The holiday season in Bellingham, Washington, brings out the best of our vibrant local shopping scene. Whether you’re hunting for unique gifts for loved ones or treating yourself to something special, Bellingham’s independent shops, boutiques, and artisan markets offer treasures you won’t find anywhere else. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the best local spots for holiday shopping while supporting the businesses that make our community special.
Why Shop Local in Bellingham?
Shopping local isn’t just good for the economy—it’s an experience. When you shop at Bellingham’s independent stores, you’re getting curated selections from knowledgeable shop owners who live and work in our community. Plus, many local businesses participate in the Think Local First Holiday Passport, where you can collect points and earn prizes while shopping at participating retailers throughout Whatcom County.
Historic Fairhaven Village: A Holiday Shopping Destination
Village Books and Paper Dreams
Location: 1200 11th St., Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone: (360) 671-2626
Website: villagebooks.com
Hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-8pm, Sunday 10am-8pm
No Bellingham holiday shopping guide would be complete without mentioning this beloved independent bookstore. Since 1980, Village Books has been the heart of Fairhaven’s literary community. Browse three floors of carefully curated books across every genre, including new, used, and bargain selections.
Gift Ideas:
- Books for every reader on your list
- Journals, calendars, and planners
- Board games and puzzles
- Bellinghamopoly board game (a local favorite!)
Adjacent to Village Books, Paper Dreams is a gift-lover’s paradise featuring locally designed greeting cards, Fairhaven’s Finest Fudge (made on-site), kitchen items, soaps, loose leaf teas, toys, hats, slippers, and Washington state souvenirs.
Drizzle Olive Oil & Vinegar Tasting Room
Location: 1208 11th St., Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone: (360) 392-8838
Website: drizzletastingroom.com
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 11am-5pm
Perfect for foodies on your list, Drizzle offers premium extra virgin olive oils, infused oils, balsamic vinegars, spices, teas, honey, and hot sauces. Come in for tastings and leave with beautifully packaged gifts that taste as good as they look.
Good Earth Pottery
Location: 1000 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone: (360) 671-3998
Website: goodearthpots.com
Hours: Monday-Sunday 11am-5pm
This ceramics gallery showcases mugs, plates, sculptures, and decorative pieces from talented potters, many local to Bellingham and the Pacific Northwest. Each piece is unique and functional art.
Babygreens
Location: 915 Harris Ave., Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone: (360) 355-0759
Website: babygreens.co
Hours: Sunday-Friday 11am-5:30pm, Saturday 10:30am-5:30pm
For the plant lover in your life, Babygreens offers a stunning variety of houseplants and plant-centric home goods. The knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect low-maintenance succulent or statement plant, plus all the accessories to keep them thriving.
Whatcom Art Market
Location: 1103 11th St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone: (360) 738-8564
Website: whatcomartmarket.org
Hours: Monday-Sunday 11am-6pm
This cooperative gallery features work from over 50 local artists including paintings, photography, ceramics, jewelry, and more. It’s the ideal place to find one-of-a-kind pieces that celebrate Bellingham’s artistic community.
Three French Hens
Location: 1100 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone: (360) 756-1047
Website: threefrenchhens.com
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 11am-5pm
An upscale boutique offering chic clothing, elegant home decor, and thoughtfully selected gifts in the heart of Fairhaven Village.
Whimsey
Location: 1001 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone: (360) 733-5568
Website: shopwhimsey.com
Hours: Monday-Sunday 11am-5pm
This eclectic jewelry shop specializes in handcrafted jewelry for all occasions, plus art, cards, and unique accessories.
Fairhaven Runners & Walkers
Location: 1209 11th St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone: (360) 676-4955
Website: fairhavenrunners.com
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 11am-5pm
For the active person on your list, this specialty running store offers expert fittings for running shoes and a great selection of performance apparel and accessories.
Adored Boutique
Location: 913 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225
Website: shopadoredboutique.com
Hours: Monday-Friday 11am-5:30pm, Saturday 11am-6pm Sunday 11am-5pm
Find chic clothing, accessories, and gifts for women at this charming Fairhaven boutique.
Downtown Bellingham: Creative & Eclectic Shopping
Fringe Boutique
Location: 201 W Holly St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone: (360) 312-4067
Website: wearfringe.com
Hours: Sunday-Friday 11am-7pm, Saturday 10am-7pm
Founded by Bellingham native Rhiannon Troutman, Fringe offers everything from wardrobe basics to brands you can’t find anywhere else. The shop features seasonal lookbooks and provides space for local artists to showcase functional works.
ModSock
Location: 1323 Cornwall Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone: (360) 746-6255
Website: crazysocks.com
Hours: Monday-Friday 11am-5pm
This unique shop specializes in whimsical sock designs for every mood, season, and interest. Owner Urania Shaklee and her team have created a fun, colorful shopping experience that’s perfect for stocking stuffers or gifts for the sock enthusiast.
The Greenhouse
Location: 1210 N State St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone: (360) 676-1161
Website: greenhousehome.com
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 11am-4pm
Browse handcrafted home goods, furniture, and decor that honor good design and creative process. This downtown shop has been offering authentic, unique pieces since 2008.
Brazen Shop + Studio
Location: 1306 Cornwall Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone: (360) 719-8427
Website: brazenshopanstudio.com
Hours: Monday-Friday 11am-5pm
A vibrant hub for local artists to showcase their work. Find truly one-of-a-kind pieces including artwork, jewelry, pottery, and handmade gifts.
Cresswell Boggs
Location: 1300 Railroad Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone: (360) 752-0522
Website: cresswellboggs.com
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-7pm, Sunday 10am-5pm
This locally-owned shop has been serving Bellingham for over two decades. Find fun greeting cards, Bellingham-themed t-shirts, novelty items, and an impressive jewelry selection—perfect for that offbeat person in your life.
Chocolate Necessities
Location: 4600 Guide Meridian Rd, Bellingham, WA 98226
Phone: (360) 676-0589
Website: chocolatenecessities.com
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm
Give the gift of artisan chocolate! This downtown shop offers handcrafted chocolate truffles, nut bars, sugar-free options, chocolate gelato, and beautiful gift baskets for any occasion.
Dakota Art Store
Location: 1322 Cornwall Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone: (360) 676-8918
Website: dakotaartstores.com
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm
For the artists and creatives on your list, Dakota Art Store offers quality art supplies, materials, and inspiration.
Outdoor Enthusiasts & Adventure Seekers
Backcountry Essentials
Location: 1417 N State St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone: (360) 543-5678
Website: backcountryessentials.net
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-7pm, Sunday 11am-5pm
This family-run outdoor specialty shop is a Bellingham institution. Owner Chris Gerston and his team offer expert advice on gear for skiing, hiking, climbing, camping, and traveling. The shop features two floors—the first with new equipment and clothing from top brands like Black Diamond, prAna, and Topo Designs, and the second floor dedicated to quality used gear at unbeatable prices.
Gift Ideas:
- Hiking boots and outdoor footwear
- Camping equipment and backpacks
- Ski gear and accessories
- Adventure travel items
- Custom boot fitting gift certificates
- Gear rental packages
REI Bellingham
Location: 400 36th St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone: (360) 647-8955
Website:rei.com
Hours: Monday-Friday 10am-8pm, Saturday 9am-8pm, Sunday 10am-6pm
Since 1999, REI Bellingham has been providing outdoor enthusiasts with top-brand gear, clothing, and equipment. They offer a full-service bike shop, ski and snowboard tuning, and their Re/Supply program for gently used gear. Members receive special discounts and benefits.
Earl’s Bike Shop
Location: 2827 Meridian St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone: (360) 746-2401
Website:earlsbicycle.com
Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10am-7pm, Saturday 10am-5pm
Locally owned and operated since 2010, Earl’s is dedicated to getting riders back on their bikes with quality service and equipment.
Specialty Food & Beverage Gifts
Community Food Co-op
Two Locations: 1220 N Forest St, Bellingham, WA 98225
315 Westerly Rd, Bellingham, WA 98226
Phone: (360) 734-8158
Website: communityfood.coop
Hours: Monday-Sunday 7am-9pm
More than a grocery store, the Co-op is your source for local and organic food, specialty items, and their excellent in-house bakery. Order custom cakes, cookies, and treats for holiday gatherings, including gluten-free and vegan options.
Gift Ideas:
- Local artisan products
- Organic and specialty foods
- Gift baskets featuring local vendors
- Co-op bakery treats and gift certificates
- Membership (gives access to exclusive discounts!)
Local Breweries
Bellingham is home to nearly two dozen craft breweries. Pick up a gift card, growler, or six-pack from favorites like:
- Boundary Bay Brewery
- Kulshan Brewing
- Aslan Brewing
- Stones Throw Brewery
- Stemma Brewing
- Structures Brewing
Unique Shopping Experiences
Bellingham Antique Mall & Penny Lane Antique Mall
Location: 427 W Holly St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone: (360) 671-3301
Hours: Monday-Sunday 11am – 6pm
For vintage lovers and collectors, these antique malls offer treasures from multiple vendors including furniture, kitchenware, jewelry, and unique finds that make memorable gifts.
Chuckanut Bay Gallery & Sculpture Garden
Location: 700 Chuckanut Dr N, Bellingham, WA 98229
Phone: (360) 734-4885
Website:https://chuckanutbaygallery.com/
Hours: Monday – Saturday 10am-5:30pm, Sunday 11am-5:30pm, Closed Thursday
Featuring work from over 400 artisans, this gallery offers infused and etched glassworks, beautifully glazed pottery, fine handmade jewelry, wooden crafts, and art prints—all in a scenic setting along Chuckanut Drive.
NEKO Cat Cafe
Location: 1130 Cornwall Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone: (360) 656-6217
Website:https://www.nekocatcafe.com/
Hours: Monday-Thursday 12pm-6pm, Friday 12pm-8pm, Saturday & Sunday 10am-8pm, Closed Tuesday
For the cat lover in your life, give the experience of coffee and cats! This unique cafe offers gift certificates for visiting time with adorable adoptable cats.
Arts & Entertainment Gift Certificates
Mount Baker Theatre
Give the gift of entertainment with tickets or memberships to this historic venue featuring live music, plays, comedy, musicals, ballet, and symphony performances.
Pickford Film Center
Perfect for cinephiles! Gift cards can be used for independent films, documentaries, and the theater’s selection of gourmet snacks and beverages.
Whatcom Museum
A museum membership offers unlimited admission and perks for anyone who loves learning and exploring local history and art.
SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention
Another great membership gift for the science enthusiast or curious mind.
Holiday Markets & Special Events
Throughout November and December, Bellingham hosts numerous holiday markets where you can find handmade goods from local artisans:
Bellingham Makers Market
Location: Bellingham Cruise Terminal (355 Harris Ave)
Dates: November 29-30 and December 20-21, 2025
Hours: Saturday 12pm-6pm, Sunday 10am-5pm
Features 50 local makers offering handcrafted soaps, sustainable goods, delicious treats, textiles, candles, jewelry, and more. Each weekend brings new vendors, so visit both weekends for fresh finds!
Pacific Arts Market
Location: Bellis Fair Mall
Traditionally held the first three weekends in December, this market features local artisans and handmade goods (10am-7pm Friday-Sunday).
Allied Arts Holiday Festival
This beloved annual event showcases fine art and craft from juried local artists. Check their website for 2025 location and dates.
FAB Artist Studios & FireHouse Arts & Events Center
Watch for holiday pop-up markets and open studios featuring local artists.
Shopping Districts Beyond Downtown
Barkley Village
A walkable mixed-use area with specialty shops, dining, and fitness options in a landscaped setting.
Meridian Village
Convenient shopping along the Meridian corridor including craft and hobby stores, home improvement, and specialty retailers.
Gift Cards That Give Back
Think Local First Gift Card
Purchase at thinklocalfirst.org and use at participating local merchants throughout Whatcom County including restaurants, shops, hotels, and more. It’s the perfect gift when you’re not sure what someone wants, and it keeps money circulating in our local economy.
Tips for Holiday Shopping in Bellingham
- Start Early: Many local shops have limited inventory on popular items
- Ask About Special Orders: Shop owners can often order specific items or create custom gift baskets
- Check Store Hours: Some shops extend hours during the holiday season, while others may have adjusted schedules
- Bring Reusable Bags: Bellingham has a bag ordinance, so BYOB (bring your own bag) or purchase reusable ones at checkout
- Follow on Social Media: Many shops announce special sales, new arrivals, and holiday events on Instagram and Facebook
- Shop Small Business Saturday: The Saturday after Thanksgiving features special promotions at local retailers
- Combine Shopping with Dining: Make a day of it! Both Fairhaven and Downtown have excellent restaurants and cafes
Support Local, Shop Small
When you shop locally in Bellingham, you’re not just buying gifts—you’re investing in your community, supporting your neighbors, and helping preserve the unique character that makes Bellingham special. Local shop owners carefully curate their selections, provide personalized service, and often stock items made by local artisans that you won’t find anywhere else.
This holiday season, skip the big box stores and online mega-retailers. Instead, explore Bellingham’s charming neighborhoods, discover new shops, and find gifts that truly reflect the creativity and character of the Pacific Northwest.
Ready to start shopping? Download the Think Local First Holiday Passport app, grab your reusable bags, and head out to support Bellingham’s amazing local businesses. Your friends, family, and community will thank you!
Have a favorite Bellingham shop we should know about? Share it with us at heybellingham.com and help other locals discover the best our city has to offer!
