The Magical Place In Washington Where It’s Christmas Year-Round

No place in Washington celebrates all four seasons like Leavenworth. From their green spring blooms to their vibrant fall foliage, the natural scenery here is always incredible. But everyone knows that, in a way, it's always Christmas in our Bavarian village.

Not only does the city host an annual tree lighting ceremony that draws thousands from across the Pacific Northwest, but they have an incredible Christmas store that's open all year long. In Leavenworth, it's possible to snack on gingerbread in July (thanks to the Gingerbread Factory). But nothing will get you into the Christmas spirit faster than a walk through the Nutcracker Museum.

The Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum is located at 735 Front Street.

It's open daily from 1-5 PM.

Inside, you'll find exactly what you'd expect: Nutcrackers of all shapes and sizes.

The museum opened in 1995 to showcase the private collection of George and Arlene Wagner, and soon after that a non-profit corporation was formed.

The collection has grown to 6,000 nutcrackers, some of which date back to the Roman Empire.

This may seem like a quick stop, but you can expect to spend a good hour here.

It takes a long time to look at 6,000 nutcrackers.

When you arrive, you'll watch a quick 14 minute video of the history of nutcrackers.

This will give you a new appreciation for these holiday season staples.

Take your picture with a charming 6-foot nutcracker...

... and enjoy numerous nut puns.

Just don't expect Santa to be amused.

Admission to the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum is just $5 for adults, $3.50 for seniors and $2.00 for youth (children under 5 are free). The museum is just one of many reasons every Washingtonian should visit Leavenworth.

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