June 4 is National Cheese Day, and Whatcom County Government took the occasion to remind residents of something locals have long known: this corner of northwest Washington is home to some seriously good artisan cheese. From small family-run creameries to operations that have been turning local milk into award-winning wheels for generations, Whatcom County's dairy heritage runs deep and delicious.
Whatcom County sits in a verdant agricultural corridor where dairy farming has thrived for over a century. The region's mild, rainy climate and lush pastures support a robust dairy industry, and a growing number of local producers have moved up the value chain from raw milk to handcrafted cheeses sold at farmers markets, specialty grocers, and directly from farm stores across the county.
Among the region's most well-known producers are the Twin Sisters Family Farm creamery, whose cheese has been featured in regional publications and won recognition at Pacific Northwest cheese competitions. The farm's pastoral setting and direct-to-consumer sales model has made it a favorite stop for residents looking to connect with local food production. Details on farm hours and current offerings can be found through the Bellingham Farmers Market, which hosts multiple local cheesemakers throughout the season.
Whatcom County's agricultural sector also benefits from proximity to research and extension services through Washington State University Extension in Whatcom County, which supports farmers and food producers with technical resources including guidance on dairy processing, food safety certification, and developing value-added products like artisan cheese.
Supporting local cheesemakers has a tangible economic impact in Whatcom County. Dollars spent at farm stands and farmers markets tend to circulate locally, supporting farm families and the suppliers, processors, and businesses they work with. During a summer when the regional economy is watching closely for tourism activity tied to the FIFA World Cup fan zone events, local food producers offer another reason for visitors and residents alike to explore what Whatcom County has to offer.
National Cheese Day falls each year on June 4, though for most Whatcom County residents, it's less a national observance than a year-round habit. The Bellingham Farmers Market runs weekly through the summer at the Depot Market Square, and many local farms also operate roadside stands and offer online ordering for pickup. Checking in with your local creamery is a good way to find out what's in season, since artisan cheese production often follows the rhythms of the agricultural calendar.
Whether you favor a sharp aged cheddar, a creamy fresh chevre, or something more experimental from a local maker trying new things, Whatcom County's cheese scene is worth exploring. The Whatcom County Government reminded residents of this on National Cheese Day and encouraged support for the local producers who call this region home.
