SEATTLE (November 20, 2020) - Under the theme "Holiday Lights and Delights," the Downtown Seattle Association (DSA) is bringing new activities to downtown this holiday season, along with some tried-and-true traditions.

The annual tree-lighting celebration, emceed by WARM 106.9's Shellie Hart, will be livestreamed on Facebook and broadcast on KIRO-TV on Friday, November 27 during the 5 p.m. news hour. Westlake Park will shine with holiday-themed light sculptures constructed with 80,000 miniature lights - perfect for a socially distanced stroll or selfie.

New this year, the DSA is bringing augmented reality to the heart of the city. From now through December, smartphone users can discover vibrant, three-dimensional holiday scenes digitally superimposed on sidewalks, parks, and plazas throughout downtown Seattle's retail core.

The experience is just one exciting element of the DSA's reimagined and socially distanced slate of holiday activities in the heart of the city.

"While we have unique challenges this year, the DSA is creating ways for everyone to celebrate safely in downtown," said DSA Vice President of Public Space Operations & Events Jenn Casillas. "Whether you live here, are on a shopping trip or just need a merry getaway, downtown Seattle has something for you."

Holiday lights and delights in downtown
" Augmented Reality: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, Nov. 27, 2020-Jan. 1, 2021
Created by Novaby, augmented reality hotspots in and around Westlake Park lead to a hidden world of 3-D virtual installations for a holiday experience like no other. All it takes is a smartphone and QR code scan.

" Holiday Lights and Delights in Westlake Park, Presented by Amazon: Nov. 27-Jan. 9
Following the Westlake Center tree lighting, we'll flip the switch on larger-than-life sculptures of presents, arches, trees, and more, built from more than 80,000 lights. The DSA is also raising holiday lights in locations across downtown, including along Bell Street and First Avenue, Occidental Square, Pioneer Square, and more.

" Virtual Holiday Tree Lighting & Bon Marché Star at Westlake Center: Nov. 27, 5:10 p.m.
The DSA's annual tree-lighting celebration will be broadcast live, with special thanks to our media partners KIRO 7, and streamed on the DSA's and WARM 106.9's Facebook pages. In addition, the new Bon Marché Star will make its spectacular debut during the show.

" Free Giveaways: Saturdays, Nov. 28-Dec. 19
Every Saturday from late November through Dec.19, the DSA will give free, locally sourced gifts to the first 100 visitors who visit our Westlake Park booth and show park staff they've followed the DSA's Instagram page and liked the specific gift-reveal social post from that week.

" Holiday Tree and Lights in Occidental Square
Occidental Square will again host a 17-foot-tall orb tree covered in LED lights. The tree will be lit throughout the month of December and will bring a glowing warmth to the park.

" Food Truck: Monday-Friday: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Treat yourself to sweet and savory snacks in Westlake Park daily.

Due to public health concerns posed by COVID-19, the Holiday Carousel will not return this year.

A complete list of these events can also be found at downtownseattle.org/holidays.

The Downtown Seattle Association (DSA) was established in 1958 as a member-based nonprofit organization with the mission of creating a healthy, vibrant downtown. By advocating on issues including transportation, economic development, and the urban experience, the DSA works to ensure that downtown remains a great place to live, work, shop, and play for all.

Courtesy of the DSA