Winter in Arlington: Seasonal Activities & Local Traditions
Cozy, family-friendly ways to enjoy winter around Rooted Northwest’s hometown.
Winter in Arlington has a quieter kind of magic — mist rising off the Stillaguamish River, evergreens keeping their color through the cold, and a community that celebrates the season with warmth and togetherness. For future Rooted Northwest residents, this is what makes living here feel grounded and genuine: access to nature, local traditions, and small-town rituals that bring people closer.
Whether you're exploring the area or imagining what everyday life might feel like here, winter is a wonderful time to get to know Arlington. Just a 10-minute drive from Rooted Northwest, the town offers the perfect balance to rural living — a welcoming place with parks, cafés, seasonal events, and community traditions that make the area feel connected and vibrant. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy winter in and around Arlington.
Arlington’s Hometown Holiday Traditions
For the most up-to-date details, follow: facebook.com/ArlingtonHH or check their website: https://www.arlingtonwa.gov/202/Hometown-Holidays
Arlington’s Hometown Holidays fills December with classic, small-town celebrations that turn the downtown core into a festive winter village. Here are the upcoming events still happening this season:
Holiday Carousel & Ferris Wheel (Through Dec 14)
Located next to Legion Park, these free rides bring a touch of nostalgic joy to the heart of town.
- Monday–Saturday: 12–7 PM
- Sunday: 12–6 PM
Sensory-friendly (no music) Sundays: 11 AM–12 PM
Arlington High School Christmas Show (Dec 11–13)
A community favorite featuring festive music and student performances of The Muppet Christmas Carol at the Byrnes Performing Arts Center.
Downtown Wagon Rides (Dec 13 & Dec 20)
A beloved winter tradition — hop on a horse-drawn wagon and enjoy a scenic ride through Arlington’s decorated streets.
- December 13, 12–4 PM
- December 20, 12–4 PM
Arlington Community Christmas Concert (Dec 19)
A beautiful, free concert presented by Calvary Arlington at the Byrnes Performing Arts Center.
7–8:30 PM.
Songs & Cider in the Park (Dec 20)
Enjoy warm cider, carols, and family crafts at the Legion Park gazebo.
2:30–4:30 PM.
Holiday Markets & Local Makers
Winter in Arlington brings a variety of community markets where you can browse handmade goods, seasonal treats, and creative gifts from local artisans. It’s a festive way to support small businesses and enjoy the spirit of the season.
Santa’s Maker’s Market & Vendor Fair
December 20, 9 AM–3 PM
Hosted at Andrew’s Hay, this market features local makers, crafts, small-batch foods, and unique holiday gifts.
Holiday Farmers Market
Check the Hometown Holidays Facebook page for remaining December dates. Expect seasonal produce, preserves, baked goods, and artisan crafts.
Pop-Up Maker Events
Throughout December, look for pop-up booths and craft events at community hubs and Legion Park — perfect for finding handmade items while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
These markets reflect the creativity and community spirit that Rooted Northwest hopes to nurture as well — thoughtful, local, and connected.
The Lights of Christmas (Stanwood)
Just 20 minutes from Arlington, The Lights of Christmas in Stanwood is one of the largest light displays in the Pacific Northwest — over one million lights across 15 acres.
It’s a magical experience for families, couples, and visitors of all ages.
Drive-Thru Nights
- December 10–11
- December 17–18
Activity Stop Nights
- December 12–14
- December 19–23
- December 26–28
Each night offers its own kind of magic, from illuminated tunnels and themed displays to warm snacks and festive music.
Winter Walks & Nature Escapes
Arlington’s surrounding landscape — the foothills of the North Cascades, wooded parks, and open valleys — stays beautiful year-round. Some of the best winter moments are simple, slow, and outside.
Portage Creek Wildlife Reserve
A peaceful network of flat trails perfect for winter walks, birdwatching, and big-sky views.
River Meadows Park
Open meadows, forested paths, and a quiet stretch of river make this park ideal for morning strolls or family outings.
Stillaguamish River Walks
Walk the riverbanks, listen to the winter flow, and enjoy misty views of the surrounding foothills — a grounding way to begin or end the day.
Cozy Spots to Warm Up
After exploring or attending local events, winter is the perfect time to settle into a warm café or bakery. A few local favorites include:
- Moe’s Coffee Co. — A cozy, community-focused spot in downtown Arlington
- Stilly Coffee House — Great pastries and a welcoming atmosphere
- Firehouse Coffee (Stanwood) — A perfect stop before or after The Lights of Christmas
- Dusty’s Bakery (Stanwood) — Seasonal pastries and classic bakery charm
These spots offer the kind of warmth — literal and figurative — that makes winter feel special in this part of Washington.
Winter Day Trips (20–45 Minutes Away)
Arlington is a gateway to some of the most scenic winter destinations in the region.
Historic Snohomish
Holiday lights, antique shops, and cozy cafés make it a charming December day trip.
Granite Falls & the Mountain Loop Scenic Byway
Misty forests, mountain views, and beautiful winter drives.
Tulalip & Marysville
If you’re looking for something a bit more festive but still indoors, the Tulalip area offers winter activities and seasonal displays. Tulalip Lights & Ice — a limited-time winter experience featuring lights, music, and family-friendly attractions — adds an extra touch of holiday sparkle to the area. It’s an easy, nearby outing for anyone wanting a fun, festive break from the colder weather.
Winter at Rooted Northwest
As Rooted Northwest grows, winter will bring its own traditions: shared meals, workshops in the Common House, snowy walks through the forest, and cozy evenings spent with neighbors. For now, exploring Arlington in winter offers a glimpse of the wider community you’ll one day be a part of — warm, welcoming, and deeply connected to nature and each other.
