Holiday Windows FAQ.
Quick answers about visiting and hosting. Still wondering? Write to us.
What Is Holiday Windows?
Holiday Windows is a free neighborhood advent calendar in Tacoma's North End. From December 1 to 24, 2026, one decorated home or business window is revealed each evening at 5 PM.
When Does Holiday Windows 2026 Start?
The first window is revealed December 1, 2026 at 5 PM Pacific. A new window follows each evening through December 24.
What Time Is Each Window Revealed?
Each window is revealed at 5 PM Pacific on its date. It appears on this site, on the map, and on Facebook and Instagram at that time.
How Do I Find the Windows?
Each window's address is posted on this site and on Facebook and Instagram when it is revealed. The map goes live with the first reveal on December 1 and lists every revealed window in driving order, starting in Proctor.
Does It Cost Anything to Visit?
No. Holiday Windows is free to visit.
How Long Can I See Each Window?
Windows stay up through December 31, so there is time to catch the ones you missed. Visit in the evening, when they are lit.
Where Is the North End?
Tacoma's North End covers ZIP codes 98403, 98406 and 98407, north of 6th Avenue and Division Avenue and out to Puget Sound. That includes Ruston, Point Defiance, Old Town and the waterfront.
Who Can Host a Window?
Homes and businesses in Tacoma's North End can host. Hosting is limited to the North End so the whole tour stays close together and easy to visit.
How Do I Host a Window?
Choose an open date on the Join page, tell us about your window, and add photos before 5 PM on your day using the private link we email you. Sign-ups close November 30, 2026.
What Does Hosting Involve?
You decorate a window, big or small, and have it ready and lit after dark by 5 PM on your date. You add at least 2 photos, and we drop a yard sign off before December 1 and send a few reminders as your date gets close.
What Photos Do I Need?
Add at least 2 landscape (wide) photos, and up to 6. The first is the main photo of the finished window. The second can be a different angle or you working on it.
Can I Change My Sign-Up Later?
Yes. Use your private link to change your theme, description and photos any time before 5 PM on your date. If you lose the link, write to us and we will send it again.
Will My Address Be Public?
Yes. Your address and display name appear on the sign-up calendar as soon as you sign up, so visitors can plan ahead. Your email and phone number are never public, and your photos stay private until your reveal.
Where Did the Idea Come From?
The idea comes from Switzerland, where neighbors have long counted down to Christmas by revealing one decorated window each evening in December. Holiday Windows brought the tradition to Tacoma's North End in 2019.
Can I Start Holiday Windows in My Own Neighborhood?
Yes. Other neighborhoods are welcome to use the Holiday Windows name and format. If you have questions about how it works here, email info@holidaywindows.org.
How Should I Behave When I Visit a Window?
Windows are at people's homes and businesses. Park legally, stay on the sidewalk, keep voices low in the evening, and say hello if the host is outside.
How Can I Contact Holiday Windows?
Email info@holidaywindows.org, or use the form on the Contact page.
Key Facts
- What
- A neighborhood advent calendar, with one decorated window revealed each evening
- Where
- Tacoma's North End, Tacoma, Washington
- When
- December 1 to 24, 2026. Windows stay up through December 31.
- Reveal Time
- 5 PM Pacific each evening
- Cost
- Free to visit
- Who Can Host
- Homes and businesses in Tacoma's North End
- Sign-Up Deadline
- November 30, 2026
- Contact
- info@holidaywindows.org
Last updated November 4, 2026