The holidays aren’t just around the corner—they’ve arrived in full swing, bringing joy, warmth, and a touch of magic to the season! This time of year is all about togetherness, and at its heart lies community—a value we know and cherish deeply. It takes more than just decorations and festivities to truly capture the holiday spirit; it takes a village. This season, why not step outside, connect with your neighbors, and become an active part of that village? From festive gatherings to opportunities to give back, we’re here to share some wonderful ways to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit right here in Whatcom and Skagit County. Let’s make this season one to remember, together!

Holiday Wonder in Whatcom County

Fairhaven Winter Festival

The Fairhaven Winter Festival is the all season long gem of holiday spirit in Whatcom. You can meet and take pictures with Father Christmas for cards and social media posts. You can also relive the magic of going on old fashioned carriage rides with your loved ones (like the ones in the songs). See this and more on December 14th and 21st from 12-3pm.

If you’d rather kick back and enjoy the sights, the Lighted Bike Parade is a must-see, as creatively adorned bicycles light up the streets of Fairhaven on December 14th from 4-5:30pm.

But the magic doesn’t stop there—Fairhaven has even more to offer with their Shop Local Punch Card. Stroll through charming local stores, check off your holiday shopping list, and support the community for a chance to win fun prizes. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the holidays while making a meaningful impact!

Pickford Film Center

Every year, the Pickford Film Center transforms into a hub of holiday cheer, spreading the spirit of joy, nostalgia, and giving through the magic of cinema. This beloved local treasure brings timeless holiday classics to the big screen, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for the unconventional thrills of Die Hard, the heartwarming romance of Sleepless in Seattle, the whimsical charm of The Muppet Christmas Carol, or the timeless message of hope in It’s a Wonderful Life, Pickford Film Center delivers unforgettable experiences for audiences of all ages. Dates for the films are:

• • Die Hard, Dec 12
  • Sleepless In Seattle, Dec 15 & 19
  • The Muppets Christmas Carol, Dec 21 & 22
  • It’s a Wonderful Life, Dec 21

Check out their website for showtimes and more!

Pacific Arts Market

Every weekend of December before Christmas, Bellis Fair Mall is hosting the Pacific Arts Market, where local artists come to put their work on display. Navigate through the maze of masterpieces and culture, and support your local artists while listening to live music every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until Christmas.

Bellingham Symphony

Join the Bellingham Symphony for their 9th annual Holiday Magic. With a reading of Twas The Night Before Christmas, narrated by Richard Hodges, with music from the live orchestra, as well as fun and classic singalong songs! Relive your favorite songs and stories in an epic fashion on December 15th, 3pm.

Holiday Spirit in Skagit County

La Conner Lighted Boat Parade

Nothing says magic like lights floating across ripples on the water. In La Conner Washington, check out the Lighted Boat Parade on December 14th from 6-7pm, on the La Conner Boardwalk. There you can watch as the spectacular boats drift by on the Swinomish Channel. Be on the lookout for themed boats this year, as the themes are Charlie Brown, and Frozen.

Nutcracker

Enjoy the timeless ensemble that is the Nutcracker, put on by the Ballet Slipper Conservatory. Show these young performers your support at Oak Harbor High School on December 14th and 15th. Check out their website for showtimes, and tickets.

Resources in Whatcom

Bellingham Foodbank

The holidays are a time to give. What better way to give than helping those in need. The Bellingham Foodbank has been giving since 1972. If you’re looking for some way to get on Santa’s nice list this year, you can donate your time, or food to keep families from going hungry this Christmas. For those looking for a meal, you can visit the following locations:

• • The Free Grocery Store at 1824 Ellis St, Bellingham WA
  • The Drive thru at 4173 Meridian St, Bellingham WA

Visit their website to learn more, or sign up for home delivery.

Shelters

Despite the magic and cheer and joy that the holidays bring, the seasons can bring unforgiving weather. In whatever circumstance you find yourself where you may not know where to sleep tonight, Whatcom County Health and Community Services are manufacturing miracles, and places to spend the night, or act as emergency shelters for those in need. The following are locations you can stay:

• • Bellingham Severe Weather Shelter (925 N. Forest St., Bellingham)
  • Lighthouse Mission Ministries (1312 F St., Bellingham)
  • Ferndale Severe Weather Shelter (2034 Washington St, Ferndale)
  • Lummi Nation Severe Weather Shelter (Stommish Hall, 2295 Lummi View Dr, Bellingham)

Check their website for live updates on shelters that are open.

Lydia Place

Lydia Place is a cornerstone of support in Whatcom County, bringing hope to women, children, and families during the holiday season and beyond. Dedicated to breaking the cycle of homelessness, Lydia Place offers housing assistance, mental health counseling, and parenting support, empowering individuals to achieve self-sufficiency. Their programs, including emergency stays and transitional housing, provide not just a roof over their heads but also the tools to build a brighter future.

If you’re looking to spread some holiday cheer, you can donate. If you’re looking for help and support to turn things around this holiday, you can call 360-734-5121, or visit their website.

Resources in Skagit

CRC Giving Wreath

As mentioned, this is the season of giving. Individuals and families could stand to get a little something right now. The Community Resource Center of Stanwood Camano is putting on their annual Giving Wreath. A time where giving is encouraged to help those find shelter, heat homes, put food on the table, and provide warm clothes for this cold winter.

CRC provides a number of additional resources, such as Family Support programs, where young families can get support like parenting classes, systems to help nurture young ones, and more. The Teen Program provides a safe haven for teens, with games, clubs, events, and more. The Empowerment Program, providing financial aid to those in need, and help keep their houses warm this winter.

If you’re looking for other resources, you can get in contact with them on their website.

Friendship House

In Skagit County, the Friendship House is a beacon of hope to those in need. They provide essential services like shelter, meals, and support for those experiencing homelessness this year. Their mission is to foster self sufficiency, and helping people get back on their feet. If you’re looking to donate to a good cause this year, you can visit their website. If you are looking for support, you can visit their website, or call 360-336-6138.

As the holiday season fills the air with warmth and cheer, it’s the perfect time to embrace the joy of community and togetherness. From magical performances and festive parades to meaningful opportunities to give back, Whatcom and Skagit County offer countless ways to celebrate the season. Whether you’re making memories with loved ones at local events, supporting small businesses, or extending a helping hand to those in need, each moment adds a little more magic to the holidays.

As we wrap up, remember that the true spirit of the season lies in connection—both with those around you and the community you call home. So, bundle up, spread some cheer, and make this holiday season one to remember. Together, we can create a brighter, more joyful world, one act of kindness at a time. Happy holidays!