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Bellingham Holiday Festival of the Arts
Discover a cherished Whatcom County holiday tradition spanning five weeks, showcasing over 100 regional artisans. This indoor and online festival offers a vibrant marketplace for unique, locally produced fine art and crafts. Enjoy live music and complimentary children's activities on weekends, making it a perfect destination for festive shopping and community connection.
What to Expect
Over 100 regional artisans in a festive holiday market.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$
- Parking: Parking is dependent on the location of the Festival and local parking laws.
- Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Other Christmas Events Near Bellingham
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Holiday shopping, unique gifts, local art
Vibe
Festive, community-oriented, artisanal
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low (indoor event)
Special Events & Promotions
- Live music and free kids' activities on Saturdays and Sundays.
- Online market available in addition to the in-person festival.
Location
Event Details
Duration
5 weeks
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Allied Arts of Whatcom County
Food & Drink
Food trucks and beverage vendors available on-site
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Plan to visit on a weekend to enjoy live music and free children's activities, adding an extra layer of festive fun to your shopping experience.
- Since the festival runs for five weeks, consider visiting earlier in the season to get the best selection of unique artisan goods before they sell out.
- Check the Allied Arts website for the performer schedule closer to the event date to plan your visit around specific musical acts.
- While the festival is indoors, consider the Pacific Northwest weather and dress in layers for comfort when traveling to and from the venue.
- Explore the online market in addition to the in-person event for an even wider selection of artisan products, perfect for finding those hard-to-get gifts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the festival hours?
The festival is open 7 days a week from 10 AM to 6 PM, from the Friday before Thanksgiving until December 24th. It is closed on Thanksgiving Day.
Where is the festival located?
The location of the Holiday Festival changes annually and will be announced in November. It is recommended to check the website for the most current information.
Can I apply to perform at the festival?
Yes, performers can apply online via the provided link. The deadline for performer applications is typically in early November.
What is the commission rate for vendors?
A flat 30% commission is taken from sales, provided vendors complete their required three 3-hour security shifts. These shifts must be signed off by Allied Arts Staff.
Do I need to staff my booth?
No, Allied Arts staff handle all transactions and monitor booths. Vendors are responsible for restocking their booths and completing security shifts.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.