Every winter, half a million lights wrap Leavenworth’s rooftops, balconies, and trees, with the snow-capped Cascades all around. We call it the Village of Lights, and it’s more than a Christmas display: the lights shine for three full months, each with its own celebration.

What the Village of Lights means for Leavenworth

The lights are on every day from Thanksgiving through the end of February — this season, November 26, 2026, through February 28, 2027 — from 6 AM to 11 PM, and they’re free to enjoy. Keeping this 60-plus-year tradition lit all winter turns the season into three chapters:

• December — Christmastown: Santa, carolers and live music.

• January — Winter Karneval: ice, fire and German Fasching fun.

• February — Love from Leavenworth: the same glowing village with a romantic twist.

December: Christmastown

Christmastown runs November 27–December 24, 2026, starting on Black Friday. Enjoy free live music at the Gazebo in Front Street Park, strolling carolers, food vendors and visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Inside the Festhalle, kids can make crafts, write letters to Santa and see the gingerbread house exhibition, and there’s free gift wrapping too.

Evening shows at the Festhalle include an Elf movie night (Nov. 28), the Merry Christmas from Leavenworth concert (Dec. 5), The Jewel Tones Motown Christmas Show (Dec. 12) and Manuela Horn and Her Slay Belles (Dec. 20 and 22). See the Christmastown page for the full schedule.

January: Winter Karneval

In January, the lights stay on and Winter Karneval brings something new every weekend, inspired by Fasching, Germany’s version of Mardi Gras. Here’s the 2027 lineup:

• Día de los Reyes (Three Kings Day) — Jan. 2, 1–7 PM

• Fire Dancers at the Gazebo — Jan. 9–10

• Live Ice Carvings — Jan. 16–17, noon–3 PM in Front Street Park

• Fireworks Over Town — Sunday, Jan. 17, 6 PM

• Fasching Pub Crawl — Jan. 22–24 carnival masks encouraged

It’s also a great time to see the lights with snow and fewer crowds. Details on the Winter Karneval page.

February: Love from Leavenworth

February is the season’s quiet, romantic finale. The lights glow on with a Valentine’s twist, as hearts go up on the largest tree in Front Street Park.

• Wine and chocolate — around Valentine’s weekend (Feb. 13–14, 2027), our wineries and tasting rooms host wine and chocolate events. Make a day of sipping and sampling your way through town.

• Shop Your Little Heart Out — spend $100 or more at participating shops on a Wednesday or Thursday, then bring your receipts to the Willkommen Center for a hand-sculpted glass heart, while supplies last.

• February packages — romance packages and deals from local lodging and businesses.

Check the Love from Leavenworth page for 2027 details.

Which month is right for you?

• December for full holiday magic and the biggest crowds — book early.

• January for snowy lights, fire dancers and fireworks with more breathing room.

• February for a slower, romantic getaway.

Whichever you choose, bundle up and come see Leavenworth glow.