We no longer “flip the switch” at a certain time on weekends, which drew huge crowds vying to get to town for that one moment. Instead, we have adapted an “always on” approach so the lights are on everyday providing a much more enjoyable experience for visitors and local alike.

We always aim to have the lights on by Thanksgiving and keep them up through the entire month of February, so you can come any day of the week for that 3-month period to see them, don’t forget to follow our live web cameras around town to view them every day!

December 5th is Krampusnacht, a holiday celebrated in Austria, Germany and one that has been gaining in popularity in American pop culture in recent decades. Krampus is the strong arm partner to the kindly St. Nicholas who rewarded children with sweets.

People dressing as Krampus during the first weekend of December, (ie closest to the December 5th holiday) has also become popular with cosplayers.

Although not part of the Chamber’s planned festivities, you may very well see them in town interacting with families and businesses. Please plan accordingly if this is a concern.

From Krampus to Buddy the Elf, lots of visitors like to show up in costumes the month of December. The Chamber of Commerce does have it’s own roving Santa and Mrs. Claus, a Grinch, a Reindeer, a Snowman and Elves that make that rounds for photo ops. Look for our customed characters traveling with a Christmastown Ambassador.

There are 3 available indoor restroom facilities open 7 days a week; one at the Leavenworth Festhalle, one at Front Street Park near the Maipole, and one at 8th & Commercial St. We will place porta-potties near these permanent restrooms, as well as two at the Festhalle on the corner of 10th & Front St, and two in the parking lot at the Visitor Center located at 940 US Highway 2.

December is very busy! On Saturdays to help keep traffic moving, you will see traffic management teams out from Noon-8pm, if you plan on parking your vehicles, weekends tend to fill pretty fast, so plan, accordingly. Midweek will offer an easier time getting parking with plenty of fun activities to enjoy!

Our restaurants and food service businesses work longer days and hours in December to accommodate local and visitor needs. On weekends, and closer to the holidays, you will find longer wait times, so please be patient and kind and enjoy the amazing food options Leavenworth offers daily!

Yes, the Link Bus runs for free out of their park and ride location behind Safeway, you can ride it in from the east, or park your car there and grab a shuttle to town from 11am-7pm (approx) 7 days a week.