For generations Mason County and Shelton have enjoyed rich holiday traditions centered around our evergreen roots. Dubbed Christmastown USA in the early 1960s, Shelton has fostered festive events for over 60 years. We invite you to join us in supporting Mason County’s Festival of the Firs to reinforce the identity of our heritage and bring joy and holiday spirit to resident & visiting families!

Annual traditions celebrate our distinction as the largest producer of Christmas trees during the early 1900s when wild Douglas firs from Mason County became a major product shipped by rail car all over the US. Today Shelton (AKA Christmastown USA) and surrounding communities mark the season with parades, activities and Christmas tree events!

Enjoy a series of holiday events throughout December during the Festival of the Firs in Mason County. Get lost in the Guinness World Record Tribute Maze; carol & go for a free Christmas boat ride in Hoodsport; hunt for the perfect Christmas tree in the Olympic National Forest; parade through the streets of Hoodsport, Belfair, and Shelton. Merry Christmas!

A Festival For the Whole Season.

  • Union, Belfair & Hoodsport Holiday Tree Lightings November 29 – December 1

    On the 29th, Santa arrives at Alderbrook Resort, kicking off the festivities with family activities, live music, and an evening tree lighting. On Saturday, experience the tree lighting at 5:30 PM  in Hoodsport and leave an oyster shell ornament wish on the decorated avenue of Douglas Firs along Hwy 101. In Belfair the festivities  officially begin with the annual tree lighting Friday night and the community parade on Sunday at 5PM. 

  • Shelton: Christmastown, WA, December 6 – 7

    Get lost in the Guinness Tribute Maze and enjoy live music, marshmallow bonfires and an evening snowfall on the festivities.  Friday take part in Kristmas Town Kiwanis’ annual tree lighting with childrens’ choirs, Santa, music, kiddie train rides, night markets,  an marshmallow bonfire on Railroad Ave. On Saturday, head early to the maze (12-5 PM) for music, food, crafting, games and snow(!)  and at 5 PM be sure to be on Railroad Avenue for the much celebrated Santa Claus Parade featuring floats, free hot cocoa, and family fun. 

  • Yule Tide Celebration | Hoodsport | December 13-14

    Friday (5-8 PM) head to the Fjord Oyster Bank Welcome Center in Hoodsport for grilled oysters, roasted chestnuts and plenty of live music, crafts and a visit from Santa!   Saturday enjoy family activities, a holiday scavenger hunt, craft workshops, visits with Santa, shopping, and boat rides on Hood Canal, as the community carols down the boardwalks of Hoodsport. Join in at YSS Dive and finish celebrating at the Oyster Bank on Finch Creek with family activities, marshmallow roasting, chestnuts and live music!