Alki Holiday Lights returns to Alki Beach on Friday, Nov. 27, with free family activities, beach bonfires and a visit from the Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship. Organized by the Alki Community Council, the celebration runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. around Alki Bathhouse and the beach. The ship follows with a shoreline visit from 8:35 to 8:55 p.m.

Inside the Bathhouse, families can get free photos with Santa and enjoy cookies, hot cocoa, holiday crafts, glow toys and children's activities. Holiday characters will roam Alki Avenue, and neighborhood restaurants and businesses will offer seasonal treats and specials. Seattle Parks and Recreation will provide beach bonfires.

The evening coincides with the opening night of the Christmas Ship Festival. Before arriving off Alki Beach, the ship will serenade Salty's on Alki from 5:35 to 5:55 p.m.

The celebration also carries forward a Bathhouse tradition of Christmas activities with free cookies and cocoa. Alki Community Council vice president Zak Nyberg, who grew up on Alki, recalls those gatherings and the Christmas Ships as childhood memories. The council hopes the event will bring neighbors together while drawing winter foot traffic to local businesses.