The time is coming to enjoy holiday events in your area

Fall is upon us; it is time for warmer clothes, fired-up furnaces and numerous trips to Starbucks for pumpkin spice lattes and peppermint mochas.

The Friday following Thanksgiving traditionally kicks off the holiday season. Whether you’re preparing for Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanzaa, it is a busy (and expensive) time for everyone. For many, holidays can be financially rough, especially for college students. There are always affordable events that students, families, couples or individuals can attend.

Here are four local holiday events to check out.

73rd Annual Holiday Tree Lighting

Location: 901 Broadway, Tacoma

Date: Nov. 24

This ceremony has been around since World War II. People gather for carols and children can take photos with Santa. This event occurs in downtown Tacoma at the Pantages Theater, and begins at 4:30 p.m. You can find more information at www.traveltacoma.com.

Festival of the Nativity

Location: 1102 S. Pearl Street, Tacoma

Date: Nov. 30 - Dec. 2

The 11th annual Tacoma Festival of the Nativity celebrates the beauty and diversity of the Christmas Creche. It will have lighted displays of over 900 nativities from around the world. At the center of the event is a living Nativity scene. It also includes performance arts venues, family activities, a “life of Christ” art room and family photo booth with biblical costumes. On Dec. 1 at 7 p.m., a Handel’s Messiah sing-along will take place. The festival takes place on S. 12th and Pearl Street in Tacoma. There is free parking. The event is hosted by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. For more information go to www.tacomanativity.org.

Macy’s Holiday Parade 

Location: 7th Avenue and Pine Street, Seattle

Date: Nov. 28

If you find yourself in Seattle during Thanksgiving, stay for the parade. The parade includes colorful floats, marching bands, drill teams and other entertainment.  This is the kickoff for Seattle’s
holiday season. The parade begins at 9 a.m. on 7th Avenue and Pine streets and finishes at Westlake Center. If you plan to attend, get there early to find a spot, especially for parking, as space will be limited.

Christmas Tree Lighting and

Holiday Festivities

Location: 9222 Veterans Drive SW, Lakewood

Date: Dec. 8

This event is held at American Lake and The Lakewood Towne Center. The event includes a 5K, a one-mile Fun Run, a holiday market and craft fair. People can participate in the parade by building a float, singing, dancing or decorating a car. Starting at 11 a.m., the event ends at the Towne Center at 6:30 p.m. with the Christmas tree lighting. Children will have a chance to visit with Santa.

Note: Most of these events take place outside, so be sure to prepare for the weather.