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Visiting Bellingham for fall and not sure what to do with yourself? Or do you live locally and want to get more involved in the community?

Now is the perfect time start checking out some of the awesome events in Bellingham – you might be surprised by just how much is going on.

We’ve listed ten of the coolest things happening this fall, and there’s something for everyone. Whether you want to explore a pumpkin patch with the kids or watch the scariest horror films out there, Bellingham has an event for you.

1. Bellingham Bay Marathon

Love running and want to join an organized race in Bellingham this fall? Or just fancy soaking up the atmosphere during an exciting community event?

Head along to the Bellingham Bay Marathon – a varied course which starts on Lummi Nation and ends in downtown Bellingham, taking in some beautiful sights along the way.

At the finish line, there’ll be a festival featuring food, drink and live music.

The event will take place from 7.30 am – 2.00 pm, on September 30, 2018.

2. Bleedingham: Bellingham’s Horror Film Fest

Are you obsessed with all things scary? Ready to get seriously spooked?

Head along to Bellingham’s Horror film festival to watch some awesome independent horror films as they compete to win a prize. The event will include filmmaking panels, which is ideal if you fancy entering the competition next year.

You’ll also be able to visit The Night Gallery, a kind of mini-convention of local artists and businesses, all selling their spooky wares.

Get involved by visiting The Majestic Ballroom in downtown Bellingham on October 26, 2018, from 5-10pm.

3. Trick-or-Treat in Downtown Bellingham

Trick-or-treating not that big in your neighborhood?

Head to Downtown Bellingham between 3 and 5 pm on October 31 to take part in a community event that makes trick-or-treating ten times more fun than usual.

Look for posters in more than 100 participating stores – they’ll give free goodies to any kids dressed in costume.

Traditional trick-or-treating can be dangerous, so this is an excellent, safe alternative for the whole family.

4. Thrillingham

Want some Halloween fun that carries on a little later into the evening?

Head down to Maritime Heritage Park to witness zombies emerging to dance to Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’ between 8 and 10 pm on October 31, 2018. If you’ve ever wanted to see a flash mob in real life, this is your chance.

You’ll feel like Bellingham is the set of the latest horror movie – this is sure to be a night to remember!

5. Rocky Horror Picture Show at Mount Baker Theatre

Have you ever seen the Rocky Horror Picture Show? Have you ever seen it on Halloween?

Head to Mount Baker Theatre for a night of festive fun. Grab a group of friends, get into costume, and get ready for the coolest cinema experience you’ve ever had.

There’s a reason Rocky Horror is the world’s longest continuously showing movie, so don’t miss a chance to experience it for yourself.

6. Bellingham Oktoberfest

Who says you need to travel to Germany to enjoy Oktoberfest?

Visit Bellingham Technical College between 6 and 10 pm on October 6, 2018, to enjoy a wide variety of craft beers – from traditional German ales to trendy fall-inspired beers.

If drinking’s not your thing, you’ll still be able to enjoy food, music, and other festive activities. This event is the perfect way to really get into the fall spirit.

Profits from the event go to the local Volunteer Center, so you’ll be having a great time and supporting a good cause.

7. The Nightmare on Railroad

Fancy hanging out in a haunted house this fall?

This year, Boundary Bay Brewery and Bellingham Arts Academy for Youth (BAAY) will be presenting The Nightmare on Railroad, transforming the brewery into a seriously spooky venue.

There’ll be performances from zombie dancers, ghosts, ghouls, and other creepy creatures – be prepared for some surprises!

Visit the brewery from 6 til’ 9 pm for a great family experience, or after 9 pm if you’re over 21. Events run on October 26, 27, and 30, 2018, so there are plenty of opportunities to get involved.

8. Siro-A Techno Circus

Need a little break from all the spookiness?

Head to Mount Baker Theatre to be wowed by Siro-A Techno Circus, an act that combines dance, music, special effects, and technology to put on an amazing show.

The troupe is originally from Tokyo, and it’s definitely worth taking an evening to check out their performance. The show is suitable for all the family, so it’s ideal if you’re looking for a way to keep the kids entertained.

Be sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment.

9. Gore & Lore Walking Tour

Want to learn more about the local area and have a ton of fun?

Why not take part in a Gore & Lore Walking Tour of Bellingham?

You’ll learn about myths, legends, and real historical happenings in the local area, stopping off at various significant locations along the way. The tour is rated PG-13, so be sure not to bring any young children along.

Tours run on October 12, 13, 19 and 20, 2018, leaving from SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention at 6 pm. It’s also well worth checking out the museum during the day if you get the chance.

10. Triple-Wren Farms Pumpkin Patch Kick-Off

Looking for some family fun this fall?

There’s nothing better than visiting a pumpkin patch together, and the Triple-Wren Farms Pumpkin Patch Kick-Off is an event that shouldn’t be missed.

There are games, food trucks, talks, animals, and more – and admission is completely free. The whole family can easily be entertained for a few hours, and you may even win some prizes.

Don’t forget to pack your camera to take advantage of the excellent fall photo opportunities.

Find the Best Events in Bellingham

Finding great events in Bellingham isn’t hard – there’s always something going on.

To stay on top of local happenings, keep an eye on our site, chat to local people, and check out the local newspapers. You’ll soon wish you had the time to attend everything that’s going on.

Want more fall activity inspiration? Check out our guide to Bellingham Farmer’s Market, where you can pick up all kinds of delicious seasonal produce.

Deciding on your next weekend destination?

Look no further than Bellingham, Washington.

Why choose Bellingham? Imagine the historical charm of Seattle combined with the natural wonder of the Cascade mountains and the Salish Sea with a bit of the Roaring Twenties thrown in. Now subtract the crowds, traffic, and super-sized prices of the average all-American vacation spot and you’ve got Bellingham.

There’s no shortage of fun things to do in Bellingham. Best of all is the wide variety of activities: there’s something for everyone!

That’s why it’s perfect for any type of vacation. No matter what your interests are, you’ll find them in Bellingham.

Ready to learn more? Check out these must-see Bellingham points of interest.

1. Whatcom Falls Park

Whatcom Falls Park is 240 acres of natural beauty. Located on the eastern side of Bellingham, this gorgeous city park offers no end of fun activities for your family.

Enjoy miles of scenic hiking trails, like the Whatcom Creek Trail Loop. Cross the river on an iconic stone bridge that has stood for 79 years. Make memories and take selfies at each of the park’s four waterfalls.

The park is loaded with well-maintained amenities including picnic tables, covered shelters, barbecue grills, and bathrooms. There are also tennis and basketball courts, a fishing derby pond, and playgrounds.

You can even bring your dog. There are several dog off-leash areas in which to let your dog run free.

2. Mount Baker Theatre

Established in 1927, the enormous Mount Baker Theatre was one of the last extravagant silent movie palaces built. With its iconic, 15 story tall tower that extends from the roof, the building was once the tallest in Bellingham.

Now, the MBT hosts live shows of many genres throughout the year. Current performances for October 2018 include The New Chinese Acrobats, Siro-A Techno Circus, and video game music arrangements by Whatcom Symphony Orchestra. No matter what type of entertainment you’re into, MBT is your number one destination for premier local and national talent.

The theatre building includes 3 extravagantly-decorated venues and spans half a city block. Historic significance, architectural beauty, and top-rate live entertainment make MBT a must-see destination on your visit to Bellingham.

3. Boulevard Park

If you want to watch the sunset during your visit to Bellingham, there’s no better place to do it than Boulevard Park. At the close of your relaxing day, watch the sun sink behind Bellingham Bay. Watch the waves break as you stroll along the coast on the South Bay Trail.

Stop for a coffee break at Woods Coffee located right at the water’s edge. Sip handcrafted espresso beverages on the beach or by the fireplace. Also, enjoy delicious snacks and wifi.

Boulevard Park includes a playground and several pocket beaches for you and your family to play on. You may catch a live performance at the outdoor performance stage. And don’t forget to check out the historic Taylor Dock.

4. Fairhaven Historic District

What began as a seaport logging village in 1889 has stood the test of time to become the must-see Fairhaven Historic District. Fairhaven is a village-sized gift shop full of fun, local mom-and-pop shops. Enjoy the Victorian architecture as you purchase souvenirs from stunning, 120-year-old red brick buildings.

A hop skip and a jump south of Taylor Dock (about half a mile), you’ll find Fairhaven’s Village Books. This 3-story bookstore has more than enough to keep any book-lover occupied for an hour or so.

Old books, new books, hard-to-find books and bestsellers–you’ll find them all at Village Books. You can have lunch at the cafe and even bring your dog.

There are enough shops, sweets, art, pubs, and eateries to delight everyone in your family indefinitely. You could enjoy the full length of your stay here. Conveniently, you can book your stay right in the heart of Fairhaven at top-rated luxury hotels like The Chrysalis Inn and Spa.

5. Larrabee State Park

Larrabee State Park, Washington’s first state park, is a top camping destination for visiting nature-lovers. It’s located on the scenic Chuckanut drive, a tourist attraction in and of itself. The 21-mile highway runs along the edge of the majestic Chuckanut Mountains overlooking the bay on the way to Vancouver.

If you love the outdoors, you won’t want to miss the myriad of hiking trails and mountain biking opportunities this park has to offer. Explore lush Douglas fir forests, Samish Bay, and the San Juan Islands along the Oyster Dome Trail.

There are also plenty of saltwater and freshwater activities to enjoy. An assortment of lakes and inlets await you, including the Puget Sound. Enjoy fishing, crabbing, clamming, boating, and more.

6. Lake Padden Park

Another great outdoor destination is Lake Padden Park. If you want to experience all the joys of camping without having to stay overnight, Lake Padden Park is the place to go. There are enough hiking trails and other outdoor activities to keep you busy all day.

Miles of interwoven trails surround the beautiful lake for hikers of every skill level. Trails are marked by difficulty level in this handy guide. Also, check out the mountain biking trails.

This is another dog-friendly park with plenty of dog exercise areas. There are also swimming areas, a playground, and covered picnic shelters with grills. You’ll also find various courts and fields for your favorite sports.

Next, you can hit the waterfront at the fishing dock or boat launch. Or bring your clubs to the 18-hole Lake Padden Public Golf Course.

7. SPARK Museum of Radio and Electricity

The SPARK Museum brings the history of the modern technological age to life. It celebrates and exhibits the top innovations in electricity and telecommunications that shaped the world as we now know it.

SPARK is not a “don’t touch the exhibits” kind of museum. It gives you a hands-on learning experience as you explore over 100 years of technological advancement. Hair-raising static, giant Tesla coils, and huge bolts of electricity await.

Kids will learn firsthand about telecommunication before cell phones and tablets. Using fully functional telegraphs and typewriters, they’ll learn a new respect for innovation and technology.

Visitors can also learn to play the theremin: the world’s first electronic instrument. To see more, you can watch videos from the museum.

Top 7 Things to Do in Bellingham

Everyone wants to see the far expanses of the world. All too often, we’re so focused on the expensive, popular destinations that we miss hidden gems like Bellingham.

In Bellingham, you’ll enjoy a richer, quieter vacation with less stress and more quality time. A wealth of history and culture, an outdoor wonderland: Bellingham has fullness and fun for all.

Who’d want to pass that up? Not you, we hope.

Don’t miss out. Come experience all the wonderful things to do in Bellingham.

For more Bellingham fun, see check out our article about the Bellingham Farmers Market.

In Seattle and seeking out a fun adventure?

A trip on the Seattle ferry can transport you to some of the most diverse and interesting locations around – whether you’re visiting or you live locally.

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway with your partner or an exciting day out with the kids, we’ve got you covered.

Ready to plan your next trip? Let’s do this!

1. Port Orchard

Port Orchard is a bustling area not too far from Seattle. There’s no shortage of things to do here.

If you fancy some education, you can learn about local history at The Veteran’s Living History Museum. If you’re in the mood for a uniquely PNW experience, then a visit to the Log Cabin Museum should be top of your list.

For some time in nature, head to Manchester State Park or Howe Farm Historic Park. The latter is ideal for dog walkers, and you are not obligated to keep your furry friend on a lead.

If you love art, it’s definitely worth checking out Sidney Gallery & Museum, which is housed in the old Masonic Hall.

There are tons of great places to eat in the area. From small, vegan-friendly cafes to luxurious restaurants and bistros.

To visit Port Orchard, you take the Seattle to Bremerton Ferry, then make a short 20-minute drive via the WA-3 and WA-166 E/SW Bay St. If you don’t have a car, you can take the Foot Ferry from downtown Bremerton to downtown Port Orchard.

2. Bremerton

The ferry to Bremerton is one of the most frequent. It’s a popular choice with locals and tourists alike. You’ll enjoy amazing skyline views during the journey, and there’s tons to do within walking distance of the dock.

The USS Turner Joy Museum Ship is free to look around and really interesting for both kids and adults. A trip to the Puget Sound Navy Museum is a great history lesson, and admission is free here too.

The Bremerton Bug Museum is a really fun place to visit with kids. You’ll get to see lizards, spiders, and preserved insects.

If all those critters don’t spoil your appetite, head to the area around Harborside Fountain Park. There’s plenty of restaurants where you can enjoy a great lunch.

You can get here via the Seattle to Bremerton Ferry.

3. Winslow

Winslow is a town located on Bainbridge Island, just a short hop away on the ferry.

The area is home to three small, but interesting, museums. For history enthusiasts, there’s Bainbridge Island Historical Society’s museum. If you’re out with family, then the Kid’s Discovery Museum is an essential visit.

For biking enthusiasts, the backroom museum at Classic Cycles is sure to delight.

If you’re keen to do some shopping during your trip, head to Winslow Way. You’ll find a great range of interesting stores, including the well-known Bainbridge Arts and Crafts. This iconic gallery features the work of over 200 local artists.

The Marina District is a great place to head for food, and you’re guaranteed a great view.

You can get to Winslow from Seattle via the Bainbridge Island Ferry.

4. Friday Harbor

Friday Harbor is the largest town on the San Juan islands. It’s a lovely place for a relaxed stroll. It’s small enough to explore on foot yet packed with hidden treasures.

You’ll find plenty of independent stores and restaurants, so make sure you pop in and support a local business.

If you want to get in touch with nature, you could go kayaking or take part in a dolphin and whale watching experience. For a real thrill, have a go on the San Juan Zip Line and enjoy stunning forest views.

If a day isn’t long enough to enjoy all that Friday Harbor has to offer, camping is a great way to extend your visit. San Juan County Park is a popular camping spot, and there are also plenty of resorts dotted around the area.

You can get here via the Seattle – San Juan Island Ferry.

5. Coupeville

Coupeville, located on Whidbey Island, is one of Washington’s oldest towns.

Lavender Wind Farm is a popular spot for picnics in the area. The nearby shop sells tons of gorgeous lavender products including soaps, lotions, and oils.

The Historic District is home to a range of independent stores that are lots of fun to explore. Regular events of all kinds are held in the area. It’s definitely worth heading to one of the arts and crafts festivals if you’re looking to buy gifts.

You’ll also find a small but enticing range of places to eat. Toby’s Tavern serves local seafood and Knead and Feed has delicious baked goods.

If you like relaxed strolls around historic towns, it’s certainly worth making a trip to Coupeville.

You can get here through Port Townsend using the Washington State Ferry system via the Coupeville Terminal.

6. Lopez Village

Lopez Village is the hub of the beautiful Lopez Island and it’s a lovely place for a visit.

Lopez Village Park is the perfect place to relax with a snack. Strolling around the local area will lead you to lots of cute shops, nice cafes, and interesting galleries.

If you want to explore Lopez Island further, consider biking, taking a hike to the Shark Reef Sanctuary, or visiting Spencer Spit State Park.

The Lopez Island area is perfect for nature-lovers and anyone who enjoys a great view.

You can get here via the Seattle – San Juan Island Ferry.

7. Victoria, BC

Looking to travel a little further on the Seattle ferry?

Catch the Victoria Clipper and make the three-hour trip to Victoria, BC, and you won’t regret it. Remember, you’re entering Canada, so bring your passport with you.

Once in Victoria, check out the Royal BC Museum, go shopping in Chinatown, get lunch at one of the many restaurants, or hop on a tour bus.

Craigdarroch Castle is a really cool place to visit if you decide to take the bus. You’ll also pass by the famous Fairmont Empress Hotel, the Parliament buildings, and Fisherman’s Wharf.

There’s a lot to do, so it’s well worth spending a night or two here.

You can get here using the Seattle – Victoria Ferry.

Why Use the Seattle Ferry?

The Seattle ferry gives you access to so many amazing towns that you’d be crazy not to use it.

As well as broadening your local horizons, you’ll enjoy stunning views while you’re on the ferry, and it’s a great experience for families.

So, if you feel like you’ve exhausted all the places to visit in Seattle, hop on the ferry to get excited about exploring again.

Looking for more to do in the local area? Check out our blog today.

Restaurant Chilling Out Classy Lifestyle Reserved Concept

Did you know that Bellingham is considered one of the best places to live in the U.S.?

It isn’t just because of its breathtaking North Puget Sound scenery, diverse neighborhoods, and healthy economy. Bellingham is also home to several restaurants that residents and visitors routinely rave about. Here’s a look at ten Bellingham restaurants that are sure to make your belly happy.

1. Homeskillet

Find this small-but-mighty breakfast and lunch joint in the resident-friendly Sunnyland neighborhood. Homeskillet has been pleasing palates since 2012. Splashes of aqua blue, lime green, and tangerine orange along with eccentric decor lend to the restaurant’s quirky vibe, but it’s the food that keeps people coming back for more.

The all-day breakfast menu is hearty. Its selections range from traditional bacon and eggs to a decadent home skillet poutine, which augments this traditional French Canadian dish of fries and gravy with eggs and cheese.

Lunch takes on a lighter tone with an array of salads, vegetarian options, and paninis. The restaurant’s owners just ask that you don’t arrive with a party of more than four people so that everyone can be accommodated.

2. Pizza’zza

It’s probably not a coincidence that the word pizza is found in Pizza’zza‘s name. Since opening two Bellingham neighborhood locations (Alabama Hill and Fairhaven), they’ve been winning pizza fans over with their authentic New York style thin crust creations.

Virtually every ingredient used on their pizzas and sandwiches are organic and locally sourced. Customers can enjoy any number of signature pizzas for meat or veggies lovers or make their own. Custom sauces include basil-hazelnut pesto, buffalo wing, and Kansas City-style bbq.

A certified non-GMO, dairy and gluten free crust is available. This is not always easy to find in Bellingham restaurants.

3. Rock N Rye Oyster House

The always fresh seafood selection at Rock N Rye has been making diners exclaim “Shuck yeah!” since 2014. This dinner-only establishment makes its home in the historic Herald Building. Rock N Rye has the feel of a steakhouse with dark wood, high ceilings, and exposed brick.

A selection of seasonal oysters are always on the menu along with mussels, seared albacore, chinook salmon, and other ocean delights. Beef lovers can partake in the carpaccio, ribeye steak, or juicy burger featuring the restaurant’s secret “magic sauce.”

Happy hour brings a variety of small plates and specialty cocktails.

4. Boomer’s Drive-In

Boomer’s Drive-In is one of those Bellingham restaurants that will transport you back in time. It beckons to a time when diners and car hops dominated American towns. Milkshakes, burgers and fries are a commodity at Boomer’s Drive-In.

This retro-style family restaurant routinely wins awards for making the best burgers in Bellingham. Boomer’s also features some out of the ordinary items like waffle fries and hot dogs. Shakes made with real ice cream, and onion rings are among their customer favorites.

Boomer’s is one of the few restaurants left in the U.S. that offers car hop service. Just turn on your lights and a server will bring your order to your window.

5. The Temple Bar

The Temple Bar puts an emphasis on the bar in its name with a wide selection of artfully mixed libations. What it does offer for food is extremely well done with a vegetarian flair. The roasted cauliflower wedge topped with herbed tahini will have you thinking of the vegetable in a whole new way. The Indian chickpea salad satisfies with a lime-yogurt dressing.

Meat lovers can partake in brisket sliders or the spiced lamb meatballs. The restaurant’s European bistro style interior and dimly lit atmosphere make it ideal for a first date or cozy spot to unwind after a long day.

6. Keenan’s at the Pier

If you’re looking for a Bellingham restaurant with a scenic water view, look no further than Keenan’s at the Pier. The restaurant overlooks the Northern reach of the Puget Sound, and stays true to it’s location.

Keenan’s serves some of the best, fresh bounty the Northwest has to offer That includes Dungeness crab cakes, a New England style seafood chowder, and cioppino. Cioppino is an Italian dish comprised of rock shrimp, scallops, clams, and other goodies.

For those more into the turf than the surf, Keenan’s offers local lamb chops, Misty Isle filet mignon, and a signature styled burger.

A bar and terrace menu offers up small bites to enjoy while catching a Pacific breeze. Keenan’s is also open for breakfast and offers a Sunday brunch.

7. Brandywine Kitchen

Don’t let its location in the city’s austere business district fool you. Brandywine Kitchen calls itself a “seed to plate” restaurant. Besides growing their own heirloom tomatoes for several dishes, the owners also work closely with several local vendors to provide ingredients that are completely locally sourced.

As a result, there’s a little bit of everything to please all palates such as the apple-jalapeno chicken sandwich, the Bahn Mi (which is also available as a salad), mac and cheese with a roasted leeks twist, and pozole rojo, a Mexican-style stew.

All of which create a yummy melting pot for lunch and dinner every day of the week.

8. Aslan Brewing Company

Aslan Brewing Company is one place where you’ll come for the beer and stay for the food. You won’t find the same old buffalo wings and similar pub food offerings, however.

Aslan’s menu entices with a variety of savory appetizers (mac and cheese logs, anyone?), fresh salads and bowls, and tall burgers that will give your jaw a workout. All of it is made with organic ingredients and a focus on sustainability.

Then there’s the brew lineup, which includes over two dozen flagship and seasonal beers such as ginger rye ale and disco lemonade, a German-style sour Weisse beer. Cheers!

9. Punjabi Junction

It appears small on the outside. However, Punjabi Junction serves a large menu of authentic Indian dishes. It’s one of Bellingham’s most popular Indian restaurants. Punjabi Junction offers carefully prepared dishes, served with a smile by a friendly staff.

Vegetarian dishes made with paneer (a protein-packed Indian cheese) are available, as well as entrees for carnivores. Some dishes are even veggie free like the diner’s favorite, butter chicken.

The ethnic dining experience is rounded out with a variety of traditional Indian street foods favorites such as dahi poori (toasted flour balls) and puri chole (spicy chickpeas).

10. The Black Cat

The American cuisine plus the newly renovated sophisticated interior of The Black Cat is sure to make any hungry diner purr. The restaurant serves traditional fare such as French onion soup (topped with plenty of gooey Gruyere), roasted beet and arugula salad, and beer battered fish tacos. Sunday offers a brunch menu.

A selection of specialty and classic cocktails plus happy hour specials such as a dollar off wine or beer makes this restaurant the cat’s meow.

Bellingham Restaurants: Where Will You Eat?

As you can see, Bellingham has a variety of dining options to fit everyone’s taste and budget.

To stay updated on the latest Bellingham restaurants and to learn more about what the city and surrounding areas have to offer, check out our blog.

There’s nothing quite like the Bellingham Farmers Market to mix with locals, find local produce, and feel like a part of the community. No wonder the number of farmers markets has quadrupled in the last 20 years.

The Bellingham Farmers Market is on a whole other level.

There are some great ways to have fun there, on your own or with the whole family. Music, local and exotic food, face-painting, new recipe ideas, craft gifts, and decorations. It’s a chance to support sustainable farming, learn from local chefs, dance to live music and select the best produce from over 100 vendors.

Read on to learn all the fun things to do at the Bellingham Farmers Market!

The Farmers Market Experience

The popularity of the farmers market is definitely on the rise. There are currently 8,500 farmers markets across the US. People love them–and what’s not to love?!

Farmers markets encourage sustainable farming, support local growers, and encourage a healthy diet. Best of all, they bring the community together. They even create jobs: every $1 million earned at a farmers market creates 13 full-time jobs.

The Bellingham Farmers Market: When and Where

While farmers markets are increasingly popular all over the USA, there isn’t another one quite like Bellingham’s. Let’s have a look at when and where you can find it, and what you can find there.

There are now two options for visiting the Bellingham Farmers Market. The Fairhaven Market is at Fairhaven Village Green, 1207 10th Street, Bellingham WA. It’s right behind Village Books. From June to August you can find them open on Wednesday from 3 pm to 7 pm for a mid-week market fix.

The Downtown Market is at Depot Market Square in downtown Bellingham. It runs from 10 am to 3 pm on Saturdays from April to December. The Downtown is the bigger of the two, attracting 100 local vendors and large crowds. Both markets offer things to do–let’s take a look at the options.

Have a Picnic

After buying your fresh local produce, why not spread a mat on the Wednesday market green at Fairhaven? You can enjoy a picnic right there. It gives the kids a chance to run a little free.

Eating a picnic as a family creates a culture of healthy eating and enjoying the outdoors. If you prefer a picnic table over picnic rug, you can find these at the Saturday market. For singles, couples, and moms and dads with a babysitter, a picnic makes for a romantic date.

Spice up Your Cooking

During market season, you can come along on the first Wednesday of each month and learn how to use the season’s best ingredients. Local chef’s run a demo, so you can take notes, grab the ingredients, and head home to try it out! It always involves local fresh food and has a focus on healthy choices, from salad greens to cheese and sprouts.

Play at Play Lab

Every second Wednesday kids and adults alike can come along to the Play Lab to play and learn. You might find a play dough bar where kids can mix herbs and other objects into their dough. Activities are open to interpretation so that each participant can make their own learning experience.

Market Yoga

Every third Wednesday of the month the market has free yoga. It is held in the green space in the fresh air–what a great way to bump into neighbors and meet new friends. All while getting fit and healthy!

The sessions rotate instructors and are for all levels of ability. They even have giveaway prizes! Bring along your mat and join in the market yoga fun.

Live Local, Shop Local

Stroll the market aisles and ask vendors what recipes they recommend for in-season produce. As you become a regular, you can report back on how the recipe went, or what you did to make it even better! Perhaps its artisan products you’re seeking for a special occasion gift.

Mothers day, fathers day, birthdays or baby showers. Whatever the occasion, you’re bound to find an original gift from a local artisan. Right at Bellingham Farmers Markets!

Enjoy Live Music

Every Saturday buskers come along to the market to entertain market goers. You’ll find violinists, vocalists, banjo trios and even drumming groups. Come along to listen to some music, and remember to have some tips to throw in the buskers’ hat!

Teach Your Kids About Veggies

Children learn best through play. So why not use the market to teach them about healthy, fresh produce? You can pick up a Veggie Scavenger Hunt card from the information booth.

Once you’ve marked off the game card, they can return it to the information booth for a special BFM bookmark! We promise, they’ll be having so much fun they won’t realize they’re learning.

Support Kid Entrepreneurs

At the Kids Vending Day, you can buy items made by some of the community’s youngest entrepreneurs! Kids create wallets from duct tape, gorgeous dolls, scented soaps, crafty jewelry, magnets and more. Your kids can join the vendors to sell their wares.

They might even get creative project ideas from the things they buy from their peers. You’ll find Kids Vending Day on the last Saturday of each month. From April to October.

Catch up with a Friend

Life seems busier nowadays. It can be hard to catch up with friends and family. Why not combine the weekly food shopping with a stroll in the outdoors by hitting the Bellingham Farmers Markets for your social catchups?

Be Adventurous

There are all sorts of opportunities at the farmers market to get adventurous. Dare to have your face painted, or to try a product you’ve never heard of before! Stallholders are only too happy to explain what they sell and how you can use it in your recipes.

What to Take

To have a no-drama day at the markets, we have some advice on what to take. We suggest you pack enough canvas bags to store your fresh produce and gifts. Some stallholders accept credit cards but it’s a good idea to carry cash, too.

Throw in a hat and some sunscreen if you plan on picnicking, and some small change for buskers. Last but not least, don’t forget a camera to snap all the fun you have and the colorful gifts and produce on display.

Not sure how the weather is going to be on a given day? We suggest taking a three-layer-approch to your style.

Market Day Here We Come!

There you have it–farmers markets are the place to be. They support local farmers and sustainable farming practices. They also strengthen the community.

But not all farmers markets are equal. Not all farmers markets are as great as Bellingham’s! So go grab some bags, and get yourself to the Bellingham Farmers Market.

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Seattle waterfront and skyline - Unique things near Seattle to do

Seattle is well known around the world as for it’s eccentric style and cultural scene. It’s also a burgeoning tech hub, seeing growth in just about every other industry. Whether you’re here for work or for a vacation, there is a lot to see from the Space Needle to Pike’s Place Market or a Seattle Storm WNBA game. But if you want to get off the beaten path, you should look for some of the more unique things near Seattle to check out.

For people who want to avoid the crowds, getting off the main path can be a relief. The added bonus is that next time you end up in Seattle with family or friends, you can show them something cool and sound like a local.

To get a taste of some of the more unique things near Seattle, check out these 7 sites.

1. Archie McPhee

If you like to check out cute novelty shops, see what Seattle has to offer. Archie McPhee has every kind of gift you need for holidays or for fun.

Have you ever thought about getting a unicorn horn for your cat or a mustache for your baby? Well, Archie McPhee has it. Browse their aisles for hours and you’ll see products you’d never even imagined.

Even if you’re not into novelty shopping, it’s a great place to browse for the fun of it. Dive into the weirdness and more bacon products than you could ever fit under a single roof.

2. Fremont Troll

This is one of the many great free things to see in Seattle. Legend has it the Fremont Troll lives underneath the Aurora Bridge, on the north end near N 36th Street.

It was created by a group of artists in 1990. The troll is made of steel rebar, concrete, wire, hubcaps, and an old Volkswagen Beetle.

The troll has been guarding the bridge for a quarter century and will likely still be there when we’re all gone.

3. Shoe Museum At Pike’s Place

Don’t expect an actual museum when you arrive. This giant shoe is actually part of an old traveling show. For a few cents, you can see a shoe that was once worn by the world’s tallest man.

You’ll see some other oddities and strange shoe related objects. Expect something off-beat and kitschy and you won’t be disappointed. It’s one of the great locations of vintage charm and unique things near Seattle.

4. Vashon Island Bike Tree

If you’re making a trek to Vashon Island, look up. While wandering through the forest, you’re likely to see a bike that’s going through the middle of a tree. This is truly one of the unique things near Seattle that you won’t find on many tour guides.

Locals all have stories about how the bike got there, but good luck getting a straight answer. Some say that the bike was chained to the tree by a young soldier before he headed off to war.

Other people say that the bike was intentionally grown through the middle of the tree.

The common thread is that no one put the bike there on purpose. Closer to the truth is the story about a boy who left their bike behind and over time, a tree just grew through it.

No matter what you believe, there the bike sits, in the middle of the tree. You’ll have to see it to believe it.

5. Lenin Does Fremont

One of the stranger socio-political objects in the city of Seattle has to be the 16-foot high statue of Vladimir Lenin. It was created by a Bulgarian sculptor who built it as an element of the Communist propaganda machine.

While working in Slovakia, a local Seattle resident named Lewis Carpenter found the statue ready to be destroyed. Feeling like it would be a waste of the sculptor’s work, he bought the statue and spent the cash to get it shipped. It took a lot of effort to get the statue in the country.

Carpenter, unfortunately, passed before the statue was ever erected in the US. thankfully his family made a goal of getting it up and now it stands in Fremont.

If you’re looking for unique things near Seattle and have a love for Communist history, you’ll love this oddity.

6. Karaoke at Rock Box

Are you in town with old friends or looking for a bonding experience with co-workers after a long week of a conference? One of the best ways to shake off inhibitions is to engage in the mutual embarrassment of karaoke.

At $4-$7 per hour, per person, it’s a heck of a deal for a memorable night of entertainment. Be sure to call ahead to make sure something is available.

If you’ve got a group of 35 or more, you can book the party room and make it an all-out wild night of showmanship with your group.

7. Ye Olde Curiosity Shop

Along the tourist-heavy strip of Seattle’s waterfront, you might not expect to find anything interesting at all. Lucky for you, there’s Ye Old Curiosity Shop.

It’s another novelty shop selling curious items and Seattle souvenirs. You’ll also find interesting items placed in the style of a museum.

There are narwhal tusks, totem poles, and a couple of mummies. The mummies, named Sylvester and Sylvia, were found in Central America.

They were well preserved, so well preserved that the University of Washington has run studies on them. Sylvester was preserved with a special solution. Whoever mummified him used an arsenic solution hoping that he would one day be discovered.

There’s a Long List of Unique Things Near Seattle!

If you’re a nature buff, you’re going to find all kinds of interesting things to do in the Seattle area. Whether you want to walk along the waterfront or hit the nearby Old Growth Forest, you’ll find no shortage of great sights.

If you’re still looking for unique things near Seattle, contact us for more tips.

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