Rainier Symphony Holiday Spectacular

Celebrate the holidays with one of Tukwila’s most beloved traditions. Rainier Symphony returns with its festive holiday concert showcasing more than 70 talented community musicians and special guest performances by the Foster High School Concert Choir.

Founded in 1981, Rainier Symphony blends the artistry of skilled students, passionate amateurs, and acclaimed professionals. Their annual holiday performance brings cherished classics, sparkling orchestral showpieces, and heartwarming seasonal favorites to life.

Saturday, December 13 – 6:30 pm
Sunday, December 14 – 3:00 pm

Settle in for an evening of winter magic featuring:

    • Johann Strauss Jr.’s thunderous Unter Donner und Blitz

    • Eric Whitacre’s luminous Lux Aurumque

    • Timeless favorites like Winter Wonderland and Sleigh Ride

    • Enchanting selections from Hansel and Gretel

    • A whimsical narration of ’Twas the Night Before Christmas from Tukwila Mayor McLeod himself!

    • Music from The Polar Express and festive carol sequences

Whether you’re a longtime symphony-goer or looking for a new way to celebrate the season, this concert promises joy, nostalgia, and a touch of holiday cheer for the whole family.

Tukwila’s 2025 Holiday Gift Guide — Experiences Edition

Each year, the holidays bring a flurry of shopping, wrapping, and gifting — and often a whole lot of stuff we don’t really need. This season, consider swapping the material for the memorable by giving experiences instead. The Tukwila-based activity-based gifts we’ve added in this gift guide not only support local businesses, they create lasting memories for you and your loved ones that won’t end up in a landfill. 

This gift guide includes options at every price point for kids, teens, and adults, covering a wide range of activities fit for the thrill-seekers, crafters, food lovers, or sports fans in your life.

A Day at the Tukwila Family Fun Center

With value packages starting at $46, Tukwila Family Fun Center is the ultimate choose-your-own-adventure gift. Arcade games, bumper boats, go-karts, batting cages, and mini golf mean endless ways to play. Don’t forget to check out their Wednesday–Friday daily specials for even more unlimited-play fun.

Movie Tickets to AMC Theatres

Give the gift of big feelings and bigger screens. AMC Southcenter offers movie tickets and gift cards perfect for the film lover who takes their Oscars ballot very seriously — and yes, they have IMAX. Perfect for a night out that fits well under $50.

A Gaming Experience at Dimension XR 

If your household has been begging for a VR system, Dimension XR is the next best thing. For $40 per player, enjoy a full hour of immersive VR adventures with dozens of games to choose from. Grab a few friends and step into new worlds together.. 

A Chocolate Factory Tour at Maeve 

For the chocolate lover in your life, this hour-long guided experience is a dream. Learn how Maeve Chocolate is crafted from bean to bar, peek inside the factory, and taste lots of chocolate — including a blind taste test of their signature Maeve and jcoco flavors. Suitable for ages 6+, and a sweet experience well under $50.

Golf Outing with Foster Golf Links

Gift a day on the green at Foster Golf Links — one of the region’s oldest public courses. With 9- and 18-hole options along the beautiful Duwamish River, rates start at just $23 with rental packages available. Perfect for beginners, pros, or anyone who could use a peaceful morning outside.

 

Activate Live Game Room Gift Card

Brand new to Tukwila, Activate is the world’s first active gaming facility — where every room responds to you in real time. Each dynamic game space uses interactive technology that challenges players to jump, climb, solve puzzles, and laugh their way through a full-body adventure. Designed with teens and adults in mind, this experience is great for ages 6+, though younger kids may find some challenges tougher (and that’s all part of the fun).

K1 Speed Gift Card

For the speed enthusiast, a K1 Speed gift card unlocks high-octane fun. Adult karts hit up to 45 MPH (20 MPH for junior racers), and holiday gift card specials make it even easier to give. Races start at $30, and riders just need to be at least 48″ tall to hit the track. But trust us, you won’t want to do just one. 

Flight Packages at iFly Indoor Skydiving

Give the gift of flight — no plane required. iFly’s state-of-the-art vertical wind tunnel lets guests ages 3 to 103 experience the thrill of indoor skydiving, with packages starting at $70. It’s equal parts science, adrenaline, and unforgettable family fun.

Museum of Flight Membership

A Museum of Flight membership unlocks a full year of exploration at the world’s largest independent air and space museum. Enjoy unlimited visits, access to more than 175 aircraft and spacecraft, and discounts on events. Memberships start at $100 — a gift that truly lasts all year.

Rug Making at Tutugether Crafting

Try your hand at fiber arts and create a custom rug at Tutugether Crafting in Westfield Southcenter. With expert guidance and rug sizes starting at $88, you can design something totally personal to take home — no crafting skills required! Other crafting activities start at just $20, making this a great creative outing for all ages.

Sewing Classes with Quality Sewing

For the aspiring maker, Quality Sewing offers beginner-friendly classes where you can learn to sew tote bags, quilts, clothing, décor, and more. Intro classes include all supplies — even the machine — so newcomers can dive right in. Most classes start around $50, making it a perfect approachable gift.

Woodworking Classes at Rockler

Rockler’s hands-on woodworking classes are perfect for beginners and more seasoned makers alike. Learn sanding, sawing, shaping, and finishing skills while creating practical items like pocket knives, bowls, pens, ornaments, or cutting boards. Classes generally start at $115 and let you take home a handcrafted piece you’re proud of.

The Escape Game

Give the gift of teamwork, puzzles, and fast-thinking fun with The Escape Game at Westfield Southcenter. With immersive rooms and themes for every level, it’s a great outing for families, couples, or groups. Experiences start at $45 per person.

 

Viking Elite Mead Club from Oppegaard Meadery

For the craft-beverage enthusiast, the Viking Elite Mead Club delivers small-batch, handcrafted mead straight from Tukwila’s own Oppegaard Meadery. A $200 annual membership includes eight 750ML bottles of Mead, released quarterly, 15% off all mead online and in store, special releases and perks, and early access to limited batches. 

Oppegaard Mead Making Class

Gift someone the chance to learn the ancient art of mead making. This is a one-on-one hands-on class with Oppegaard owner and expert mead maker Jon Oppegaard and includes expert instruction, all ingredients and equipment, your own batch to take home and ferment, and of course a glass of mead during the class for good luck. Perfect for experimenters, foodies, and hobbyists. One gallon class for $300 and a five gallon class for $430. 

Seattle Seawolves Full or Half Season Tickets

For the sports fan, a Seattle Seawolves season tickets turns every home match into an unforgettable experience. Enjoy priority seating, special member perks, and an entire season of fast-paced Major League Rugby action at Starfire Stadium with your two-time MLR championship team. Full season memberships, half season memberships, and single game tickets all available. 

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No matter who’s on your list, an experience gift offers something more personal — time together, a shared adventure, or a moment they’ll remember long after the tree comes down. From under-$50 outings to all-out splurges, these Tukwila-area activities make it easy to support local businesses while giving something thoughtful and impactful. 

We hope you’ve found this gift guide helpful as you worth through your holiday shopping! 

 

Photos with Santa at Westfield Southcenter

Santa has officially arrived at Westfield Southcenter, and he’s ready to make your season bright. Dust off your festive attire and step into a little holiday magic as you capture this year’s treasured photo with Santa. Whether it’s a family tradition or a brand-new memory in the making, Southcenter’s holiday setup brings the perfect backdrop for a cheerful seasonal moment.

Santa and his team will be at Westfield Southcenter from November 20 through December 24, with hours varying by date so you can find a time that fits your holiday plans.

And don’t forget—four-legged family members are invited, too. Santa Paws takes over on Mondays from 4 to 7 PM, December 1 through December 15, giving your furry friends their own chance to hop on the nice list and snag a holiday photo of their own.

Make a visit, share a smile, and celebrate the season at Tukwila’s favorite holiday destination.

Book your time here. Drop-ins also welcome!

Ayame Kai Holiday Market

Get a jump on your holiday shopping at the Ayame Kai Holiday Market hosted at the Tukwila Community Center on Saturday, November 15 from 10am – 2pm. This festive annual event brings together local vendors and Keiro Northwest volunteers for a one-day-only sale featuring a unique mix of fun Asian gifts, homemade holiday treats, arts and crafts, raffle prizes, and seasonal cheer. It’s the perfect way to shop local, support a great cause, and get into the holiday spirit! Visit their website to explore the full list of the 48 participating vendors.

All proceeds from the market will directly benefit Keiro Northwest’s eldercare programs, including Nikkei Manor Assisted Living and the Kokoro Kai Adult Day Program. Keiro Northwest’s mission is to honor the past and preserve the Japanese-American heritage, by providing uniquely tailored care programs to meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of our elders.

Inside Southcenter: Your Guide to Holiday Shopping Delights

With over 200 places to shop and dine, Southcenter is a treasure trove of retail delights. In this latest blog, we’re highlighting some of its most exciting holiday shopping destinations that will help you check off most everyone on your list. 

From trendy sneakers at Hearth to whimsical designer toys at Pop Mart, these stores offer unique finds you won’t want to miss. Discover chic urban fashion at Urbanity, dazzling crystals at Crystal Days, and K-pop merch at KPOP Station. Whether you’re looking for home decor, thoughtful gifts, or the latest pop culture must-haves, these standout shops are sure to make your holiday shopping a breeze. These are just a few of the hidden gems waiting to be explored at Southcenter!

Hearth 

Hearth is Southcenter’s newest must-visit destination for sneakerheads and streetwear enthusiasts. Featuring an expansive collection of sneakers, including limited-edition collaborations and trend-setting streetwear, Hearth offers the ultimate shopping experience for those who love bold, fashionable looks. As the brand’s third location and first in Washington, Hearth brings exclusive styles and fresh energy to Southcenter.

Urbanity

Urbanity is a Seattle-area gem at Southcenter, offering a curated selection of urban and contemporary clothing, footwear, and accessories for men and women. This boutique stands out with personalized styling services to help you refine your look and feel confident in every outfit. With only two locations in the area, Urbanity delivers a unique shopping experience that combines cutting-edge style with a local touch.

P.31 Label

Celebrate life’s special moments with P.31 Label, a boutique owned by local entrepreneur Lidia Whyte. Specializing in elegant dresses and outfits for proms, weddings, baby showers, and other meaningful occasions, P.31 Label is your go-to for statement-making styles. As one of several locally owned boutiques in Southcenter, it’s a standout for anyone seeking chic, memorable pieces.

H&M Home

Deck the halls—and every other room—with stylish finds from H&M Home, Southcenter’s destination for holiday decor and gifts. From festive accessories to eye-catching statement furniture, this store has everything to make your home merry and bright. Whether you’re sprucing up for the season or gifting a touch of style, H&M Home has you covered.

Crystal Days

Crystal Days is a treasure trove of ethically sourced crystals and unique decor pieces. This locally owned shop offers a dazzling collection of high-quality stones and gems from around the globe, perfect for elevating your home or adding a personal touch to your style. Discover the beauty and craftsmanship behind every piece at this Southcenter favorite.

Daiso Japan

Daiso Japan brings the charm of a Japanese “dollar store” to Southcenter, offering an incredible variety of products at unbeatable prices. Shop home decor, stationery, kitchenware, art supplies, and more—all infused with Japanese design and creativity. With over 100 U.S. locations, Daiso Japan is a go-to for affordable finds, unique gifts, and practical everyday items. It’s a great place to fill those stockings with affordable, unique finds for everyone on your list! 

KPOP Station

Dive into the vibrant world of K-pop at KPOP Station, where music and culture collide. From albums and official band merchandise to K-beauty products, this shop has everything for dedicated fans and curious newcomers alike. Opening in Southcenter in June of this year, KPOP Station bridges cultures through a shared love of K-pop, making it the perfect spot to shop for gifts and immerse yourself in the fandom.

BoxLunch

BoxLunch is a paradise for pop culture fans and collectors, offering an amazing array of merchandise from Disney, Marvel, anime, Harry Potter, and more. With something for every interest, it’s the ultimate stop for gifts and collectibles. Plus, for every $10 you spend, BoxLunch donates a meal to someone in need through Feeding America. Shop here to make an impact while celebrating your fandoms!

Pop Mart

Pop Mart brings a touch of whimsy and wonder to Southcenter with its collection of collectible designer toys and character-based merchandise. Known for its imaginative designs and creative appeal, this Chinese toy company offers a playful escape from the ordinary. Whether you’re a collector or just exploring, Pop Mart is a delightful destination for all ages.

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Southcenter is the perfect place to wrap up your holiday shopping with ease, thanks to its unbeatable variety of stores and dining options. We hope you’ll check out some of these shops as you work your way through your holiday list. 

Southcenter is open M-Sat 10am – 9pm and Sunday 11am – 7pm, and will offer expanded holiday shopping hours starting on December 15. Check out their directory for more information to help plan your visit.

12 Nights of Snow at Southcenter

Experience the magic of the holiday season with 12 nights of “snowfall” at the South Main Entry of Westfield Southcenter by Duke’s Seafood and JOEY Restaurant. Each night from December 13 – 24 at 6:00pm, guests will be treated to enchanting snowfall and special offers from local retailers and live performances.  

Stop by and allow this festive display to fuel your holiday shopping! 

Holiday Photos with Santa

Ho Ho Ho! Santa has officially landed at Westfield Southcenter! He’s here to make this holiday season extra magical with cheerful photos, wish list whispers, and all the festive fun. Whether you’re starting a new tradition or keeping up with a favorite, Southcenter’s the perfect spot for holiday photos with the big guy. 

I know what you’re thinking, yes your furry children can also participate with dedicated Santa Paws events for pets on November 25, December 2, 9, 16, and 23rd. 

There will also be a special sensory-friendly event on December 8 that support the sensory, physical, and developmental needs of Santa’s guests. 

Appointments are recommended but walk-ins are also welcome! Schedule your appointment here.

Swing by, bring your wish list, and let’s make some holiday memories with Santa!

Please note: Santa takes a break to feed his reindeer daily from 3PM – 4PM and the line will close prior to any breaks as well as before the set closes daily. 

Seattle Chocolate Party & Sale!

On Tuesday, December 10 stop by Seattle Chocolate’s Flagship Store for their annual anniversary party and biggest sale of the year! Stock up on all the holiday favorites as we head into this festive time of year. Make sure to get there early and snag a free truffle bar! 

Party offerings include: 

    • 25% off chocolate
    • Free truffle bar for the first 50 guests
    • Free gift with a $75+ purchase
    • Drinks, bites, and chocolate samples
    • Raffle drawing
    • Merriment, holiday vibes, and cheer! 

Come for the treats, stay for the holiday vibes, and leave with chocolate delights picked up at a great price!

 

Rainier Symphony Holiday Concert

Get ready to embrace the holiday spirit with a joyous concert by Tukwila’s own Rainier Symphony! Featuring holiday classics and carols, this concert will be perfect for all ages. Rainier Symphony, a 70+ member community orchestra founded in 1981, brings together local talent—ranging from passionate students to internationally-renowned professionals—all united by their love for music.

The Holiday Concert will be hosted at Foster Performing Arts Center on the following dates: 

    • Saturday, December 14 at 7:30pm
    • Sunday, December 15 at 3:00pm

Tickets are available here. Discounts are available for students and seniors. Children under 12 are free.

Cost $22

Music Director: Jeffery Lund

Tukwila Parks’ Halloween Carnival

Let the ghoul times roll! Join Tukwila Parks & Recreation for an all ages halloween carnival to celebrate the fall season. Come dressed in your best costume and join in on the fun! Activities will include a haunted walk, pumpkin painting, carnival games, inflatable bouncers, a toddler room, a photo booth, and of course s’mores, candy, and refreshments!