The holiday season is set to sparkle across the Palouse as Pullman, Washington State University and surrounding communities gear up for a full lineup of festive events throughout early December. From tree lightings and cocoa to book fairs and choral performances, residents will have plenty of opportunities to celebrate the season.
Holiday Festival & Tree Lighting Ceremony — Dec. 6
Pullman’s annual Holiday Festival and Tree Lighting Celebration returns to Pine Street Plaza at 5–7 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 6. The event is free and open to all.
Festivities begin early with the Pullman Parks & Recreation Children’s Yule Jog, kicking off at 4 p.m. at the Spring Street Trail across from the WSU Visitor Center. Participants are encouraged to show up in their best holiday-themed costumes for a chance to win a $25 gift certificate, and organizers will provide free hot chocolate and jingle bell bracelets. Free parking is available in the Spring Street lot.
At Pine Street Plaza, the Holiday Fest officially begins at 5 p.m. with cookie and cocoa service provided by the Lewis Alumni Centre and Washington Trust Bank. Families can enjoy a children’s story hour hosted by Neill Public Library and take photos with Santa.
The highlight of the evening, the lighting of the community holiday tree, takes place at 6 p.m., accompanied by a special performance from The Palouse Choral Society. Festivities continue until 7 p.m. with more treats, music and family-friendly activities.
Pullman National Historical Park: Holiday Traditions — Dec. 13
The Pullman National Historical Park will celebrate the season with a brand-new event, “Holiday Traditions,” from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13. Organizers hope to kick off a lasting seasonal tradition that celebrates the cultural diversity of the Pullman community.
Visitors can take part in hands-on ornament making, seasonal crafts and caroling, followed by a community Christmas tree lighting. Santa Claus will also make a visit, offering a festive afternoon for families of all ages.
Cougar Gold & Mistletoe (Spokane) — Dec. 4
For Cougs celebrating the holidays in Spokane, the WSU Alumni Association will host its annual Cougar Gold and Mistletoe gathering at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 4, at YaYa Brewing Company.
Attendees will receive two drink tickets, children can attend free of charge and food will be available for purchase from Sauced Detroit-style Pizza. WSUAA members can enter to win Cougar Gold cheese and a WSU cardigan.
Ticket packages range from $14 to $16, with registration required by Nov. 25 or until full.
WSU Press 34th Annual Holiday Book Fair — Dec. 3–4
Book lovers can get their holiday shopping done early at the 34th Annual Holiday Book Fair hosted by WSU Press. The fair will take place in the Terrell Library Atrium on:
- Dec. 3, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
- Dec. 4, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
The event features steep discounts on books published throughout the year, with an online promotion (HBF2025) offering 30% off from Dec. 1-7. Featured titles include new works on Pacific Northwest wildlife, Seattle history, Pacific Northwest tribal history, shipyard memoirs and regional identity.
Holiday Celebration: A Holiday in Harmony — Dec. 6
The community is also invited to enjoy a free concert, “A Holiday in Harmony,” held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6, in the beautifully decorated Bryan Hall Theatre on the WSU Pullman campus. The event promises an afternoon of festive performances and seasonal favorites.
Whether you are looking for a break from dead week studying or need an event to spend with your family, the Coug community has a handful of events you can attend to celebrate the holiday season.
