Your Guide to Fall in Bellingham & Whatcom County
Today marks the first day of fall, and there’s no better time to embrace everything Bellingham & Whatcom County have to offer. As leaves turn, the air crisps, and cozy traditions return, fall brings a lineup of festivals, spooky fun, and fall-flavored adventures. Whether you’re new in town or a longtime local, here’s your guide to getting the most out of autumn this month.
Events You Won’t Want to Miss
These are some of the stand-out happenings in Whatcom County this fall. Something for every mood: art, film, family fun, or a little fright.
October 2-26 Doctober Film Festival
Pickford Film Center, downtown Bellingham. A month-long documentary film festival, showing ~35 films.
October 4-5 & 11-12 Whatcom Artist Studio Tour
Free, self-guided tour of working artists’ studios around Whatcom County. A chance to explore, meet makers, and bring home original local art.
October 23-25 Spooktacular 2025
Woodstock Farm (shuttle from Fairhaven Park). Haunted house, witch walk, games, art, zombie dancers, Halloween party. Ages 4+.
Pumpkin Patches & Farms: Fall Favorites
If you’re looking for pumpkins, hayrides, cider, or just that perfect autumn vibe, here are great places to visit:
Bellewood Farms - U-Pick Orchard, pumpkin patch, free corn maze, train rides, bakery & café.
Home Farm U-Pick - Wide variety of pumpkins & squash, photo opportunities, farm animals, tractor/ train rides.
Dan Cramer’s Western Town - Western themed farm with a petting zoo, corn maze & pumpkins.
Stoney Ridge Farm - Classic pumpkin & apple picking, hayrides, corn maze, cider & donuts.
Make a Day of it!
Here’s how you might spend a perfect fall day in Whatcom County:
Morning: Grab coffee downtown, then hit the Whatcom Artist Studio Tour (if it’s one of the weekends it’s active).
Midday: Head to one of the pumpkin patches (Bellewood, Home Farm, or Dan Cramer’s) for lunch, pumpkin picking, a walk, and cider/donuts.
Afternoon: Catch an early film at Pickford (maybe one from Doctober) or explore local galleries.
Evening: If you’re up for spooky, attend Spooktacular 2025 for haunted fun, or take a ghost tour in Fairhaven or downtown.
There is no shortage of fall in Bellingham and Whatcom County. From local festivals and markets to family-run farms, autumn showcases the character and warmth of the region. For anyone considering a move or simply getting to know the area better, this season provides an authentic glimpse into why so many choose to call the Pacific Northwest home.