Ferndale is a rapidly growing small town that serves as a delightful pocket of history with a flair for summer fun. Visitors will find themselves with no shortage of events to attend, outdoor activities, or shops and restaurants to pop in on.
Ferndale is home to just under 16,000 people, but it is growing fast. Named one of the fastest growing cities north of Everett, it is a hub of manufacturing, fun family events, and natural beauty. The town was incorporated in March of 1907.
If a rose by any other name still smells sweet, then the Ferndale of yesteryear was just as picturesque while being called Jam. The original town name was in reference to a nearby logjam on the river. Renamed by the local schoolteacher, “Ferndale” was inspired by the ferns that flourished around the original schoolhouse. Good thing the teacher never came across any skunk cabbage.
Ferndale is a manufacturing hub, home to Superfeet, Samson Rope, Timken, and a new Vicinity Motor Corporation facility that will be assembling electric buses starting this year. Ferndale has just opened their brand-new high school facility, the halls of which are sure to inspire more students to become great alumni. Ferndale High School graduated former NFL quarterback Jake Locker, as well as Superbowl-winning coach Doug Pederson.
Despite its serene appearance, Ferndale is a city of rock ‘n roll. The community has continually spraypainted “Metallica” on its prominent railroad Bridge for the last 30 years or so.
Ferndale is home to parks of all kinds. Vanderyacht will not disappoint energetic visitors with its disk golf course, Scenic trails and access to the Nooksack River.
Hovander Homestead Park is 350 acres in size with a mile of river frontage. In the summer, Hovander is home to barnyard animals and the Hovander House Historical Tours. Bring your kids to interact with the farm animals, play on the playground or come by yourself for an invigorating walk or run through the Fragrance Garden and subsequent trails.
Pioneer Village is home to the largest collection of original cedar slab cabins in the pacific northwest and features tours May through September from docents in historical costume. The larger Pioneer Park facility is home to Star Park playground – the largest play structure in North Whatcom County – and hosts the annual Old Settlers Days every July and Old Fashioned Christmas every December.
Summer of Fun events will not disappoint in Ferndale; summer park goers will be treated to a series of Food Truck Fridays, Music in the Park, and Flicks in the Park. For more information on these events, visit page cityofferndale.org/summer. Old Settlers Days is one of the longest continually operating celebrations in all of Washington. Come out on July 29-30 to see hot air balloons, music and a parade as part of the 127th celebration of Ferndale’s history and culture.
Visitors will find themselves swept up by this historical hamlet with a flair for exciting events and summer fun.
for more information, visit ferndale-chamber.com
