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, inspiring 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!
Top 5 Reasons to Escape to Port Townsend for the Holidays:
1. Shop.
Get a head start on your holiday shopping this year at the Holiday Fair at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds, November 7 (9 am – 5 pm) and 8 (10 am – 4 pm). Stocking stuffers, gifts, arts, crafts and hourly raffles start the fun, plus Santa makes an early visit for photo ops with your kiddos. For more information, go to www.jeffcofairgrounds.com or call 360.385.1013.
Galleries around town feature local artists and craftspeople with inspiring art for your home or a gift for that special someone. The first Saturday of every month is Art Walkfrom 5-7:30 pm, falling on November 7. Learn more about our merchants atwww.ptmainstreet.org.
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 28 and with special in-store treats, carolers on the street and open late for your shopping pleasure.
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 will have audiences howling for an evening of dinner theater on November 8 at 6 pm at Alchemy Bistro & Wine Bar, featuring “The Dog Logs.” From a tough Rottweiler with neighbor problems to an aging mongrel who discovers love late in life, this collection of hilarious and heartbreaking monologues examines the lives of dogs from every breed, age and situation. Telling stories of friendship, romance and revenge, “The Dog Logs” is a refreshing take on canine life that is touching and surprisingly human.
Tickets are $48 for the four-course dinner and show (beverages and gratuity not included).
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.
Fort Worden is serving Thanksgiving dinner (call 360.344.4400 for reservations) as well as several of our local restaurants around town. Please contact the Port Townsend Visitor Information Center at 360.385.2722 or info@jeffcountychamber.org for a list and phone numbers for your holiday reservation.
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 orinfo@jeffcountychamber.org.
5. Tour.
Need exercise in between all the holiday meals and activities? Join the Turkey Trot 5K and Kids’ Dash on Saturday, November 21 at the boatyard trailhead of the Larry Scott Trail. The Kids’ Dash begins at 9 am and the 5K begins at 9:30 am. Register here:http://peninsulatrailscoalition.org/?p=492 Enjoy cocoa, coffee and treats at the finish. Turkey costumes are encouraged!
Take a Wildlife Viewing Cruise with the Port Townsend Marine Science Center and Puget Sound Express on Saturday, November 28. The trip leaves from Port Townsend’s Point Hudson Marina at 1 pm and returns at 4 pm. 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!