Plan your holiday fun in Bellingham with our detailed guide. Whether you're a familiar face or a fresh visitor, this guide unlocks the holiday treasures of Bellingham.
Start your season with the Fairhaven Winterfest, where you can enjoy charming lights and festive activities. Delight in unique crafts and festive goods at the Bellingham Winter Holiday Market. And the Holiday Port Festival is something you definitely don't want to miss; you can enjoy entertainment for all ages. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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The Top Christmas Events in Bellingham
- Fairhaven Winterfest
- Bellingham Winter Holiday Market
- Holiday Port Festival
- Holiday Festival of the Arts
- Jingle Bell Run
- Lighted Boat Parade
- Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo's "The Nutcracker"
- Christmas Tree Lighting at Fairhaven
- New Year's Eve Bellingham
Bellingham Holiday Light Displays
Christmas Tree Lighting at Fairhaven
What to Expect:
Community-driven lighting ceremony in historic district
Description:
Fairhaven's Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony unites the community in a cherished tradition dating back generations. The event takes place in the heart of the historic district, surrounded by well-preserved 19th-century architecture. Local choirs fill the air with harmonious carols, their voices echoing off the brick facades. The lighting of the towering evergreen symbolizes the official start of the holiday season in Bellingham. Visitors can explore the charming shops and cafes of Fairhaven, many of which offer special promotions during the event.
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Christmas Tree Lighting at Fairhaven
Bellingham Holiday Markets and Shopping
Bellingham Winter Holiday Market
What to Expect:
Emphasis on local artisans and sustainable gifts
Description:
Bellingham's Winter Holiday Market spotlights the region's talented artisans and their handcrafted wares. This eco-conscious event promotes sustainable gift-giving, featuring items made from recycled materials and locally sourced products. Shoppers can browse through an array of unique offerings, from hand-blown glass ornaments to organic wool sweaters. The market reflects Bellingham's commitment to environmental stewardship, a value that has shaped the community since its founding. Live performances by local musicians create a lively atmosphere as you explore the diverse stalls.
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Bellingham Winter Holiday Market
Holiday Festival of the Arts
What to Expect:
Month-long celebration of local artists
Description:
Bellingham's Holiday Festival of the Arts transforms the city into a vibrant gallery, showcasing the works of over 100 local artists for an entire month. This long-running event, established in 1979, has become a cornerstone of the community's cultural calendar. Visitors can watch live demonstrations of various artistic techniques, from glassblowing to pottery throwing. The festival highlights the region's rich artistic heritage, featuring pieces inspired by the Pacific Northwest's natural beauty. Unique handmade gifts abound, offering alternatives to mass-produced holiday items.
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Bellingham Holiday Giving Opportunities
Jingle Bell Run
What to Expect:
Costume-themed charity run
Description:
Bellingham's Jingle Bell Run invigorates the holiday season with a spirited dash through downtown streets. Participants don festive attire, from elf costumes to reindeer antlers, creating a colorful spectacle as they race. The event raises funds for arthritis research, combining physical activity with charitable giving. Runners can form teams, fostering a sense of community and friendly competition. The course winds past historic landmarks, offering a unique perspective on Bellingham's architectural heritage. Cheerful jingle bells attached to runners' shoes create a merry symphony of sound.
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Bellingham Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo's "The Nutcracker"
What to Expect:
All-male comedy ballet performance
Description:
Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo brings a hilarious twist to the classic Nutcracker ballet in Bellingham. This all-male company combines impeccable technique with comedic flair, challenging traditional gender roles in dance. Audiences marvel at the dancers' strength and grace as they perform en pointe, a skill typically associated with female ballerinas. The performance pays homage to classical ballet while infusing it with modern humor and satire. Elaborate costumes and set designs transport viewers to a whimsical world where tradition meets innovation.
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Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo's "The Nutcracker"
Bellingham Other Holiday Activities
Fairhaven Winterfest
What to Expect:
Historic district transformation
Description:
Fairhaven's Victorian-era buildings transform into a winter spectacle during Winterfest. The historic district buzzes with activity as local shops showcase their wares in elaborately decorated windows. Visitors can embark on a self-guided tour to discover hidden gems and learn about Fairhaven's rich past. The event pays homage to the area's maritime heritage with nautical-themed decorations. Crisp winter air carries the aroma of freshly baked treats from nearby cafes, enticing you to warm up with a hot beverage.
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Holiday Port Festival
What to Expect:
Maritime-themed holiday celebration
Description:
The Holiday Port Festival celebrates Bellingham's nautical heritage with a unique maritime twist on traditional festivities. Towering ships adorned with twinkling lights line the harbor, creating a breathtaking waterfront display. Visitors can tour decorated vessels and learn about the port's crucial role in the city's development. The festival honors Bellingham's fishing industry roots with seafood tastings and demonstrations by local chefs. Children delight in the model train display, showcasing miniature replicas of historic Bellingham landmarks.
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Lighted Boat Parade
What to Expect:
Illuminated maritime procession
Description:
Bellingham Bay sparkles with the annual Lighted Boat Parade, a floating procession of vessels adorned with dazzling light displays. This nautical spectacle pays tribute to the city's maritime roots, dating back to its founding as a seaport in the 19th century. Spectators line the shore to witness boats of all sizes glide by, their reflections shimmering on the water's surface. The event showcases the creativity of local boating enthusiasts, with prizes awarded for the most impressive displays. Visitors can enjoy the parade from waterfront restaurants, savoring fresh seafood while taking in the illuminated vista.
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New Year's Eve Bellingham
What to Expect:
Family-friendly countdown celebration
Description:
Bellingham's New Year's Eve celebration caters to revelers of all ages with its unique, family-oriented approach. The event features an early "midnight" countdown for children, allowing younger participants to join in the festivities. Live music performances showcase local talent, reflecting the city's vibrant arts scene. Ice sculptures dotting the venue pay homage to the region's natural beauty and changing seasons. Visitors can participate in interactive art installations, creating lasting memories as they bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new.
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Nearby Events
Christmas Train Rides (Snohomish)
What to Expect:
Vintage train journey through scenic landscapes
Description:
The Christmas Train Rides in Snohomish offer a nostalgic journey through picturesque Pacific Northwest landscapes. Passengers board meticulously restored vintage railcars, stepping back in time to the golden age of rail travel. The route winds through snow-dusted forests and along sparkling rivers, showcasing the region's natural beauty. On-board storytellers regale riders with tales of local history and railroad lore. Children can participate in holiday-themed crafts while adults savor warm beverages. The experience highlights the important role railways played in the development of Washington State.