Where to Enjoy the Final Days of Summer in Bellingham & Whatcom County
As summer slowly fades into early fall, Whatcom County remains bursting with life, color, and activities that celebrate the season’s final warm days. Whether you're a sunseeker, cultural explorer, or just love community gatherings, here’s your local guide to savoring every last drop of summer bliss.
Featured Events You Can't Miss
Northwest Washington Fair – Lynden (August 17–22)
Experience a classic county fair with a twist of rural charm: livestock exhibits, agricultural displays, carnival rides, food vendors, rodeo thrills, and live performances. Running mid-August, this fair draws nearly 200,000 visitors each year.
Noisy Waters Mural Festival – Bellingham Waterfront (August 18–20)
Watch the waterfront transform into a massive outdoor canvas. Talented muralists bring walls to life, turning the city into a vibrant, walkable art gallery.
Dog Days of Summer Festival – Whatcom Humane Society (August 24)
A pet lover’s paradise! Expect vendors, fun activities for dogs and families, and a great cause. Mark your calendars for August 24 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival – Blaine (August 1–2)
Kick off the month with coastal flair! Enjoy maritime-themed fun, family activities, boat displays, and community spirit at this early-August celebration.
Sand Sculpture Competition – Birch Bay (August 14)
Creativity meets tide pools! Head to Birch Bay mid-month for artistic sand-building prowess, live tunes, food vendors, and a laid-back beach vibe.
Local Favorites & Outdoor Escapes
History Sunset Cruises
Take in Bellingham’s history and stunning evening light aboard a guided sunset cruise. Hosted by the Whatcom Museum in collaboration with San Juan Cruises, this is a great way to close out the day on the water.
Whale Watching Adventures
Don’t let summer slip away without spotting orcas, seals, and eagles. Operators like Outer Island Expeditions offer excursions that peak through September—often with a sighting guarantee.
Larrabee State Park Kayak & Sunset Tours
Whether you’re paddling through daytime light or chasing the sunset glow, Larrabee’s tours run into early September—perfect for a final outdoorsy outing.
Little Squalicum Park & Pier
Opened just this spring, the new Little Squalicum Pier is the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll, sunset views, or watching the bay activity.
Galbraith Mountain Trails
Mountain bikers and hikers, rejoice—Galbraith’s legendary trail network still offers sunshine and sweet singletrack well into August.
With just a few weeks of summer left, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy them in Bellingham and Whatcom County. Whether it’s a community festival, a day on the water, or a quiet walk at sunset, these final days are an invitation to slow down and take in what makes this corner of the Northwest special.