West Seattle, Washington
25 Thursday
Thanks to “Prop” for the tip about multiple police vehicles at WaFd Bank on the north edge of The Junction early this morning. Archived police radio indicates they were investigating a burglary. Security monitoring via video feed reported an intruder in the bank before 4 am, described only as “unknown-race male, all-black clothing, ski mask.” No one was inside when police searched the building, but a large window on the SW Dakota side of the bank building had been broken; SFD was called to board it up. No word on what if anything was taken; we’ll be requesting the report narrative. If you have any information, the SPD case # is 2025-375888.
(WSB photo from Christmas Eve)<
Merry Christmas and happy Thursday! Here’s info we hope will be useful on this holiday:
BUSES: Metro‘s running on the Sunday schedule.
WATER TAXI: Not sailing today.
STATE FERRIES: The third boat tied up early Wednesday because of crewing – check the alerts page for status today.
MORE TRANSPORTATION NOTES: No charge for street parking in areas of the city with pay stations … West Seattle-relevant traffic cameras are here; see all cameras citywide via this map.
COFFEE SHOPS OPEN TODAY: We found 10+ – here’s our list. (Plans can change after our research, so if you encounter a change, please text or call us – 206-293-6302 – thank you.)
RESTAURANTS AND BARS OPEN TODAY: 15+ restaurants and five bars are on our list – see it here. (And please let us know of any changes!)
GROCERY STORES OPEN TODAY: Again this year, as noted in our Holiday Guide, only the three Safeways (Roxbury, Admiral, Jefferson Square) are open (8 am-5 pm) – all other West Seattle grocery stores are closed until tomorrow.
CHURCH SERVICES TODAY: Several of the churches on the list in our Holiday Guide have Christmas Day services.
OTHER NOTES: Trash/recycling pickup is delayed one day for the rest of the week (next week too) … Seattle Parks closure info is here … Libraries (city and county) are closed.
TAKE A NATURE WALK: Meet on the Lincoln Park shore at 9:30 am for this guided walk – details are in this preview.
SEE A MOVIE: The Admiral Theater (2343 California SW) is open this afternoon/evening – first screening of the day, 2 pm.
ASTRA LUMINA: Celestially inspired light show continues tonight on the grounds of the Seattle Chinese Garden at the north end of the South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) campus, opening at 5 pm. Timed tickets and info here.
OTHER LIGHTS TO SEE: Scroll through our archive to see the local homes we’ve shown all month!
If you see/hear news, please text/call 206-293-6302 – we appreciate your tips and collaboration every hour of every day and night!
Seems like almost everyone is working harder than ever these days – longer hours, more demands. And on this Christmas Eve, a West Seattle writer is pondering what could happen if Santa’s elves and reindeer also decided to rebel against overwork. Writer Sue Barry‘s twist on Clement-Clarke Moore‘s 1823 poem “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” was featured by West Seattle journalist/author/historian Clay Eals in a holiday spotlight on the website he co-publishes, Seattle Now & Then (a companion site to his Seattle Times Magazine features with Jean Sherrard). He mentioned it to us, and tonight we are publishing it with permission, and with Clay’s photo of the author (who happens to be an Admiral District neighbor of his):
‘TWAS THE PLIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS
By Sue Barry‘Twas the day before Christmas and all through the shop,
the Elves were on countdown, with no time to stop.
Their stockings were twisted. Their tempers were high.
They hadn’t had lunch and they wanted to cry.
“We’re working too hard!” fumed a frustrated Elf.
“The pay is too small! I’ve no time for myself!”They loudly complained as the hours flew past,
till all of their projects were finished at last.
All hands had been washed. They had changed to clean clothes.
Then Rudolph stomped in with a cold in his nose.“What’s wrong?” cried the Elves. “You are not looking well!”
“I ab dot!” sniffled Rudolph. “My dose caddot sbell!
But here’s the real reasod I’b cubbing to you:
Our deers have all had it. They’ve quit aad they’re through!”One Elf gave a whistle. Another one cheered.
Another just nodded and fingered his beard.
The rest of them mumbled and grumbled and frowned:
“We all should just quit when next year rolls around!”
“As if warming temperatures aren’t bad enough, our products aren’t trendy, like all the new stuff.
Our toys are old-fashioned. Our staff is old, too. We’ve failed to keep current. We’re toast! It’s so true!
We wonder how Santa can keep keeping on?
Just how do you think he would cope … if we’re gone?”Well, that was a question too sad to invite
on an evening like this, with no reindeer in sight.
They closed up the shop with its now-empty shelves.
“We’re out of here, Santa! Good luck!” snapped the Elves.The hour was late — it was more than half-past.
Poor Santa was stranded. He had to think fast.
“I’ll switch to my wagon?” he muttered. “My van? My old motorcycle?!” That seemed the best plan.
He strapped on his helmet and zipped up his jacket.
“Merry Christmas to all!” he yelled over the racket.
To his sleigh packed with toys, Santa hitched his bike tight,
then stomped on the pedal and roared out of sight.‘Twas at four Christmas morning when Santa returned.
His sleigh again empty – a good rest was earned.
The trip was exhausting for dear old St. Nick.
His poor feet were aching, his poor heart was sick.
“Oh, where is the happiness? Where are the joys?
Has Christmas lost meaning for these girls and boys?”“It’s different for children,” his wife counseled him.
“They’re glued to their screens. And each notion and whim gets met by their parents, indulged by their friends.
Their hungers for ‘things’ have no limits, no ends.”“You know, Mrs. Claus,” sighed that once-jolly fellow,
“I wish for the old days, when life was more…mellow.
Before there were tablets and instant smartphones, wild video games, TikTok, Star Wars, and drones,
before there was NOW! Instant gratification!”
(Perhaps, thought his wife, Santa needs a vacation!)“When children hung stockings and hoped I would stop
to bring them one doll, or one ball, or one top.
When real trees were trimmed with crisp popcorn on strings,
with cranberries, candles and (yawn) carved wooden things….”
The thoughts were so painful. He nodded. Then slept,
recalling those years when his Christmas was kept.
*****The Elves stayed through winter, then planned their last day.
Their minds were made up — they were quitting come May.
Though Santa implored them, they wouldn’t back down.
“We’re finished!” they glared. “We’ll get good jobs in town!”Claus Factories closed at the North Pole right then.
No toys could be fashioned without those small men.
So months followed months. There was nothing to pack:
No toys for his journey, no gifts for his sack.
He sat by his stove as he fought back the tears:
“I’m losing my job! It’s the worst of my fears!”
Mrs. Claus couldn’t listen. She climbed to the door
of the old family attic atop the fourth floor.
“Up here!” she was shouting. “These toys — they’re not new!
They’re broken and dusty. They’ll just have to do!”And that was how Christmas-time happened at last:
with old-fashioned playthings and gifts from the past.
Santa emptied the attic, repaired all those toys,
to take them with love to a few girls and boys.This year, thought poor Santa, my trip will be short.
But suddenly hoofbeats! And then a loud “Snort!”
In the wide-open door grinned his famous deer friend,
the one with the nose that glowed red at its end.
And behind him were all of the other reindeer —
they were smiling and stamping and bringing good cheer.“We’re all here to help!” shouted Rudolph with glee.
“Then we’ll bargain with you, represented by me!”
“Great news!” Santa yelled, and he ran for his rope.
“Ho! Ho! Ho! Welcome home! We had given up hope!”And as he was hitching the deer to his sled,
the Elves reappeared. “We’ve re-tooled!” they said.
“We’ve learned to make gifts that a cool Santa brings,
like Legos and robots and digital things.
We’ve used what’s recycled and healthful and new —
What’s good for the planet, for us and for you!”The Elves grabbed their baskets of colorful toys.
“Got room for these, Santa? For good girls and boys?”
Now Rudolph’s nose glowed like a halogen cherry,
and Santa’s eyes twinkled, his thoughts growing merry.
They loaded the sleigh and he drove out of sight.
“We can bargain tomorrow! Now, to all: a good night!”And just as he’d promised, when Santa was through,
he drew up new contracts and signed them all, too.
So that’s how the deer got new beds and fresh hay,
and the Elves got new hours with raises in pay.
Now each Christmas is special, without any doubt,
and sharing with others is what it’s about.
For Christmas is best when your wishes are small,
and your giving is GREAT! Merry Christmas to all!
If you browse Seattle Then & Now’s current crop of Santa-themed “Web extras” on this page, you’ll also find a newspaper story Clay wrote 40+ years ago about a unique Santa visiting a West Seattle elementary school – and a bit about Clay’s own years as a Santa.
Thanks to Clare Brooks for the photo! That pileup of driftwood at the west end of the Alki promenade is at least in part thanks to the high tide wind-and-saves action shown here. The National Weather Service had a Coastal Flood Advisory in effect for “minor” overflow this morning and has another one up for 7 am-1 pm Thursday, when the predicted high tide is again 12.4 feet (9:01 am this time, with calmer atmospheric conditions less conducive to overflow).
We’ve featured some encores this year – 2025 versions of West Seattle Christmas lights/decoration displays we’ve shown in previous years – but this one is a debut Artist Tim Wulf sent the video of his display, and added some music to the video:
Tribute to the classic animated movie, “The Snowman.” The figures were all made by me. Our kids and now our grandkids love watching that movie so it was time to bring it to life!
This is in the 8900 block of Fauntleroy Way SW. To see all the decorations we’ve spotlighted this season – and past years – scroll here!
Before schools went into winter break, the Chief Sealth International High School PTSA got some good news – a national grant that is meant to get more students – who, after all, are the “S” in PTSA – involved. Here’s the announcement:
Chief Sealth International High School PTSA has been awarded a National PTA Youth Engagement Capacity Building Grant, making it one of just 20 high school PTSAs selected nationwide and the only recipient in Washington State.
The award is part of National PTA’s $1 million investment in schools across the country to strengthen student voice, leadership, and engagement. Chief Sealth was recognized for its commitment to equity-driven, student-led programming that removes barriers to participation and prepares students for postsecondary success.
The grant will support the immediate launch of a Student Leadership & Scholarship Initiative, including stipend-supported student leadership roles and a Scholarship & Leadership Club co-designed with students and the school’s College & Career Center. The program elevates student voice in PTSA decision-making while expanding access to scholarships, leadership development, and college readiness resources.
“Our students told us they want more than one-time workshops. They want meaningful roles, real responsibility, and opportunities that fit their lives,” said Maria Doucettperry, PTSA Scholarship Chair at Chief Sealth International High School. “This grant allows us to value students’ time, remove financial barriers, and prepare young people not just for college, but for leadership and civic engagement.”
Chief Sealth International High School serves a richly diverse community, with many students from low-income, immigrant, and first-generation backgrounds. While graduation rates are strong, access to postsecondary opportunities remains uneven. This initiative directly addresses that gap by centering student leadership, peer mentoring, and culturally responsive engagement.
Implementation is underway, with student recruitment and leadership onboarding beginning immediately and continuing into January 2026. The program is designed to be sustainable and replicable, ensuring student leadership remains embedded in PTSA structures beyond the grant period.
We asked CSIHS PTSA president Stacy Harbour, who sent us the announcement, what happens now, and how students and families can get involved. Her reply: “The grant will support four stipends for four student leaders who will work alongside the PTSA to build a robust Scholarship & Leadership Club. Student leaders will co-facilitate club meetings, building a fuller experience for the CSIHS student body in scholarship, essay writing, and financial aid navigation. The ultimate goal is a sustainable structure for student-led engagement in the PTSA, leadership development, and ownership of their post-graduation goals.” They’re recruiting students now “in coordination with the College & Career Center now, with a full launch of the program in January,” so that’s where interested students can check in to get involved. Harbour adds, “Interested families should reach out to chiefsealthptsa@gmail.com to learn more.”
(Thanks to Michelle for the photo from ‘near Lincoln Park’)
As with years past, our daily “what’s happening” list for Christmas Eve is mostly a list OF lists, with info we’ve been compiling as Christmas Eve/Day approached.
GROCERY-STORE CLOSING TIMES: Local supermarkets close early today/tonight. This list is in the Christmas Eve/Day info atop our West Seattle Holiday Guide.
RESTAURANT LIST: Many restaurants close early too, or are completely closed. There’s info on many in our list of restaurants open Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and/or New Year’s Day.
COFFEE-SHOP LIST: Same goes for the coffee-shop list, which includes early closings for today and who’s open tomorrow.
(Note for the above two lists – businesses may have changed their plans since we gathered this info – if you know of a change, please text 206-293-6302 or email westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!)
LAST-MINUTE SHOPPING: We invited businesses to let us know if they’re open Christmas Eve. We have a few in the Guide. (Not too late to add!)
CHRISTMAS EVE CHURCH SERVICES: All the churches we’ve heard from with services tonight (and beyond) are also listed in the Holiday Guide.
Here’s what else we have – some are regular listings, so, apologies if there are Christmas Eve changes we weren’t notified about – let us know!
LIBRARIES CLOSED: Seattle Public Library has a systemwide closure today and tomorrow. King County Library System too.
FAUNTLEROY CHURCH FESTIVAL OF TREES: On this Christmas Eve morning, you can go see the decorated trees in the Fellowship Hall at Fauntleroy Church (9140 California SW), until noon, and “vote” for your favorite(s) with nonperishable food donations.
COOKIE DROPOFFS FOR THE CHRISTMAS PEOPLE: Baking homemade cookies for The Christmas People to include with holiday meals for people in need? Today’s your last chance to drop them off at West Seattle Coworking (9030 35th SW; WSB sponsor), 10 am-4 pm
HOLIDAY MUSIC AT THRIFTWAY: 2 pm-5 pm, Alex Baird serenades shoppers at West Seattle Thriftway (4201 SW Morgan; WSB sponsor)
WEST SEATTLE RUNNER GROUP RUN: Canceled tonight – shop’s closed today and tomorrow.
TRIVIA & KARAOKE: Admiral Pub (2306 California SW) confirms they’re on tonight, 7 and 9 pm respectively.
JET CITY LABS COMEDY NIGHT: 7:30 pm, it’s on! (4547 California SW)
BINGO AT CORNER POCKET: 7:30 pm, 21+.
THE REST OF THE CALENDAR: We’re checking on regular features and skipping them for tonight if we can’t confirm they’re still on. Still updating tomorrow too.
Hosting an event, seasonal or otherwise? Tell your West Seattle neighbors via our event calendar and/or Holiday Guide – just email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
9:54 AM: Thanks to Amy Bannister for sending that video from Alki Statue of Liberty Plaza, where wind and high tides combined for wave action against the seawall early this morning.
Meantime, speaking of wind, the National Weather Service has again changed the alert level for what it believes is on the way. Now it’s downsized to the lowest level of alert, Wind Advisory, still in effect 10 am-7 pm: “South winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph expected,” possibly a bit higher close to the water. (But of course, that’s just a forecast, so don’t get complacent – stay charged and stay safe!)
1:08 PM: Now the NWS has canceled the alert altogether. The breeze is picking up a bit out there, though, so it won’t be entirely still.
(Photo by Jerry Simmons, who captioned it ‘a couple of nutcrackers’)
Want to see somewhat wilder wildlife on Christmas? Assuming the potential windstorm treats trees, wildlife, and the rest of us kindly, here’s an invitation we were asked to share with you for tomorrow morning:
4th Annual Christmas Bird / Nature Walk in Lincoln Park (Morning this year)
Get outside Xmas morning at West Seattle’s Lincoln Park for an informal Bird and Nature Walk-ho sted by a volunteer Naturalist.
*No experience necessary; all levels of knowledge are welcome!
*We’ll look for winter birds both on the water and in the forest. We hope to get to see some of these: wild ducks / waterfowl, Juncos, Song sparrows, Chickadees, Robins, Woodpeckers, Corvids, Kinglets, Bald eagle, Cooper hawk, Hummingbirds, Wrens, and more – if we’re lucky.WHERE: Lincoln Park: 8011 Fauntleroy Way SW. Park in the SOUTH Parking Lot (smaller lot closer to the ferry). Look for us at Shelter #3 (down by the water, near the restrooms).
WHEN: 9:30 AM Introduction & Lincoln Park wildlife (time is to take advantage of high tide when water birds are more prolific) .
Bird Walk departs. 9:45 AM – Return to parking lot 11:15-11:30 am.BRING:
*BYOB! – (bring your own Binoculars) Will definitely enhance your experience if you have them or can borrow a pair. We may have an extra. Scope – if anyone has one – please bring it!
*Dry / Warm Clothing Layers (especially on your FEET, head and torso) since it can be quite chilly by the water. Bring gloves. Rain gear for the possible shower or two in the forecast. It WILL be muddy in places.
*Water / snack if you wishNOTES:
*No DOGS please – we love ‘em but wildlife definitely does not
*ROUTE: We will start out along the flat trail by the water for about 30 min and then will walk up the incline into the forest. Most L. Pk trails are about a 5% incline, but the incline into the forest can be steep. You may turn around at the incline and return to parking if you wish. Note: It is also fairly steep from the parking lot down to Shelter #3
*Sometimes they close the RESTROOMS at Lincoln Park. Hoping that’s not the case. But best to prepare a contingency plan should that happen.
*CHILDREN may not enjoy this outing unless they are accustomed to walking slowly and have experience standing quietly for long periods of time.
9:40 AM: The wind alert has been downsized to a Wind Advisory, with gusts possible to 45 mph.
10 AM NOTE: Marina mentioned in a comment that there was another crash toward the southwest end of the westbound bridge, in the “welcome” area. Two vehicles, no serious injury. According to police radio, this has just been cleared.
Earlier:
6:09 AM: Good morning! It’s Wednesday, December 24, 2025, Christmas Eve.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
A High Wind Warning alert is in effect 10 am-7 pm, with gusts of up to 60 mph possible. Also, the forecast predicts more rain, high around 50. Sunrise will be at 7:56 am; sunset at 4:22 pm.
SCHOOL’S OUT
Winter break continues.
TRANSIT TODAY
West Seattle Water Taxi – Regular West Seattle service, fall/winter schedule. No service on Thursday (Christmas Day).
Washington State Ferries – The Triangle Route gets its third boat back today, resuming “the regular three-boat schedule with the Sealth as the #3 vessel,” per WSF’s alerts page.
Metro buses – They’re on the regular weekday schedule and routes in our area. On Thursday, they’ll be on the Sunday schedule.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Low Bridge – Here’s the westward view. Also note, maritime-opening info is available via X (ex-Twitter):
1st Avenue South Bridge:
Delridge cameras: In addition to the one below (Delridge/Genesee), cameras are also at Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, Delridge/Oregon, and video-only (so you have to go to the map), Delridge/Holden and Delridge/Thistle.
MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: All functioning traffic cams citywide are here (including links to live video for most); for a quick scan of West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras, see this WSB page.
See a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water? Please text or call our hotline (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!
11:59 PM: Police are investigating a reported armed street robbery this past half-hour near Boss Drive-In in South Delridge. According to police radio, the victim said he was held up at gunpoint and robbed of his iPhone. The robber was described only as white, male, in a black jacket and blue jeans, and was said to have gotten away in a black Trailblazer. If you have any information, the SPD case # is 25-374979.
1 AM: No further updates; we’ll follow up with SPD later this morning and add anything more we find out.
11:33 AM: Here’s the SPD summary:
At 2339 hours, a man stated that he was nearly involved in a collision with someone walking their dog in the 9000 block of Delridge Way Southwest. When he stopped and stepped out of his vehicle to address the incident, an unknown man in a dark colored Chevy appeared, armed with a firearm. The armed man yelled, and then punched the victim, knocking him to the ground and causing him to drop his phone. The armed man then took the victim’s phone and struck the victim twice more before driving off southbound. An area check for the suspect/vehicle was negative and the phone was unable to be tracked. The victim showed no visible sign of injury.
Thanks to Nathan for the tip that Delridge Uptown Espresso is closing. As soon as we got that note tonight, we went over to see if a sign was posted, as sometimes happens after closure announcements, and found the sign. you see above, saying that December 30th – a week from today – is the official closing date. It’s in a spot that will be disrupted if and when Sound Transit builds the Delridge station for West Seattle light rail, but even in the fastest-moving scenario, construction is still two-plus years away. The shop and other Uptowns have been operated since 2018 by Fonté, which took over after the sudden death of Uptown owner Dow Lucurell. We’ll be checking with them tomorrow about the reason(s) for the Delridge closure and the future of Uptown’s West Seattle Junction shop, which will be one of three remaining Uptown cafés; the mini-chain had six locations when Mr. Lucurell died. (Added: The previous two closures were Queen Anne in 2021, Pier 70 in 2022.)
It’s a holiday tradition in West Seattle – baking cookies for The Christmas People to include with meals they’re providing to people in need – and again this year, people are amply answering the call. We invited cookie bakers to share photos; the one above is from Betsy, who delivered more than a thousand cookies baked by Tibbetts United Methodist Church “and friends” to dropoff spot West Seattle Coworking (9030 35th SW; WSB sponsor). We also got pics from Katie, whose kids contributed – Cora baked gingerbread spritz cookies:
And Julian baked apple-cider snickerdoodle cookies:
If you have home-baked cookies to donate, take them to WSC 10 am-4 pm tomorrow (Wednesday, December 24). No fancy packaging required – box, bag, whatever. But do include a note/label if they contain nuts/nut butter(s).
Excellent weather tonight for Christmas-lights viewing, so here’s another display where there’s a lot to see. Jeff Keller sent the photos of his house at 5420 40th SW, where, among many other Christmasy characters, he says he has more than 20 Snoopys!
One onlooker counted 23, Jeff explains, “but there may be more.” Go count for yourself! And if you’re looking for other sights to see, our archive of featured displays – this year and past years – is here.
Three Crime Watch notes today:
SCHOOL GUN CHARGES: Prosecutors have filed felony gun charges against the two 15-year-olds accused of having handguns at Evergreen High School in White Center last Wednesday. Details are on our partner site White Center Now.
HIT-RUN HELP: Hollie is looking for help in finding the hit-run driver who sideswiped her parked car:
She says this happened around noon Sunday on SW Charlestown just west of California. A witness told her it was a white BMW but didn’t get the plate number. She wonders if anyone nearby might have the collision on security-camera video. She filed a report in the WSP system, temporary # M6916344.
PACKAGE THIEF: Logan sent the image of this person taking a package at their Fauntleroy Way townhouse east of The Junction:
My home is two rows back from the main street, inside a private townhouse community. The individual intentionally walked past multiple buildings and homes to reach my porch and steal a package. This required clear effort and intent, not a quick grab from a street-facing porch … With package theft becoming more common, I think it’s important to highlight that thieves are willing to go deeper into residential complexes, not just target homes near the street.
12:36 PM: It’s been a windy December and it’s not done yet. The National Weather Service has a High Wind Watch alert for our area for tomorrow (Wednesday, December 24), 10 am-7 pm. Here’s what forecasters think will happen:
* WHAT…East to northeast winds of 10 to 20 mph with gusts to 30 mph will suddenly shift to southerly Wednesday afternoon with wind speeds of 25 to 35 mph and gusts of 50 to 60 mph possible.
A High Wind Watch is one step up in intensity from a Wind Advisory, which is the most-common type of alert we’ve seen so far these past few months.
9:31 PM: As commenter B points out, the NWS has upgraded this to a High Wind Warning, though the time frame – 10 am to 7 pm Wednesday – and the details – “South winds 25 to 35 mph with gusts 50 to 60 mph expected” – are similar. Main change is “possible” to “expected.”
12:05 PM: Southern Resident Killer Whales – reportedly from K-Pod – have been reported in central Puget Sound the past two days – late yesterday, coming up from Point Defiance, but not in time for pre-sunset whale watching here, and today Donna Sandstrom from The Whale Trail tells us there are reports of orcas heading southbound ‘fast,’ off Edmonds at last report. That doesn’t mean they’ll make it all the way here but we’re publishing an early alert for starters. Updates if/when we get them.
1:52 PM: We’ve just heard from Kersti Muul, who says the whales have entered Elliott Bay, passing West Point, and that the new K-Pod baby is with them.
2:16 PM: Donna says they’re “now past Discovery Park moving quickly south ., spread out in small groups across the Sound …should be visible from Alki looking north within half an hour – 45 minutes.” She’ll be at Alki Point (Constellation Park) or Emma Schmitz Overlook (across from Me-Kwa-Mooks) with binoculars to share.
3:12 PM: The photo is courtesy of a texter who’s out on the water, reporting the whales are “southbound almost to Alki Point, mid-channel,” and also confirming that the baby is with them.
6:11 PM: Too dark for whale-watching now, but thanks to Jamie Kinney for the photo added above, showing whales and mountains late in the day!
(Even waiting in traffic can bring beauty. Monday morning photo by Dave Brewer)
Here are our daily event notes/reminders, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and Holiday Guide. Note that some regular events are canceled today, and we’ve made note of those; if you know of any other cancellations, please comment, or text us at 206-293-6302 if it’s today/tonight, email westseattleblog@gmail.com for dates beyond:
DONATION DRIVES AND GIVING OPPORTUNITIES … see the list in our Holiday Guide to see what’s continuing. Such as…!
COOKIES FOR THE CHRISTMAS PEOPLE: Drop off homemade (no store-bought, please) cookies at West Seattle Coworking (9030 35th SW; WSB sponsor) 10 am-4 pm again today and tomorrow.
ALSO IN THE HOLIDAY GUIDE – LAST-MINUTE SHOPPING: We’re adding to the list there of which businesses we’ve heard from that’s open today/tomorrow. Such as …
MOON ROOM OPEN FOR SHOPPING: Still have gifts to buy? Check out the Moon Room (5902 California SW; WSB sponsor), open 11 am-6 pm today and Wednesday!
FAUNTLEROY CHURCH FESTIVAL OF TREES: Visit the church Fellowship Hall (9140 California SW) before noon to see the themed trees and place food donations beneath your favorite(s) to “vote” for them.
FREE PLAYSPACE: Indoor play! West Seattle Church of the Nazarene is opening its free community playspace, 9 am-noon Tuesdays and Thursdays. (42nd/Juneau)
KALEIDOSCOPE PLAY & LEARN: On break until the New Year.
POSTCARDS4DEMOCRACY: Yes, it’s happening today, organizers confirm! New postcard-writers as well as returnees are welcome at this weekly advocacy gathering, 10:30 am-noon at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor). Sign up here before you go, if this is your first time.
FREE FOOD: Chef Smoke (aka Gino) from TheHomeSkillit.com is in Junction Plaza Park today:
THE 4TH ANNUAL JUNCTION PARK CELEBRATION
Hello West Seattle!
Chef Smoke is here again, inviting you to the 4th Annual Junction Plaza Park Christmas Celebration — a joyful community gathering filled with food, music, and holiday spirit.
What We’re Serving
• FREE hot and fresh Smoked Turkey Meals
• Drinks included
• Prepared with care by Chef Smoke and Community Volunteers
What to Expect
• Great Christmas music
• A warm, festive atmosphere
• Lots of joy for this glorious holiday event
• All‑inclusive — everyone is welcome
• Furry friends are welcome too
11 am-4 pm. (42nd/Alaska)
LIVE HOLIDAY MUSIC AT WEST SEATTLE THRIFTWAY: 11:30 am-1:30 pm Gary Benson, 2:30 pm-5:30 pm Alex Baird. (4201 SW Morgan; WSB sponsor)
ROTARY CLUB OF WEST SEATTLE: No meeting today.
CHESS CLUB: All levels welcome! 1:30-3 pm, at the Center for Active Living (4217 SW Oregon). Questions? Email conwell@conwelld.net.
SANTA AT WEST SEATTLE THRIFTWAY: See Santa at the grocery store! 2:30-5:30 pm. (4201 SW Morgan; WSB sponsor)
DROP-IN HOMEWORK HELP: Not happening at High Point Library during winter break.
EUROPEAN WINE TASTING: Italian wines are the focus on the last of three days of tastings at West Seattle Cellars (6026 California SW), 4-6:30 pm.
ASTRA LUMINA: Celestially inspired light show on the grounds of the Seattle Chinese Garden at the north end of the South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) campus, Tickets and info here; check for available entry times.
SIP AND CRAFT: Weekly holiday-season event at Harry’s Beach House (2676 Alki SW), 5 pm, ornament-making workshop – our calendar listing has the registration link to see if there are openings.
DROP-IN WINE TASTING: 5-8 pm Tuesdays at Walter’s Wine Shop (4811 California SW) – $15 fee, $5 off with bottle purchases.
DEMONSTRATION FOR BLACK LIVES: Long-running weekly sign-waving demonstration on the corners at 16th/Holden. 5-6 pm. Signs available if you don’t bring your own.
TRACK RUN WITH WEST SEATTLE RUNNER: Meet up by 6:15 pm at West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) for WSR’s free weekly track run.
SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING: No classes tonight.
WOMEN’S MEDITATION CIRCLE: Weekly small-group event at Mama Be Well Healing Studio (4034-A California SW), 7 pm. Our calendar listing has info on registering before you participate.
BINGO: Play free Tuesday night Belle of the Balls Bingo at The Skylark, 7 pm. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
TRIVIA X 5: Five locations for trivia tonight – The Beer Junction (4711 California SW), Sporcle Pub Quiz with David at 7 and 8 pm … 7 pm at Ounces (3803 Delridge Way SW), free and hosted by Beat the Geek Trivia; 7 pm at Zeeks Pizza West Seattle (6459 California SW), hosted by Geeks Who Drink; 7 pm at Admiral Pub, free, prizes. (2306 California SW) … Trivia at Christos on Alki (2508 Alki SW), 7:15 pm.
If you are organizing an event, class, performance, gathering, etc., tell your West Seattle neighbors via our event calendar and (if it’s seasonal) Holiday Guide, from which we draw our daily lists too – just email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
Things get quiet between Christmas and New Year’s – but here’s one West Seattle event that might interest you next weekend, if you’re planning on reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption in 2026:
SOBER CURIOUS?
Are you doing Sober January and wondering what it would be like to be sober all the time?
Let’s get together to talk about recovery. Fun, local, sober people are ready to share their stories and answer your questions about not drinking, like:
• How can I not drink and still have a social life?
• How would I navigate situations where everyone else is drinking?
• How do I know if I just have a problem with drinking or if I’m an alcoholic?
• Is AA religious? Do I have to believe in God?There will be an ask-it basket – we take anonymity seriously.
This gathering is Open to Everyone.
This is NOT a recruitment event.Join us Saturday, December 27, 3-5 pm
Admiral Hub/Bear Island (formerly Admiral Church)
4320 SW Hill St.
6:02 AM: Good morning! It’s Tuesday, December 23, 2025, second full day of winter.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
The forecast predicts a mostly dry, cloudy day, high in the mid-40s. Sunrise will be at 7:55 am; sunset at 4:21 pm.
SCHOOL’S OUT
Winter break continues.
TRANSIT TODAY
West Seattle Water Taxi – Regular West Seattle service, fall/winter schedule. No service on Thursday (Christmas Day).
Washington State Ferries – The Triangle Route is getting its third boat back, WSF has announced:
After successful vessel repairs, we’re returning to three-boat service on the Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth route.
Tuesday, Dec. 23: The route will be on the two-boat schedule. Starting in the afternoon, the Sealth will run as the third, unscheduled vessel.
Wednesday, Dec. 24: The route will be back on the regular three-boat schedule with the Sealth as the #3 vessel.
We know the past few weeks on two-boat service have been challenging. Thank you for your patience during this service disruption as we repaired vessels.
This is from WSF’s alerts page.
Metro buses – They’re on the regular weekday schedule and routes in our area. On Thursday, they’ll be on the Sunday schedule.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Low Bridge – Here’s the westward view. Also note, maritime-opening info is available via X (ex-Twitter):
1st Avenue South Bridge:
Delridge cameras: In addition to the one below (Delridge/Genesee), cameras are also at Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, Delridge/Oregon, and video-only (so you have to go to the map), Delridge/Holden and Delridge/Thistle.
MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: All functioning traffic cams citywide are here (including links to live video for most); for a quick scan of West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras, see this WSB page.
See a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water? Please text or call our hotline (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!
It’s Christmas week and that means list time. We’ve already announced our Christmas Eve/Day grocery-store hours list – it’s in our West Seattle Holiday Guide – and our Christmas coffee-shop hours list (find that here). Now we’ve just published the longest list of all – West Seattle restaurants/bars planning to be open Christmas Day, plus hours for Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. Find that here (and linked in the Holiday Guide). We always say “planning” because invariably, some places change their plans at the last minute. We expect to update the lists with any additions, changes, corrections that surface – if you have someething to add/change, best way to get us the info is via email – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
After the Mariners made it into the league-championship series last year, tickets are more prized than ever as a holiday gift. Here’s how to get some for a June 2026 game while also benefiting a local high-school-baseball program:
West Seattle Day at T-Mobile Park – Support WSHS Baseball
West Seattle High School Baseball isn’t just playing for wins — they’re playing for West Seattle. And this season, our community has a chance to help send the Wildcats back to the biggest stage of all: T-Mobile Park.
Each year, only 20 high school programs across the region are invited to participate in the Mariners Baseball Classic, an opportunity that allows student-athletes to play on an MLB field. West Seattle was one of the first schools ever included — and staying in the Classic is something our players must earn every year.
That’s where West Seattle Day at T-Mobile Park comes in.
The WSHS Baseball program is hosting a Mariners ticket fundraiser for the Mariners vs. New York Mets game on Tuesday, June 2 at 6:40 PM. Ticket sales directly fund the program and secure West Seattle’s spot in the Mariners Baseball Classic, which is free for the whole community to attend.
Game Details
*Mariners vs. Mets
*Tuesday, June 2
*6:40 PM
*100 Level: $30 | 300 Level: $20This is more than a night at the ballpark — it’s how West Seattle shows up for local kids, local schools, and a program that represents our neighborhood with pride. Every ticket supports equipment, transportation, training, and unforgettable opportunities for our student-athletes.
Can’t attend? Tickets can be gifted or donated to local organizations like the Boys & Girls Club, community centers, and youth baseball/softball programs (like WSLL and WSBB) — spreading the love and the game across West Seattle.
Let’s fill the stands in blue, cheer loud, and show the Mariners what West Seattle support looks like.
Here’s where to buy your ticket(s): wshs.schoolauction.net/marinerstickets/homepages/show
Seattle Parks is out today with its list of park restrooms winterized this year, including eight that Parks says will remain open in winter for the first time because of Park District funding. Three of those eight are in West Seattle – the Fairmount Park restroom building (shown in our photo above), Riverview Playfield, and Roxhill Park. The full list is here; Parks adds this caveat:
While we strive to keep these restrooms open for the winter, there may be times when we must close them for repair or due to extreme low temperatures. Some restrooms that are normally open year-round are not included in the list … because they are currently closed for capital improvement projects or repairs.
Parks added three West Seattle restrooms to the year-round list a year ago, too.
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