Whatcom County is a great place to celebrate our nation’s birthday. This guide highlights some of the most popular local happenings, both on Independence Day and beyond. Grab your friends and family and dive into a spectacular Whatcom County 4th!
The Bellingham Festival of Music has given summer a musical boost since 1993. Experience live orchestral performances and chamber music recitals under the artistic direction of noted American conductor Michael Palmer.
The Bellingham Music Festival is nationally recognized. Performances are broadcasted by National Public Radio and American Public Media. Visitors are assured top-notch music quality backed by nearly a decade of support from the National Endowment for the Arts.
Concerts will be held at the Western Washington University Performing Arts Center and at the breathtaking Bellingham Cruise Terminal where visitors can enjoy a Bellingham Bay backdrop. The festival runs from June 30 to July 20.
The Port of Bellingham is partnering with Haggen Food and Pharmacy and the Whatcom Chamber of Commerce to put on their annual Fourth of July Fest at Zuanich Point Park.
The fun begins at 2:00 p.m. with a designated “kids zone” full of fun activities and games for all ages. Live music begins just 15 minutes later. Hear tunes from the Bellingham Youth Jazz Band, Chris Eger Band, Baby Cakes and Whiskey Fever and grab a local brew from their on-site beer garden while you’re at it.
Don’t miss Whatcom County’s biggest fireworks display beginning at 10:30 p.m. This impressive show can be viewed throughout the city.
There will be limited parking at Squalicum Harbor, but free passenger shuttles will run between the harbor and Bellingham High School all day. Walking and biking are good options as well.
Blaine’s Old Fashioned 4th of July Celebration
It’s no wonder thousands of people flock to Blaine for their Independence Day celebration – the activities are endless.
It starts with an early pancake breakfast, an old fashioned parade and a classic car show. More than 80 vendors will set up shop for an all-day street fair while live music provides endless entertainment.
Find a spot in Blaine’s Marine Park to listen to jazz and enjoy a community picnic or take the Plover Ferry to Semiahmoo Resort for an afternoon of fun and sun.
Wherever you end up, you can watch a dazzling fireworks display over Semiahmoo Bay at dusk.
Schooner Zodiac July 4th Fireworks Dinner Sail
There’s no better spot to view the fireworks display than Bellingham Bay. You’re invited on Bellingham’s favorite tall ship, a classic vessel embodying the utility of a fishing schooner and the grandeur of a 1920s yacht.
Crew members will fire off a patriotic salute from the ship’s cannon and serve an exquisite rib dinner. The ship’s bar comes fully stocked with local beer and wine too. It’s the ultimate dinner with a view.
Relax on the Zodiac’s large deck as you spend hours cruising the bay before enjoying the evening fireworks display at Squalicum Harbor.
Semiahmoo Seaside Sizzle and Seafood Boil
Semiahmoo resort offers the ultimate beach barbecue experience every Friday evening this summer, with a bonus event scheduled for July 4.
Pulled pork sliders, barbecue chicken, root beer, barbecue pork ribs and unlimited sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob and pasta primavera are on the menu for this year’s Seaside Sizzle. All ages are welcome to join in the fun from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Semiahmoo beach.
If that doesn’t satisfy your appetite, join them Saturday evening for a tasty seafood boil on the resort’s lawn. Enjoy games and live music while you ogle at the area’s finest seafood selection.
Everson Nooksack Summer Festival
Head east for Everson Nooksack’s 2018 Summer Festival on July 13, 14 and 15. The weekend is packed with activities, like live music, vendors, a book sale, car show, 3-on-3 basketball tournament, Main Street parade, softball tournament, 5K fun run/walk and potluck dinner. If that’s not enticing enough, the Everson Nooksack Chamber of Commerce will host an ice cream booth complete with fresh raspberries. This festival has plenty of activities for the whole family.
Summer doesn’t feel complete without a trip to Lynden’s annual Raspberry Festival on July 20 and 21. The weekend-long event includes a competitive 3-on-3 basketball tournament, a plethora of vendors, a “cruise-in” car show and all things raspberry. Mouth-watering treats will be available throughout the event for only $2.00. Local berries from Curt Maberry Farm combined with velvety Edaleen Dairy ice cream? Count me in!
