

Photo c/o Fort Worden

Say goodbye to 2017 and welcome 2018 at Fort Worden! Ring in the new year at the historic USO building. Doors open at 8pm and live music from Uncle Funk and the Dope 6 begins at 9pm. Dancing and sneaking in a new year’s kiss or two till 1am.

You’ll want to start the new year on the right food, so savor a special New Year’s Day Brunch at at Fort Worden’s multiple restaurants, Reveille (located in the Commons building).


Photo c/o The Port Townsend Leader

Photo c/o The Port Townsend Leader

Bonus: Find the perfect holiday gift!

Port Townsend is full of local shops perfect for picking up holiday gifts. Stroll down Water Street to find great gifts for everyone on your list at stores including Quimper Mercantile, Abracadabra, Coastal Conservatory, and more!