5 must-do events to kick off Tri-Cities holiday season
Time-honored Tri-Cities holiday traditions and community events make their return this December.
For some performances, there are only a few tickets left, so pick your dates soon.
Lighted Boat Parade Dec. 5-6
Clover Island Yacht Club’s Lighted Boat Parade features decorated, colorfully lit boats that launch from under the cable bridge at Clover Island in Kennewick.
The parade is free to watch from 6-9 p.m. both nights, Dec. 5 and 6.
The boats make a round-trip cruise on the Columbia River to Howard Amon Park in Richland and back along Columbia Park to Clover Island.
On shore, the best views are from Clover Island, Columbia Park, Howard Amon Park, Columbia Point, Chiawana Park in Pasco, and riverfront restaurants and hotels. Boats can come decorated and join the parade for free.
For an on-the-river view, the Water2Wine cruise boat is selling tickets for $115 for adults and teens ages 13 and older. Price includes a four-course meal, a glass of champagne or sparkling cider and a private table. There also are upgrades, like a date night dessert and charcuterie board.
Handel’s Messiah Dec. 5-6
Mid-Columbia Opera presents Handel’s Messiah at the Uptown Theatre at 1300 Jadwin Ave., Richland, on two night. A chamber orchestra and 14 soloists will perform this classic piece.
Shows are 7 p.m. Dec. 5 and 2 p.m. Dec. 6. Doors open 30 minutes before the performances.
Tickets are $30 for adults, $20 for seniors and $10 for students.
Winter Wonderland Dec. 5-6
Opening weekend for Richland’s Winter Wonderland is Dec. 5 and 6. Admission is free.
The 10th annual event kicks of its month-long celebration for the season, including nightly dancing light shows at John Dam Plaza and the HAPO Community Stage, 815 George Washington Way.
On Dec. 5-6, events begin at 5 p.m. with live entertainment, a lighted vehicle parade and plaza lighting countdown at 6 p.m.
There will be music, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, food vendors, and family-friendly activities, including holiday crafts, Bingo, cocoa and popcorn. You also can wander down to the river to see the arrival of the Lighted Boat Parade, followed by a fireworks show.
Hometown Holiday Parade Dec. 6
Downtown Kennewick Hometown Holiday Parade begins at 10 a.m. Dec. 6 and festivities last until 2 p.m.
It features an appearance by Santa and holiday-themed floats, police and fire trucks and entertaining characters.
After the parade, join Santa at Santa Square on the corner of Kennewick Avenue and Benton Street for festive activities, treats and photos.
The parade route winds along Dayton Street and Kennewick Avenue.
Mid-Columbia Ballet’s The Nutcracker Dec. 11-14
The Mid-Columbia Ballet’s annual performances of the classic The Nutcracker are Dec. 11-14 at the Richland High School auditorium, 930 Long Ave.
Tickets range from $15-$30 for children under age 12, $20-$35 for seniors and students, and $30-$45 for adults. Platinum seating closer to the stage is $55 per ticket.
Performances are at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13 and 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14
.
This story was originally published November 29, 2025 at 5:00 AM.
