When the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, Whatcom County transforms into a twinkling winter wonderland. From historic streets lined with vintage storefronts to illuminated boats gliding across the bay, the region offers an unforgettable array of holiday lights and festive events.
Whether you’re planning a cozy stroll, a magical drive, or a full weekend of seasonal fun, this 2025 guide highlights the must-see displays and celebrations that make Bellingham one of Washington’s most charming holiday destinations.
🎄 Top Holiday Light Destinations in Bellingham & Beyond
Fairhaven Winterfest – Storybook Magic in the Historic Village
Fairhaven’s historic brick buildings and cozy storefronts are draped in thousands of twinkling lights, giving the neighborhood a nostalgic, storybook glow.
Winterfest 2025 runs November 29 – December 20, with a festive kickoff on November 29 featuring:
- Photos with Santa & Elves (12–3 PM)
- Horse-drawn carriage rides (12–3 PM)
- Light the Village celebration (4–7 PM)
Every Saturday brings themed events, photo contests, music, and more:
- Dec 6 – Fairhaven Flannel & Flame
- Dec 20 – Pet-Friendly Day with Dog-Friendly Santa
It’s one of the best walkable holiday experiences in the county.
Shine Bright Bham – Downtown Bellingham Sparkles
Beginning Thanksgiving weekend, downtown storefront windows burst into life with festive décor as part of Shine Bright Bham, with a community voting contest open Nov 19 – Dec 18.
Annual Tree Lighting – Dec 6
- Free cocoa from Fiamma Burger
- Cookies, crafts & activities
- Music & photo booth
- Countdown at 6 PM
- Festivities run 5:30–7 PM
Lighted Bike Parade – Dec 13
- Meet at Depot Market Square at 4:45 PM
- Ride the South Bay Trail at 5 PM
- Free hot cocoa on return
Perfect for families, cyclists, and anyone craving downtown holiday spirit.
James Street Estates – A Neighborhood Tradition
For decades, James Street Estates (3802 James Street) has been one of Bellingham’s most beloved holiday traditions. Residents of this retirement community come together to create a coordinated light spectacle with Santa displays, snowmen, reindeer, and festive scenes decorating nearly every home.
Drive the double loop around Rowan Lane and Amanda Lane anytime from dusk to late evening. It’s free, heartwarming, and one of the most impressive residential displays in Whatcom County.
Ferndale’s Pioneer Village – Old-Fashioned Holiday Charm
Set in historic Pioneer Park’s log-cabin village, Ferndale offers two magical holiday experiences:
Olde Fashioned Christmas
Dec 5–6, 4–9 PM
- 90,000+ lights illuminating restored log cabins
- $6 adults / $3 children
- Cabin tours with costumed volunteers
- Santa visits, kids’ crafts, refreshments in the pavilion
- Horse-drawn wagon teams & live performances
FREE Lighted Christmas Stroll
Dec 12–13 & Dec 19–20, 5–8 PM
- Stroll the illuminated pathways
- Enjoy music, lights, and scavenger hunts
- Free hot beverages sponsored by WECU
Perfect for families and history lovers.
Lynden’s Northwest Lighted Christmas Parade
Dec 6 at 6 PM
Starting at Fairway Shopping Center and marching east down Front Street, this beloved parade showcases:
- Lighted floats
- Farm equipment & tractors
- Marching bands
- Local businesses & community groups
Before the parade:
- Elf on the Shelf downtown scavenger hunt (11 AM–5 PM)
- Free Santa & Mrs. Claus photos at Lynden Heritage Museum (2–5:30 PM)
A festive small-town experience you won’t want to miss.
Blaine’s Holiday Harbor Lights
Nov 29 – all day
Blaine kicks off the season with:
- Holiday Craft Bazaar (11 AM–4:30 PM)
- Live music at G Street Plaza
- Caroling with local choirs
- Tree lighting at 4:45 PM
- Santa visits (5–7 PM)
- Free horse-drawn carriage & mini-train rides
- Night Market & Luminary Walk (4:30–9:30 PM)
A full day of seaside holiday cheer.
Holiday Port Festival & Lighted Boat Parade
Held at the Bellingham Cruise Terminal, the Holiday Port Festival is a free family favorite:
- Dec 6–7, 11 AM–5 PM
- Santa photos
- Gingerbread displays
- Artisans & kids’ activities
Lighted Boat Parade – Dec 6 at 5:30 PM
Watch festive vessels glide across Bellingham Bay from Boulevard Park or the Fairhaven Cruise Terminal.
⭐ Tips for Enjoying Holiday Lights Like a Local
- Dress warmly: December evenings often dip into the 30s.
- Visit weeknights for lighter crowds.
- Drive respectfully through neighborhoods (especially James Street Estates).
- Check event pages for weather updates or schedule changes.
- Support local businesses by shopping or dining during your outing.
- Make a tradition: Warm drinks + holiday lights = unforgettable memories.
🚗 Suggested Holiday Light Routes
December 6th Mega-Route
- Downtown Tree Lighting – 5:30 PM
- Lighted Boat Parade – 5:30 PM (view afterward as boats continue)
- Lynden’s Lighted Parade – 6 PM
- James Street Estates — end the night with a cozy drive
Fairhaven-Focused Day
- Winterfest events from noon
- Explore shops, carriage rides & lights
- End with a sunset stroll along the Village
Ferndale Weekend
- Dec 5–6: Olde Fashioned Christmas
- Dec 12–13 or 19–20: Free Lighted Stroll
🌟 Beyond the Lights: More Holiday Fun
The holiday season in Whatcom County also brings:
- Pickford Film Center’s Holiday Series (“Home Alone,” “Die Hard,” and more)
- Bellingham Sportsplex Ice Spectacular – “You’re a Mean One” (Nov 30)
- Holiday markets
- Mount Baker Theatre performances
- Local concerts & community events all month long
There’s truly something festive for everyone.
❤️ The Spirit of the Season
What makes Bellingham’s holiday displays special isn’t just the thousands of twinkling lights — it’s the heart behind them. Volunteers, neighbors, and small businesses come together each year to create joy, memories, and community connection.
As you explore the lights this season, you’re experiencing that generosity and creativity firsthand — a reminder why Whatcom County is such a special place to call home.
Happy Holidays from all of us at Hey Bellingham!
May your 2025 season be merry, bright, and filled with magical memories.
Have a favorite display we missed?
Tell us on social media — we’ll include it in next year’s guide!
