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Seattle’s holiday events criticized over crowds, prices
As the holiday season shines brightly in Seattle, crowds are flocking to the city’s largest light shows and Christmas markets. But amid the festive cheer, some visitors are expressing frustration online, citing high entry fees and long waits.
SEATTLE - As the holiday season shines brightly in Seattle, crowds are flocking to the city’s largest light shows and Christmas markets. But amid the festive cheer, some visitors are expressing frustration online, citing high entry fees and long waits.
The Seattle Christmas Market, now in its second year, is a popular destination in the shadow of the Space Needle. The market features a double-decker carousel, unique holiday merchandise, and a variety of food and drinks. Tara Paschall, general events manager for the Seattle Christmas Market, boasts unlike many other events, there’s no beer garden, so you can stroll around the market grounds with drink in hand.
Despite these attractions, some visitors have voiced their dissatisfaction, particularly with the $19.99 entry fee. One Reddit user, who posted a receipt from the market, complained that in Europe, Christmas markets are free and accessible to everyone. Their post, which received hundreds of responses, included comments like, "felt it was just being in lines to buy things. No actual experience. Would not go again."
However, Paschall is not shying away from the criticism. She pointed out that Christmas markets in Europe are often funded by local governments, unlike in Seattle, where private event organizers bear the costs.
"Here, we hire over a hundred local staff every year for ticketing, box office, security, and cleaning crews," said Paschall.
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What you can expect from the Seattle Christmas Market in year two
The Seattle Christmas Market is returning for its second year at Seattle Center. The event kicks off Thursday, Nov. 21 and runs through Dec. 4. Chrystal Tolentino, the vendor coordinator for the event, joins us to give a sneak peek at what to expect!
Paschall noted that they have implemented a timeslot system to help manage crowds. Noting that when guests don’t follow the system there can be problems. According to Pascall the longest anyone should expect to wait in a line is thirty minutes. The Christmas market is also making changes to improve flow and reduce wait times. Organizers tell FOX 13 they are increasing the number of point-of-sale systems and staff to help scan tickets more quickly.
"We totally hear the feedback online about lines," she said. "We’re constantly learning, constantly pivoting here on site because we want guests to have a better experience than what’s being put out there on the internet."
For those hoping to avoid the crowds and save money, weekdays offer a discount, with a reduced entry fee of just $5.
The Seattle Christmas Market isn't the only holiday event facing complaints. Enchant at T-Mobile Park, another popular seasonal spectacle, has also received criticism for long lines and high entry prices. On weekdays, tickets vary costing closer to $27, but they can soar to $45 or higher on weekends and dates closer to Christmas.
Enchant Christmas 2024 announces its return to Seattle's T-Mobile Park
The world's largest Christmas light maze and village is headed back to Seattle after a four-year hiatus.
One disgruntled Enchant visitor posted a warning on Reddit, advising others to "avoid" the event if they don’t want to "stand in line for underwhelming experiences." Despite these complaints, many others defended the event, sharing that their families had a great time, particularly in the maze and that the experience was worth the cost. Some even shared they plan to come back a second time.
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