Winter Wonderland: Bellingham and Whatcom County, Washington

There is a LOT to do in Bellingham and Whatcom County this winter! Check out our 2022 Holiday Happenings blog for a list of holiday parties, tree lightings, craft fairs, gift markets, lighted bike parades, wine walks, and more. After getting dinner in downtown Bellingham, head to Rumors Cabaret for music and drinks. Open from 4pm – 2am seven days a week, this LGBTQ+ nightclub is great for dancing...plus, there’s karaoke every Monday night! For lodging once the party’s over, the newly renovated Hotel Leo is only a three-minute walk away.

Celebrate the Season with Fairhaven Winterfest Nov 18 – Dec 18

Every winter, historic Fairhaven Village in Bellingham comes alive with winter activities, music, and decorations. From Holiday movies at Firehouse Café (December 2 & 9) to horse-drawn carriage rides to a lighted “firelight stroll” through the forest, there’s plenty to do and see at this year’s Fairhaven Winterfest. For lodging, stay overnight at the charming Fairhaven Village Inn, located in the heart of Fairhaven Village with views of Bellingham Bay.

Plan a Cozy Winter Getaway up Mount Baker Scenic Highway

Head up Mount Baker Scenic Highway for unbeatable skiing, snowboarding, and, of course, sipping cocoa by a fire. In 2021, Mount Baker Ski Resort was named one of the best resorts for snowboarding by professional boarders and is consistently celebrated for its big snow falls. Whether you're a serious athlete looking for a challenge or a casual skier looking for fun runs and epic mountain views, then Mount Baker is for you. Make it a proper Pacific Northwest mountain getaway by booking a cozy cabin or chalet near the mountain.

Explore Bellingham’s Arts and Culture Scene Like a Local with the Whatcom County Culture Crawl Quest Pass

Visit Bellingham Whatcom County has created a curated Culture Crawl itinerary to help visitors connect with the best arts and culture destinations in our area. Simply sign up for the quest pass on your phone to unlock discounts, promotions, and prizes each time you check in at a location on the pass! The Culture Crawl will take you to historic theaters, indie movies, art museums, galleries, and more.

Enjoy Fresh Seafood, Winter Produce, and Romantic Beaches

Every Saturday through December 17, head downtown to the Bellingham Farmers Market to stock up on winter produce and craft goods from local Bellingham farmers and makers! This market is a huge draw for locals and visitors alike. After, head to the Bellingham Dockside Market at Squalicum Harbor to buy fresh seafood straight from fisherpeople slinging their catches dockside! The market is held every third Saturday through December 17. For more fish fun, celebrate the return of salmon at the Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association’s annual Salmon Sighting Event on November 25. Enjoy food, refreshments, games, and prizes while spotting salmon in our local streams. In 2021, Seattle Met magazine named Birch Bay as having some of the best Washington beaches in winter. Pack up your haul of food, fill a thermos, and enjoy a romantic winter picnic (with blankets!) by the sea.

Photo Credit: Luxury Getaways