The holiday season is upon us, and this time of year we love carrying on old family traditions and making marvelous new memories too. Let these four cool events in Seattle inspire you this December. From unique marketplaces and magical light displays to Christmas cruises and holiday pops, enjoy all the merriment celebrating Seattle has to offer.

A Christmas Ship Festival

For almost 70 years, the Argosy Christmas Ship Festival has been parading around the communities of Puget Sound on their official Christmas Ship, the Spirit of Seattle. Decorated with hundreds of shimmery white lights, get into the holiday spirit and enjoy a magical evening. There are three experiences to choose from: Lead Boat, Follow Boat, and Shore Viewing. Each offers their own unique experiences. While on the Lead Boat, accompanied by a live choir, meet Santa and experience the onboard reading of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. Other exciting holiday activities are available to delight old and young alike. Sail away with your holiday dreams November 24 through December 23. Christmas Ship ticket rates vary.

Seattle's Holiday Pops

Join Conductor Stuart Chafetz and the University of Washington Chorale, an advanced under­graduate ensemble, for a classic Seattle holiday tradition. This fun-filled evening of Holiday Pops features vocalists, Rachel York and Darius de Haas, performing traditional holiday favorites with that wow-factor you love. Enjoy kicking off the holiday season with the merriment and warmth of Pops at Benaroya Hall at 200 University St., December 8 through 10. Standard ticket rates vary based on which section you wish to sit in.

WildLights at Woodland Park Zoo

Discover a new adventure at Seattle's wildest holiday light festival – known as WildLights – at Woodland Park Zoo. Ride the trolley, sip hot cocoa, and stroll around the zoo while you delight in the collection of sparkling animal-shaped illuminated displays and listen to carolers along the way. Visit reindeer at the Picnic Shelter or join in on family fun at the Snowmazium. Rain or shine, WildLights runs November 23 through January 1 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. but closed December 24 and 25. Tickets run $8.50 for adults, $6.50 for children 3-12, and 0-2 are free. Adult tickets increase to $9.50 from December 14 through January 1.

Renegade Craft Fair

Explore a delightful holiday-inspired fair and shop more than 200 artisans for one-of-a-kind handmade gifts, seasonal cocktails, and a variety of delicious treats. The Renegade Craft Fair is a festive and popular event in a vibrant and lively marketplace. Showcasing a curated assembly of emergent and seasoned contemporary craftsmen, the fair is truly a celebration of creative spirit. Come out and join the fun on December 16 and 17 from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. in Magnuson Park at 6310 Northeast 74th St. The fair is indoors, free to attend, and Fido is welcome while on a leash. There is no place better than the Emerald City of Seattle to celebrate the holidays. Enjoy this urban retreat full to the brim with unique festive outdoor events, and vibrant arts and music. Explore these three cool events in Seattle and enjoy! Image via Pixabay