Looking for a festive small town to visit this holiday season? You’ve come to the right place.

We know people say “there’s no place like home for the holidays” but Lake Chelan at Christmastime might have you saying otherwise. Shop owners greet you warmly as big fluffy flakes fall, wander up and down the brightly lit streets with a cup of cocoa in hand, or perhaps build a snowman in the park with your loved ones. No matter the holiday activity, we know those magical Hallmark Christmas movies towns are real because we live in one. But don’t just take our word for it, stay in one of our fabulous rentals and experience the magic of a small town Chelan Christmas this year for yourself!

Fun for the Whole Family

Between Wine Barrel Train Rides, fireworks shows every weekend and KOZI’s Santa’s Nice List, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy this holiday season. This year, every Friday and Saturday afternoon, Santa is going to ride through different neighborhoods in the Lake Chelan Valley to say hi to his littlest fans. Keep an eye out for when you’ll get to see Santa outside of your rental!

Photo | Historic Downtown Chelan

Shop Historic Downtown Chelan

Shop local this holiday season and support family-owned businesses. Our local shops are working overtime to make the best of it during this pandemic. Show them some love this holiday season and buy gifts for everyone on the list this year from local stores. Plus, with downtown Chelan lavishly adorned in Christmas decorations, walking around during the holidays can really put you in the Christmas spirit. May we recommend the homemade fudge from Culinary Apple or a new book from Chelan’s favorite bookstore, Riverwalk Books? Don’t forget to grab a bite while you’re out and about! Some of our favorite spots are Local Myth Pizza, Stormy Mountain Brewing and Marcela’s Cocina Mexicana.

Lights at the Lake

Lights at the lake is a special part of our Small Town Holidays. On any night of the season, take a Driving Light Tour around Lake Chelan. The hillside holiday lights illuminate the valley so beautifully that it’s a sight and experience you’ll never forget. Additionally, on Fridays in Chelan and Saturdays in Manson, you can catch a fireworks show! Be sure not to miss the Lady of the Lake Holiday Light Boat Parade on Saturdays as well.

It’s Snow Time!

Come enjoy the snow in our winter wonderland! From sledding at Don Morse Park or Lakeside Park, to skiing and tubing up at Echo Ridge…you’ll want to experience the snowy magic of the season in Lake Chelan this year. These family friendly activities are fun for the whole family. Just pack a thermos of hot cocoa, throw on your snow pants, and you’re ready to roll!

Click here for more information on holiday rentals, and for more information about Christmas in Chelan, click here.