The Week Ahead
October 13, 2025
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There’s something truly special about fall on Bainbridge Island. The air turns crisp, the maples glow with color, and the pace of island life seems to slow down—just enough for us to savor it all. October is one of those months when Bainbridge really shines, full of community gatherings, creative celebrations, and moments that remind us why we love living (or visiting) here. Whether you’re drawn to art, nature, or the local food scene, this month has a little something for everyone.
If you’re looking for ways to make the most of the season, we’ve rounded up three wonderful events happening right here on the island—each one capturing a different side of Bainbridge’s charm. From the sparkle of glass art at BARN to the cozy adventure of the Squash Hunt at Bloedel Reserve, to the lively hum of the Saturday Farmers Market downtown, October is full of reasons to get outside, explore, and connect.
First up, Refract at BARN (October 17–19) invites art lovers and the creatively curious to step into the glowing world of glass. As part of the region-wide Refract: The Seattle Glass Experience festival, BARN will open its studios for tours, demonstrations, and hands-on fun. You can watch glass artists in action, see their work up close, and even make your own mosaic pendant during Demo Day. It’s a chance to experience the magic of glassmaking and get inspired by the incredible talent thriving right here on the island.
Over at Bloedel Reserve, the Annual Squash Hunt runs all month long, turning the gardens into a whimsical fall adventure for visitors of all ages. Wander through golden foliage, search for hidden squash, and let the kids collect rubbings in their Squash Hunt Passports. Don’t forget to stop by the Sheep Sheds for pumpkin games, hay bales, and some hot cider from The H&S Coffee Cottage. It’s pure autumn joy—and a perfect excuse to spend a crisp afternoon exploring one of Bainbridge’s most beautiful places.
And of course, no Bainbridge fall weekend is complete without a stop at the Farmers Market in Town Square. Since 1990, the market has been a gathering spot for farmers, artisans, and neighbors who believe in keeping things local and sustainable. Every Saturday from 10 to 2, you can stroll through rows of fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, and handmade crafts, all while enjoying the easygoing rhythm of island life.
Together, these three events capture the heart of Bainbridge Island—creative, community-driven, and always connected to the natural beauty that surrounds us. So grab a sweater, fill your weekend calendar, and come celebrate the season. There’s no better time to enjoy everything Bainbridge has to offer.
Featured Events:
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Refract at BARN
If you’ve ever been mesmerized by the shimmer of blown glass or wondered how artists turn molten sand into sparkling beauty, then Bainbridge’s BARN (Bainbridge Artisan Resource Network) has something special for you. From October 17–19, BARN will join the region-wide Refract: The Seattle Glass Experience festival, opening its studios to the public for a weekend full of art, color, and creativity.
A Weekend of Inspiration
All weekend long, visitors can drop by BARN’s Great Room to see Reflections of the Pacific Northwest—a stunning exhibition that captures the spirit of our region through glass. Expect everything from delicate, ocean-inspired sculptures to bold, modern pieces that play with light and shadow. It’s the perfect way to see how local artists draw inspiration from the forests, water, and skies that surround Bainbridge Island.
Hands-On Fun on Demo Day
The big highlight comes on Sunday, October 19, when BARN hosts its Demo Day. Guests are invited to step inside the Glass Arts Studio to meet the artists, watch live torchworking demonstrations, and even make a small piece of art to take home. Want something personal? You can create your own mosaic pendant—a perfect keepsake or gift. Spaces are limited, so it’s a good idea to RSVP early to reserve your spot.
A Celebration of Community and Craft
BARN is all about sharing skills and bringing people together, and Refract weekend is a perfect example of that. Whether you’re a seasoned maker or someone who’s just curious, this is a relaxed, family-friendly event where you can talk with local glass artists, see how the process works, and maybe catch the creative spark yourself.
So, mark your calendar and plan to stop by BARN between October 17 and 19. Take a stroll through the exhibit, meet the makers, and celebrate the glowing art of glass. It’s a reminder that creativity isn’t just something to look at—it’s something to be part of.
For more details or to RSVP for Demo Day, visit BainbridgeBARN.org and click on the Refract event page.
Cost, tickets and logistics:
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Squash Hunt
If you haven’t made it out to Bloedel Reserve yet this October, now’s the time! The Annual Squash Hunt is in full swing, and it’s one of Bainbridge Island’s sweetest fall traditions. From now through October 31, the Reserve transforms into a cozy, colorful autumn wonderland filled with hidden squash, playful activities, and plenty of photo-worthy moments.
A Whimsical Adventure Through the Gardens
As you wander Bloedel’s trails—lined with fiery maples, golden leaves, and that unmistakable crisp fall air—you’ll find cheerful squash tucked throughout the gardens. Pick up your Squash Hunt map at the Gatehouse, and see how many you can spot! It’s part nature walk, part treasure hunt, and a great way to slow down and take in the season’s beauty.
Perfect for Young Explorers
Families will love the Passport booklet, a special “rubbings” activity kids can grab from the Arrival Garden. Little ones can stop at each squash display to make rubbings of nature-themed designs—turning their adventure into a keepsake they can take home. It’s hands-on, screen-free fun that kids (and parents) will actually remember.
Don’t Forget the Sheep Sheds!
No Squash Hunt is complete without a stop at the Sheep Sheds, where fall fun is in full swing. Kids can climb the hay bales, play a round of pumpkin tic-tac-toe or checkers, and pose for some delightfully rustic photos. Nearby, The H&S Coffee Cottage is serving warm drinks and snacks—just the thing for a cozy break before or after your walk.
A Pumpkin Painting Contest with Prizes
If you joined Welcome Wednesdays earlier this month, your pumpkin painting masterpiece might already be part of Bloedel’s Pumpkin Contest display! Guests can vote through the end of the month, and the winner will take home a fantastic prize: either six guest admission passes or a Friends & Family Membership.
Plan Your Visit
The Squash Hunt runs daily from 10 AM to 5 PM through October 31, and all activities are included with regular admission. Timed tickets are recommended, so plan ahead and make a day of it.
Fall doesn’t last forever—come celebrate it the Bainbridge way at Bloedel Reserve!
Cost, tickets and logistics:
Wednesday, October 8, 7-9:30
Bloedel Reserve 571 NE Dolphin Dr, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
Full details here
Get tickets here
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Bainbridge Island Farmers Market
Every Saturday from 10 AM to 2 PM, the Bainbridge Island Farmers Market fills Town Square with the sights, sounds, and scents of community. If you haven’t stopped by lately, this fall is the perfect time to rediscover the market that’s been bringing Bainbridge together for more than three decades.
The Bainbridge Island Farmers Market first took root in 1990, when local growers like Brian MacWhorter of Butler Green Farms and Anne and Peter Weber of Farmhouse Organics set up a simple, informal market on the Winslow Green. What started as a few tables of fresh, local produce has grown into a bustling Saturday tradition and a cornerstone of island life.
Today, the market hosts over 40 local vendors, offering everything from seasonal fruits and vegetables to fresh-baked breads, handmade cheeses, locally roasted coffee, and vibrant flowers. You’ll also find artisan-made goods—jewelry, soaps, candles, and crafts—all created by talented island makers. Whether you come for your weekly produce haul or just to browse, there’s always something new to discover.
What makes the Bainbridge Farmers Market special isn’t just what you can buy—it’s the energy. It’s where friends run into each other over lattes, kids dance to live music, and farmers chat with regulars about what’s growing next. Rain or shine, it’s a community gathering where everyone belongs.
As the weather turns crisp, you’ll find stalls overflowing with pumpkins, squash, apples, and greens—perfect for fall recipes. Grab a pastry and a cup of coffee, stroll through the booths, and soak up the easy-going Saturday vibe. The market is pet-friendly, kid-friendly, and brimming with island charm.
You’ll find the Bainbridge Island Farmers Market in Town Square by City Hall, open Saturdays from 10 AM to 2 PM, April through November. The season may be winding down soon, so don’t miss your chance to stock up on local goodies and support the farmers and makers who make Bainbridge so special.
Come for the produce, stay for the people—and leave with a basket full of island-grown goodness.
Cost, tickets and logistics:
Friday, October 18, 2025
Bainbridge Island Town Square 280 Madison Ave N, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
Full details here
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