Treat the mom or mother figure in your life to something special! Mother’s Day is on May 10, and if you are looking for a way to celebrate, we suggest a weekend trip to Bellingham! Here are some ideas for where to eat and what to do in Bellingham and Whatcom County with your mom.
Celebrate Mom by celebrating women in film! The CASCADIA film festival is an annual event that showcases the films of women directors from around the world.
May 8, 2026
Explore shops in Downtown Bellingham as they host pop-up tasting rooms featuring a variety of regional wines. Attendees receive tasting tickets to redeem for the wines of their choice while retailers offer special deals.
May 8 & 9, 2026
Treat your mom to English tea in the peaceful and elegant ambiance of Willowbrook Manor. Tea sandwiches, salad, sweet cream scones and home-baked sweets are served with a pot of your favorite tea. Meander through the gardens and feel how time seems to go a little slower at Willowbrook. Reservations Required.
May 9, 2026
Start Mother's Day weekend off with fresh produce and locally made goods from over 100 vendors! The Bellingham Farmers Market is a local favorite and great way to start your Saturday and Mother’s Day Weekend.
May 10, 2026
The Friends of Big Rock Garden Park invite you to celebrate Mother’s Day with the whole family. Explore this beautiful garden with its meandering paths and wonderful sculptures while enjoying light refreshments. Other activities include live music and a children’s passport adventure.
All ages are welcome!
May 10, 2026
Join us for a Mother's Day-inspired Paint & Sip on Sunday, May 10, from 4–6 PM. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just picking up a brush for fun, you’ll create your own masterpiece with step-by-step guidance from our instructor. No experience needed, just a little imagination.
All supplies are provided, and tasty food and drink upgrades will be available to keep the creativity (and cocktails)
Get out on the water with your mom and San Juan Cruises!
Departing from the Bellingham Cruise Terminal, come aboard San Juan Cruises' 100 foot tour vessel and discover the history, geography and wildlife of Bellingham Bay and the Salish Sea. The San Juan Islands are home to Orca, Humpback, Gray and Minke Whales as well as all sorts of other marine life such as porpoises, seals, sea lions and otters.
Around here, whenever the sun shines it is a must to get out and explore! If the weather works out in your favor this Mother’s Day, try ordering a meal to go and enjoy a picnic while taking in the sights of Whatcom County’s many scenic parks.
Want something more breathtaking? Go on a scenic walk or hike.
Also consider spending the day in Fairhaven Village, Lynden, or checking out another nearby community in Whatcom County.
If the day includes rain, see it as an opportunity to take advantage of enriching and fun indoor activities. You can get some ideas of where to stay inside and experience the local arts and culture by signing up for the Whatcom County Culture Crawl. This self-guided tour is free and includes discounts for the Jansen Art Center, Pickford Film Center, Spark Museum, and more!
You can also check out our rainy day itinerary for more indoor ideas.
MegaZapper Show at SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention
Make your mother's day electric at the SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention. The MegaZapper show is sure to dazzle everyone in your family, but especially mom...and especially if she ends up in the "Cage of Doom."
Before or after the show, browse the museum itself, which offers compelling, interactive exhibits spanning four centuries of scientific achievement and cultural heritage. Discover the inventions and innovations that changed the course of human history, just as your mom changed the course of yours.
