The Bellingham Police Department is reminding residents this Fourth of July that consumer fireworks are banned throughout the city of Bellingham -- and rather than risk a citation or a fire, officers are encouraging everyone to head to the waterfront for tonight's professional show at Zuanich Point Park. "We'd rather not crash your Fourth of July BBQ," the department posted Thursday, "so please leave the fireworks to the pros."
Bellingham's consumer fireworks ban is comprehensive. The City of Bellingham's ordinance prohibits all consumer fireworks within city limits year-round. Sparklers, smoke bombs, ground fountains, and aerial products are all included. The ban applies to fireworks regardless of where they were purchased -- legally bought fireworks from a stand in unincorporated Whatcom County become illegal as soon as you bring them back inside Bellingham.
The alternative is watching the 2026 Peoples Bank Fourth of July Spectacular at Zuanich Point Park, located at 2600 Harbor Loop Drive along Bellingham Bay. Activities begin at 4 p.m. with food vendors, games, and live entertainment. Fireworks launch over the bay at approximately 10:30 p.m. The event is free, family-friendly, and run by professionals -- no risk of injury, no citation, and a much better show than a parking lot fountain. For the full event lineup, see details at the Port of Bellingham.
If you prefer your own backyard and a more relaxed Fourth, be aware that the noise and visual activity from the Spectacular will be visible and audible across much of north Bellingham and the waterfront neighborhoods. Bayview, Eldridge, and Edgemoor residents with a sightline toward the bay will get a good show from their own decks tonight.
For the full rundown on tonight's fireworks ban enforcement and the Spectacular event details, more information here. Have a safe Fourth of July, Bellingham.
