Birch Bay Chamber Announces Fall and Winter Community Events
Trick or Treat on the Berm, Ring of Fire & Hope and the 44th Annual Polar Bear Plunge Highlight the Months Ahead
The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce is looking ahead to a trio of community traditions that bring residents and visitors together this fall and winter. It begins with Trick or Treat on the Berm in October and culminates with Birch Bay’s signature New Year celebrations: the Ring of Fire & Hope and 44th Annual Polar Bear Plunge.
Trick or Treat on the Berm — October 24
Birch Bay’s popular Trick or Treat on the Berm returns Saturday, October 24, from 3:00–5:00 PM, offering families a fun and festive way to celebrate Halloween along the Birch Bay waterfront.
Local businesses and organizations come together to welcome trick-or-treaters and distribute candy along the berm. The annual event has become a favorite fall tradition in Birch Bay.
Ring of Fire & Hope — December 31
Birch Bay will close out 2026 with the annual Ring of Fire & Hope at 7:00 PM on New Year’s Eve, Thursday, December 31.
The tradition brings the community together along the shoreline illuminating the bay, creating a symbolic ring to mark the end of one year and welcome the next. This year, the chamber is looking forward to continuing the distribution of eco-friendly, rechargeable flares for this uniquely-Birch Bay celebration.
44th Annual Polar Bear Plunge — January 1, 2027
On New Year’s Day, thousands are expected to return to Birch Bay for the 44th Annual Polar Bear Plunge.
This year’s event reverts to its traditional format. Participants can once again simply come to Birch Bay, celebrate the New Year and take the plunge in the spirit of a tradition that has brought people together for more than four decades.
“While last year’s world-record attempt brought a new level of attention to the event, we’re excited to bring the focus in 2027 back to what has always made the Polar Bear Plunge special: community, tradition and a whole lot of fun on New Year’s Day,” says Event Coordinator Sacha Sanguinetti.
Pre-registration opens October 1. Day-of registration will begin at 9:00 AM on January 1, with the official plunge taking place at noon.
For further information go to www.BirchBayWa.org
These community events are made possible in part through a Tourism Promotion Grant from Whatcom County and a Community Support Grant from Blaine-Birch Bay Park & Recreation District 2.
About the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce
The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce works to promote, support and strengthen the Birch Bay business community while helping make Birch Bay a vibrant destination to live, work and visit. Through community events, tourism promotion, business advocacy and partnerships with local organizations, the Chamber works year-round to boost the local economy and enhance the community.
About Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism
Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism is the official destination marketing organization for Bellingham and Whatcom County. The organization promotes the region as a premier travel destination while supporting a strong visitor economy and working with tourism partners throughout Whatcom County to showcase the area’s communities, attractions, outdoor recreation, events and experiences.
About Blaine-Birch Bay Park & Recreation District 2
Blaine-Birch Bay Park & Recreation District 2 provides recreational opportunities, programs and community support for residents of the Blaine and Birch Bay areas. The District works with local organizations and community partners to encourage recreation, wellness and activities that enhance quality of life throughout the district.
