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Fun Annual and Recurring Events on Bainbridge Island
Bainbridge Island may seem small, but we have a variety of annual and recurring events for locals and visitors to enjoy. Some of these events showcase our small-town charm while others draw audiences from all over. There are so many fun things to do, so here’s a list to get started.
Annual Events in Spring and Summer
Easter Egg Hunts
Friday and Saturday before Easter at Battle Point Park
The Bainbridge Island Metro Park & Recreation District hosts two egg hunts for local children of all ages. One of them is a Flashlight Egg Hunt for teens. The other is a daytime mEGGa hunt for younger children. It has been canceled for the last two years due to the pandemic, but check their Facebook page for updates for 2023.
Cost: Free
Student Art Exhibition
Various Dates in May 2022 at Bainbridge Arts & Crafts
This annual art event showcases the work of local junior high and high school artists. Hosted by Bainbridge Arts & Crafts, there is an opening reception for each age group. Bainbridge Island has a strong arts community and we love that this event encourages young artists.
Cost: Free
Wine on the Rock
May 20 – 22, 2022 at Various Bainbridge Wineries
Presented by the Winery Alliance of Bainbridge Island, this event features a tasting flight from each of the seven member wineries, paired with wine’s best friend, cheese. You will also get a wine tote and a special event-specific wine glass. When you purchase your ticket online, you can customize your itinerary and select times and days for each tasting.
Cost: $75
National Trails Day
June 4th, 9:00 AM – Noon, Bainbridge Island’s Hiking Trails
Celebrate National Trails Day with the Bainbridge Island Parks Foundation and Bainbridge Island Metro Parks Department. There are so many wonderful hikes on the Island to choose from. If you visit Gazzam Lake Preserve, Fort Ward Park, or Grand Forest West you can receive a new BI Trails map, stickers, or snacks to celebrate.
Cost: Free
Summer Strolls For Well-Being Program
Fridays or Saturdays from June to September at Bloedel Reserve and Online
This 12-week program is a wonderful way to enjoy the beauty of Bloedel Reserve’s 150 acres while getting your steps in. Past participants have said the program was exceptional and helped them get in touch with nature as well as themselves. The program is free thanks to generous donors. You can choose the in-person program that meets weekly on Fridays, or the virtual option which is on Saturdays.
Cost: Free, donations gladly accepted
Rotary Auction & Rummage Sale
July 2, 2022 at Woodward Middle School
Now in its 62nd year, this epic community event sponsored by the Bainbridge Rotary brings vintage lovers and deal-seekers from near and far. Woodward Middle School is packed to the brim with each classroom holding a different type of treasure. If you are interested in showing your support, read their donation information.
Cost: Free to attend, purchases vary
Grand Old 4th of July
July 4, 2022, various Bainbridge Island locations
A longstanding Bainbridge Island tradition, this celebration of Independence Day includes a hometown parade, fun run, live music, car show, street fair, wine & beer garden, a kid zone with games, and more. The Bainbridge Island Chamber of Commerce is hard at work planning this year’s event. Check back as the event nears for more details. Registration is now open for vendors.
Cost: Free to attend, activities vary
Sounds of Summer Concert Series
Wednesday Nights from July – August 6:00-8:00 PM at Battle Point Park
Enjoy tunes from Pacific Northwest artists at Battle Point Park. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a picnic dinner from home, a to-go meal from a local restaurant, or purchase a meal from a participating food truck.
Cost: Free to attend, purchases separate
Movies in the Park
Fridays in August at Battle Point Park
This is a favorite Battle Point Park summer tradition presented by the Bainbridge Island Metro Parks & Recreation Department. Seating is near the observatory and opens at 8:00 PM. The show starts 30 minutes after sunset. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and your favorite movie snacks. From classics to newer favorites, each week features a different film.
Cost: Free
For more summer fun, check out our article about water sports and yacht clubs on Bainbridge Island.
Annual Fall & Winter Events
Bainbridge Island Quilt Festival
September 10, 2022, location TBA
See the beautiful work of the Bainbridge Island Modern Quilt Guild on display. This year will be the 9th year the many quilts of this talented group will be showcased. Here’s an article about the 2021 festival and some background on the event.
Cost: Free, purchases separate
U-Pick Pumpkins at Suyematsu Farms
Mid-September through October at Suyematsu Farms
One of the oldest farms on Bainbridge, Suyematsu grows many different types of squashes, gourds, and pumpkins. Celebrate autumn by taking festive photos and finding beautiful, delicious fall decor. Check their Facebook page for updated information.
Cost: Free, purchases separate
Bainbridge Gardens Pumpkin Walk
October 1st – 31st at Bainbridge Gardens
This family favorite tradition has been running for almost three decades. The Bainbridge Gardens’ historic nature trail is lined with hundreds of hand-painted and carved pumpkins as well as themed vignettes. Pumpkin submissions are requested from the community to add to the pathway, and it’s an integral part of the experience. Live music and food trucks are usually present on weekends.
Cost: Free to attend, donations accepted
Haunted Hayride
Mid to Late October at Battle Point Park
This spooky event is fun for the whole family. Ghosts and ghouls descend on Battle Point Park for some family-friendly frights and sights. Here is some info on the 2021 event. Check the BI Parks website for more information near the end of summer.
Cost: Approx. $10
Halloween Walk
October 31st in Downtown Winslow
Downtown Winslow is transformed into a trick-or-treat paradise. Hosted by the Bainbridge Island Downtown Association, this annual event closes down Winslow Way to offer families a chance to get candy from local shops and restaurants. Vote for your favorite merchant costume, and enjoy free cider at the Downtown Association booth.
Cost: Free to participate
For more autumn activities, check out our article on fall fun in North Kitsap.
Bainbridge Island Turkey Trot
Thanksgiving Day, location TBA
Start your turkey day with a run! This annual event has a 1-mile or 5k option. In 2020 and 2021 the race was a virtual race with participants uploading their times. Check their event website for more information on the 2022 event as fall nears.
Cost: $20+
Community Tree Lighting
Saturday after Thanksgiving at Winslow Green, Downtown Bainbridge
Kick off the Christmas season with Bainbridge’s annual tree lighting. Enjoy the nutcracker ballet, live music, and Santa’s arrival via firetruck.
Cost: Free to attend
Menorah on the Green
First Day of Hanukkah at Winslow Green, Downtown Bainbridge
Join the Chabad of Bainbridge Island and North Kitsap to celebrate the Festival of Lights nightly as the candles of the Menorah are lit. Latkes and donuts are available and attendees can enjoy live music and arts and crafts.
Cost: Free to attend, activities vary
Holidays at the Village
Late November through December in Pleasant Beach Village
From skating to photos with Santa, gingerbread house parties, live music, and more, this annual tradition at Pleasant Beach Village has something for everyone. Make your holidays a little merrier by booking a staycation at The Inn to extend your festivities.
Cost: Varies by activity
Polar Bear Plunge
January 1st at Lytle Beach Public Park
Start your new year off with a plunge in Puget Sound! If you’re not into swimming in January, you can still head to Lytle Beach to cheer on those brave enough to take the plunge at noon.
Cost: Free
Mochi Tsuki Celebration
Early January, location TBA
For over a millennium, making and eating the sweet rice treat mochi has been a celebrated New Year’s tradition in Japan. For over 30 years, Bainbridge Island Japanese American Community (BIJAC) has celebrated this tradition with more than 2,000 participants. Due to the pandemic, this was a virtual event in 2021 & 2022, but check their website and the BIJAC Facebook page to see if the in-person version will be back in 2023.
Cost: Free
Chilly Hilly Bike Ride
Late February, starting at the Bainbridge Island Ferry Terminal
Every year more than 2,000 people participate in this bike event that encompasses 33 miles of Bainbridge Island. Starting at the Ferry Terminal, the Chilly Hilly gets its name for the 2,173 feet of elevation change during the ride, plus the usual cold temperatures in late February. The race entry fee goes to support local nonprofits, and the event is organized by the Cascade Bicycle Club. Check back closer to the event date for more details.
Cost: $40-$60 per rider
Recurring Events
Bainbridge Island Farmers Market
Saturdays, April through November 10:00 AM- 2:00 PM at Winslow Green
Established in 1990, the Bainbridge Island Farmers Market now features 40 vendors selling a variety of produce, flowers, ready-to-eat food, condiments, beverages, and crafts. The market is located at Town Square by City Hall and happens rain or shine.
Cost: Free to attend, purchases vary
First Friday Art Walk
First Friday of Each Month, 6:00- 8:00 PM, Downtown Bainbridge
Each month, art galleries, restaurants, local shops, and the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art showcase incredible artwork from local artists, and it’s organized by the Bainbridge Island Downtown Association. See Downtown BI come to life as art lovers mill about, enjoying refreshments and the talent of local artists. Please stop by our office since we’re proud participants and love featuring local artwork, hosting local musicians, and providing tasty morsels and drinks.
Cost: Free to attend, purchases vary
Afternoon on the Trails
Sundays, Once a Month, 1:00 – 5:00 PM at Islandwood
Enjoy the natural beauty of the Islandwood campus. Usually closed to the public except for special events, these walks give visitors a peek into the breathtaking grounds of this environmental education nonprofit.
Check their Facebook page for dates.
Cost: Free to attend, registration required
Bainbridge Island Studio Tour
August & December at Various Art Studios
This twice-annual event is a free, self-guided tour of Bainbridge art studios and crafters’ spaces. Participating artists jury into the tour and sell their handmade goods. At studios, you will see in-progress pieces, and you can get to know the artists and their stories.
Cost: Free to attend, purchases separate
Fun Volunteer Activities on Bainbridge Island
Looking for ways to easily volunteer on Bainbridge Island? Here are five fun opportunities. And who knows, you might make a new friend or learn something new. We enjoy giving back to our community and there are many local nonprofits that work so hard to make a difference. We hope this list serves as an inspiring starting point.
Assist and Enjoy Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (BIMA)
Bainbridge Island Museum of Art exhibits the art of both masters and emerging artists. If you love BIMA like we do, consider volunteering there. BIMA needs volunteers and will work with your schedule and interests to find a tailored role. In particular, volunteer opportunities can include docents, administrative volunteers, event support, and exhibition installation crew.
Serve as an Assistant Instructor with BI Parks and Recreation
While there are many ways to help out with Bainbridge Island Metro Park and Recreation District, one interesting way is to serve as an assistant instructor during an outdoor program or trip. You can see new sights, learn new skills, help with youth backpacking trips, adult kayaking classes, and more. To volunteer, simply fill out an application on their website.
Greet or Garden at Bloedel Reserve
Bloedel Reserve‘s gorgeous forests, gardens, and trails are enjoyed by people from all over the world, and the Reserve is often looking for different types of volunteers. From greeters to event volunteers, docents to gardeners, there are many volunteer options to choose from.
Support Furry Friends at PAWS of Bainbridge Island & North Kitsap
PAWS aims to reduce pet overpopulation and the unnecessary euthanasia of healthy, adoptable animals. They do an incredible job and are looking for volunteers to fill a variety of roles. In particular, they’re seeking adoption counselors, event volunteers, feline enrichment team members, foster homes, and people to work in the pet food bank.
Volunteer at West Sound Wildlife Shelter
Caring for more than 1,600 wildlife patients a year, West Sound Wildlife Shelter greatly appreciates volunteers. No previous experience is required and all volunteers receive training. There are many volunteer options such as feeding orphaned wild songbirds, lending a hand in their garden, and assisting with one of their fundraising events.
Bainbridge’s Market: First Quarter, 2022
Bainbridge’s market picked up in the first quarter of 2022. As was the case in 2021, it’s a seller’s market due to low inventory and high demand. Homes are still selling above the asking price and we’re seeing multiple offer situations and many all-cash offers. We’ve compiled key highlights from last quarter to keep you in the know about our local market.
Sold and Pending Homes
In the last five quarters outlined in the graph, 2022’s first quarter is rising like the first quarter of 2021. This follows the usual real estate market trend and we expect to see another hot market this summer. There’s also a significant lack of inventory and there are many eager buyers, driving prices up and heavily influencing our seller’s market.
Bainbridge’s Market Still Favors Sellers
Everyone is feeling the fatigue of low supply, which persisted in the first quarter of 2022. But we expect the market to warm up as we head toward our busy summer season. More real estate activity lies ahead, and if you’re thinking of selling, it’s a great time to do so. If you’re looking to buy, be prepared for the competition and know that having a local real estate agent at your side is extremely beneficial.
Listing Price vs. Sale Price
As a result of low supply, average prices rose 6.5% when compared to this time last year. They are expected to continue to rise as Bainbridge’s buyers meet the pricing demands of sellers. And, the average sale price on Bainbridge Island is almost $1.5 million.
Insights from Our Chief Economist
Matthew Gardner, Windermere’s Chief Economist, shared his Top 10 Predictions for 2022 in one of his recent Monday with Matthew videos. Here’s what Gardner predicts for 2022:
- Prices will continue to rise, though the pace of appreciation will slow. Gardner thinks it will be about 6% in 2022 versus the massive 16% rise of 2021.
- Spring will be busier than expected. This will increase buyer demand, as buyers get more clarity in their new hybrid model combining remote and office work.
- The rise of the suburbs will also result from this work hybrid model. Many buyers are moving within the same area they already lived in.
- New construction jumps since the cost to build has come down.
- Zoning issues will be addressed.
- Climate change will impact where buyers live. People will focus more on how safe a location is in relation to natural disasters.
- Urban markets will bounce back after the demand drop from Covid.
- A resurgence in foreign investors will return since the travel bans were lifted last November. The demand will rise as long as our borders remain open.
- First-time buyers will be an even bigger factor in 2022. This year, 4.8 million millennials will turn 30, the median age of American first-time buyers. Additionally, first-time buyers will be looking for cheaper markets.
- Forbearance will come to an end and that will be okay. It was well thought out, and as Gardner says, “as of recording this video, there are now fewer than 900,000 owners still in the program.” Hopefully, this continues to drop.
For additional information, check out Matthew Gardener’s Market Update by region.
Great Eco-Friendly Products in North Kitsap
Celebrate Earth Day all year by making some of these swaps for reusable, natural, local, or waste-free options. These eco-friendly products help mother nature and are available across North Kitsap. While this isn’t a comprehensive list, we hope it will introduce you to some interesting options to help you get started.
Eco-Friendly Items for Your Home
Cloth napkins are the perfect alternative to single-use paper napkins. The Berry Patch, a kitchen store here on Bainbridge Island, has an array of cloth napkins and many other wonderful products.
Swedish dishcloths are gaining popularity as an alternative to sponges and paper towels. They’re reusable, easy to wash in the dishwasher or washing machine, and are compostable. You can find them in places like Nordiska in Poulsbo, which also has some other eco-friendly items for your home.
Keep your home smelling sweet with candles by Particle Goods, available at Danger in downtown Bainbridge. Particle Goods uses renewable soy, coconut wax, and essential oils. Ethically sourced and produced in Seattle, a portion of each Particle Goods sale goes to local charities working to empower social and economic equality and environmental sustainability.
Kingston’s Thistle Floral and Home also has soy candles, as well as locally-made, natural bath salts, stunning flower arrangements, succulent centerpieces, and more.
Delicious Options
Kitsap Fresh is your one-stop shop for local produce, eggs, meat, dairy, baked goods, and more. Selecting local, seasonal produce instead of long-haul shipped goods lowers the carbon footprint of your meal and keeps dollars in our local economy. This online farmers market co-op connects you to over 40 local farms and food producers. Some local brands and farms include CB’s Nuts, Oxalis Kitchen, and HeyDay Farm. Every weekend, you can easily order online and then pick up your order on Wednesdays at one of their many pick-up locations. Additionally, they offer home delivery in most Kitsap communities.
Farmers’ markets are another great way to shop locally and sustainably. Fill up your reusable bags with fresh fruits, vegetables, eggs, and more. Watch our video to get a glimpse of what they offer.
Buying dry goods and other foods in bulk can reduce packaging if you use reusable jars and bags. We recommend Town & Country Markets in Poulsbo and Bainbridge Island.
Environmentally-Friendly Products for Babies and Kids
If you’re looking for eco-friendly products for little ones, check out Poulsbo’s Toys Etc. You’ll find a fun selection of toys made from recycled materials, as well as cute wooden animals. Another great local option is Bainbridge’s Calico Toy Shoppe. Some of their environmentally-friendly products include Piggy Paint nail polish, which is vegan, non-toxic, and water-based, and BubbleTree, the first eco-friendly, non-toxic sustainable bubble system, which uses aluminum, reusable bottles.
Whichever eco-friendly products you choose to try, we hope you’ll try to shop small. Our community has many excellent local businesses, and we love that they’re often thinking about ways to live a greener life.
Low Bank vs. High Bank Waterfront Property
Imagine falling asleep to the lullaby of Puget Sound’s gentle waves in the waterfront home of your dreams. Bainbridge Island has some of the best waterfront properties in Kitsap County. So, how do you decide between a high bank or a low bank waterfront property? Although both are excellent options, one may suit your lifestyle more than the other.
High Bank Waterfront
High bank waterfront properties offer enchanting views. Sometimes soaring hundreds of feet above the waterline, these homes provide owners with a bird’s eye view of the land around them. And, many of Bainbridge Island’s waterfront properties have front row seats to beautiful aquatic wildlife such as orcas and seals. However, it is important to note that many high bank homes do not necessarily have direct beach access. Typically, if they do, it will be through a long stairway. So, if you enjoy boating and other aquatic sports, a low bank waterfront property might be a better fit.
Low Bank Waterfront
Low bank waterfront properties are much closer to the water level. Some low bank waterfront properties are closed off, and others have an attached beach. These homes provide easy beach access any time of day. Additionally, low bank homes with their own dock are perfect if you own a boat. From sailing to kayaking and everything in between, Bainbridge Island has a thriving water sports community.
Waterfront Shorelines
It’s important to note that shoreline protection is critical when owning a waterfront property. Any development that removes trees and vegetation can harm the land around your home. Keeping the natural shoreline and native trees and shrubs will reinforce the slope against erosion, protect water quality, and keep the land organically rich. Any bulkheads and other “armor” can damage the habitat that is home to coastal species. Keeping the shorelines protected will preserve the land for years to come.
Our community strongly believes in land protection and conservation. The Bainbridge Island Land Trust works to conserve and restore our lands and waters. Additionally, The Land Trust works with willing private landowners to protect their land using Conservation Easements. This voluntary legal agreement ensures The Land Trust will protect and preserve the land even if the property changes hands.
Learn More About Bainbridge Island
If you’re thinking of moving to our area and want to learn more, check out our free Guide to Bainbridge. It has videos and articles about Bainbridge’s schools, recreation, real estate market, and more. If you have any questions, our local experts are here to help.
Fourth Quarter Market Review for Bainbridge Island
Bainbridge’s real estate market slowed down for the holidays during our fourth quarter. The market still favors sellers due to low inventory, and homes are still selling above the asking price. We’ve compiled key highlights to keep you in the know about our local market.
News on Sold and Pending Homes
In the last five quarters outlined in the graph, 2021’s real estate market started with the usual growth trend into the summer. Now, we’re seeing the seasonal downswing during colder months. However, home prices are still increasing due to demand and sold homes still outpace pending listings. The result is a strong seller’s market. In the 4th quarter of 2021, we had 86 closed sales, which is a 39.4% decrease, year over year.
Still a Strong Seller’s Market
Bainbridge Island real estate demand was at a record high in the fourth quarter of 2021. With the new era of remote work, many Seattle homebuyers are seeking the quaint island feel that Bainbridge offers. If you want to learn more about Bainbridge Island, check out our free digital guide. If you’re interested in buying or selling, our local experts are here to help.
Listing Price vs. Sale Price
Although buyers continue to meet the competitive Bainbridge pricing, there just aren’t enough homes available right now. As you can see in the graph above, the averages of listing and sale prices are starting to converge as demand stretches the cost of housing even further in favor of sellers. In our 4th quarter, we saw a 19.4% increase in the average sale price on Bainbridge Island, putting it at $1.57 million.
Insights from Our Chief Economist
In his most recent Monday with Matthew, Windermere’s Chief Economist, Matthew Gardner, shares his market forecast for the coming year: “If everything goes according to my plan, you should expect to see the housing market start to move towards some sort of balance next year, but I am afraid that it will still remain out of equilibrium until at least 2023.” Gardner reminds us that the transition back to a balanced market will be a gradual shift.
While Matthew ensures us that he “doesn’t see a housing bubble forming,” he goes on to say “it would be silly to say that there aren’t any issues in the housing market that concern me because there are and the biggest of which is housing affordability.” There is definite cause for concern among the millennial generation as they start “thinking about settling down and, possibly, having children” Gardner explains. “I wonder how hard it will be for many of them to be able to afford to buy their first home.” Millennials are currently the largest slice of the generational real estate market, so it will be interesting to see where affordability and demand intersect.
Overall, Gardner concludes with a high-level market analysis: “demand for ownership housing remains remarkably buoyant and, in fact, it is quite likely that demand may actually increase with the work from home paradigm that will start to gain momentum next year.” With dependable demand, real estate continues to be an excellent investment.
Must-Visit Wineries in the PNW
There is no doubt we have plenty of wonderful wineries in our area. In fact, Washington is the second-largest producer of premium wine in the United States with over 900 wineries. The Columbia Valley is home to the largest selection of wineries and vineyards, but you can find many places closer to our beautiful Kitsap Peninsula.
Bainbridge Island Wineries
The Winery Alliance of Bainbridge Island is a great one-stop site to check out all things wine on the Island. While grapes have been grown on Bainbridge since the 1970s, most wineries did not start serving until the early 2000s. In total, we have seven wineries/vineyards spanning Bainbridge, from Winslow to Lynwood. We’ve highlighted some wonderful places below.
Bainbridge Vineyards
Established in 1977, this vineyard proudly produces wine from the ground up and specializes in white wine varietals. The vines grow on some of the longest-running agricultural land in the area.
Open: Thursday – Sunday 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Tasting Flight: $18. Glass and bottle purchases available.
Snacks available for purchase. You are also welcome to bring in takeout from a local restaurant.
Eagle Harbor
Eagle Harbor sources their grapes from Eastern Washington but produces them on the island. Their main concentration is red (Bordeaux) varietals. Additionally, they produce Sauvignon Blanc. At the Winery Tasting Room, you’ll find live music in the summer, and you can witness the wine-making process firsthand in the fall.
Downtown Winslow Tasting Room: Open Thursday – Monday 12:00 – 5:00 PM and until 5:30 PM on weekends.
Winery Tasting Room: Open Thursday – Monday 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM and until 6:00 PM on Saturdays. Reservations Suggested.
Eleven Winery
Eleven Winery has two tasting room locations on the Island, one in downtown Winslow, and the other on Day Road. Reservations are not required at either location. Fun fact: if you bike to the Day Road location, you’ll receive a free tasting.
The first crush for this winery was in 2003, and they moved to their current large location in 2011. The owner Matt is a former professional cyclist, and the name was inspired by his former career. He is quoted on their site saying, “On a typical modern road bike, the smallest cog in the rear cluster has eleven teeth, and it’s the one that produces the maximum gear ratio. Therefore, when you’re at the point in the race when it’s all or nothing, when there’s no choice but to put every ounce of strength and determination you’ve got into the pedals no matter how much you’ve already suffered, when you have to give it absolutely everything you’ve got, you use The Eleven.”
Open: (Both locations) Daily 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Tasting Flight: $15 – $20. Glass and bottle purchases available.
Charcuterie, cheese, and snacks available for purchase.
Fletcher Bay Winery
This winery has two locations on Bainbridge Island. Their production facility is in the Coppertop Business Park, and their tasting room is in downtown Winslow. Their award-winning wines come from vineyards in the Columbia Valley and Yakima Valley as well as Oregon. They have been producing for a decade.
Their Facility in Coppertop Business Park is located near restaurants and a bakery.
Open: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Wednesday 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Friday and Saturday 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Sunday 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM. Reservations recommended.
Tasting Flight: Start from $14. Glass and bottle purchases available.
Their Winslow Tasting Room is within walking distance of the Seattle – Bainbridge ferry and it has been open since 2018.
Open: Monday – Thursday 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Friday & Saturday – 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Sunday 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Great Wine Across Kitsap
The Kitsap Peninsula offers many beautiful hikes and beaches, and wonderful wine tasting experiences! Here are a couple of places we recommend visiting.
Olalla Vineyard & Winery in Olalla
Serving a mix of wines made from grapes grown on-site, and in Eastern Washington, this winery has been open to the public since 2008. A mix of red and white varietals are produced here with the flagship wine being Golubok. It’s an Eastern European varietal that flourishes in the Pacific Northwest. Olalla focuses on agricultural tourism, offers live music, and can be rented out for weddings and events.
Open: Thursday – Saturday from 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM, Sunday 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Tasting Flight: $10. Appointments preferred.
You can purchase picnic baskets and snacks. No outside food or beverages are permitted.
State 42 Wines in Poulsbo
With a production facility in Seabeck, a couple owns this winery and sources grapes from all over Washington state. They have been producing since 2017 and offer a range of wines. To learn more about this local gem, check out our recent State 42 interview.
Open: Wednesday – Sunday 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Tasting Flight: $10. Glass and bottle purchase available.
Live music every Wednesday. Snacks for purchase, BYO-food allowed.
Wineries Beyond Kitsap
If you want to take your tasting experience a little further and explore our region, these places are worth the trip.
Chateau Ste. Michelle in Woodinville
Perhaps one of the most famous wineries in Washington state, Chateau Ste. Michelle’s origin dates back to the repeal of prohibition. You can find a variety of events on their calendar. In the summer, they host large concerts in their amphitheater. Their best-known wine is their Riesling, which won a blind taste test by the Los Angeles Times in 1974. They are the top producer of Reisling in North America.
Open: Daily 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM, weekends until 7:00 PM
Tasting Flight: Starts at $15. Enjoy a full food menu. Virtual tastings are also available.
Chateau Ste. Michelle is just one of the 110+ wineries you can find in the Woodinville area.
Mt. Hood Winery in Hood River, OR
If you are looking for a weekend getaway, this could be your spot! The slogan “Come for the wine, stay for the views” is an understatement. The views from this vineyard are amazing. The volcanic soil the vines are planted in mixed with the climate makes for an ideal growing location of many varietals. This “seed to sip” operation has won many awards in recent years. And, if you want to stop here and visit a few others, view this wineries map. There are many others nearby.
Open: Daily, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM (March through November)
Tour groups are welcome by appointment.
Port Townsend Vineyards
Just outside Port Townsend proper, this vineyard is a beautiful venue for large events and features two distinct tasting rooms. They opened their doors in 2017 and produce wines from grapes grown in Port Townsend as well as in Eastern Washington and Oregon.
Open: Sunday – Thursday 11:00 – 5:00 PM, Friday and Saturday 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Vintage is their tasting room and it’s located on the water in historic downtown Port Townsend. This space is curated for live music, food and wine pairings, and other events. They offer a welcoming indoor space as well as a large plaza.
Open: Monday – Saturday 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Sunday 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Tasting Flight: $25. Reservations are required.
For more coverage of local wineries, watch our fun snapshot below.
New Agent Spotlight: Kelsie Thurrott
A third-generation islander, Kelsie Thurrott has a background in counseling, marketing, and project management. Her varied skillset, local expertise, and excellent interpersonal skills make her a great advocate for buyers and sellers. We’re so glad she has joined us here at Windermere Bainbridge Island. Learn about her interesting background, community involvement, and more in our Q&A.
What drew you to real estate?
I’ve always loved looking at homes. My mom used to take me around to open houses on the weekends for fun and whenever a neighbor would list their home or I’d visit a new friend’s house we’d snoop on the county website to learn as much as we could about the place. Shortly after getting married, my husband and I went through a very rocky real estate transaction. It was through that experience that I learned how important it is to not only have a good agent represent you but one with integrity and your best interest at heart. I’ve always been drawn to professions centered around helping people and after having lived through such a trying transaction, I couldn’t shake the desire to learn the ropes and do it better, advocating for my clients so their memories of buying or selling their home are positive and rewarding.
What unique professional experiences or skills do you possess that enhance your abilities as a realtor?
My education and career in counseling gave me an incredible foundation in reading people, empathizing, listening, and advocacy. These are skills I bring with me in all aspects of life, and I find them invaluable in Real Estate. My ability to understand my client’s needs through each step of the transaction is imperative, and my insight into personality types gives me that extra edge when it comes to negotiations.
After switching careers to be closer to home, I took on a role in sales and marketing at the Bainbridge Athletic Club. I’d worked there in some capacity since the age of 16. I’ve always had a knack for marketing but initially, I thought I’d be awful in sales. I never felt comfortable pushing a sale. Whenever someone was on the fence, I’d send them away to think about it. I always encouraged them to check out the competition before making a decision. I wanted to be sure they were making the right decision for them to stick with a healthy workout schedule and lifestyle change. It was in this position that I was surprised to witness my natural compassion and connection to people serving as a key aspect in my success.
When we decided to start our family, I began working with my husband to grow our small island business, which specializes in metal fabrication. I have worn several hats, but my primary role in project management familiarized me with many of the ins and outs of home construction and renovation. I’ve formed valuable relationships with many of the builders on the Island and I’ve developed a meaningful understanding of the importance of collaboration.
My husband and I also went through an extensive remodel ourselves, so I have first-hand experience in the process and familiarity with permitting on Bainbridge.
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
I am a people person. When someone asks me about my hobbies I answer, “work and friends.” I have always held a hefty dose of empathy and have been referred to as a naturally kindhearted person. But if you have ever played pickleball with me you’ll see my fiercely competitive nature come out. I don’t like to lose, and I don’t like to be wrong, so I make sure I’m confident and fully prepared before stepping up to the table. I think all of these personality traits are important in this profession. But above all, I think the most important personality trait in Real Estate is integrity. You need to have the knowledge, tools, and the wherewithal to complete a transaction and negotiate the details, but integrity sets apart a good agent, from a great agent. My client’s needs are first and foremost. Their best interest stays top of mind and drives every decision.
Which areas do you serve and what do you love about them?
I serve Bainbridge Island and the greater Kitsap Peninsula. I love most things about the PNW. The fresh air, incredible hiking trails, exploring the Sound to name a few. I’ve lived here my whole life so I may be a bit biased and perhaps not well-traveled enough, but I truly believe in the magic of this place. The dark winters and yes, the rain can seem like a lot come February, but I think it’s that stretch of the season that makes the summers around here something truly special. I’m a cancer so for me, getting out on the water is the highlight of living here. We take our 1968 Hatteras to explore the peninsula and the San Juan Islands as frequently as we can. When we are home, we love playing on the beach or taking advantage of the numerous parks and trails our island has. Growing up in such a tight-knit community felt disadvantageous as a kid. But looking back, I am in awe at how lucky I am and I can’t imagine living anywhere else (although snow-birding in retirement isn’t completely off the table.) I’m fortunate to be surrounded by family, which makes staying an easy decision. I’m an islander through and through. I loved going to high school and having several of the same teachers that taught my mother. Now I get to walk the same trails with my children that I trotted down as a child. Both my husband and I grew up here and never left. I’m third generation and he is 5th so our roots run deep.
How are you involved in the community?
Owning a small business on Bainbridge Island gives us the opportunity to stay active in the business community. We do what we can to support local organizations and community projects. Last fall we had a special opportunity to partner with Urbanist Collective. Together, with a grant through the Kitsap Community Foundation, we organized a Unity in Community youth mural project. We donated our large gate as the canvas for the project. Urbanist Collective worked with a group of local youth to design an image to promote inclusiveness and love within our community. From there, a large group came together and participated in painting sections of the mural. Urbanist Collective taught parents and children of all ages about the art of spray paint and the technique of painting with that medium. It was a powerful weekend and a perfect representation of everything I love about our community.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
I knew I wanted to work for a brokerage that promotes delivering value to its clients and the community as a whole. One that aligns with my morals and prizes “relationships, not transactions”. Windermere does just that. Rooted in service, Windermere cares about the people it serves and the community they live in. I’m proud that my work will benefit the Windermere Foundation. I feel lucky to be a part of an office that inspires.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Outside of business, I have a wonderful husband I’ve been with since high school, two rambunctious boys that we absolutely adore, and a large pup named Charlie. In my off time, I love boating, biking, gardening, and visiting with friends and family.
We are so happy to have Kelsie on our Windermere Bainbridge team. You can learn more about her through her website and her Facebook page.
Local Holiday Festivities
There are so many wonderful ways to enjoy the holiday season, and they’re all happening right here in our own backyard. From free pony rides for kids to ice skating, we’ve got you covered.
3 Great Places to See Santa
When: Dec. 4, Dec. 11, Dec. 18, and Dec. 19, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Where: Manor House at Pleasant Beach Village, Bainbridge Island
Cost: Free
Head on down to visit Santa and give him your holiday wish list. There are also plenty of cute stores to shop locally for holiday gifts. Pleasant Beach Village is also a fun place to grab a bite or beverage to round out your holiday weekend festivities.
When: Sunday, Dec. 5 5 9:00 – 11:00 AM
Where: Poulsbo Sons of Norway
Cost: $7 for children 10 and under, $10 for ages 10+
Enjoy a tasty breakfast that includes pancakes, lingonberries, bacon, sausage, fruit, potatoes, coffee, juices, and a “no contact” visit with Santa.
Nordic Father Christmas in Poulsbo
When: Saturdays in December from 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Sundays in December 12:00 – 3:00PM, Christmas Eve 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Drop off letters anytime.)
Where: Santa’s House in front of Marina Market in Downtown Poulsbo
Cost: Free (Donations to Fishline Food Bank are encouraged.)
Visit Father Christmas for a photo op in front of his little house at this cute little Holiday Tiny Home in Historic Downtown Poulsbo. Bring your own camera for some family photos. Additionally, kids can drop off their letter to Santa and they’ll receive a reply if a return address is listed.
Holiday Festivals
When: Dec. 4 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Where: Mike Wallace Park in Kingston
Cost: Free
Kingston’s annual Christmas event boasts thousands upon thousands of lights. The official lighting ceremony is on December 4th at 5:00 PM. However, there are plenty of festivities happening throughout the day. This year there’s a Craft Fair at the Village Green (10:00 AM – 3:00 PM), Santa’s Workshop (take and make crafts), photos with Santa at Kingston Cove Yacht Club (1:00 – 4:00 PM), live music, Santa’s arrival, a boat parade, a cookie-crawl, and a holiday spirits garden. View the complete schedule. Once the holiday lights are on, they light up the waterfront until the first week of January. So, you can take a stroll to enjoy it all season long. Unusual creations for this display usually include an octopus, a dragon, butterflies, and turtles.
Julefest: Nordic Market, Taste of Norway, and Viking Bonfire
When: Dec. 4 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Where: Sons of Norway and Poulsbo Waterfront Park
Cost: Free
Taste Norwegian food, shop for Scandinavian-inspired gifts and crafts and experience the holidays with a Nordic twist at the Sons of Norway Lodge. At dusk, enjoy the Lucia Bride ceremony where the Vikings escort Lucia and her wreath of candles to the shore on their boat, followed by a bonfire and winter proclamation. It’s one of the most authentic Nordic holiday ceremonies in the Northwest, and very unique to Poulsbo.
When: Dec. 11 & 12
Where: Port Gamble
Cost: Free+
Celebrate the holidays in historic Port Gamble with shopping and holiday lights! This year they have over 100,000 lights on display. On Saturday, Dec. 11th there will be a community lighting at 5:00 PM followed by fireworks. Santa’s workshop ($5 per child) is open Saturday 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM and Sunday 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Merry Meadows Farm will have their ponies near the pavilion for holiday pony rides as well.
Lighted Ships Parade, Bonfire, and Caroling
When: Dec. 11, 5:00 PM
Where: Liberty Bay and Poulsbo Waterfront Park
Cost: Free
Find a spot along Liberty Bay to watch the lighted ship parade, complete with call-outs from Santa. If you want to add a name to Santa’s list for him to call out, you can email santa@poulsboyc.org before Dec. 10th. The Crossroads Rotary will be hosting a bonfire, and caroling will be provided by Emerald Heights Elementary. View Poulsbo Yacht Club’s route map.
Unique Holiday Activities
When: Nov. 26 – Dec. 17, Wed. – Fri. 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Saturday and Sunday 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Dec. 18 – Jan. 2, Daily 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Dec. 24 10AM – 2:00 PM; Closed Dec. 25
Where: Pleasant Beach Village, Bainbridge Island
Cost: $15 per person; pool members skate for free. The fee includes skate rental and regular skates aren’t allowed on the surface. Rental skates must be worn. All proceeds go to the Windermere Foundation on Bainbridge Island, supporting locals in need.
Grab your loved ones and celebrate the season by skating in Pleasant Beach Village. Skate, enjoy a bite to eat, and take in this beautifully transformed winter scene. Although it’s a synthetic ice rink, it’s very similar and it’s easy for beginners.
When: Dec. 4 & 5 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Where: Countryman Stables
5349 McDonald Ave. NE, Bainbridge Island
Cost: Free
This holiday experience has been going on for almost two decades, giving children the experience of horse riding for the holidays. Children up to age 12 are welcome. Helmets are available, or you can bring your own.
Cookies and Canvas – Family Paint Workshop
When: Dec. 4 (2 sessions) & Dec. 11 (2 sessions)
Where: Griffin Gallery in Poulsbo
Cost: $35 per person, pre-registration required (ages 6+ welcome)
Enjoy time with family members or friends while painting. Delicious cookies and warm beverages will make it an extra sweet event. Fee includes all painting supplies, 2 hours of instruction, canvas, snacks, and drinks.
Every Christmas Story Ever Told
When: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from Dec. 3 – Dec. 19 (various showtimes)
Where: Port Gamble Theater
Cost: Children $12, Adults $18, Military/Senior/Youth $16
Live theater is back in Port Gamble! Enjoy a funny look at holiday specials and stories that are often relatable. Note from the theater: Santa’s existence is called into question, so caution to parents who may wish to keep that magic alive. Tickets can be purchased here.
Holiday at Fay – Drive-Thru Holiday Event (Pre-Register)
When: Dec. 9 – 12 & Dec. 16 – 19. Driving times available between 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Where: Fay Bainbridge Park, Bainbridge Island
Cost: $20 per vehicle
Experience a beautiful light display from the comfort of your cozy car. Pack the car with your favorite holiday treats and play your favorite festive tunes as you slowly drive through Fay Bainbridge Park, enjoying it in a whole new way!
We wish you a joyful, healthy holiday season! To stay “in the know” about local events, stories, and more, follow our page: Windermere Sound Living.
Our Community Involvement in 2021
We love Bainbridge Island and our community involvement is an important part of how we operate. So, we thought we would take a moment to share how our Windermere Bainbridge Island office has been involved this year. By doing so, we hope to spread awareness about some of the great events and non-profits that you can connect to and support as well.
Annual Support
We’ve proudly supported Bainbridge Youth Services (BYS) for years. Since 1962, they’ve worked hard to “promote the social and emotional well-being of adolescents and young adults” through a variety of services including free, confidential counseling, and peer tutoring.
Another youth-centered organization that we support on an annual basis is the Boys & Girls Club of Bainbridge Island. They offer a program for K – 4th grade and a separate middle school program for 5th – 8th grade. When the pandemic began, our local Boys & Girls Club chapter began offering discounted rates and extended out-of-school programming.
PAWS of Bainbridge Island and North Kitsap has been helping pets and their people for 45 years, and we love supporting their efforts. PAWS is a volunteer-based nonprofit animal welfare organization. Their services include pet adoption, spay/neuter assistance, pet retention counseling, humane care for elderly cats, and veterinary financial assistance. They have been helping cats and dogs find loving homes since 1975.
Community Events
Bainbridge Island’s Art Walk is a vibrant event, and we love participating in it. It happens the first Friday of every month and it’s a fun way to enjoy local artists’ creations and live music while having a bite to eat and chatting with neighbors and friends. This tradition is brought to you by the Bainbridge Island Downtown Association. This year, we moved our office to downtown Winslow Way, and we’ve loved highlighting local artists and musicians during the Art Walk. We will continue to do so in the new year.
Another fun event we look forward to each year is Shred Fest. It’s a free event where you can safely and securely shred old documents and recycle old electronics. We love to host this event because it helps people get organized and recycle. And, it’s always fun when friends and clients stop by.
Every year, all Windermere offices close for Community Service Day so that we can give back to the communities we serve. This year, some of us helped with the Bainbridge Island Land Trust, which works to “conserve and steward the diverse natural environments of Bainbridge Island for the benefit of all”. They’ve protected 1, 471 acres to date and provided 1,102 public acres. Additionally, we hosted an online fundraiser in an effort to further support Bainbridge Youth Services.
Every year, we participate in Pacific Northwest Title’s annual food drive. This year marked their 17th year. There are many in need in our community, and a food drive is an easy way to give back. In fact, in Kitsap County, approximately one-third of adults are food insecure and over a third of local children are in need of free and reduced lunch. Our local food banks serve about 48,000 residents per year.
This year we also supported Kitsap Humane Society‘s drive sponsored by Pacific Northwest Title, and we promoted Kitsap Humane Society for Kitsap Great Give. Dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming pets, Kitsap Humane Society has been serving our community since 1908. It’s one of the leading animal welfare organizations in the Pacific Northwest. Last year alone, KHS rehomed 3,676 animals. Check out our video promoting Kitsap Humane Society, which features some of our agents and their pets.
Other fun events that we were happy to support this year include Hometown Halloween and the senior class graduation parade.
Additionally, a couple of our agents sponsored some of the studios for the Bainbridge Island Studio Art Tour. This free, self-guided tour celebrates locally made art. It’s a chance to appreciate local artisans, see works in progress, and purchase beautiful art. The Winter Studio Tour 2021 was December 3rd – 5th. If you weren’t able to attend, you can explore the featured artists’ work online.
Windermere Foundation, Bainbridge Island
A portion of every agent’s commission is donated to the Windermere Foundation of Bainbridge Island. All of our agents participate, and we’re also proud to be part of the broader Windermere Foundation. It impacts communities across 10 states and we’ve collectively raised over $41 million for programs that provide shelter, food, children’s programs, and more.
Every year, our Foundation awards two or three Bainbridge High School graduates a total of $6,000 in scholarships based on their community service, academic achievement, and financial need. We have also supported a variety of local nonprofits. This year we awarded grants to Peacock Family Services, Helpline House, Arms Around Bainbridge, Housing Resources Bainbridge, and Bainbridge Youth Services. All of these organizations strengthen our community, providing vital resources and support to those in need.
While we recognize that there are many different ways to give back, we’re proud of what we’ve done so far. If you’re looking to get more involved in our community, we hope this has sparked some ideas. We should note that our agents also support a variety of charities on their own. So this only reflects our office-wide community involvement.
