November launches the holiday season with its exciting activities and events. Here in Port Townsend, we can’t wait for you to join the fun! Days are shorter. Nights are longer. Storms have been rolling in off the Strait of Juan de Fuca and it inspires us to come inside to a warm shop, a cozy guest room and a welcoming restaurant for comfort food. Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and before you know it, Santa will be riding in to light our tree at Haller Fountain!

Ring in the holidays in PT

Top 5 Reasons to Escape to Port Townsend for the Holidays:

1. Shop.

Forget the stressful, crowded malls on Black Friday and meander leisurely through town, discovering treasures for your family and friends. Enjoy the array of unique gifts available at our boutiques and galleries. Many of our shops are run by the owners, so they can help you find exactly the discerning gift you’re looking for…and maybe something special for you too! Small Business Saturday is November 29 and with special in-store treats and open late for your shopping pleasure.

Galleries feature local artists and craftspeople with inspiring art for home or office. The first Saturday of every month is Gallery Walk from 5-7:30 pm and the upcoming one on December 6 will follow immediately after Santa’s arrival in town. Learn more about our merchants at www.ptmainstreet.org.

2. Stay.

Check out our charming B&Bs or accommodations in period Victorian style. We have modern getaways, a variety of vacation rentals, and classic hotels and motels…everything you want for some well-deserved R&R. Decorated with sparkling holiday lights, choose your favorite here: EnjoyPT.com/stay

3. Sip. Savor. Be entertained.

Treat your senses to local Olympic coastal cuisine and a mouth-watering choice of dining options to match your mood, whether it’s a hearty breakfast, lunch with the family or a romantic dinner, you’ll find what you’re looking for before, during or after your holiday excursions.

Key City Public Theatre is proud to present an evening of dinner theater on November 9 at 6 pm at Alchemy Bistro & Wine Bar, featuring “Rounding Third,” the acclaimed comedy by Richard Dresser, the special guest at the 2014 Playwrights’ Festival. Tickets are $48 for the four-course dinner and show (beverages and gratuity not included).

Rounding Third at KCPT

Reserve tickets early as these dinner theaters often sell out and seating is limited. Purchase tickets online at www.keycitypublictheatre.org or call the box office at 360-385-5278.

Several of our local restaurants are offering Thanksgiving dinner. Please contact the Port Townsend Visitor Information Center at 360.385.2722 or info@jeffcountychamber.org for a list and phone numbers for reservations.

4. Relax…pamper yourself.

Indulge in one of our many spa experiences with licensed massage therapists, estheticians and yoga instructors. We also have hot salt water tubs for soaking. For more info, contact the Port Townsend Visitor Information Center at 360.385.2722 or info@jeffcountychamber.org.

5. Tour.

Need exercise in between all the holiday meals and activities? Join the Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, November 22 at the Larry Scott Trail. The kids’ 1-mile run begins at 9 am and the 5K begins at 9:30 am. Register here: http://peninsulatrailscoalition.org/?p=492

Runners in PT

Take a Wildlife Viewing Cruise with the Port Townsend Marine Science Center and Puget Sound Express on Saturday, November 29. The trip leaves from Port Townsend’s Point Hudson Marina at 1 p.m. and returns at 4 p.m. Tickets are $55 per person. Book your reservation online at www.ptmsc.org or call 360.385.5582, ext. 104.

Let the festivities begin! Escape to Port Townsend and enjoy the holidays!