Bellingham Farmers Market: Open Saturdays 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. through  Dec. 21 at Depot Market Square, 1100 Railroad Ave., Bellingham. Seasonal events include Demo Days, Kids Vending Day (the last Saturday of each month; free to kids), music and entertainment, and more.

 

San Juan Farmers Market: Every other Saturday in December from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Brickworks in Friday Harbor. For more details, see www.sjifarmersmarket.com.

 

Fairhaven Winterfest: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 21. Hosted by Historic Fairhaven Association. Celebrating winter, community, festivities, holidays, sharing and gatherings of friends. Join us in feeling the magic of this time of year. Stroll among glimmering tree lights under winter sky, enjoy holiday decorations, listen to the music, hear the clip-clop of horse hooves on cobble stone, the echo of train whistles, smell the boughs of fir and wood smoke in chilly air. Take a break, step back, let time and the season catch-up with you in our village. Events are free and open to all. To donate, or to see the full activities, see fairhavenwinterfest.com.

 

Pacific Arts Market: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 22. See the works of many local artists and shop for the holidays. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 125 E. Sunset Drive, Suite 115, Bellingham (between Joanne Fabrics and El Gitano Restaurant). See www.pacificartsmarket.com.

 

39th annual Holiday Festival of the Arts: Open daily 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. 100 artists from the region, live music, and workshops for children on the weekends. Admission is free. Bellingham Public Market space, Cornwall Avenue, Bellingham.

 

Christianson’s Nursery’s Do It Yourself Wreath Making: Through Dec. 24. Deck the halls by crafting a freshly made holiday wreath, using a beautiful mix of Christianson’s seasonal greens and berries (sold by the pound) or bring your own. Reserve a date and time to use their machines without assistance by contacting the Garden Store at 360-466-3821. Participants should wear warm clothing and bring their own pruners and gardening gloves. Christianson’s Nursery, Mount Vernon.

 

Christmas Festival at Bellewood Acres: Fridays and Saturdays through Dec. 22. It’s family fun at Bellewood. Take a free photo with Santa, live music, horse-drawn sleigh-rides, caroling, free cookie decorating, bonfires, s’mores, hot apple cider and more. Noon to 5 p.m. Please note Santa and Carriage Rides begin on Dec. 8. Bellewood Acres, 6140 Guide Meridian Road, Lynden, www.bellewoodfarms.com.

 

Deck the Old City Hall: Various dates: Dec. 1, 4-8, and 11-12. The holiday spirit will be brought to life as the Whatcom Museum’s Old City Hall building is decorated with garlands, wreaths, and sparkling lights, and features more than 20 themed, decorated trees. Plus craft making and visit with Santa. Admission by donation; all donations support the museum’s programs. See www.whatcommuseum.org.

 

Rome Grange Community Pancake Breakfast: Sunday, Dec. 1. This is “all you can eat” – fresh cooked pancakes, french toast, biscuits and gravy, scrambled eggs, sausages, with coffee, cocoa, tea, orange juice, and water for beverages. Volunteers to help with prep and serving are greatly appreciated and accepted. Often local candidates will be there to help serve and provide “meet and greet” to the public. Tickets are $7 per adult, $2 per child (ages 6-10) and free for 5 and under. 8 a.m. to noon. Rome Grange, 2821 Mt. Baker Highway, about 1/2 mile east of the “Y” Road, Bellingham. (360) 739-9605.

 

Birchwood Garden Club’s December Meeting: Deer-Resistant Drama with Karen Chapman, CPH: Wednesday, Dec. 4. Karen has written a booked titled  “Deer-Resistant Design” and will be discussing the eight key design principles for a deer-resistant garden.  See her blog at https://lejardinetdesigns.com/. Birchwood Garden Club membership is open to everyone. The Birchwood Garden Club provides financial support and /or gardening expertise to the following community organizations:  The Bellingham Public Library, Growing Veterans, Cornwall Rose Garden, Whatcom Museum of History and Art and the Bellingham Food Bank. 7 p.m. Whatcom Museum Rotunda Room, 121 Prospect Street, Bellingham. www.birchwoodgardenclub.org.

 

Make & Take Gifts from Nature with Aromatherapy with Michelle Mahler: Thursday, Dec. 5. Discuss simple blending of essential oils to create therapy massage roll-ons for a multitude of health and wellness needs. 6:30–8 p.m. Free. Skagit Valley Food Co-op, Mount Vernon. Register at http://www.skagitfoodcoop.com under workshops.

 

Olde Fashioned Christmas at Pioneer Park: Friday through Sunday, Dec. 6-8. Cabin tours, horse drawn wagon rides, pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus (bring your own camera), arts and crafts, refreshments, and children’s activities. Volunteers are donned in Christmas 1880s style. 1-2. Saturday 1-9 p.m. Sunday 1-5 p.m. Tickets are $4 for adults and $3 for children. Pioneer Park, Ferndale.

 

Port of Bellingham Holiday Festival and Gingerbread House Display: Friday, through Sunday, Dec. 6-8. Gingerbread house contest, visit with Santa, music, crafts, food, horse-drawn wagon rides and more. Free cookies, hot cider. Performances by local choirs, bands, and dancers. Friday from noon to 8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Gingerbread auction benefits Toys for Tots. See www.portofbellingham.com/141/Holiday-Port.

 

Holiday Make.Sale 2019: Friday and Saturday, Dec. 6-7. Enjoy Make.Shift’s annual holiday art and craft sale. Again partnering with neighboring businesses Icing on the Cake, Runaway Press & Cafe Velo, across the street to offer more vendors, goods, and activities than Make.Shift alone can hold. Friday 6-10 p.m. Saturday noon to 5 p.m.

 

Breakfast with Santa: Saturday, Dec. 7. Enjoy pancakes and ham, holiday music, and a visit with Santa at the Hillcrest Park Lodge, 1717 South 13th Street, Mount Vernon. 8–11 a.m. $5 entry and breakfast for all ages. Tickets are purchased at the door the day of the event. For more information, contact Mount Vernon Parks & Recreation at (360) 336-6215.

 

Bow Farmers Market Holiday Festival: Saturday, Dec. 7. Browse and buy the goods of local crafters, artists and more. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Edison Elementary School, Edison. See bowlittlemarket.com.

 

Holiday Market at Everson Elementary: Saturday, Dec. 7. Lots of vendors from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free. Funds raised from this event go towards the new Common Threads garden project at Everson Elementary. Donuts and coffee available for purchase starting at 8 a.m. Lunch available for purchase starting at 11 a.m.  Everson Elementary, 216 Everson-Goshen Road, Everson. See the Facebook event for more information.

 

Make a Holiday Terrarium: Saturday, Dec. 7. Enjoy a relaxing stress free morning. Create your own indoor garden design in a glass bowl. This makes a perfect gift for yourself or for a friend.  Class fee of $49 covers all supplies, plants and fun. 9 a.m. Garden Spot Nursery. Register at www.garden-spot.com.

 

Whatcom Creamery Crawl: Saturday, Dec. 7. Twin Sisters Creamery, Appel Farms, Ferndale Farmstead, and Pleasant Valley, are teaming up to bring you the Third Annual Creamery Crawl. Drawings for prizes, samples, giveaways, complimentary food and beverages, great discounts, and shopping made easy as well as delicious. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 

Wreath Making Workshop: Saturday, Dec. 7. Hosted by Whatcom Willow Works and Heirloom Handmade Baskets at My Garden Nursery in Bellingham. Make wrapped wreaths on a willow hoop, about 18 inches in diameter. All materials provided. The event meets 11 a.m. to noon. See the Facebook page for details.

 

Fairhaven Frosty 5K & 10K: Saturday, Dec. 7. Hosted by Greater Bellingham Running Club (GBRC) at Fairhaven Park. Winter-themed costumes encouraged! There is NO race day registration, so sign up online to secure your spot before the race sells out. T-shirts available with registration for $20 but must be purchased through registration by Nov. 27. See the Facebook event page for registration link or through http://gbrc.net under events.

 

Holiday Tea: Saturday, Dec. 7. Enjoy delicious home baked treats and tea while being entertained by local performers at this annual holiday tea hosted by the Friends of the Deming Library. Event sponsored by the Friends of the Deming Library. 1 – 5 p.m. Deming Library, 5044 Mt. Baker Highway, (360) 592-2422.

 

Tour of Trees and Festival of Tree: Saturday, Dec. 7. The Tour of Trees is a free family friendly event featuring beautifully decorated one-of-a-kind Christmas trees, live music and cookies. Bring your camera and snap a photo. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Bellingham Senior Activity Center, 315 Halleck Street, Bellingham. Later that evening, the 3rd Annual Festival of Trees features a holiday themed cocktail party, silent auction, and auction of beautiful Christmas trees from 5:30-9 p.m. Winning bidders will have their tree delivered fully decorated to their home or business. New this year one-of-a-kind wreaths for your door. The Festival of Trees benefits the Bellingham Senior Activity Center providing much needed social, recreation and wellness programs for older adults in Whatcom County. Tickets are $50 each, 21+ event. For tickets or more information call 360.733.4030 ext 1020 or see whatcomcoa.org.

 

Swing Christmas Carols: Saturday, Dec. 7. Swing Connection, Bellingham’s community big band, will hold its annual Christmas concert from 7 – 9 p.m. The event is free (with a suggested donation of $10) and fun for the whole family.  First Baptist Church, 110 Flora Street, Bellingham.

 

Ebenezer Christian School’s Annual Wreath & Bake Sale: Saturday, Dec. 7. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. North County Christ the King “Kids Place” located at 1816 18th St., Lynden.

 

Sedro-Whoolleyville presents the Magic of Christmas: Saturday, Dec. 7. Join the annual holiday Whobilation as Sedro-Whoolleyville presents the Magic of Christmas!  Enjoy the Ugly Sweater Dash, caroling and artwork from Mary Purcell Elementary students, face painting, train rides, pony rides, balloon artists, crafts, parade, tree lighting and a meet and greet with Santa!  Watch out for our green friend, The Grinch! 3-8 p.m. in downtown Sedro-Woolley. See the Facebook page for more information.

 

Holiday Lighted Boat Parade: Saturday, Dec. 7. Watch the annual parade of festively lit boats as they cruise the Swinomish Channel. Viewing all along the La Conner Boardwalk and Conner Waterfront Park.

 

Holiday Bazaar at Blodel 2019: Saturday, Dec. 7. Local holiday shopping, raffles, and more. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bloedel Donovan Park, Bellingham. Proceeds support the Bellingham Food Bank.

 

Artisan Demo Day at Bellingham Farmers Market: Saturday, Dec. 7. Artisans will be showcasing their crafts during market. Think wool spinning, knitting, block carving, and knife sharpening. Learn from the makers themselves. Celebrate the season by investing in your neighbors, friends, and community. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Depot Market Square, Bellingham. See www.bellinghamfarmers.org.

 

Light Up Your Holidays: Saturday, Dec. 7. Kick off the holiday season in downtown Stanwood for a fun filled day of activities. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Old Fashioned Christmas at the Floyd, with free photos with Santa, crafts, treats and a gift bag of toys for each child. 3-5 p.m. Downtown Tree Lighting. Festivities include carolers, live reindeer, Free Santa photos and more. 5-10 p.m. Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl, with special holiday drinks available for those individuals over 21 years old. See the Facebook event page for details.

 

Swans of Skagit: Saturday, Dec. 7. The majestic beauty of fields filled with white swans, both native trumpeter and tundra, is virtually at Christianson’s doorstep in December, January, and February. Attend this highly informational presentation from wildlife biologist and Executive Director of the Northwest Swan Conservation Association, Martha Jordan. Learn about these amazing birds (the largest waterfowl in the world) and share Skagit Valley’s best places to view them. Christianson’s Nursery, Mount Vernon. 10:30 a.m. Reservations required. Class fee: $8. For reservations, call 360-466-3821.

 

Holiday Book Sale: Saturday, Dec. 7. Friends of the Anacortes Library will hold a book sale from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Library Community Room, 1220 10th St., Anacortes. “Pay from the heart” for an assortment of gift books. Many books will be half off; others at the always low FriendShop price. All proceeds benefit the library and its programs.

 

Lighted Christmas Parade: Saturday, Dec. 7. Lynden’s  annual holiday celebration begins at 6 p.m. with the Lighted Christmas Parade. Lighted trucks, cars, floats, wagons, farm equipment, and more. The procession starts at Fairway Center and travels along Front Street throughout downtown Lynden. In addition, take a tour of unique light displays and decorated storefronts throughout the city during Lynden in Lights. See www.lynden.org.

 

Bellingham Downtown Tree Lighting Ceremony: Saturday, Dec. 7. Photo opportunities with Santa, hot cocoa and cookies, ornament makings, and carolers. 5:30-7 p.m. Hosted by Downtown Bellingham. Depot Market Square, 1100 Railroad Ave., Bellingham.

 

5th Annual Kendall Holiday Bazaar: Sunday, Dec. 8. Shop with 30+ vendors, get your photos taken with Santa or just the family at the beautifully decorated set, bid on fabulous items in the silent auction, enter the 50/50 raffle, and enjoy a day of community. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Kendall School, 7547 Kendall Rd., Kendall.

 

DIY Essential Oil Crafting Class: Sunday Dec. 8. With Rachel Silves, Aromatherapist and Michele Sanger, Owner of Living Herb Herbs. Make your own bath salts, aromatherapy inhalers and/or roll-ons. $10 Class fee plus $5 per item materials fee. Space is limited; pre-register at 360.734.3207. 10 a.m. to noon. Living Earth Herbs, 1411 Cornwall Avenue, Bellingham.

 

Silver Tea:  Sunday, Dec. 8. The Friends of the Everson Library invite you to enjoy refreshments and musical entertainment at this beloved annual event. Specialty teas served by Laurie and Charles Dawson, founders of the Whatcom Tea Enthusiasts Association. Also, craft making for kids. Bring your camera to take a picture with Santa! 2-5 p.m. Everson Library, 104 Kirsch Drive, (360) 966-5100.

 

Old Fashioned Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting Ceremony: Sunday, Dec. 8. Hosted by Mount Vernon Downtown Association. Old fashioned holiday kick-cff Christmas parade, tree lighting and visits with Santa along First Street, Mount Vernon. Starting at 5 p.m. The Tree Lighting Ceremony will follow after the parade, around 6 p.m. For more information, contact the Mount Vernon Downtown Association at (360) 336-3801 or info@mountvernondowntown.org.

 

Community Building through Foster Care with Youthnet: Tuesday, Dec. 10. Interested in supporting your community by becoming a foster parent? Meet Youthnet’s foster care team for a presentation and Q&A, learn about current foster care issues, and how to get involved. 6:30–8 p.m. Skagit Valley Food Co-op, Mount Vernon. Register at http://www.skagitfoodcoop.com under workshops.

 

Drayton Harbor Shellebration: Friday, Dec. 13. Hosted by Whatcom Conservation District and Whatcom County Public Works. Join your community and celebrate the three-year anniversary of lifted shellfish harvesting restrictions in Drayton Harbor. We will also be celebrating additional lifted restrictions that went into place in October! This free event will include refreshments, oyster samples courtesy of the Drayton Harbor Oyster Company, and the presentation of community awards. Community awards ceremony will take place at 4:30 p.m. This event will be outdoors so please dress to stay warm and dry. 4-6 p.m. H Street Plaza located in downtown Blaine. See the Facebook event page for more information.

 

Valley Made Holiday Market: Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 14-15. Valley Made will bring together over 30 makers, hot food, and holiday cheer. Friday evening we will host a sip and shop- local shopping experience that can’t be beat. Free parking, easy access (just 3 miles south of downtown Mount Vernon), a beautiful farm atmosphere, and wonderful people. Maplehurst Farm, 18495 Dike Road, Mount Vernon. Saturday hours 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. See the Facebook event for more information.

 

Jingle Bell Run: Saturday, Dec. 14. Hosted by Arthritis Foundation Washington and Jingle Bell Run. The Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle Bell Run is the original festive race for charity. It’s where you can strut your stuff in your favorite holiday costume and FEEL GOOD about DOING GOOD. Yes to conquering arthritis for good. 100% of your registration fee and fundraising go to a great cause. For more help or information about the 2019 Jingle Bell Run – Bellingham, WA contact Lori McKnight at lmcknight@arthritis.org or call 360-746-2663.

 

Snow Geese of Skagit: Saturday, Dec. 14. The majestic beauty of fields filled with white swans, both native trumpeter and tundra, is virtually at Christianson’s doorstep in December, January, and February. Attend this highly informational presentation from wildlife biologist and Executive Director of the Northwest Swan Conservation Association, Martha Jordan. Learn about these amazing birds (the largest waterfowl in the world) and share Skagit Valley’s best places to view them. Christianson’s Nursery, Mount Vernon. 10:30 a.m. Reservations required. $8. For reservations, call 360-466-3821.

 

Winter Arts and Crafts Festival: Saturday, Dec. 14. Sponsored by the Ferndale Arts Commission. Enjoy booths of holiday items, crafts, and more! Pioneer Pavilion Community Center. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. See the Facebook event page for more information.

 

NSEA Nursery Party: Saturday, Dec. 14.  Hosted by Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association from 9 a.m. to noon. We’ve got the tools and gloves – all you have to do is wear sturdy shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Snacks courtesy of The Bagelry and the Community Food Co-Op. Coffee provided thanks to NSEA’s official coffee sponsor, Tony’s Coffee.  Bring your friends, family and enthusiasm, and we’ll see you at the creek! All ages are welcome. Volunteers under 18 years old must bring a Youth Liability Release Form. Minors under 14 years old must be accompanied by an adult. See the Facebook page for more information.

 

Winter Faire: Saturday, Dec. 14. The Whatcom Hills Waldorf School’s annual Winter Faire is a “wonder-full” way for families to enjoy the spirit of the holidays with live music, magical lands, delicious food, local craft vendors and hands-on workshops from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Crafting workshops feature natural materials and include rolling beeswax candles, wooden ornaments, felt projects, and translucent paper stars to color your windows. Visit the Snow Queen in her castle, dig for crystals in Gnome Village, watch an enchanting puppet play or warm up with delicious homemade soup, baked goods and live music in the Wooden Spoon Cafe. All welcome. Prices of activities vary from $1 – $4. Free parking is available at The Firs at 4605 Cable St. A free shuttle brings people to and from the school. The school is located at 941 Austin Street, Bellingham.

 

Candle Dipping: Saturday, Dec. 14. Old holiday traditions are fun to share with your family. Experience the simple pleasure of hand dipping candles. All materials and refreshments provided. This opportunity fills quickly and can get busy, so please sign up for a time slot when you RSVP, we cannot accommodate drop ins for this activity. All ages, fun for children and adults alike. Adults must assist their younger children. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Chuckanut Center, 103 Chuckanut Dr N, Bellingham. RSVP at chuckanutcenter.org. A $5 suggested donation/person will help to cover the cost of materials and support Chuckanut Center. Facilitated by Steve and Kathie Wilson, retired preschool teachers from Childlife Montessori School.

 

Vet Skills Workshop – Poultry Health and First Aid: Saturday, Dec. 14. Join speaker Laura Chen, DVM, WSU Avian Health Lab,. Topics include: Avian Anatomy & Physiology, Common Poultry Diseases in Small-Scale Production, Protecting Your Flock – Biosecurity, Basic Diagnostic Evaluation and Sample Submission, Basic First Aid, Treatments, and Regulations. Coffee, tea, and light snacks will be served. Please bring a lunch. Free. 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Orcas Island, Eastsound Fire Hall. 45 Lavender Lane. Eastsound. Contact WSU Agriculture Program Coordinator, Kate Mikulak: kathryn.mikulak@wsu.edu or 360-370-7664.

 

Camano Commons Christmas Tree Celebration: Saturday, Dec. 14. Local businesses will have specials and fun activities (starting at 4 p.m.), Santa will be on site, and caroling from local elementary schools will begin at 5 p.m. Sponsored by: Camano Commons Marketplace & Puget Sound Tree Care.  See the Facebook event page for details.

 

Homegrown Holiday Market: Sunday, Dec. 15. Enjoy all sorts of homegrown and handmade holiday goodness. Hosted by Alger Sunday Market. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Alger Community Hall, 18735 Parkview Ln, Alger.

 

Living Ornament Class: Saturday, Dec. 21. Delicate glass balls showcasing, tiny lichens, mosses, twigs and other forest trimmings. These lovely living ornaments are sure to become a favorite addition to your holiday decor. All ages welcome. Class fee is $15/ball  or $13 ea for 3 or more.  Includes all supplies! 9 a.m. Garden Spot Nursery, 900 Alabama Street, Bellingham. Register at www.garden-spot.com.

 

 

JANUARY

Fruit Tree Selection and Care: Saturday, an. 18.  Learn the basics of fruit tree care and how to select varieties for the climate. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Pacific Rim Institute, Whidbey Island. See www.pacificriminstitute.org.

 

2020 Cattlemen’s Winterschool and Country Living Expo: Saturday, Jan. 25. Check out 175 classes focused on skills and practical living, including 30 new classes this year. Check out the Chicken and Duck Egg Weigh Off sponsored by Conway Feed, and the Fiber Palooza, with awards given in all fiber categories. Early bird registration for adults is $75 through December and discounted rate of $10 for youth ages 12-18 needing scholarship help. All other youth $40. Registration includes five workshops per person, large trade show to meet with local and regional agricultural and business vendors, prime rib or vegetarian lunch, and snacks. The Expo is hosted by Stanwood FFA, and presented by WSU Livestock Master Foundation, WSU Extension and the Cattlemen’s Association. To register and view classes, visit http://skagit.wsu.edu/CountryLivingExpo. For more information, call Skagit County Extension at (360) 428-4270 ext 0.

 

 

Additional events will be posted at www.grownorthwest.com. Send your event submissions to editor@grownorthwest.com.