In-person

Julefest: A Nordic Holiday Celebration

November 22-24, 2024

Members & Children: Free

General Admission: $5.00 - $20.00

2655 NW Market Street, Seattle, WA 98107

206.789.5707

21+ Friday Night Market Tickets

Saturday & Sunday Tickets

Odin's Inner Circle Mug Sale

Kick off the Seattle holiday season at the National Nordic Museum!

Throughout the weekend, bring the whole family and step into a winter wonderland for an authentic Nordic holiday experience with live music, unique treats, and community spirit! Wander through rows of stalls filled with handcrafted gifts, traditional foods, and cozy Scandinavian apparel. This isn't just another holiday market—Julefest is one of Seattle's favorite traditions. It's where the city comes together to celebrate the season, and it’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.

Friday Night Market

New this year, 21+ Julefest Night Market
includes full weekend access!

Hours
5:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Tickets
General Admission: $20.00
Members: $15.00

Friday Night Market Tickets
Saturday & Sunday

Hours
10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Tickets
General Admission: $10.00
Youth: $5.00 (children under 12 enter for free)
Members: Free

Saturday & Sunday Tickets

Introducing the Julefest Night Market (21+)

This year, don’t miss our newest addition to Julefest, the 21+ Night Market. Join us on Friday evening where you can enjoy festive drinks in our cozy Valhalla Beer Hall at happy hour pricing and be first in line for this year's Julefest vendors.

It’s the perfect opportunity to mingle, shop, and celebrate in a lively, adult-friendly atmosphere. Plus, Night Market tickets grant full access to the entire Julefest weekend!

Friday Night Market Tickets

_{Note: Friday's Night Market will not include æbleskiver or Goodies2Go.}

Celebrating 47 Years of Julefest!

A beloved Seattle tradition, Julefest at the National Nordic Museum is the city's "official" start to the holiday season. For nearly five decades, this celebration has brought the warmth, joy, and magic of the Nordic holidays to the heart of Ballard. Modeled after the festive outdoor Christmas markets found across the Nordic countries, Julefest captures the essence of Scandinavian holiday traditions while adding a unique Pacific Northwest twist.

Explore Julefest

Shop Artisan Vendors
Inspired by the charming markets of Northern Europe, Julefest brings together 40+ merchants offering local art, handcrafted goods, delicious food, and more. Grab a friend, a hot drink, and explore unique gifts for everyone on your list!
Explore the Vendors
Raise a Pint in Valhalla
Skål! During Julefest, Osberg Great Hall transforms into a cozy, 21+ Viking haven. Enjoy glögg, mead, festive food, live music, and warm vibes by the “fire.” Raise your horn and embrace the magic of Julefest!
Join Odin's Inner Circle

Grab a Photo with Santa
Santa’s making his way from the North Pole to Ballard for Julefest! He’ll be available for photos from 10:00 am-5:00 pm both Saturday and Sunday. Stop by, say “hej” to Santa, and make magical memories!

*Saturday & Sunday only.
Write to Santa
Enjoy Festive Music
From local musicians to special performances, our festive Nordic-inspired tunes set the perfect mood for your visit, filling the air with holiday cheer and adding to the magic of the season.
Performance Schedule

Eat Your Way Through Julefest!

From Scandinavian sweets to local PNW favorites, there's something delicious for everyone at Julefest. Indulge in a taste of Nordic cheer as you explore the marketplace!

Goodies2Go
Goodies2Go, one of the Museum’s longest-standing traditions, is back for its 47th year at Julefest! Run by volunteers since its inception, this beloved holiday treat program returns with iconic goodies from this year’s bakers. These goodies are one of our most popular items at Julefest—arrive early Saturday and Sunday to ensure you snag some.

*Saturday & Sunday only.
All About Goodies2Go
Æbleskiver
A Julefest favorite, Æbleskiver are fluffy Danish pancake balls served with powdered sugar and jam. Made fresh by our dedicated staff and volunteers, these delicious treats are always a festival hit. Arrive early to grab a plate at the 47th Annual Julefest!

*Saturday & Sunday only.
Make Your Own Æbleskiver

Freya Cafe
Freya is open during Julefest! Enjoy Scandinavian-inspired pastries, espresso, lunch offerings, and handcrafted cocktails courtesy of Lovely Night, all three days of Julefest. Whether you're craving a bite to eat after wandering our the marketplace, or simply looking for a cozy spot for fika after a long day of festive cheer, Freya is the the spot to be! Stay tuned for an extended Julefest menu.
View the Fall Menu
Nordic Eats
Fuel your Julefest adventure with a visit to our diverse lineup of food trucks, located at the entrance/exit to Julefest! Offering everything from fresh seafood to Swedish meatballs, make sure to swing by for a delicious bite.

*Saturday & Sunday only.
Explore the Lineup

Add to Your Experience

Odin's Inner Circle
Welcome to Valhalla! We invite all Julefest guests 21+ to snag their chance to be a part of Odin’s Inner Circle! Each ticket comes with:
1. One (1) 19.5 oz. limited edition Valhalla Mug
1. Your first beer on us
1. Two (2) free admission passes to the National Nordic Museum
1. Eternal glory!
Purchasers can pick up their exclusive mugs in Valhalla (Osberg Great Hall) during the weekend of Julefest (Nov. 22, 23, or 24). All proceeds support the National Nordic Museum.
_{Odin’s Inner Circle does not include admission to Julefest.}

Join the Circle
Julefest After Dark

Skål Beer Hall
Saturday, November 23, 5-10pm
5429 Ballard Ave NW
Julefest at the National Nordic Museum closes at 5:00 pm on Saturday, but that doesn’t mean the party ends there! Head up the street to our friends at Skål Beer Hall and keep your Nordic beer hall party going. The fireplace will be roaring and gløgg will be flowing! And if you're feeling brave, check out some of the rare/holiday aquavits, meads, and beers on hand. For more information or to make a reservation for anytime during Julefest weekend, visit www.skalballard.com.

Explore the Menu

Preorder Glögg
Attention, glögg lovers! If you've attended Julefest in the past, you already know that glögg goes fast. Luckily, our friends at Sjoeblom Winery have you covered. Pre-order a bottle now and pick it up when you attend Julefest—make sure to select "Seattle" as the pick-up location at checkout!
Shop Sjoeblom Glögg
Raffle Prizes at Julefest
Start the holiday cheer early with the 2024 Julefest Raffle! This year, four winners will be selected for a range of prizes, including a week-long getaway in the Deschutes River Valley. Raffle tickets will be available onsite at Julefest all weekend long—find a raffle roamer and enter for your chance to win.

Vendors

Aebleskiver

Nordic Eats
Sat/Sun
Read More

Aebleskiver

Nordic Eats
Sat/Sun

A long-standing tradition at Julefest, æbleskiver (or ebelskivers) are fluffy Danish "pancake" balls, typically served as a traditional dessert during the Christmas season. Our æbleskiver are made fresh in-house by National Nordic Museum staff and volunteers, served with lingonberry sauce, powdered sugar, and whipped cream. These delicious little spheres are among our most popular Nordic treats at Julefest, so arrive early and look for the big red æbleskiver sign!
Aegis Living

Other
Sat/Sun
About

Aegis Living

Other
Sat/Sun

Assisted living and memory care with locations throughout the West Coast.

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Alaska N Dumplings

Nordic Eats
Sat/Sun
About

Alaska N Dumplings

Nordic Eats
Sat/Sun

Alaska N Dumplings is a place for your perfect time over a hearty meal. We offer our famous dumplings in a variety of tasty options. We also make delicious salads, soups, and desserts.

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Ballard Alliance

Other
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Ballard Alliance

Other
Fri/Sat/Sun

Ballard is an eclectic and independent urban village. The Ballard Alliance works to ensure our neighborhood remains a unique and economically vital community for its visitors, residents, businesses and property owners. Through year-round programs to enhance and beautify our urban landscape, seasonal events that engage locals and visitors, and relentless advocacy on the issues that matter most, we are dedicated to making the Ballard a thriving community.

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Best Coast Canvas

Jewelry & Apparel
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Best Coast Canvas

Jewelry & Apparel
Fri/Sat/Sun

Scandinavian-inspired high-quality waxed canvas and wool aprons, verksted aprons, and tool bags made in the USA.

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Bjoerntmlarsen

Art
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Bjoerntmlarsen

Art
Fri/Sat/Sun

Bjoern T. M. Larsen is a Danish-born artist now based in the U.S., with a lifelong passion for painting that started in childhood. Influenced by time spent in both Denmark and Italy, Larsen's work reflects a blend of Nordic and Italian classical styles, inspired by cultural diversity from travels across Europe and the U.S. His art is about connecting with the viewer’s personal interpretation. Prints are available in eco-friendly materials.

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Campers Coffee

Nordic Eats
Sat/Sun
About

Campers Coffee

Nordic Eats
Sat/Sun

Dedicated to two core principles: exceptional coffee and community service transforming ordinary days into delightful experiences for coffee enthusiasts.

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Cooper Art and Abode

Art
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Cooper Art and Abode

Art
Fri/Sat/Sun

Kristine creates art out of her studio in Bend, Oregon. Each piece is like a visual diary immersing yourself in color and textures as they unfold on your wall.

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Elentari Handverk

Jewelry & Apparel
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Elentari Handverk

Jewelry & Apparel
Fri/Sat/Sun

Debra Carus, the artist behind Elentari Handverk, creates modern, chic jewelry inspired by her Norwegian roots and Viking folklore. With a background in corporate management and education, she blends Scandinavian myths with her passion for metalsmithing. Debra teaches private and small-group metalsmithing workshops, covering techniques like stone setting, enameling, and Norwegian filigree. She showcases her work at art festivals and galleries across the U.S., particularly in the Pacific Northwest.

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Elizabeth Person Art & Design

Art
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Elizabeth Person Art & Design

Art
Fri/Sat/Sun

Celebrate the places where you're from, you've been and you're headed with map art decor.

Elizabeth Person creates illustrated maps and information art. These educational and beautiful watercolor maps are available in prints of all sizes, cards and stickers.

Shop
Fern and Fjord Vintage

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Fern and Fjord Vintage

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun

Fern and Fjord is a curated shop specializing in Scandinavian and Nordic vintage home decor. The collection features unique, one-of-a-kind items spanning eras from mid-century to modern, including crystal glass, textiles, ceramics, art, and more. Curator Courtnee Riise Averskog travels to Scandinavia annually to hand-pick pieces, ensuring each item has a story to tell. The shop is designed to inspire collectors and home decorators to infuse their spaces with classic Nordic design.

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FinnPeaks

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

FinnPeaks

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun

Looking for Nordic design? FinnPeaks offers simple, beautiful, unique and sustainable home decor and lifestyle products for everybody.

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Five Hooks Seafood

Nordic Eats
Sat/Sun
About

Five Hooks Seafood

Nordic Eats
Sat/Sun

Fresh, hand-cut seafood made to order.

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Freddy's Real Leaf Gifts

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Freddy's Real Leaf Gifts

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun

Real leaves dipped in gold, copper, and silver and formed into Christmas ornaments and jewelry.
Goodies2Go

Nordic Eats
Sat/Sun
About

Goodies2Go

Nordic Eats
Sat/Sun

*Not available at Night Market.

One of the Museum’s longest-standing traditions may also be its most delicious: Goodies2Go! Volunteer-run and led since its inception, this beloved Julefest institution is a massive bake sale celebrating the very best of Nordic baking traditions. From lefse to krumkakke to every kind of Nordic Christmas treat imaginable, our dedicated volunteer bakers craft hundreds of homemade Nordic treats, all made with care and authenticity.

Available exclusively during Julefest, these freshly baked goodies are a highlight of the event and a perfect way to take home a taste of the holiday season. With limited quantities, be sure to arrive early to get your hands on these delightful confections—because once they’re gone, they’re gone!
Grenljus

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Grenljus

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun

Artisan candle maker. Born and raised in Sweden, living in Portland, Oregon. Organic/biodegradable/recycled materials.

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Hildegard Ferments & Botanicals

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Hildegard Ferments & Botanicals

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun

Small brewery and apothecary offering seasonal and pacific northwest inspired creations, workshops, and community gatherings in Ballard Seattle.

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Hovden Wear

Jewelry & Apparel
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Hovden Wear

Jewelry & Apparel
Fri/Sat/Sun

Hovden Wear creates clothing for today's lifestyle inspired by traditional Scandinavian work clothes.

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Hygge Chocolates

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Hygge Chocolates

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun

Scandinavian-inspired artisan chocolates and confections inspired by comfort and coziness.

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Judy's Painted Treasures

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Judy's Painted Treasures

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun

Hand-painted woodenware featuring Norwegian rosemaling and Christmas items.

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Kos Candles

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Kos Candles

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun

Eco-friendly and vegan candles inspired by Kos, the Norwegian word for "anything that brings you love, joy, and cozy living."

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Larson Craft Co.

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Larson Craft Co.

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun

Handsewn flag pennants and market bags; hand-painted signs with Viking and God Jul décor; Scandinavian ornaments with Dala horses and gnomes.
Maddy's Crafts

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Maddy's Crafts

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun

Handmade gnomes, paintings, cards, and other small items. Everything is made and sold by Madelyn, 14 years old.
Manic Meatballs

Nordic Eats
Sat/Sun
About

Manic Meatballs

Nordic Eats
Sat/Sun

Fast, fun, family friendly food. Swedish Meatballs, mashed potatoes, gravy, and more.

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Michael Holberg Glass

Art
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Michael Holberg Glass

Art
Fri/Sat/Sun

Hand-blown and sculpted glass. Gnomes, Nordic trees, Viking heads, snowmen, Christmas ornaments, and polar bears.

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Mormor Crafts

Jewelry & Apparel
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Mormor Crafts

Jewelry & Apparel
Fri/Sat/Sun

Wool, hand-knit byams, ski caps, and mittens with Norwegian motifs, hand-knit by a Norsk-American grandmother (mormor), MaryAnn Namtvedt.

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National Nordic Museum Store

Other
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

National Nordic Museum Store

Other
Fri/Sat/Sun

The National Nordic Museum Store features a curated selection of products inspired by "Nordic Living" design trends that have taken root in America. Featured Brands: Marimekko, iittala, Royal Copenhagen, and Georg Jensen.

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Norden Aquavit

Alcohol
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Norden Aquavit

Alcohol
Fri/Sat/Sun

Award winning Aquavit from Michigan. Exceptionally crafted from 100% organic grain and thoughtfully selected botanicals - Enjoy neat or in your favorite cocktails.

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Norskwear

Jewelry & Apparel
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Norskwear

Jewelry & Apparel
Fri/Sat/Sun

Family-owned business near Seattle specializing in high-quality wool and cotton garments since 1979. The company values sustainability by using natural materials with low environmental impact and focuses on creating products that bring joy and warmth to their customers. Norskwear's mission is to provide clothing that feels like a "warm hug," while emphasizing the importance of fun and happiness in life.

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Norwegian Rosemaling

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Norwegian Rosemaling

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun

Hand-painted woodenware in the Norwegian Rosemaling style.
Pop's Popcorn

Nordic Eats
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Pop's Popcorn

Nordic Eats
Fri/Sat/Sun

A 1930 popcorn truck offering fresh popcorn, packaged candies, beverages, and occasional puppet shows.

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Rainy Day Bees

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Rainy Day Bees

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun

Hyper-local honey from Seattle neighborhoods; handmade beeswax candles and candle holders.

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Reed Hammer & Needle

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Reed Hammer & Needle

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun

High-performance kitchen knives and very durable leather products including wallets and knife sheaths.

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Renewal by Andersen

Other
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Renewal by Andersen

Other
Fri/Sat/Sun

Renewal by Andersen is the window replacement subsidiary of Andersen Corporation, a company that has revolutionized the window and door business for more than 110 years.

Drawing on the Andersen tradition of over 100 years of quality, innovation and craftsmanship, Renewal by Andersen was founded with the objective of creating a different and better window and door replacement experience for homeowners like you.

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Salt Blade

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Salt Blade

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun

Salt Blade is a Seattle-based artisan cured meat maker. We source local, sustainable ingredients to create small batch classics from around the world.

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Scandinavian Design Studio

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Scandinavian Design Studio

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun

Scandinavian tees, stickers, holiday ornaments, and gifts.

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Scandinavian Hearts

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Scandinavian Hearts

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun

Stickers, wood hearts, ornaments, earrings, and books with Scandinavian styles and symbols.

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Seattle Monster Dogs

Nordic Eats
Sat/Sun
About

Seattle Monster Dogs

Nordic Eats
Sat/Sun

Monster Dogs is always on the city's list of the best for a grilled frank dressed with a healthy squirt of cream cheese and grilled onions.

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SIGIL

Jewelry & Apparel
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

SIGIL

Jewelry & Apparel
Fri/Sat/Sun

Leather bags, accessories & raw mineral jewelry inspired by the windswept, rugged landscapes of Iceland. Designed from concept to finished product in Seattle, WA, USA by Anita M. Arora.

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Sjoeblom Winery

Alcohol
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Sjoeblom Winery

Alcohol
Fri/Sat/Sun

In 2018, the SJÖBLOM GLÖGG was launched. As the first producer to create an authentic Swedish glögg in the United States, Sjoeblom Winery has created this gloggclub.com to provide with the most amazing glögg this country have ever tasted.

Sjoeblom Winery's philosophy of producing first class, quality wine, is based on old-world craftsmanship, time-honoured traditions and modern, scientific practices. Sjoeblom strives for a synthesis of classic European practices, experimentation, and up-to-the-minute winemaking science. Chauvignon Reserve has been the flagship of the winery ever since it was started, and is a sparkling Cabernet Sauvignon, Methode Champenoise from Napa Valley.

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Skål Beer Hall

Alcohol
Sat/Sun
About

Skål Beer Hall

Alcohol
Sat/Sun

Skål is a Viking inspired beer hall honoring the Nordic roots of Ballard just up the street from the National Nordic Museum. Skål invokes the spirit of a Viking meadhall - it’s warm, welcoming, & often raucous! Here you’ll find a rotating lineup of craft beer, a vast selection of mead, a cocktail program highlighting the Scandinavian spirit, aquavit, and a full Nordic kitchen. Join us after visiting Julefest to keep the Nordic spirit alive! Make a reservation at www.skalballard.com.

This year Skål will also be serving their pretzels in the Valhalla Beer Hall inside at Julefest! Enjoy a classic beer hall pretzel (or make it a Viking size!) and dip in our house-crafted mustards, beer cheese, or smoked salmon dip. Skål!

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SkogsHammare Crafts

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

SkogsHammare Crafts

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun

Craftsman artist based out of Duvall, WA who uses multiple techniques including blacksmithing, fine metal sculpture, and woodworking.

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Sky River Mead

Alcohol
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Sky River Mead

Alcohol
Fri/Sat/Sun

Sky River Mead is an award-winning woman-owned winery. Proud to be one of the older wineries in Washington, it began in the rugged foothills of the Cascade Mountains. The winery was bonded in 1997, debuted its first bottle in 1999. In 2012, we moved to the Woodinville Winery District. Our tasting room has event space with artist gallery, a patio area, expansive picnic area, and evolving gardens. Come experience the Nectar of the Gods at Sky River Mead. Sláinte!

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Swede Hill

Alcohol
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Swede Hill

Alcohol
Fri/Sat/Sun

Yakima-based craft distillery producing whiskey, flavored vodka, and flavored moonshine.

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Swedish Dream

Art
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Swedish Dream

Art
Fri/Sat/Sun

Scandinavian-themed original artwork prints by artist Greta Lann.

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The Modern Dane

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

The Modern Dane

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun

Organic European linen bedding that combines Scandinavian design with sustainable fabrics. Made with high-quality, eco-friendly materials, The Modern Dane products are designed to be durable and last a lifetime.

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The Seattle Times

Other
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

The Seattle Times

Other
Fri/Sat/Sun

Daily newspaper based in Seattle, Washington that covers local, regional, and national news. Largest and longest-running newspaper in Washington state, known for its in-depth local coverage and award-winning journalism.

Learn More
Twiggypop Ranch

Jewelry & Apparel
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Twiggypop Ranch

Jewelry & Apparel
Fri/Sat/Sun

Handmade felted goods, hats, accessories, home goods.

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Two Birds in a Pod

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Two Birds in a Pod

Handcrafted Goods
Fri/Sat/Sun

Handcrafted whimsical & functional birdhouses for birds nesting needs or to use as home decor.

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Valhalla Beer Hall

Alcohol
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Valhalla Beer Hall

Alcohol
Fri/Sat/Sun

Skål! During Julefest, the iconic, hemlock-clad Osberg Great Hall transforms into a cozy, 21+ Viking haven. Relax and indulge in glögg, mead, beer and beyond at the bar, savor delicious festival food, enjoy live music, and soak up the yule atmosphere by the "fire". Raise your horn and immerse yourself in the magic of Julefest!
Wild Hearts Market

Jewelry & Apparel
Fri/Sat/Sun
About

Wild Hearts Market

Jewelry & Apparel
Fri/Sat/Sun

Wild Hearts Market sources beautiful handmade goods for the hygge lifestyle from female makers around the world. Our thick and cozy hand-felted slippers have earned a cult following thanks to three things: their minimalist Scandinavian style, the magical properties of 100% wool, and our commitment to supporting the next generation.

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