Visiting Bellingham and Whatcom County in the winter means white capped mountains and so much more! Snow-lovers can head up to Mount Baker to enjoy a range of snowsports including skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
Then, after a day on the mountain, journey back into Bellingham for incredible restaurants, shopping, theaters, museums, and galleries.
We are curating different themed experiences that serve as a free guide to discover everything Whatcom County has to offer.
Ignite your imagination while touring museums and admiring murals, eat at farm to table restaurants, explore different waterfront destinations, shop at local businesses, plus so much more!
Check in at participating locations to earn points for locally inspired prizes.
Bellingham Symphony Orchestra - At their annual "Holiday Magic!" show, listen to traditional carols and enjoy special surprises, including a delightful appearance by two very jolly visitors from the North Pole. Bellingham Symphony Orchestra also performs throughout the year. Check their website for more dates.
Birch Bay Polar Bear Plunge - Join hundreds of brave people plunging into the icy waters of Birch Bay.
Blaine's Holiday Harbor Lights - This event is a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit with a holiday bazaar, tree lighting, carriage rides, Santa sightings, caroling, and more.
Downtown Bellingham Tree Lighting and Lighted Bike Parade - Every year, Downtown Bellingham shines bright with many activities throughout the holiday season, including the tree lighting in front of the Depot Market Square. During the bike parade, festive folks and their decorated bikes hit the trail to spread holiday cheer from downtown to Boulevard Park.
Ferndale's Old Fashioned Christmas - Step back in time for this celebration that features historic log cabins, live entertainment, crafts, and Santa.
Fire & Story - This new tradition at the downtown Bellingham waterfront features artistically crafted fire pits, unique performances, and warm drinks all perfect for embracing darker days of winter with creativity and positivity.
Holiday Port Festival - Bring the whole family to see live performances, a gingerbread house competition, arts & crafts, a visit with Santa, and more!
Legendary Banked Slalom - This extreme snowboarding contest has been held annually since 1985 at Mount Baker.
Northwest Lighted Christmas Parade - Front Street in Lynden is illuminated as cars, floats, tractors, and more vehicles show off their best decorations.
Resolution Walk/Run & Padden Polar Dip - Ring in the New Year with a brisk walk or run around Lake Padden that ends with a dip in the water!
Winterfest in Fairhaven Village - Enjoy shopping at local businesses, carriage rides, a tree lighting, and much more!
