37th Annual Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition Comes to Pike Place Market

Celebrate the Pike Market Senior Center & Food Bank’s holiday fundraiser at its new location

SEATTLE, July 12, 2022 – For the first time ever, the annual Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition, which benefits the Pike Market Senior Center & Food Bank, is coming home to the Pike Place Market on December 2, 2022, from 6pm – 9pm. Traditionally held at Westlake Center, the Pike Market Senior Center & Food Bank will host the competition under the Public Market Center Clock & Sign as it celebrates its 44th anniversary of serving our community. Figgy spectators will get to enjoy the bright holiday lights of the Market after dark, with some businesses staying open later and Pike Place lined with caroling groups, seasonal drinks and holiday shopping.

This heart-warming event attracts nearly 10,000 people every year to enjoy holiday music and has become a spirited tradition for many Seattle locals to ring in the season with their neighbors. This is an enchanting event that’s welcome to all ages!

“The Pike Market Senior Center & Food Bank is thrilled that in 2022, The Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition will bring holiday cheer to the Pike Place Market!” said Zoe Freeman, Programming and Member Services Manager of the Pike Market Senior Center & Food Bank and Head Figlet. “After producing the event on the streets of Downtown Seattle for 35 years we are bringing Figgy home to the Market. The Senior Center & Food Bank have offered services from the Market for 44 years. Now we will stage this crucial fundraiser right here on the cobblestones of our unique Market neighborhood. We thank the Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority for partnering with us to make this happen.”

Since its inception, Figgy Pudding has raised over $1 million for the Pike Market Senior Center & Food Bank. These services have remained open without interruption throughout the pandemic to serve our community members experiencing economic challenges, food insecurity, and social isolation. A steadfast resource sustained by community donations, Figgy Pudding is the organization’s biggest fundraising event of the year.

What is Figgy Pudding?
Each year, dozens of caroling teams and holiday shoppers gather on Figgy Friday to raise money for the Pike Market Senior Center & Food Bank. Caroling teams raise some of the funds before the event, sourcing co-workers, friends, or family to donate to the cause. Throughout the event, volunteers will jubilantly ring bells to inspire visitors to donate with cash, cards, or online.

“Figlanthropy” Awards are given to the top three teams that raise the most money, which headline at the mainstage sing-off. Judges select the categories of Best Choral performances and Most Creative teams, and the People’s Choice award is selected by popular vote.

Visitors will have the unique opportunity to both take in the music and enjoy holiday shopping from select Market vendors who will be extending their hours just for this event. Experience the magic after dark and bring the whole family for an evening of festive fun!

Photo Credit: John Curry

Who can participate?
Whether someone is a professional singer or a beginner, anyone can join in on the event! Figgy Pudding relies on hundreds of volunteers to thrive in its execution. If you prefer to apply your talents outside of music, operational support roles are available to be a part of its success. For anyone interested in joining this special event, reach out to Head Figlet Zoe Freeman at [email protected].

What does it benefit?
Over 1,200 seniors visit the Senior Center annually for free meals, engaging social activities, and access to social services for housing, medical care, and other needs. The Food Bank helps over 4,000 of our neighbors who face hunger with free groceries. Thanks to the community support provided by Figgy Pudding, locals have amplified the essential services at the Pike Market Senior Center & Food Bank for over 40 years!

About Pike Market Senior Center and Food Bank – In Downtown Seattle, the Pike Market Senior Center strives to make each day better and safer for older adults; the Pike Market Food Bank serves people of all ages who face hunger. Together, we provide services, activities, and support to promote healthier, more self-sufficient and fulfilling lives. Pmsc-fb.org

Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority PDA – The nine-acre historic district is maintained and operated by the Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority (PDA), a nonprofit public corporation created by the City of Seattle in 1973. The PDA supports the Market’s remarkable community by increasing farm and food retailing opportunities, supporting small and marginal businesses, and providing services for low-income individuals. In addition, PDA helps protect the essence of the Market by preserving, rehabilitating and maintaining the buildings within the Market. PikePlaceMarket.org

Please let us know if you are interested in coming on-site to film.

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Media Contact
Pike Place Market PDA
Madison Bristol
Marketing and Public Relations Manager
P: (206) 726-8142
E: [email protected]