As the brisk Seattle air ushers in the holiday season, residents can look forward to the annual Pathway of Lights event illuminating Green Lake Park. On December 13, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., the community will gather for a festive stroll around the lake's loop, which will be decked out with thousands of candles casting a warm glow on the pathways and docks. According to Parkways Seattle, the experience promises to be enhanced by live music from local talents and complimentary refreshments.
The free event is made possible through the coordination of Seattle Parks and Recreation and the Green Lake Advisory Council, also with the support of community partners such as Lake & Company Real Estate and Green Lake Masonic Lodge. Visitors might also get to witness hot air balloons lighting up the sky if the weather permits.
For those keen to give back, the celebration is doubling as a food drive. Attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items for local food bank, FamilyWorks. Donation points will be strategically located by the three music stages around the park's community center, aqua theater, and bathhouse, as detailed by the Parkways Seattle.
Organizers are reminding attendees that parking will be a challenge. With thousands expected to attend, spaces around the lake will quickly become scarce. They're advising celebrants to consider either biking, carpooling, or using public transport, in line with suggestions for Green Lake Park events. King County Metro Transit's Trip Planning can help plan the journey hassle-free. For those deciding to come on foot, there are surrounding neighborhoods within a comfortable walking distance to the park as well.
Volunteers looking to be involved in the event have opportunities to help with setup, monitoring luminaries, recycling, litter patrol, and cleanup. Shifts vary through the day with the earliest starting at 11:30 a.m. and the latest ending at 9 p.m. Interested parties can fill out the FORM linked on the official page, or contact Seattle Parks and Recreation’s Penny Atwood for more details.
