Memorial Day weekend in Bellingham is one of those times when the city really wakes up for summer. The farmers’ markets get busier, the patios fill up, and locals head outdoors to enjoy the longer days before the summer crowds arrive. Whether you are staying in town or hosting visitors, here is your local guide to where to eat, shop, sip, and celebrate Memorial Day weekend in Bellingham.
Memorial Day Weekend Events Happening Around Bellingham
Ski to Sea Race Weekend
One of Bellingham’s biggest annual traditions returns Memorial Day weekend. Ski to Sea is a relay race that stretches from Mount Baker all the way to Bellingham Bay, with teams competing in multiple legs, including skiing, running, biking, canoeing, cyclocross, and kayaking.
The race atmosphere brings energy throughout downtown and Fairhaven all weekend long.
Date: Sunday, May 24, 2026
Location: Downtown Bellingham and Fairhaven
Website: https://skitosea.com
Bellingham Farmers Market
Memorial Day weekend is a perfect time to explore the Bellingham Farmers Market. Expect local produce, handmade goods, fresh flowers, baked treats, live music, and plenty of food vendors.
Address: 1100 Railroad Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Saturdays, 10 AM to 2 PM
Phone: (360) 647-2060
Website: https://www.bellinghamfarmers.org
Memorial Day Ceremony at Bayview Cemetery
Community members gather annually to honor veterans and those who served. The event typically includes speakers, patriotic music, and military honors.
Address: 1420 Woburn St, Bellingham, WA 98229
Website: https://cob.org/news/2018/american-legion-hosts-two-memorial-day-events-in-bellingham
Local Coffee Shops Open Memorial Day Weekend
Camber Coffee
A favorite among locals for expertly roasted coffee and a bright downtown café atmosphere.
Address: 221 W Holly St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Daily, 7 AM to 4 PM
Phone: (360) 656-5343
Website: https://cambercoffee.com
Woods Coffee Boulevard Park
One of the best waterfront coffee spots in town and a great stop before a walk along the bay.
Address: 470 Bayview Dr, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Daily, 5 AM to 9 PM
Phone: (360) 756-5940
Website: https://woodscoffee.com
Restaurants and Breweries to Visit
Boundary Bay Brewery
Memorial Day weekend and Boundary Bay’s beer garden are practically a Bellingham tradition. Expect live music, local beer, and a lively crowd.
Address: 1107 Railroad Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Daily, 11:30 AM to 10 PM
Phone: (360) 647-5593
Website: https://www.bbaybrewery.com
Black Sheep
A downtown favorite for tacos and margaritas with a rooftop deck that shines on sunny weekends.
Address: 211 W Holly St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Daily, 11 AM to 10 PM
Phone: (360) 392-8226
Website: https://blacksheepbellingham.com
Storia Cucina
If you are looking for handmade pasta, pizza, and a cozy patio in Fairhaven, Storia Cucina is worth the reservation.
Address: 109 Grand Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Daily, 4 PM to 9 PM
Phone: (360) 656-6218
Website: https://www.storiacucina.com/
Kulshan Brewing Company
A longtime local brewery with community vibes and plenty of outdoor seating.
Address: 2238 James St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Daily, 12 PM to 9 PM
Phone: (360) 389-5348
Website: https://kulshanbrewing.com
Shops Worth Visiting During the Weekend
Village Books
Fairhaven’s beloved independent bookstore is always worth a stop during a holiday weekend stroll.
Address: 1200 11th St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Daily, 10 AM to 6 PM
Phone: (360) 671-2626
Website: https://www.villagebooks.com
Third Planet Boutique
Locally owned and full of Pacific Northwest style, gifts, and home goods.
Address: 200 W Holly St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Daily, 11 AM to 6 PM
Phone: (360) 647-7047
Website: https://thirdplanetboutique.com
Brazen Shop + Studio
A great stop for locally made jewelry, gifts, and handcrafted items from Northwest makers.
Address: 1020 N State St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 11 AM to 5 PM
Phone: (360) 303-8051
Website: https://www.brazenshopandstudio.com/
Outdoor Spots to Enjoy Over Memorial Day Weekend
Boulevard Park
One of the most popular gathering places in Bellingham for waterfront walks, sunset views, and coffee by the bay.
Address: 470 Bayview Dr, Bellingham, WA 98225
Whatcom Falls Park
Perfect for families, picnics, and easy walking trails near the iconic stone bridge.
Address: 1401 Electric Ave, Bellingham, WA 98229
Fairhaven Historic District
Fairhaven comes alive on holiday weekends with shops, patios, and visitors wandering the historic streets.
Address: Fairhaven District, Bellingham, WA 98225
Tips for Memorial Day Weekend in Bellingham
- Make restaurant reservations early because patios fill quickly during Ski to Sea weekend.
- Parking downtown and in Fairhaven can get busy by midday.
- If the weather is sunny, Boulevard Park and Taylor Dock become especially crowded around sunset.
- Many local businesses stay open on Memorial Day itself, but some may operate with reduced holiday hours.
- Expect increased traffic around the Ski to Sea race route on Sunday.
Final Thoughts
Memorial Day weekend in Bellingham is the unofficial kickoff to summer. Between Ski to Sea festivities, waterfront sunsets, local breweries, and neighborhood events, there is no shortage of ways to enjoy the long weekend like a local. Whether you spend the weekend downtown, in Fairhaven, or out on the trails, this is one of the best times of year to experience the energy and community spirit that make Bellingham special.