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

Experience the Magic of Snowflake Lane

As the holiday season approaches, the Pacific Northwest is gearing up for one of its most cherished traditions: Snowflake Lane. The event, organized by The Bellevue Collection in partnership with the Kemper Freeman family, promises to delight attendees with its enchanting displays and festive atmosphere.

Running from November 27 through December 24, visitors can experience a free nightly parade that transforms the streets between Bellevue Square and Lincoln Square into a picturesque winter wonderland. The parade kicks off at 7 p.m. each evening, and it features a dazzling array of dancers, costumed characters, and parade floats adorned with vibrant lights and holiday music.

With over 22 years of history, Snowflake Lane has become a hallmark of the holiday season in Bellevue. More than just a parade, it symbolizes the gathering of families and friends, drawing in nearly 400,000 guests over its 28-night run. According to Jennifer Leavitt, senior vice president of marketing for The Bellevue Collection, the event has created multigenerational memories and a sense of community celebration. “It’s incredible to see how it brings together everyone to share in the spirit of the holidays,” she noted.

Inspired by visits to New York City's Fifth Avenue and Chicago's Magnificent Mile, Kemper Freeman Jr. envisioned a holiday event that would capture the essence of joy and community spirit. Today, his vision has transformed into a spectacular celebration filled with mesmerizing performances featuring talented dancers and local students, including snow princesses and toy drummers.

What to Expect at Snowflake Lane

Snowflake Lane is not just about the parade; it encompasses a whole range of festive activities that families can enjoy:

• - Nightly Snow: Thanks to over 55 snow machines, it snows each night during the parade, adding an extra magical touch.
• - Diverse Characters: There are around 180 different characters entertaining the crowds each evening, including snow princesses, jinglettes, and even Santa himself.
• - Sweet Treats: This year, over 80,000 pieces of candy will be distributed, making the event even sweeter for kids and adults alike.
• - Snowfall: A whopping 850 gallons of snow are utilized throughout the season, ensuring that the festive atmosphere is felt by every attendee.

Additionally, the festive offerings extend beyond the parade itself:

• - Santa Photos: From November 27 to December 24, children and families can capture memories with Santa inside the Snowflake Lane Factory at Bellevue Square.
• - Tree Lighting Ceremony: Kick off the celebrations with the tree lighting event on November 27, featuring a 30-foot holiday tree, music, and cocoa for everyone.
• - Hotel Packages: Visitors looking for a holiday getaway can book stays at luxury hotels within The Bellevue Collection, including Hyatt Regency Bellevue, receiving a $100 Bellevue Collection gift card per night.
• - Local Holiday Entertainment: Enjoy live performances by local school choirs and orchestras during designated weekends throughout December.
• - Immersive Celebrations: Engage with a 20-foot immersive screen at Bellevue Square that provides insights into holiday celebrations across cultures.

In conclusion, Snowflake Lane is more than a mere parade; it is a cherished community event that captures the festive spirit of the season. Visitors to Bellevue from all over the region are encouraged to partake in this magical experience that promises joy, laughter, and heartwarming memories. For more information about the event, including real-time updates, visit snowflakelane.com and bellevuecollection.com. Join in the holiday cheer and make Snowflake Lane a part of your seasonal traditions!