The 44th annual Tacoma Holiday Festival opens Thursday, Oct. 15, at the Tacoma Dome for four days of holiday shopping, hands-on workshops and adoptable dogs.
The festival, one of the region's longest-running holiday shopping events, runs through Sunday, Oct. 18, at 2727 E. D St. Doors open at 10 a.m. each day. The show closes at 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and at 6 p.m. Sunday.
General admission is $19.50 at the door or $22.15 online, which includes service fees, according to the festival's website. Children 12 and younger get in free.
What to expect
Vendors fill the Dome floor with gifts, jewelry, apparel, holiday décor and gourmet treats, according to Tacoma Weekly. Local artisan products are a focus.
A section called Puppermint Lane gives visitors a chance to meet adoptable dogs looking for homes. The festival website describes the area as a place to connect with pups available for adoption.
Workshops and entertainment
Hands-on holiday workshops cover centerpiece-making and DIY ornament projects. Scheduled workshops run Saturday, Oct. 17, at noon and 3 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 18, at noon. Walk-up make-and-take stations are open during regular show hours on Saturday, except during scheduled workshops.
Every pre-paid workshop fee includes one adult admission to the festival, a $19.50 value. Walk-up sessions do not include admission.
Local pianist Kristin Fletcher plays Christmas classics daily throughout the festival. Ambience Jazz performs Friday evening.
More to see
A Ladies Night event runs Friday, Oct. 16, from 5 to 7 p.m., with shopping and prizes. The festival also features a Christmas Cottage photo spot and a Main Street vendor walkway leading to a Santa visit area.
Food and drinks are available at concession stands and a lounge area called The Garage. Parking information is available on the festival's website.
