Issaquah Reindeer Festival at Cougar Mountain Zoo
Through Dec 30Nov 27 – Dec 30 · 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM · Nov 27 – Dec 23, 2026 (daily 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM with Santa); Dec 26 – 30, 2026 (daily 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM with reindeer post-Christmas). Closed Dec 24–25.
Cougar Mountain Zoo19525 SE 54th St, Issaquah, WA 98027 · 12.3 mi approx. from SeattleDirections
All ages (free for infants under 2; up-close live reindeer encounters and Santa photos)
From $17Adults (13+) $19.50; Children (2–12) $16.50; Toddlers under 2 free; Santa photos optional add-on
About this adventure
The annual Issaquah Reindeer Festival turns the hillside Cougar Mountain Zoo into Santa's magical winter habitat. Children can meet and feed Santa's real live reindeer herd—including Cupid, Dancer, Blitzen, and Vixen—learning fascinating wildlife facts about their incredible cold-weather adaptations and velvet antlers. The zoo grounds are decked in sparkling wreaths, twinkling garland, and holiday music. Families can stroll over to Santa's House to whisper their wish lists directly into Santa's ear, meet festive elves, and enjoy candy canes. In addition to reindeer, visitors can view the zoo's resident cougars, Bengal tigers, lemurs, and exotic birds. The zoo pathways are paved with moderate incline; all-terrain strollers work best. Advance online admission is strongly suggested to secure a reservation.
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