Big-band swing in the park, sunset paddling, BBQ and fireworks, trail race traditions, ivy pulling, and more. 
Happy Tuesday, Bellingham. You know the drill – grab your coffee (or whatever you sip in the morning), kick back, and let Bellingham Brief serve up everything you need to know for the week ahead:
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Jazz in the park 🎷
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Sunset kayaking 🌅
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4th of July 🎆
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Things to do 📆
Let’s get to it.
📰 In the news
New 7-mile trail unveiled: The DNR’s Olsen Creek system is now open above Lake Whatcom, offering hikers, mountain bikers and horse riders a scenic route with breathtaking views of the lake, bay and Canadian Cascades — read more.
Sweet London in Bellingham: Love From London opened in Bellingham, immersing the city in UK vibes with bubble waffles, British candies, traditional beverages and themed decor. Swing by Wednesday through Sunday — take a peek.
Young Artist winners announced: The Bellingham Symphony Orchestra unveiled its 2025 competition champions: Declan Hong (piano), Elsa Jonson (violin), and Maria Horja (piano), after their June 17 performances at WWU’s Concert Hall — read more.
The most underrated investment: While markets seesaws with the headlines, gold and silver are quietly holding value behind the scenes. Curious how it works? Snag this free investor kit to learn more.
Highlights this week
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Summer to bring dry & warm conditions
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Gas tax increases went into effect today
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Attend a panel on independent publishing
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Join free adult empowerment course
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Weekly virtual office hours offer disability resources
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Get 1/2 off your first TruGreen lawn treatment
🫶 We got your back
Scoops of sunshine: Chocolate Necessities & Gelato is your passport to gelato heaven, where every scoop tastes like a vacation in a cup—from tangy lemon to velvety stracciatella. It’s hands-down the sweetest way to beat the heat this weekend.
Pocket-sized perfection: If you’re craving dumplings that dance between delicate pleats and bold fillings, look no further than Dumpling Girls—they steam, they sear, they even deep-fry, but no matter the shape, each bite packs a flavor punch you won’t see coming.
See clearly, look cheeky: Ready to upgrade your eye game? Eyes on Fremont isn’t your grandma’s eyewear counter (unless grandma’s a style icon). From retro cat-eyes to modern minimalist frames that whisper “I’ve got this,” they’ll have you seeing—and being seen—in a whole new light.
Kickflip ready: Drop in for decks, wheels, and gear that won’t bail on you—Unknown Board Shop keeps everything locked in so you can focus on landing that trick instead of worrying about snapped axles.
👀 Why just read it when you could be in it?
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📆 Around town this week
All events are subject to change without notice. Please check official event pages and social media for the most up to date information.
This week
🎨 Lindsey Kiniry Artist Opening: “Between Worlds” @ Martini Mercantile | Wednesday (7/2) at 5 pm – Dive headfirst into Lindsey Kiniry’s vibrant universe where abstract impressionism meets untamed emotion. Wander through a maze of shifting forms and layered textures from 5–8 pm while sipping something smooth. No two pieces—or moods—are ever quite the same, so come ready to feel all the feels.
🎷 The Swing Connection @ Elizabeth Park | Thursday (7/3) at 6 pm – Dust off your lawn chair and settle in for two hours of big-band bliss under the summer sky. The Swing Connection will transport you straight to the golden age of jazz—no cover, no catch, just pure horn-powered joy from 6–8 pm. Pack a picnic, leash your pup, and let those sax solos sweep you into the holiday weekend!
📚 A Discussion about the Avenues of Independent Publishing @ Village Books and Paper Dreams | Thursday (7/3) at 6 pm – Join author Brittany Micka-Foos and a panel of publishing pros for a no-holds-barred deep dive into indie book world secrets. From chilling short stories to pyramid-scheme fiascos, discover what it really takes to go rogue with your writing. Seats are limited—reserve yours before the literary battle begins!
🛶 Sunset Tour @ Wildcat Cove | Thursday (7/3) at 7:15 pm – Paddle into the peachy glow of dusk as you meander past sandstone cliffs and whispering pines. This isn’t a race—take your time, soak up the shifting sky, and maybe spot a heron or two. Tours launch about 90 minutes before sunset; check the schedule and prepare to fall in love with golden hour.
⚾ 4th of July & Patriotic Dinger Bobblehead Giveaway @ Joe Martin Field | Friday (7/4) at 4:35 pm – Cheer on the Port Angeles Lefties as they take on the Bellingham Bells in the opener of this star-spangled series. Swing by early: the first 900 fans snag a free Patriotic Dinger Bobblehead, then settle in for first pitch at 6:35 pm under the fireworks-ready sky.
🍖 4th of July Blues, Brews & BBQ @ Hotel Bellwether | Friday (7/4) at 5:30 pm – Fire up your appetite and your dancing shoes for a feast of finger-licking BBQ and high-voltage blues, Hendrix jams, and horn-fueled funk courtesy of the Chris Eger Band and Powerhouse Horns. As the sky darkens, toast the holiday with a grand finale fireworks show over Bellingham Bay that’ll light up your summer night.
This weekend
🏃 Chuckanut Foot Race @ Marine Park | Saturday (7/5) at 9 am – Lace up for a 7-mile trail dash from Fairhaven’s Marine Park to the stunning shores of Larrabee State Park. You’ll breeze through half a mile of pavement before plunging into the legendary Interurban Trail, with jaw-dropping views of Chuckanut Bay and the San Juan Islands. Celebrating its 57th run since 1968, this race is a local rite of passage—finishers earn major bragging rights (and tales of epic vistas). Ready to make history on the trail?
🗑️ Beach Cleanup after Fourth of July @ Locust Beach | Saturday (7/5) at 9 am – Channel your inner eco-warrior and help erase those rogue fireworks remnants. We’ll supply the bags and fresh Bagelry bagels—bring your muscle and righteous indignation at litterbugs. Let’s keep Bellingham Bay sparkling for real.
🎥 Fairhaven Outdoor Cinema presents Chicken Little @ Fairhaven Outdoor Cinema | Saturday (7/5) at 8 pm – It’s “Chicken Celebration Day” in Fairhaven, and our outdoor screen is rolling for Chicken Little under the stars. Snag a chicken stamp for $1 off admission, then settle in on a blanket (or low chair) as Bayou Opossums kick off the pre-movie vibes. Concessions are cash or card, kids under 4 get in free, so pack some singles for snacks. Remember: comfy seating only—leave the camp chairs for the brick!
🌿 Ivy Removal Work Party @ Euclid Park | Sunday (7/6) at 9 am – Roll up your sleeves and free our trees from English ivy in this hands-on volunteer session. No pesticides, just elbow grease and good vibes as you help protect local greenery. It’s a satisfying workout and a green-thumb gathering all in one.
🎶 Live music & entertainment
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7/2 The Devillies @ Menace Brewing – 6 pm
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7/2 New Constellations @ The Shakedown – 7:30 pm
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7/3 Robert Sarazin Blake and more @ Boundary Bay Brewery – 4 pm
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7/3 The Swing Connection @ Elizabeth Park – 6 pm
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7/3 Taylor Holtzheimer and more @ Schweinhaus Biergarten – 7 pm
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7/3 AJ Norris and more @ South Paw – 7:30 pm
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7/3 Cat Valley and more @ The Shakedown – 8:30 pm
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7/4 Chris Eger Band and more @ Hotel Bellwether – 7 pm
🏠️ This house is wild
*This️ 👇️ could be your listing. Hit us up if you’ve got a home (or 12) to sell.
Tina Smith (RE/MAX Elevate) – 3 bedrooms | 3 bathrooms | Built in 1926 | 2477 sqft
Sunset chasers, rejoice—this South Hill classic serves up jaw-dropping views of Bellingham Bay and the San Juans straight from a living room with more glass than a hipster coffee shop. The deck practically begs for impromptu dance parties or competitive sunset-spotting, while original hardwood floors and cherry cabinets keep things classy (and just a little bit sassy).
Alley access means secret agent-style arrivals, and the detached garage is ready to swallow your gear, bikes, or that woodworking phase you keep threatening to start. Out back, a lush patio hideaway waits for garden gnomes and late-night plotting. Charm, function, and PNW bragging rights all rolled into one.
Window shopping is free — take a peek inside →
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