Holiday Port Festival
Visitors can browse an extensive gingerbread house display showcasing creations made by community members of all ages. The festival also features live music and dance performances throughout the venue. Families can stop by to visit and take photos with Santa Claus.
What to Expect
Free festival featuring community gingerbread house displays and Santa visits.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Port of Bellingham
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and gingerbread enthusiasts
Vibe
Festive and community-focused
Energy Level
Low
Budget
Free
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Free admission.
- Hours: 11:00 am - 5:00 pm; Santa visits and photos 1pm to 4pm.
- Parking: The Bellingham Cruise Terminal has self-pay parking.
Tips & Advice
- Gingerbread bakers need to submit the entry form by November 25 and deliver their edible structure on December 2 to be in the display.
- If you want Santa photos, come in the afternoon, because that's when Santa visits on both festival days.
- Families who enter the gingerbread contest can try the optional "A Sweet Northwest Winter" theme, or stick to a regular category if they prefer.
- Bring the whole family, since the festival is free and the gingerbread contest has categories from youth five and under up to seniors.
Special Events & Promotions
- The 2026 gingerbread contest has an optional theme category: "A Sweet Northwest Winter."
- Santa visits and photos run in the afternoon on both days.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Holiday Port Festival for?
Everyone. It's a free, family-friendly festival and one of the Port of Bellingham's signature community events.
What is there to see and do?
There's live music and dance, a gingerbread house display with entries from bakers of all ages, and visits and photos with Santa.
Can I enter a gingerbread house?
Yes. The contest is free and open to bakers of any age, ability or group size. Categories run from youth to senior to professional, and ribbons go to the top three in each category.
Is there a theme for the gingerbread contest this year?
The optional 2026 theme category is "A Sweet Northwest Winter." You can enter it instead of a regular category, or skip it.
Can businesses sponsor the festival?
Yes. There are several sponsorship levels, and a Holiday Port sponsorship can reach up to 5,500 people.
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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. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.