#United States #Bellevue #Bellevue Collection #Snowflake Lane #Holiday Parade

Snowflake Lane Returns to Delight Visitors this Holiday Season

The enchanting Snowflake Lane parade, a celebrated holiday tradition in the Pacific Northwest, is making its much-anticipated return this year for its 21st edition, promising to spread joy and festive cheer to families and visitors alike. Set in glamorous Bellevue, Washington, the event will illuminate the streets from November 28 through to Christmas Eve, December 24.

This iconic parade is spearheaded by The Bellevue Collection and the esteemed Kemper Freeman family, and it captures the essence of the holiday spirit through a colorful display of lights and an array of spectacular performers. The parade takes place nightly at 7 p.m. along Bellevue Way, between NE 4th and NE 8th Streets, making it easily accessible for residents and tourists. Designated viewing areas will be made available along Lincoln Square and the adjoining sidewalks on either side of Bellevue Way.

Jennifer Leavitt, senior vice president of marketing for The Bellevue Collection, reflects on the parade’s significance: “For over two decades, our community has united for Snowflake Lane, creating memories year after year. We are proud to sustain this cherished tradition and grateful for the talented performers, dedicated production team, and the Kemper Freeman family, all of whom make the magic of the season come alive.”

Each evening, Snowflake Lane transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland, enriched with glittering lights, faux falling snow, vibrant holiday floats, and infectious music that fills the air with cheer. Beyond just visual delight, the parade features a cavalcade of performers, many of whom are local students, showcasing their talents as toy drummers, jingle belle dancers, snow princesses, and more, all contributing to a vibrant, festive atmosphere.

Fun Facts About Snowflake Lane

• - Attendance: Roughly 400,000 guests experience Snowflake Lane each year over its extended run.
• - Snow Machines: More than 55 snow machines create a magical snowfall every night of the parade.
• - Cast Members: Nightly shows feature around 250 paid performers, bringing characters like Toy Drummers, Jinglettes, Snow Princesses, and Sugar Plum Fairies to life.
• - Sweet Treats: Performers distribute about 80,000 candies to delighted spectators each season.
• - Drumming Equipment: The drumline goes through approximately 100 drumsticks over the course of the event.

Kemper Freeman's inspiration to create Snowflake Lane came from his visits to festive displays in New York City and Chicago during the early 2000s. He sought to replicate that captivating holiday atmosphere in the Pacific Northwest. What began as a modest sidewalk performance in 2005 has evolved into a beloved holiday mainstay that enchants countless local and visiting families each year, maintaining the charm of its inception.

In addition to the magical parade, The Bellevue Collection is also offering a variety of holiday programming that visitors can enjoy:

• - Santa Photos: Starting November 28 and continuing until Christmas Eve, children can take photos with Santa at the Snowflake Lane Factory in Bellevue Square's Center Court.
• - Wintergarden Tree Lighting: Following the opening night of the parade, guests can join Santa for a countdown to lighting a stunning 30-foot tree, with additional activities such as music, cookies, and meet-and-greet opportunities with Santa.
• - Holiday Hotel Packages: Bellevue offers a perfect driveable getaway for holiday shopping and family gatherings, with special hotel packages that include gift cards for shopping.
• - Seasonal Performances: Catch local schools' choirs and orchestras performing holiday music at Bellevue Square during early December.
• - Season of Celebrations: An immersive experience in Bellevue Square presents global holiday traditions through a stunning 20-foot screen.

For additional details about Snowflake Lane and other holiday activities, visit snowflakelane.com and bellevuecollection.com. Discover the charm of Bellevue this season and experience why Snowflake Lane is considered a must-see holiday event!

About The Bellevue Collection

Located in the vibrant heart of Bellevue, The Bellevue Collection comprises three distinct developments operated by Kemper Development Company. These include the upscale Bellevue Square, the mixed-use Bellevue Place, and the iconic Lincoln Square, all featuring premier shopping, dining, and entertainment options to create a comprehensive festive experience.

Don't miss this chance to embrace the holiday spirit! Mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable festive celebration at Snowflake Lane.