Description
The historic Hovander Orchard with its garden arbor is the perfect setting for weddings. The site is adjacent to grassy fields and in close proximity to the Main Picnic Shelter. This site has a capacity of 150 people. Learn more about Hovander Homestead Park.
* The Orchard must be rented in conjunction with the Group Picnic Shelter. It cannot be rented alone.
Hours
8am-dusk
Hours change based on sunset time and are posted at the park entrance and at the parking lot.
Features
Address
5299 Nielsen Road
Ferndale, WA 98248
Map
Directions
From I-5 (North or South)
Take I-5 Exit 262
Turn west onto Main Street, toward downtown Ferndale
Immediately after the railroad underpass make a sharp left onto Hovander Road
Turn right onto Nielsen Avenue and follow the signs to Hovander Park
Parking
Dedicated parking for the Group Picnic Shelter/Orchard is on the grass to the north of the shelter. Overflow parking is in the main Hovander parking lot.
Decorations may not be attached to the walls or wood work and should not make holes or cause damage to any surface. Smoke machines, fog machines, hazers, and candles are not allowed. Rice, birdseed, and confetti of any kid are prohibited. All decorations must be removed and cleaned up completely prior to leaving the site.
Pet must be leashed (maximum 8 feet) at all times, including in campgrounds and reserved picnic areas. Whatcom County Parks has one designated and marked off-leash area at Hovander Homestead Park.
Pets are prohibited in the following parks and locations:
Click here for all regulations on pets.
If you have reserved a picnic area or shelter, you can bring your own grill but you are responsible for the safe operation of your grill. Grills are prohibited on decks, walkways, or within 25 feet of any structure.
Bounce Houses and other inflatables are not allowed at any Whatcom County Parks
Noise from sound systems, speakers, bands, microphones or any other amplified sound must be at a volume such that it cannot be heard outside the area you have reserved.
Food Trucks
Food Trucks for private functions are only allowed in the following circumstances:
Click here for the required insurance limits and documentation. Please email [email protected] with additional questions.
Customers are required to leave the facility in the same condition as when they arrived. Cleaning supplies are provided for indoor facilities. Garbage and recycling must be removed from the premises (must be taken from the park) unless the customer has paid the optional waste disposal fee.
The Alcohol Use Fee charged by Whatcom County Parks is not a liquor license. To find out if you need a State of Washington Banquet Permit please check here. It is your responsibility to research and follow all laws pertaining to alcohol use at your event.
Facility Rental Cancellation Policy.
Cabin & Campground Cancellation Policy.
The billing address of the reservation holder must be in Whatcom County in order to receive in-county rates. If the credit card address is outside Whatcom County, but the customer is a County resident, they can:
You would need to apply for a Special Event Permit. Special Event Permits are required for any of the following situations:
For information on Special Event Permits and the application process please see our Special Events page.