Kirklanders brave the cold and rain for Winterfest 2017

Despite poor weather, residents came out to ring in the holiday season.

Over the weekend, Kirklanders rang in the start of the holiday season at Winterfest 2017. The event was put on by the Kirkland Downtown Association, with the City of Kirkland as a sponsor. Activities included pictures with Santa Claus and face painting and entertainment by the Lake Washington High School Jazz Ensemble and Geoffrey Castle. The evening concluded with a countdown to light the tree and performances from Studio East.

Members of Kirkland Downtown Association smile for the camera. Samantha Pak, Kirkland Reporter

Members of Kirkland Downtown Association smile for the camera. Samantha Pak, Kirkland Reporter

Photos with Santa were one of the activities at Winterfest 2017. Samantha Pak, Kirkland Reporter

Photos with Santa were one of the activities at Winterfest 2017. Samantha Pak, Kirkland Reporter

The Lake Washington High School Jazz Ensemble performs at Winterfest 2017. Samantha Pak, Kirkland Reporter

The Lake Washington High School Jazz Ensemble performs at Winterfest 2017. Samantha Pak, Kirkland Reporter

Fire pits were located throughout Winterfest 2017 for attendees to stay warm. Samantha Pak, Kirkland Reporter

Fire pits were located throughout Winterfest 2017 for attendees to stay warm. Samantha Pak, Kirkland Reporter

Geoffrey Castle was the headlining entertainment at Winterfest 2017. Samantha Pak, Kirkland Reporter

Geoffrey Castle was the headlining entertainment at Winterfest 2017. Samantha Pak, Kirkland Reporter

The tree lighting closed out the evening. Samantha Pak, Kirkland Reporter

The tree lighting closed out the evening. Samantha Pak, Kirkland Reporter