The Seattle Traveler

Hotels aren’t just for sleeping anymore!

And proving that point is the Fairmont Olympic Hotel, our city’s only AAA Five Diamond Hotel.  This luxury hotel has long been a part of the Seattle landscape, and I’d wager that there are not many in town, especially of that baby boomer age, who haven’t been to the hotel at one time or another.  (It was the location of my high school senior prom — a very, VERY long time ago!)

During the holiday season, Santa’s elves are busy decorating and entertaining visitors of all ages for a variety of festivities at the hotel:

Gingerbread Pike Place Market – The pastry department re-creates the Pike Place Market entirely out of gingerbread, and that even includes Rachel, the market’s beloved pig.  Main lobby of the hotel through December 25th.  No charge.

Holiday Choir Series – Features choirs from local schools and youth groups singing holiday songs, and encouraging a little sing-along.  Main lobby through December 21st, noon – 1 pm.  No charge.

Teddy Bear Suite – The main lobby of the hotel is filled with a forest of trees and teddy bears, in this annual event that is viewed by thousands.  It’s a popular spot for photos, or just a little whimsical time.  C’mon, who doesn’t remember have a furry little guy for a friend when you were growing up?!  Through December 26th, 10 am – 6 pm.  While the Teddy Bear Suite is free to the public, donations (which support uncompensated care at Children’s Hospital) are gratefully accepted.

Holiday Tea – For many grandmothers, mothers, and daughters, this traditional event is one of the most anticipated of the holiday season.  Many family rituals have been created surrounding attending this classic high tea.  Whether it’s taking a break from holiday shopping, or making the event a destination in and of itself, the finger sandwiches and delicious desserts (check them out in the photo at left), are sure to impress both your eyes and your taste buds.  In the Georgian Room, daily through December 30th (except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day); weekdays 11:30 am – 2:30 pm and weekends noon – 2:30 pm.  $55 adults, $20 children ages 6-12.  Reservations recommended.

Chestnut Roasting – We’ve sung about them roasting on an open fire, and now you can buy a cone full of them while watching celebrity roasters.  I always seem to miss the chestnuts, so this year I’m on a mission to finally taste them.  Weekdays through December 21st, 11:30 am – 2:30 pm.  $5, with proceeds benefiting YWCA Angeline’s Day Center for Homeless Women.

Holiday Dining – The Georgian offers feasts for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day (buffet, $110 adults, $55 children ages 6-12), and a 7-course New Year’s Eve dinner.  Reservations required.

The Fairmont Olympic Hotel is located at 411 University Street (4th & University), downtown (map it).

Photo credit:  Fairmont Olympic Hotel

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