The most wonderful time of the year is back, and downtown Spokane is ready to shine brighter than ever. From Santa’s grand arrival to festive lights, carriage rides, and shopping events, the heart of the city is bursting with holiday spirit. Presented by the Downtown Spokane Partnership and community partners, this year’s Merry & Magical Downtown celebration offers something for everyone, from family-friendly fun to cozy date nights.
Season Kickoff: November 22
The season begins with the Merry & Magical Kickoff on Saturday, November 22, from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. in and around River Park Square.at River Park Square
Santa’s Arrival (3:00–8:00 p.m.): Be there for Santa Claus’ return to River Park Square beginning with a Wickedly Magical twist! Find him beneath the dazzling 50-foot Christmas tree for a Spokane holiday tradition that’s simply “thrillifying.” Presented by STCU
Mingle & Jingle on Post (3:00–5:00 p.m.): Families can enjoy crafts with Mobius Discovery Center, cocoa, and live carols from Lilac City Voices. Mrs. Claus will make a special appearance, and visitors can take a ride on the Wheatland Bank Horse & Carriage, a cherished holiday tradition. Presented by Columbia Bank
Santa’s After Party on Post (6:00–8:00 p.m.): After Santa’s arrival, stay for music from DJ Unifest, beer and wine from Bistango, and a live painting exhibition for Brushes & Boughs, presented by Innovia. The evening culminates with a Merry & Magical Costume Contest, judged by NonStop Local KHQ’s Noah Boelter. Presented by Columbia Bank
Shop, Stroll, and Celebrate
Small Business Saturday & 12 Deals of Downtown: Support local this holiday season! The first 100 shoppers at Auntie’s Bookstore on Small Business Saturday will receive swag bags filled with local treats and coupons. Then, enjoy daily giveaways and business spotlights during the 12 Deals of Downtown. November 29; December 12–23. Presented by STCU
Free Horse & Carriage Rides: Cozy up for a scenic ride through Riverfront Park, an enchanting Spokane tradition for more than 20 years. Saturdays and Sundays, Noon – 5:00pm, November 29 – December 21. Presented by Wheatland Bank
Brushes & Boughs Holiday Tree Decorating Contest: Artists transform holiday trees into works of art to benefit local nonprofits. Visit the display at 818 W. Riverside Ave. and vote for your favorite—each vote helps local charities shine. Vote November 29 – December 21. Presented by Innovia
Holiday Display Contest: Stroll through downtown and vote for the most creative storefront displays as businesses compete for festive bragging rights. Vote November 29 – December 21. Presented by Visit Spokane
Kids Holiday Hunt: Children aged 12 and under can join a holiday scavenger hunt across 25 local downtown retail and hospitality to locate hidden characters for a chance to win prizes. November 29 – December 21. Presented by RenCorp Realty
Explore the Merry Map
Discover the season’s best sights with the Merry Map, presented by Columbia Bank, your guide to Spokane’s most dazzling displays and experiences. Pick-up a map at the Visit Spokane Visitor’s Center, the concierge at River Park Square, or use the online map at merrymagicaldowntown.org.
Tag @downtownspokane plus #MerryMagicalDowntown on Instagram for a chance to win prizes as you explore:
- Merry & Magical Lane (Post Street: Main–First Ave.): A festive corridor filled with music, lights, and community cheer, presented by Columbia Bank.
- Candy Cane Lane (Wall Street: Spokane Falls Blvd.–Riverside Ave.): Photo ops with candy canes and reindeer, skywalk wreaths, and red-and-white lights.
- Snowflake Lane (Riverside Ave.): Presented by Bank of America, featuring illuminated décor and overhead lighting at the Bank of America Financial Center, 601 W Riverside and the Brushes & Boughs Tree Display at Lincoln Plaza, 818 W Riverside.
Plus, don’t miss additional holiday sights at Riverfront Park, River Park Square, and Davenport Hotels.
Holiday Deals
From November 22, 2024, through January 31, 2025, enjoy special savings through Visit Spokane’s Holiday Deals mobile pass, offering exclusive discounts at participating downtown shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Plan Your Visit
Make downtown Spokane a part of your holiday plans this year. With twinkling lights, local charm, and endless opportunities to celebrate, it’s a season that’s truly Merry & Magical.
For a full list of events and activities, visit www.MerryMagicalDowntown.org