Events in Bellingham

Meet and Greet

Whatcom Art Market presents a meet and greet featuring its seven newest artists. Enjoy light refreshments while speaking with the artists about their art and creative processes. Featured artists include Sue Burke, Becka Viets, Kate Underwood, Ceci Lopez, Jane Davis, and Matthew Crane.

Whatcom Art Market

Wendy J. Fox in conversation with Ted O'Connell- The Last Supper

At Village Books in Fairhaven, the Readings Gallery hosts a conversation between Wendy J. Fox and Ted O'Connell centered on Fox’s new novel, The Last Supper. The story follows three intense months in the life of Amanda, a middle-aged stay-at-home mother who longs for more than suburban routines. After unsuccessful ventures in multi-level marketing and social media, even deciding what to make for dinner becomes a source of dread. As disappointments mount, the fragile balance of her marriage breaks apart, opening a path for her to reclaim creative and financial independence. Fox is the author of five books of fiction, including What If We Were Somewhere Else, which received the Colorado Book Award. Her writing has appeared in publications such as Self, Business Insider, BuzzFeed, and Ms., and she covers independent books for Electric Literature. She is originally from Tonasket, Washington, and lives outside Phoenix. Ted O’Connell, recipient of the Tobias Wolff Award in Fiction, is a writer and musician whose work has appeared in literary magazines and on stages across the country. He plays mandolin with the Prozac Mountain Boys and guitar with The Scarlet Locomotive, and he has twice served as a visiting professor in China. He is from the Chicago area and lives in Bellingham, Washington with his wife and daughter.

"ENTER THE DRAGON"

ENTER THE DRAGON brings together MMA athletes from the Great Pacific Northwest for a live event that spotlights regional talent.

Tide to Table '26

The Working Waterfront Coalition hosts its annual Tide to Table dinner at the Bellingham Yacht Club, highlighted by a classic seafood boil prepared by Drayton Harbor Oyster Company. Dockside Market vendors offer appetizers and add to the evening’s fun. The program features a live auction, raffle prizes, and a dessert dash with confections from Whatcom bakeries and stores, supporting work to strengthen the economic vitality and benefits of working waterfronts, promote good stewardship, and build connections between the community and the shoreline. Attendees can keep it casual for a traditional boil or embrace the theme with Yacht Rock party attire or fisherman-core outfits. A photo booth will capture the looks and the moments.

Bellingham Yacht Club

Sockeye Sawtooth @ Larrabee Lager

An Americana and alt country five-piece takes the stage for a live set. There is no cover charge. Pair the music with pizza and beer, including German-style lager and dunkel. Grab a liter stein and settle in for the tunes.

Priscilla Long in conversation with Bethany Reid- Cartographies of Home

An evening of poetry and conversation features Priscilla Long and Bethany Reid as they share stories and read from Cartographies of Home at Village Books in Fairhaven. Long’s collection moves from memories of a rural childhood to the ferment of the 1960s and 1970s, then toward reflections on later life in the Pacific Northwest. It explores what home once was and what it might be now, considering the roles of love, civic life, and art. America, the natural world, cultural history, family ties that include a brother and a twin sister, and an intimate partner all appear within its pages, with poems that hold both sorrow and celebration. Writers Sandra Beasley and Kelli Russell Agodon have praised the book for its learning, tenderness, and lively spirit. Long is the author of nine books, including Cartographies of Home and On Spaces and Colors. Her work has appeared in The Hudson Review, The Southern Review, and The American Scholar. Honors include a National Magazine Award and multiple Best American Essays notables. She holds an MFA from the University of Washington and grew up on a dairy farm on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.

Fog Bodies and more

Fog Bodies, Meece, and No Guts come together for a Worker’s Night benefiting the workers of IAM Local 2379 as they enter contract negotiations. Admission is $17, or $15 with any union shirt.

Sunset Silent Disco

Move to a wide-ranging mix of music outdoors as the sun sets over Bellingham Bay, enjoying ocean views and good company. The soundtrack is broadcast by radio to provided wireless headphones, and gear is available on a first come, first served basis. This gathering welcomes people of every body type, background, gender, sexual identity, age, and ability. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and dress for the weather. Free parking is available in the lot next to the park, and public restrooms are available. Meet at the statue. If dancing in public feels a bit awkward, the spirit of the event is to help you make your own fun, move in the way that feels right, let go of self judgment and judgments of others, and enjoy being in it together. It also honors the idea that your body is always moving on its own... breath, heartbeat, and all the rhythms within... so there is nothing to prove. Share some songs at sunset and simply be. Donations are welcome via Venmo, PayPal, credit card, or cash and check at the event.

Zuanich Point Park

The Fairhaven Ghost Tour

Discover the spooky side of the historic neighborhood of Fairhaven on a walking tour that winds along Harris Ave, visiting sites linked to reported hauntings. The venue is Sycamore Square. Check the event website for tickets and additional details. Recommended for ages 13 and up.

Sycamore Square

PNW Drives Whidbey Island Rally

PNW Drives opens its season with a relaxed group drive around Whidbey Island, now in its seventh year. The rally is free to attend and focuses on scenic roads and a shared appreciation for a wide range of vehicles. The route spans 84.6 miles, beginning at Fairhaven Station in Bellingham and following the shoreline along Chuckanut Drive before continuing through Bow to SR-20 and into Anacortes. Drivers pass through Cap Sante Park, take a slow loop through Washington Park for sweeping water views and event filming, then cross Deception Pass Bridge. A brief stop in Deception Pass State Park offers restrooms and time to stretch by the water, after which the drive continues through Oak Harbor and finishes at Fort Casey Beach. A Discover Pass or park entry payment may be required at Deception Pass State Park. Any street-legal vehicle with a licensed and insured driver is welcome. It is common to see motorcycles, trucks, right-hand-drive imports, sports cars, exotics, and vintage or classic models. This is a cruise rather than a race. Organizers coordinate via two-way radios and record the drive with dash cams, 360 cameras, and action cameras while following all traffic laws. Burnouts, excessive revving, passing on solid yellow lines, or nuisance driving are not permitted, and recorded footage may be shared with authorities if requested. Optional rally shield stickers, roughly 6 by 6 inches, are available with color choices and the option to add a team name or number, and they can be mailed or picked up at the meetup. Photos and videos from the day will be shared after the event for participants to keep. The rally is family and pet friendly. Participants with walkie talkies or two-way radios can monitor communications for safety notices, people on the roadside, and traffic updates, and chatter is kept as clear as possible.

Fairhaven Station

April Showers and Puppy Dog Power

After a warm reception in March, this event returns to PetSmart for a second full day of adoptions. April Showers and Puppy Dog Power keeps the focus on all-day adoptions.

PetSmart

Spring Fishing Seminars

At the Fisherman’s Pavilion, the LFS Spring Fishing Seminars offer a full day focused on practical skills and local knowledge to help anglers get ready for the season. LFS staff and community experts share techniques, regional insights, and proven approaches for Pacific Northwest fishing. Over the course of the event, participants can access a one-day 20% discount at the LFS retail location. Following each session, raffles and giveaways feature prizes from well-known fishing brands, and there is a chance to win two seats on a guided trip with Anglers Unlimited or Cause 4 Divorce Guide Service. Morning seminars include complimentary coffee and donuts, and LFS provides free lunch in the afternoon. Whether someone is new to fishing or looking to fine-tune their approach, the seminars aim to educate, inspire, and connect the local fishing community.

Fishermen's Pavilion

Watercolor Journal for travel — Dakota Art Store Bellingham

Bring your watercolor journal and photos from your travels and discover techniques to preserve and illustrate your memories. During the class, an instructor will share notes and give a detailed description of what type of journal to use. If you prefer to get your feet wet, regular watercolor paper is fine. The instructor will demonstrate watercolor pencils and regular watercolors, so you can choose what you want to work with.

Dakota Art Store

Dads & Donuts

Dads & Donuts is a monthly meetup centered on social connection for dads, father figures, and partners. It offers a welcoming space to talk about mental health and the unique journey of the non-birthing parent, acknowledging that new dads are finding their way in their own time. Families with little ones from birth to five are welcome, and attendance is encouraged whether you bring your child or come on your own. Registration is by donation, $5-20.

Native Plant Sale

Explore a broad selection of native plants at Cordata Park, with more than 1,000 plants across 50 species available for purchase. The sale offers gardeners a chance to find varieties that are not always easy to source locally. Proceeds support chapter programs and projects and the WNPS. The event also shares information about the many benefits of native plants for home gardens and the larger environment. A guided native plant walk in Cordata Park, led by a Chapter member, is a special highlight.

Cordata Park

Outdoor Research Bellingham Outlet Store

Celebrate Trails Day

The first Celebrate Trails Day features activities with regional partner programs, highlighting the Bay to Baker and Salish Coast Trails in Bellingham, Blaine/Birch Bay, and Maple Falls. The Recreation Northwest Trails Coalition tent will be set up in Fairhaven at the Bellingham Outdoor Research retail store. An after party follows at Stones Throw Brewery.

Raven's Roots Naturalist School

Intro to Perennial Vegetables

Discover the depth of perennial vegetables in a welcoming two part class that looks far past familiar staples like rhubarb and artichoke. One session spotlights leafy perennials and the other focuses on roots, and you can attend either or both. Each class includes a guided garden tour, hands-on tasting and propagation, and clear instruction on growing and preparing these crops while understanding the benefits they offer to your garden and table. Expect to encounter distinctive varieties such as skirret, Good King Henry, black salsify, lovage, Caucasian Mountain spinach, Turkish rocket, cardoon, hops, crosnes, and more. Participants leave with resources to help integrate these plants into everyday gardening and cooking. Class size is limited to 8 people per session. The fee is $50 for a single class or $90 for both.

Bellingham Public Library - Central Library

Street Law at the Library

Income-eligible individuals can receive free legal guidance in brief, private meetings with volunteer lawyers. Pre-registration is required, and each appointment is 15 to 20 minutes. A limited number of walk-in spots may be available, but they are not guaranteed. To sign up, contact LAW Advocates at 360-671-6079 or info@lawadvocates.org. This clinic is held in the SkillShare Space at the Central Library.

Classic Belly Dance Classes with Deb

Belly dance instruction with Deb is offered in a weekly drop-in format. Each class costs $15 and takes place at Unique Technique Dance Studio in Bellingham, Washington.

Unique Technique Dance

Purrs & Petals

An in-store adoption event at Petsmart will feature extra adoptable cats brought by WFA.

PetSmart

Read the Room

Enjoy an improv comedy show where comedians create scenes and stories inspired by live Tarot readings from audience members. This unique event has become a regular part of the monthly lineup. The show features Jordan and The Stone Moon.

The Upfront Theatre

Aikido Peace Education Center

Deepening - Contact Improvisation Series with Carmen and Rajendra Serber

Explore and refine Contact Improvisation in a workshop series led by Carmen and Rajendra Serber. Intended for anyone wishing to grow their practice, especially those interested in expanding physical skill alongside relational awareness, these sessions use duet and group exploration to develop lifts and support, sharpen anatomical understanding, and build integrated strength, while opening space for improvisation grounded in attentive embodiment. Participants are invited to treat the body as a place for experimentation, somatic dialogue, and vigorous movement. Carmen brings experience with Axis Syllabus along with energetic and somatic attunement, relational touch, and a therapy background. Rajendra emphasizes interoceptive awareness as a guide for orientation and improvisation, drawing from his roots in theater. They first connected at the European Contact Improvisation teachers exchange in Finland and have continued to collaborate and inspire one another since. The learning environment is designed to be inclusive and to honor individual intentions within group practice, supporting deeper sensing, movement, study, and integration to broaden perspectives on dance and the lived body. Pricing options include a four-workshop bundle at $200 and a drop-in rate of $60.

Northwest Yarns & Mercantile

Book Club at Northwest Yarns & Mercantile

A book club at Northwest Yarns & Mercantile will explore Blood at the Root by LaDarrion Williams. The story blends dark academia with magic and questions of legacy. Malik arrives at Caiman University, a renowned HBCU with a magical tradition, while searching for his missing mother. On campus he uncovers customs where power, history, and identity carry weight, and justice is not always clear. As he digs deeper, the line between what is taught and what is enforced becomes harder to see. The novel draws on Southern Black folklore and spiritual practices such as hoodoo and voodoo. Readers will gather at the shop to discuss the book and its themes.

Mamas Handwork Circle

Enjoy a welcoming handwork circle for mamas who want dedicated time to make things together. Participants can work on knitting, crochet, sewing, weaving, painting, beading, and other textile projects. The gathering begins with a brief, gentle check in, followed by plenty of relaxed time to create at a comfortable pace. Beginners are encouraged, and pregnant folks, babies, and kiddos are welcome. A voluntary $5 to $10 contribution, if possible, helps cover operations.

Maria Mudd Ruth in conversation with Lyanda Lynn Haupt- The Bird with Flaming Red Feet

At Village Books in Fairhaven, author and longtime volunteer surveyor Maria Mudd Ruth sits down with author, naturalist, and ecophilosopher Lyanda Lynn Haupt for a conversation centered on The Bird with Flaming Red Feet. The book traces the natural history of the Pigeon Guillemot, a chatty seabird found along the North Pacific from Alaska to Southern California, and highlights its role as an indicator species for the health of Puget Sound. Drawing on more than a decade of beachside research, Ruth blends science, field observation, and community stories to illuminate behavior, notable traits, and ecological relationships, while also showcasing the citizen scientists who study and care for this species. Bridging field guide and memoir, the work encourages close looking, a sense of stewardship, and renewed connection to nearby wild places. Haupt is the author of Crow Planet, Mozart’s Starling, and Rooted: Life at the Crossroads of Science, Nature, and Spirit. Her honors include the Sigurd Olson Nature Writing Award and the Nautilus Book Award, along with recognition as a finalist for the Orion Book Award and two Washington State Book Awards. Ruth has written over a dozen books on natural history and previously served as a researcher and editor at the National Geographic Society. Presented in collaboration with North Cascades Institute as part of the Spring Nature of Writing Series.

The 12th Annual Bellingham Band Lottery

Now in its twelfth year, the Bellingham Band Lottery returns to The Wild Buffalo to connect local musicians ready to meet new collaborators. Interested players enter their names for a random draw that forms seven brand-new bands. Each group then has three weeks to write three original songs and perform them live on stage. The aim is to bring together musicians from diverse backgrounds and strengthen the local scene through a challenging and fulfilling creative process. A suggested donation of $10, with pay-what-you-can encouraged, supports local art in Bellingham. All proceeds benefit Make.Shift, the city’s non-profit creative space and rock venue. Musicians who wish to participate must attend the draft at The Wild Buffalo.

Yo-Yo Ma

Yo-Yo Ma performs with the Bellingham Symphony Orchestra at Mount Baker Theatre as part of the Harmony from Discord series. The program includes Brahms’ Nänie, Op. 82, Jonathan Leshnoff’s Of Thee I Sing, and the Dona nobis pacem from Bach’s Mass in B minor, with Elgar’s Cello Concerto in E minor, Op. 85 following intermission. This concert offers the chance to hear a legend of classical music while the orchestra looks toward its next 50 years. The performance runs approximately 85 minutes including intermission.

Ruckus Room Arcade and Fun Center

Pokemon Launch Party

Celebrate the arrival of Pokemon pinball with a launch party tournament featuring five rounds of group match play, followed by a cut to the top four to determine the champion. A raffle will award a translite and a banner, and the winner earns a Grand Championship Plaque. There will be sign ups, and the buy in is $5.

Shelter Pet Yoga

This playful yoga session blends gentle stretches with time to relax alongside rescue rabbits from Bunanza Rabbit Rescue Ranch and Adoption Center or pups from Happy Tails Happy Homes. Set at Bellis Fair Mall, the experience focuses on movement and animal interaction in a welcoming setting. The series offers three yoga play dates, with options to participate in a single session or all of them. A cheerful nod from Remy LeBun sets the tone.

Paws With Cause

Herb of the Month Club - Meeting #1

This is the first meeting of the Herb of the Month Club. Additional information and registration are available through the event page.

Chuckanut Center

Living Kidney Donor event

An informational event at Squalicum Harbor provides an opportunity to learn more about living kidney donation. It is intended for anyone exploring the possibility of donating a kidney.

Squalicum Harbor

Northwest Yarns & Mercantile

Macramé Monday: Plant Hanger

Learn how to macramé by making your own plant hanger in a guided, hands-on class. Instruction takes you through the process step by step as you work on your hanger. The cost is a $15 class fee plus a $15 materials fee, with the materials fee paid at the time of the class. This class is offered on multiple dates.

Optimize Your Breast Health and Balance Your Hormones with Qigong

Explore qigong as a way to support breast health and hormonal balance in a series of four sessions.

Trivia Night

Put your knowledge to the test at a trivia night led by Justin Smith. Teams can be from one to six players with a $2 buy-in per person. Prizes are awarded to the top three teams, along with a prize for the group with the best team name. Presented by Fountain Brewing at Zeeks Pizza every Monday.

March Into Fitness w/SpiritFit Praise Academy

Take a friendly stroll around Bellis Fair Mall with SpiritFit Praise Academy. Arrive at least five minutes early to meet the group and warm up with some light stretching. This casual walk welcomes all ages and activity levels, and there is no cost to participate.

Bellis Fair Mall

Stories & Songs

Settle in for a gentle program featuring 30 minutes of read-aloud stories and nursery rhymes, followed by another 30 minutes of playtime. Best suited for children from birth through age five.

Fairhaven Stones Throw Brewery

Good Neighbor Night

Attend Good Neighbor Night where a portion of the sales will go to support the North Cascades Institute. This organization inspires environmental stewardship through learning experiences in nature. There will be North Cascades-themed trivia and a raffle with swag and outdoor gear.

Stemma Brewing Co. - West

Game Night at Stemma West

Game Night at Stemma Brewing Co.’s West location offers a relaxed setting for games and conversation. Guests can enjoy a beverage, spend time with friends, and support access to justice in Whatcom County. Donations to LAW Advocates are appreciated.

David Mason- Cold Fire

At Village Books in Fairhaven, this event spotlights poet David Mason and his new collection, Cold Fire. The book ranges from the volcanic rim of the Pacific to the old stories of Greece and India, shaping a meditation on memory, the natural world, love, and artistic creation. Its centerpiece reflects on the Aboriginal practice of cool burning as a tool for caring for the land, then turns to the Ring of Fire and the volcanoes of the Pacific Northwest, considering fire as a source of both renewal and ruin. The poems look closely at family life and aging, and they carry on a dialogue with history and myth. Mason was born in Bellingham and has lived in many places. He served as Colorado’s poet laureate for four years before moving to Tasmania in 2018. His books include The Country I Remember, winner of the Alice Fay Di Castagnola Award, Ludlow: A Verse Novel, winner of the Colorado Book Award, and The Sound: New and Selected Poems and Pacific Light. He has also written four collections of essays and co-edited several textbooks and anthologies. His work has appeared in publications such as The New Yorker, The Weekend Australian, The Australian Book Review, Poetry, The Wall Street Journal, The Times Literary Supplement, The Hudson Review, and The Nation. He has written libretti for operas by Lori Laitman and Tom Cipullo, available on CD from Naxos.

Dancing

Fat Chance Belly Dance Level 1

Level 1 in the FCBD format takes place at Peace Centers each Tuesday, with a Level 2 class offered right after. Attend a single class for $15 or take both the same night for $25. Punch cards are available for $90 and include eight in-person classes with Deb.

Peace Centers

Tuesday Trivia

Participants can test their knowledge at a weekly trivia night hosted by the crepe-making team. Each session features a new theme and plenty of chances to win prizes.

Preschool Open Gym

Preschool Open Gym provides an indoor space for young children to move and play at the Bloedel Donovan Community Building. Families can bring a scooter or another favorite active toy, but bicycles are not allowed. Balls, hoops, mats, and music are provided to keep the fun going. Caregivers can connect with one another while children engage and explore. Staff members are present, and an accompanying adult must supervise each child at all times. This program is intended for children five and under with an adult.

Bloedel Donovan Park

Dharma Yoga

This free, public yoga session with the Red Cedar Zen Community welcomes participants of all levels. The practice is gentle and focuses on building mindfulness through movement. No prior experience is needed, and participants should bring their own yoga mat. Attendees are also welcome to participate in the community’s regular meditation session.

Sansui-ji Temple

Beach Cat Brewing: South Paw

Dolly Nights

Dolly Nights returns to Beach Cat with a feel-good celebration of music and community centered on all things Dolly Parton. The event features favorite Dolly Parton hits, and United Way will highlight Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a program that puts free books into the hands of children. Kid friendly activities include Dolly-themed coloring and story time. It is a relaxed gathering that gives back, offering good vibes, a great cause, and a little country sparkle.

Wild Wednesday

Wild Wednesday at Commercial Street Plaza brings together local nonprofits, tour operators, social groups, and guides who specialize in helping newcomers get started outside. Visitors can talk with representatives, exchange information, and map out fresh ways to explore the PNW this summer. Participating groups include Dragonfly Kayak Tours, North Cascades Institute, Cascade Mountain Ascents, Shifting Gears, Whatcom Mountain Bike Coalition, the City of Bellingham Public Works, Recreation Northwest Trails Coalition, Whatcom Wake Sports, and more. Attendees can ask questions, make connections, and head out inspired for a season of outdoor adventures, perhaps even trying something completely new.

Commercial Street Plaza

Bids, Bites, & Brews

Bids, Bites, and Brews brings supporters together at Wander Brewing to uplift Elf Sanctuary after a major barnyard project. Browse a silent auction with individual pieces, curated bundles, and special experiences such as a guided tour of Elf Sanctuary and a weekend stay at Elf. Sammies Vegan will be on site with plant based dishes, and drinks from Wander Brewing will be available for purchase. Complimentary vegan cookies will be offered while guests explore and bid. Donations of auction items are welcome, and participation helps Elf Sanctuary continue caring for its animals.

Wander Brewing

Explorations Academy Bellingham

Race into Scouting

Enjoy a family-friendly LEGO Pinewood Derby with Cub Scout Pack 4003. Kids in kindergarten through fifth grade will build LEGO cars and race them, while parents can relax in a welcoming setting. It offers an easy way to explore Cub Scouts together. There is no cost, all materials are provided, and friends and siblings are welcome.

Cat Positive and more

Cat Positive, Worrywart (B.C.), and The Hobby share a bill featuring a blend of pop punk, emo, and alternative rock. Admission is $10 in advance and $15 on the day of the show.

Sales & Discounts

Western Wednesday @ AB Crepes

Western Wednesday at AB Crepes brings a daylong student deal on crepes. Students from WWU, WCC, and BTC get 15 percent off throughout the day. On the last Wednesday of each month, karaoke is part of the fun.

Drop-in Social Hours — Bellingham Queer Collective

Visit with friends, make new acquaintances, or simply unwind on your own. You can check out a book, play games, read, listen to music, and enjoy a hot or cold beverage and snack.

Limitless Law PLLC Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting

Limitless Law PLLC is celebrating a new office with an open house and a ribbon cutting ceremony. After 12 years in its previous location, the firm is marking this move with a celebration that offers the community a chance to see the new space. The ribbon cutting will be held with the Bellingham Regional Chamber of Commerce, and the open house is open to clients, neighbors, and anyone who is curious.

Limitless Law PLLC

Northwest Yarns & Mercantile

Thread Thursday - Sashiko

Part of Thread Thursdays, this introductory class with Heather Seevers explores sashiko embroidery, a traditional Japanese method that uses running stitches to create patterns on fabric. Participants can choose a coaster kit or sampler available for purchase at the shop. The class fee is $10, and a sashiko kit is an additional cost.

Whatcom Intergenerational High School

WIHS Plant Exchange

The First Annual WIHS Plant Exchange is a free opportunity to trade plants and find new additions for your garden. Bring extra plants that did not make it into your garden and swap for something different. Participation does not require bringing plants, and anyone with surplus is welcome to share without taking more. Light snacks and tea will be provided. The exchange takes place alongside a regularly scheduled Open House that welcomes prospective students.

10th Annual Cascadia International Women's Film Festival

Marking its tenth year, this festival spotlights films directed by women and is among the few in the United States devoted exclusively to that mission, the only one in the Pacific Northwest with this focus. The program features work from students, emerging voices, and Indigenous filmmakers, with a strong history of global participation. Since its launch in 2017, more than 300 women directors from around the world have had films showcased, and in 2025 over a third of the selections were by women of color. Beyond the screenings, the organization supports filmmakers all year with education in production, exhibition, and distribution. The 2026 edition will be presented in person at The Pickford Film Center, with an online component as well.

Pickford Film Center

Trivia Night

Aegis Taphouse hosts a trivia night presented by Geeks Who Drink.

Aegis Games & Taphouse

Beyond Limits Physical Therapy

Runners Injury Prevention & Treatment Clinic

Runners and walkers can get practical help staying healthy at a free clinic focused on injury prevention and treatment. Expect brief, focused physical therapy screenings and targeted treatment, along with guidance on warm-up drills, exercises, and technique tips to use before a run. The session is led by Ralph Havens, PT, IMTC at Beyond Limits Physical Therapy in Fairhaven, Bellingham. A run blog with additional resources is available.

Stemma Brewing Co. - West

Ginger Trivia

Ginger Trivia at Stemma Brewing Co. - West offers a weekly quiz night hosted by Jeff with approachable questions that span pop culture, astronomy, geography, sports, history, food, and more, plus a sprinkle of local knowledge. Look for occasional picture and music rounds to keep the gameplay varied. It costs $2 per person to participate, teams can include up to 10 players, and cash pool prizes are available.

Beach Cat Brewing: South Paw

Trivia

Beach Cat Brewing South Paw hosts a playful night of trivia paired with craft brews and spirited, friendly competition. Teams of up to six can test their knowledge of random facts and see who walks away with bragging rights.

Tornado Beach

Tornado Beach delivers high energy vocal pop and funk, performing dance-friendly favorites and adding an electro jazz twist to groovy hits from the 60s through today.

Zeeks Pizza

King of the Pier / Dart Tournament

A darts tournament at Waterfront Tavern Seafood and Bar will decide the next King of the Pier. Competitors, from seasoned pros to local legends, are called to the oche to vie for the title.

GlobeTilt Trivia

GlobeTilt presents a trivia event at El Agave Fairhaven, centered on questions that test what you know. All that is needed is an enthusiasm for trivia.

El Agave Fairhaven

Firehouse Arts and Events Center

Chuckanut Radio Hour: Dane Bahr - The Dead Ringer

At Firehouse Arts and Events Center, the Chuckanut Radio Hour highlights local author Dane Bahr alongside music by Washington artist Louis Ledford. Bahr will introduce The Dead Ringer, a novel set during a harsh Montana winter in 1935 that follows Benjamin Kilt after he survives a brutal attack and premature burial at the hands of his bank robbing half brother, Bosco. His return sets off a relentless pursuit of justice. Along the way he encounters Bonnie, a 13-year-old Native American girl he pulls from an abusive situation, and the story unfolds through her memories in later life, tracing the brothers’ tangled past toward a reckoning at the ranch where they grew up. Readers who enjoy the work of Charles Portis, Elmore Leonard, and Annie Proulx will recognize a tale steeped in moral complexity, where questionable acts collide with honorable aims and a man returned from the brink discovers signs of goodness even when the outcome turns dark. Born in Minnesota, Bahr is the author of The Houseboat and Stag, and he lives in Washington State with his wife, watching both his sons and his orchard flourish. Ledford’s set blends classic country with the grit and soul of Americana and alt country.

Michael W. Smith

This event spotlights Michael W. Smith, an artist whose career spans more than forty years and includes over 36 chart-topping songs. He continues to release new music and has earned three Grammy Awards, more than 45 Dove Awards, an American Music Award, induction into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2008, and over 15 million albums sold. His work also extends to philanthropy, including fundraising to fight AIDS in Africa, founding Rocketown in Tennessee as a safe live music venue for young people, and supporting more than 70,000 children through Compassion International, an organization focused on long-term development for children living in poverty. He is currently in the studio on his next record, blending elements of his earliest work with worship-centered lyrics.

CASCADIA Opening Night Party

As the opening night film wraps and the lights rise, the celebration shifts to CASCADIA's Opening Night Party, a ticketed gathering at the Penny Farthing Restaurant and Bar in downtown Bellingham. Guest directors and festival insiders will be on hand, with light late-night fare and a celebratory pour of bubbly setting the tone for candid conversations with the filmmakers that are unique to the weekend. The party begins right after the Opening Night Film at the Pickford Film Center, offering a smooth move from the cinema to a lively social scene. Tickets are $35. IMCO Construction sponsors CASCADIA International Women's Film Festival Opening Night, and Pacific Northwest Media Group is the Opening Night Media Sponsor.

Drop-in Social Hours — Bellingham Queer Collective

Come socialize with friends, meet new people, or spend time alone. You can look at books, play games, read, listen to music, and enjoy a hot or cold drink and a snack.

Cascadia International Women’s Film Festival 10th Anniversary

The Cascadia International Women’s Film Festival is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a program of short and feature films. Bellingham and the Northwest will be showcased as a destination for cinema and inclusive storytelling. Award-winning director Ondi Timoner is the Honored Guest, and highlights of her work will be included in the program. Tickets and passes are available for purchase.

Pickford Film Center

MHS FFA Plant Sale 2026

This year’s plant sale is scheduled across two days, with specific shopping windows on each day.

Meridian High School

Food & Drink

Raclette Night

Raclette Night returns for another round with a simple, shared seating setup. Tickets are $35 and include one plate plus a beverage of your choice. Choose from two seating windows and arrive at any point within your selected slot to help ease crowding. Seating is communal and offered on a first come, first served basis.

Hela Provisions

First Friday - Downtown Bellingham

Downtown Bellingham comes alive each month with First Friday, a community-wide evening that spotlights local creativity, culture, and commerce. Visit galleries and art displays, hear live music, and explore special happenings as businesses stay open later. Places to eat and drink highlight featured dishes, and shops turn into stages for performers and showcases for artists. With new programming every time, it is an easy way to experience the city center in a fresh way and connect with the people and places that make it unique. This edition also aligns with the Children’s Art Walk presented by Allied Arts of Whatcom County, adding even more to discover throughout Downtown Bellingham.

Downtown Bellingham

The Magic of Belonging Spring Fundraiser

Celebrate community and help expand access to homeownership at a spring fundraiser hosted at Chuckanut Bay Distillery. Guests can expect a chef-crafted dinner paired with captivating entertainment, all included with a $75 ticket. The evening centers on wonder, connection, and the shared goal of making affordable homeownership a reality. Cocktail attire is encouraged, with a touch of magic to match the theme.

Chuckanut Bay Distillery

Puzzle Hustle: No Peeking!

Teams of up to four race to finish the same 300 piece jigsaw in 90 minutes, but there is a catch... no peeking at the picture while you build. The three fastest teams win prizes. Open to all ages. Advance registration is required. The activity is held in the Bloedel Donovan Community Building. The cost is $30 per team, with a maximum of four participants and only one person needed to register the group.

Bloedel Donovan Park

Gundam Locals Tournament

At Aegis Games, Gundam enthusiasts gather for local play where participants can try new builds and hone their competitive skills. There is a $6 entry fee. Prizes include store credit that scales with attendance and official promotional items available while supplies last. Players of any experience level are welcome in this friendly community setting.

Aegis Games

An Evening With Director Ondi Timoner

At Mount Baker Theatre, a special evening spotlights award-winning documentarian Ondi Timoner, named Honored Guest by CASCADIA, with a deep look at her body of work and creative approach. She is the only documentary filmmaker to have earned Sundance’s Grand Jury Prize twice, with DIG! and We Live in Public preserved in the Museum of Modern Art’s collection. Her 2022 feature Last Flight Home was shortlisted for the Academy Awards, received an Emmy nomination, and earned both the Visionary Award for Observational Filmmaking and the Humanitas Prize. The program begins with an in depth session on how to make a great documentary, tracing Timoner’s process from first idea through distribution and illustrated with clips from her films. Filmmakers and dedicated cinephiles can expect a candid examination of choices that shape non fiction storytelling. The evening continues with a screening of her new 38 minute film All the Walls Came Down, a portrait of the Altadena community in the aftermath of the Eaton Fire and the determination to rebuild, followed by an audience Q&A. Presented on the MBT Main Stage, with the Harold & Irene Walton Theatre hosting additional activities. Tickets start at $23.10, which includes MBT’s Historic Venue Operations fee that is waived for MBT Members at checkout. The Honored Guest Evening is sponsored by Cascadia Daily News, and the documentary craft program is sponsored by the LeeBron Clay Foundation. A ticketed meet and greet dessert reception with Ondi Timoner takes place in the Walton Theatre right after the main program. An Honored Guest ticket grants entry to the reception, which includes dessert and a drink. Space is limited, and attendance at the film and interview is not required for the reception.

Paint: Chickadee Day Dreamer

A creative session with Date and Paint takes place at El Agave Fairhaven. The restaurant serves fresh, authentic Mexican cuisine and has a full bar with margaritas. The experience encourages participants to relax, socialize, and explore their artistic side by experimenting with colors and collaborating to create something beautiful. Tickets cost $20 for children under 18 and $35 for adults. Food and beverages are not included in the ticket price.

El Agave Fairhaven

Seeds of Hope and Promise

Vox Pacifica presents a program led by conductor Dr. Leslie Guelker-Cone, who previously served as Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities at Western Washington University in Bellingham. Focused on the season's themes of renewal and new beginnings, the performance features guest artists guitarist Eli Schille-Hudson, fiddler Kian Dye, and soprano Ibidunni Ojikutu. Each artist will collaborate with Vox Pacifica in ensemble selections and also share solo performances.

Faith Lutheran Church

Psychic Standup Comedy Night

An evening of sharp comedy woven with tarot insights comes to Bellingham as Karen Rontowski brings her Psychic Standup to The Majestic. Drawing on 35 years in standup and 25 years reading tarot, she blends quick wit with uncanny card pulls for a night that mixes predictions and punchlines. Her credits include two DryBar Comedy Specials with more than 40 million views, along with appearances on the Late Show with David Letterman, Comedy Central, Comics Unleashed, ComedyDotCom, and SiriusXM Radio. The show features 30 to 40 minutes of standup, followed by live tarot readings as Karen takes questions from the audience. Fast-paced improvisation keeps both believers and skeptics engaged, and each performance offers a fresh take on the future with plenty of laughs. You do not need to believe in tarot to enjoy the show. This event is for mature audiences only. A cash bar will be available and outside food or beverages are not permitted. Street parking and parking behind the venue are available. Ticket prices increase by 10 dollars on the day of the show. Refunds are only issued if the show is cancelled by the venue or producer. Events are subject to change or cancellation. Special filming will take place. By entering, attendees consent to photography, audio and video recording, and to the release and use of their name, image, and voice for any purpose in connection with Karen Rontowski, Comic Cure Inc., Majestic LLC, and Enlightened Productions, Inc. Entry constitutes a waiver and release of related claims, including rights of privacy and publicity, defamation, copyright, and any fees for use. If you do not agree, please do not enter the premises.

The Majestic

Performing Arts Center Western Washington University

Western Symphony Orchestra: Concerto Competition Winners

The Western Symphony Orchestra features three student winners of the annual WWU Concerto Competition in a program spotlighting marimba, piano, and voice. Jacob Anderson performs Emmanuel Séjourné’s Concerto for Marimba and Strings. Pianist Emilie Buhl plays Qigang Chen’s Er Huang, a work that weaves Chinese opera themes with the colors of French impressionism. Soprano Mia Ward sings three arias from Daniel Catán’s Florencia en el Amazonas, reflecting the spirit of magical realism associated with Gabriel García Márquez. The evening concludes with Paul Hindemith’s Symphonic Metamorphosis on Themes by Carl Maria von Weber, a reimagining of Weber’s music for full orchestra. Presented at the Performing Arts Center at Western Washington University. Ticket proceeds support the WSO concert tour of Germany planned for June 2027.

First Congregational Church

Kulshan Chorus: We Tell Each Other Stories

Kulshan Chorus presents a program that weaves storytelling with choral music at First Congregational Church of Bellingham, UCC. Guest artists Eva Abram and Harvest Moon share engaging tales while the chorus provides a resonant musical backdrop. Centered on the enduring human practice of storytelling, the event emphasizes how shared narratives build connection and empathy. Guided by Artistic Director Dustin Willetts, it invites listeners to step away from daily noise, settle in with a fireside spirit, and rekindle a sense of wonder. General admission is $25.

But Before We Get Started Pt. 1

But Before We Get Started Pt. 1 brings Soundchamba West to Karate Church in Bellingham as they begin a warmup for their tour, joined by Bundaboy$ and CHRVNS. Tickets are $7 in advance and $10 on site.

Karate Church

All Night Ball — Co-ed Adult Softball Tournament

A co-ed adult softball tournament lights up Joe Martin Field with nighttime games and a lively atmosphere throughout the weekend. Hosted by the Bellingham Bells, the event features late-night matchups, team camaraderie, and memorable moments on the field. Space is limited for teams, and the first 10 to register receive $75 off the entry fee.

Joe Martin Field

Downtown Bellingham Partnership

26th Annual Children’s Art Walk

Downtown Bellingham becomes a showcase for youth creativity during the 26th Annual Children’s Art Walk. Student artists from Whatcom County present their work throughout the downtown area, creating an opportunity to appreciate art made by the community’s youngest creators.

Procession of the Species

The Procession of the Species returns to Downtown Bellingham with a joyful community parade celebrating art, ecology, and togetherness. Costumes inspired by wildlife move through the heart of the city, and the procession concludes with a festival at Maritime Heritage Park featuring live performances, chalk art, wildlife education, vendors, and more. Free family craft days help people create their costumes, with supplies provided, all ages welcome, and no experience needed. Community partners, volunteers, and local businesses play a part in the celebration, and for the first time vendors will be part of the event at Maritime Heritage Park. Participating shops offer discounts and treats to those in costume. Organized by Gabriel’s Art Kids and COB Parks & Recreation, supported by City of Bellingham lodging tax funds.

Downtown Bellingham

Seeds of Hope and Promise

Vox Pacifica presents a choral program at Faith Lutheran Church led by Dr. Leslie Guelker-Cone, former Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities at Western Washington University in Bellingham. The music focuses on the season’s themes of renewal and fresh starts. Guest artists include guitarist Eli Schille-Hudson, fiddler Kian Dye, and soprano Ibidunni Ojikutu, each appearing with the choir and also offering solo pieces.

Faith Lutheran Church

Freedom of Movement Gala & Comedy Hour

At Hotel Leo, this annual Freedom of Movement celebration blends a lively fundraiser with entertainment. The program features a VIP dinner followed by a comedy hour benefiting the Arthritis Foundation Great West, and attendees may choose to participate in one or both portions. Additional details and an invitation will be shared.

Hotel Leo

Lights Camera Give-A Night in Old Hollywood SQHS PTSA Auction Fundraiser

An Old Hollywood themed auction fundraiser brings Squalicum families and staff together for an evening of dinner, drinks, dessert, and lively bidding. Hosted by the PTSA, this gathering raises funds that support a wide range of school programs and events, with proceeds benefiting every student. Attendees can team up to fill a table with friends or choose individual tickets and be seated with new friends, creating a social night that blends community connection with meaningful support for kids.

CSCC 2026 Practice #1

An autocross practice marks the first event at the new site at Bellis Fair Mall. The day begins with a drivers meeting, then continues with autocross runs on course. Participants should register through Scorekeeper.

Bellis Fair Mall

Dancing

Sunset Silent Disco

Move to the music with friends in the fresh air at Zuanich Point Park, taking in ocean views as the sun sets over Bellingham Bay. A diverse playlist will be broadcast by radio transmitter to provided headphones, creating a shared silent disco experience. Headsets are available on a first come, first served basis. Everyone is welcome, including people of all shapes, sizes, colors, genders, sexual identities, ages, and abilities. Wear comfortable clothing and footwear, and dress for the weather. Free parking is available in the lot next to the park, and public restrooms are on site. Meet at the statue. Donations are appreciated and can be made by Venmo, PayPal, credit card, or with cash or check at the event. If dancing in public feels a little awkward, this gathering encourages personal agency, authentic movement, nonjudgment, and joyful togetherness. Share a few songs and a sunset, relax, and enjoy the simple reminder that every breath and heartbeat is part of the dance of life.

Zuanich Point Park

Budos Band

The Budos Band delivers the hypnotic, horn-forward sound that defines them, captured on VII, their first full-length since Long in the Tooth in 2020. Produced by guitarist Tom Brenneck with engineering by Simon Guzmán, the album packs 11 concise new tracks written in just three days after two years away from the studio. The music folds sweaty, hard-hitting funk together with Turkish psych and riff-heavy Zambian rock, all driven by heavy horns that thread melodies through muscular rhythms and lock into precise, percussive accents. On the record, the range stretches from the punch of Escape from Ptenoda City to the swirling atmosphere of Night Raid and the grit of Overlander. Recorded in California, VII is the group’s first full-length on Diamond West, the independent label founded in 2023 by Jared Tankel and Brenneck, and it marks the first Budos album to feature percussionist Rich Tarrana, formerly of the Frightnrs. The result refines ideas first explored on Burnt Offering while remaining unmistakably their own, a genre-blurring language the band has honed over two decades.

Nobody’s Peach and more

A three-band bill brings a mix of alt country and folk rock with performances by Nobody’s Peach, The Jesus Chords, and Will Rainier & the Pines. Tickets are $12 in advance or $15 on the day of the show.

10th Anniversary Red Carpet Party & Laurels Presentation

A red carpet celebration marks a decade of CASCADIA at the Whatcom Museum’s Lightcatcher Building, with two art galleries setting the scene for an evening of festivity and film community. Guests arrive on the carpet, pose for photos with the festival directors, then head inside to enjoy drinks, late night bites, and desserts, and dance to the sounds of DJ Nico Sanchez while mingling with CASCADIA’s directors, filmmakers, panelists, and special guests. The night concludes with laurel certificates presented to this year’s festival directors, a milestone ten years in the making. Capacity is limited, and tickets are $40. Sponsored by Audrey Sager and Steve Gellerman. A salute to ten years of vision, passion, and cinema with the women who are directing the future.

Lightcatcher Museum

Retro Dance Party

Experience a floor-shaking celebration filled with retro dance favorites from Billy Idol, Duran Duran, Madonna, The Cars, Devo, and Simple Minds. This is more than a show, it delivers a true party atmosphere. Attendees are encouraged to dress to impress and be ready to dance.

Bar Two Eleven

Paint From Your Soul: The Mother Archetype

At Whatcom Art Center, this guided painting experience centers on the Mother Archetype and invites participants to create a portrait that arises from inner reflection. Through a supportive creative process, women explore the restorative potential of art, tune in to the heart, and bring forward aspects of themselves ready to be acknowledged. The setting emphasizes connection and transformation, offering a warm space for intuitive expression and self discovery. The fee is $333.

Whatcom Art Center

LSM

Fresh, local catches from the Salish Sea take center stage as Lummi Seafood Market appears at Bellingham Dockside and at the Bellingham Farmers Market. Look for on-site filleting by the team at the Fishermen’s Pavilion in Squalicum Harbor and at the market, with a rotating selection influenced by weather and availability. Offerings often include live geoduck clams, fresh halibut and lingcod available whole or as fillets, and local king and coho salmon offered whole or filleted. There are also frozen and canned choices such as spot shrimp, geoduck, and smoked salmon, plus Salmon Woman cans featuring coho, king, and sockeye in original or jalapeño flavors, along with new smoked salmon coho and king varieties. Certain specialty Salmon Woman cans, including new albacore tuna and early spring Salish Sea king salmon, are available only in-store. Items labeled refreshed are harvested in season, frozen whole right away, and then prepared for market to preserve quality and flavor.

Bellingham Dockside

Bellingham Dockside Market

Local fishermen converge at Squalicum Harbor to sell their catch and harvest directly at the dock. Signs guide shoppers into the harbor to browse the offerings, choose what looks best, pay the fishermen, and head home with seafood for the table. Arriving early helps secure the broadest selection. Alongside the catch for take-home cooking, the market now welcomes artists, crafters, and hot and prepared food vendors. Every food stall features seafood options, and the art and craft booths highlight maritime and fishing themes. Browse for gifts, enjoy a seafood focused lunch, and connect with the local waterfront community.

Fishermen's Pavilion

Dads & Donuts

A monthly meetup that centers on social connection for dads, father figures, and partners, with an emphasis on the mental health and support needs of non birthing parents. New dads are finding their path in their own time, and this welcoming space brings that conversation to the forefront through shared experiences and community. Babies and young children are welcome, and participants may come with or without children ages 0 to 5. Registration is by donation, $5 to $20, through the event website.

Just Poké Bellingham Downtown

Creative Corner Saturday Market

Explore a community market featuring artisans from the area, with a variety of creative items and unique finds. Browse at your own pace and support local talent as you look for a new favorite.

Classic Belly Dance Classes

Learn classic belly dance with Deb in a welcoming weekly class. Drop-in attendance is available, and each session costs $15. Classes take place at Unique Technique Dance Studio in Bellingham, WA.

Unique Technique Dance

PetSmart (4379 Guide Meridian St, Bellingham, WA)

PetSmart 1st Saturday of the month

At PetSmart, this event offers a chance to meet a variety of cats, kittens, and dogs as part of PetSmart’s Adoption Program. Spend time interacting with the animals, from cat cuddles to playful moments with kittens and meet and greets with dogs. With many pets gathered in one place, you can meet multiple animals during a single visit.

Bellingham Public Library - Central Library

Small Looms

Enjoy a hands-on session featuring weaving and fiber arts projects, welcoming library patrons of all ages. Members of the Whatcom Weavers Guild will bring projects to demonstrate and provide chances for firsthand practice. The session takes place in the SkillShare Space at the Central Library.

Musical A to Z: Part 5, M-N-O

The Musical A to Z project continues with its fifth chapter, featuring pianist Kay Zavislak alongside special guest Jensina Oliver. Their collaboration anchors this installment of the ongoing series, carrying the alphabetical concept forward through a shared performance.

Private Home

Community Work Party

Lend a hand at Big Rock Garden Park during a community work party in recognition of National Garden Meditation Day. Volunteers will work alongside the Friends of Big Rock Garden Park to clean sculptures, remove invasive plants, spread mulch, and take on other seasonal tasks throughout the garden. This opportunity is open to all ages.

Big Rock Garden Park

Best Western Plus Bellingham

PWS Roadshow Stop

Gather in the Fox Hall Conference Room for a community meet-up that brings together PWS families, professionals, and friends. Attendance is free, made possible by sponsor Soleno Therapeutics, and registration is required through the event’s ticketing option. The focus is on building a strong local network and meeting needs close to home. A discounted room rate at the event hotel is available for those who choose to stay, and the group code PWSA can be used when booking.

Natural Dyes & Herbal Sachet Wildcrafting Workshop

This workshop explores coloring with naturally sourced dyes and the making of herbal sachets through wildcrafting.

Chuckanut Center

Wicked Wiz of Oz

Seattle Men’s Chorus brings an Oz-themed concert to Mount Baker Theatre, celebrating the worlds of Wicked, The Wiz, and The Wizard of Oz. The program features medleys that pair Defying Gravity with Somewhere Over the Rainbow, Dancing Through Life with If I Only Had a Brain, and Ease on Down the Road with Follow the Yellow Brick Road. Expect singing and dancing alongside costumes and video, all under a rainbow of color.

Mamas Handwork Circle

A relaxed handwork circle offers space for mamas to bring whatever they are making, including knitting, crochet, sewing, painting, beading, weaving, and other textile projects. All experience levels are invited, including beginners, pregnant folks, and those attending with babies and kids. The gathering opens with a gentle check in, then provides plenty of unhurried time to create, share tips, and connect. A donation of 5 to 10 dollars, if able, helps cover operations.

Burning Down the House: A Talking Heads Dance Party

An all-vinyl dance party led by DJ Mandy Moorhol spotlights Talking Heads and the enduring impact of their catalog. Expect tracks from the pioneers of art rock, along with selections linked to their contemporaries, collaborators, influences, side projects, and protégés. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 on the day of the show.

Plant/Seed swap and May Day celebrations

This May Day gathering features vendors alongside a swap of plants and starts. The celebration continues with a Maypole dance and wraps up with a potluck.

Samish Hill

Shelter Pet Yoga

Playful yoga meets furry companionship at Bellis Fair Mall, featuring gentle movement alongside bunnies from Bunanza Rabbit Rescue Ranch and Adoption Center or puppies from Happy Tails Happy Homes. Three yoga play dates are available, with options to choose one or enjoy all. Expect a cheerful atmosphere with time to stretch, breathe, and savor sweet animal interactions, plus a nod to the bunny personality Remy LeBun.

Bellis Fair Mall

Vegan Baked Goods & Plant Sale

Returning after last year's event, this vegan baked goods and plant sale brings sweet treats and greenery to Evil Bikes. Participants may donate vegan baked goods, bring extra plant starts or houseplants, or shop the sale, with all proceeds helping the animals at Elf Sanctuary. New Public Food Truck will be on site serving vegan food, and hot or cold drinks are available inside The Landing while browsing. Organizers thank Evil Bikes for sharing the space.

Evil Bikes

MAY4

Star Wars: Return of the Jedi

Mount Baker Theatre presents Star Wars: Return of the Jedi, spotlighting the saga’s pivotal confrontation between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader. Costumes are encouraged, whether you stand with the Rebellion or the Empire. Ahead of the program, local vendors will be in the lobby with nerdy merchandise to browse. Ticket availability is phased, beginning with Director-Level Members and above, followed by all members, then the general public.

MAY5

Lucy Dacus

Lucy Dacus, an indie-rock singer-songwriter from Richmond, Virginia, will be performing in Bellingham.

MAY5

El Sueñito Brewing Company

Noches de Trivia

Enjoy an evening of bar trivia. The first round begins at 7pm and the second starts at 8pm. You can participate in one or both rounds.

Marc Fryt- The Guide to Urban Fly Fishing

At Village Books in Fairhaven, author and guide Marc Fryt shares a city-focused approach to fly fishing that highlights how urban waterways can be accessible, affordable, and full of unexpected adventure. His book explains why fishing close to home can be so rewarding and how to make the most of the diverse ecosystems found in cities, offering practical guidance, resources, and stories from anglers in places such as Los Angeles, Denver, Minneapolis, Boston, New York City, and Columbus. It also places urban angling within a broader ecological movement that rethinks how people connect with their communities and local waters. Fryt is a US Army veteran who first turned to fly fishing to decompress on mountain rivers during his service as a helicopter pilot and operations officer. After moving to Columbus he embraced urban fishing with support from local mentors, and he now guides in Spokane. His writing and photography have appeared in publications including The Drake, Flyfish Journal, Backcountry Journal, Fly Culture, Covers, Project Upland, Kayak Angler, and American Fly Fishing. For this project he brought together the perspectives of urban anglers, consulted experts across disciplines, and reviewed scientific research to present clear, useful information for newcomers as well as experienced fishers who want to explore city waters.

May Open Jam

An open jam fills the Blue Room in Bellingham with spontaneous collaboration among local musicians. Players who enjoy improvisation can sign up on site to share the stage with others from the community, and participants of every experience level are welcome. A complete set of backline gear is provided by Bellingham Helps Access Music, making it easy to step up and play. For questions, contact AJarAjar Collective. Powered by BHAM.

Blue Room

Queer Writes!

It offers a relaxed, open hangout at the BQC Center that works whether you want company or a little quiet. Attendees can connect with friends or meet new people, try games, spend some time reading, enjoy music, and help themselves to a hot or cold drink. Book checkout will be available soon.

BQC Center

Bellingham Senior Activity Center

Queer Qigong — Bellingham Queer Collective

Join a gentle Qigong practice that welcomes all bodies and abilities. Rooted in ancient Chinese energy movement and breath, this class is designed to support nervous system regulation, embodied resilience, and connection to self and community, especially for queer, trans, and gender-expansive folks. Explore slow, intentional movement, breath awareness, and meditative stillness to help cultivate vital energy, clear stagnation, and restore balance. Bring water, comfortable clothing, and your breath. No prior experience is needed, movements can be adapted.

Stemma Brewing Co. - West

A Marvel-ous Gathering: Community Mini-Festival

This free community mini-festival at Stemma Brewing Co. - West centers on Marvel Comics and community fun while raising additional funds for the Bellingham Arts Academy for Youth. Vendors include Mo's Parlor, Miraculous Eventz, The Little Refinery, and Things By Aeroscorpian. The celebration is tied to the annual trivia fundraiser, this year titled Earth's Mightiest Trivia | Marvel Trivia Fundraiser Benefitting BAAY, and a ticket is required to participate in the trivia event. More information will be shared soon.

Volcano: A Science Comedy Show

Comedian and scientist Ben Miller delivers a playful, curiosity-fueled stand-up show that blends humor with science. Drawing on his 2023 stint as artist in residence at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, where he became the first stand-up comic chosen for the role, he shares sharp, accessible takes on volcano science, insects, Hawaiian history, volcanoes on other worlds, and the lighter side of cats and cookies. Based in New York City and nine years into his career, he has appeared at clubs including Broadway Comedy Club, Carolines, and The Stand, and once held the top ranking in NYC roast battles. With a degree in Materials Science and Engineering, he has worked with a science bus, used a 3D printer to make cookies, and even broken up a few bar fights while performing. His debut hour, Stand-Up Science, sold out its entire run at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2022, and he now performs around the world.

Drop-in Social Hours — Bellingham Queer Collective

Stop by to spend time with friends, meet someone new, or simply relax on your own. You can browse books, play games, read, listen to music, and enjoy complimentary hot or cold drinks and snacks.

The GBU

Get ready for an evening filled with unscripted and energetic improv comedy where you, the audience, get to participate. The GBU embraces comedy that includes clever scenes, chaotic missteps, and bizarre moments that will leave you laughing. A cast of special guest performers, including Upfront veterans, fan favorites, rising stars, and new voices, ensures that each show is unique.

The Upfront Theatre

A Wildcrafter's Workshop: Pine Needle Basketry

This workshop focuses on pine needle basketry. More information is available.

Chuckanut Center

Heather Lea- Riding Full Circle

At Village Books in Fairhaven, Heather Lea shares candid, often funny accounts from life on two wheels and the demanding, beautiful lessons that travel can bring. After meeting Dave Sears online, the pair decided within a month to sell most of what they owned and set out to ride around the world by motorcycle. She began with limited riding experience and a fiercely independent nature, while he was nearly a stranger with an ambitious plan. The journey tested them with wrecks, injuries, roadside disagreements, and dreams put on hold, yet it also revealed unexpected kindness from people they met along the way. Drawing from her book Riding Full Circle, Lea explores love and risk in motion, how trust with another person is built mile by mile, and how the road teaches lessons no traveler can predict. A Canadian-born adventure writer who has spent much of her life in mountain towns, she once launched a lifestyle magazine before trading it for the open road with someone she had just met. Two years, 40 countries, and 55,000 miles later, she continues to ride and write, sharing the story behind that journey.

Aikido Peace Education Center

Spring into Spring JAM

The Spring into Spring JAM gathers the Contact Improvisation community in Bellingham for a weekend of dancing, exploration and connection. Hosted by Carmen and Rajendra Serber, it features a workshop with Delia Brett, with additional facilitation by Soleil Chappelle and Peggy Protz. Live music from Serge Gubelman and surprise guests supports classes, scores, labs and plenty of open jamming. The organizers emphasize a welcoming, safe environment while encouraging experimentation and collective process. Activities take place at the Aikido Peace Education Center, also called the Dojo, inside the Masonic Hall in downtown Bellingham, Washington. There are no drop-ins for individual sessions. Participation options include the Friday workshop with Delia Brett, which also covers the evening session, the Jam Weekend that runs from Friday evening through Sunday, or the full package combining both. Sliding scale pricing is offered. Rates for the workshop are $90 to $180, the weekend is $100 to $300, and the combined option is $180 to $350. Later pricing adjusts to $110 to $200 for the workshop, $150 to $300 for the weekend, and $230 to $350 for the combined option. Capacity is limited and prices were raised due to increased rent. After registering and paying, participants receive access to a self-serve spreadsheet to coordinate housing and carpooling. A farewell potluck dinner at Carmen and Rajendra’s home follows the jam on Sunday.

Fairhaven Middle School Gym

Cascade Juggling Festival 2026

Back in Bellingham for a third year, this festival gathers circus artists who work with props from the Salish Sea and beyond. Juggling, spinning, and flow arts are at the center of this community gathering.

Downtown Bellingham Partnership

Food & Drink

Spring Wine Walk

The Spring Wine Walk is happening again! Explore around 20 downtown shops that will have pop-up tasting rooms featuring regional wines. With your admission, youll get tasting tickets to use for wine samples at any of the shops. If you like a particular wine, you can buy a bottle at that location. VIP and general admission tickets are available. With admission, youll receive tasting tickets redeemable at all participating shops, event swag, a cotton tote bag, a stemless wine glass, and deals at each participating venue.

Bellingham Belly Dance Party "Hafla"

At Karate Church, a community belly dance party known as a hafla brings together students and professionals to perform and socialize in a relaxed and supportive setting. It is a welcoming place to try a new routine or dance purely for fun. Before the performances, a shop and swap in a side room invites participants to bring used or gently worn costumes and accessories. Participants handle their own pricing and labeling. A few communal tables will be available, and anyone bringing many items is encouraged to bring an extra table. Setup is available for sellers. Performers may submit music in advance or bring it on a device. The event is family friendly and free, and it is open to all. Teachers are invited to bring handouts about their classes and events to share. This hafla’s flyer features Badia Masabni, often called the grandmother of modern day belly dance and the godmother of oriental dance. Each event highlights a different dancer.

Karate Church

Anne H. Putnam in conversation with Ashleigh Renard

At Village Books in Fairhaven, Anne H. Putnam and Ashleigh Renard sit down for a candid conversation about Anne’s new memoir, the complexities of writing about love, and what happens when real relationships meet the truth-telling of the page. They explore whether examining a partnership in print can put it under strain, how to honor readers who are still discovering the hopeful chapters of their first books even as life takes a different turn, and what it requires to craft second memoirs that revisit and reframe earlier love stories. The discussion highlights Make Do and Mend, which follows Anne through betrayal, a called-off wedding, and a move back to San Francisco, then traces her uneven climb out of depression with the help of friends, therapy, and a string of misfires in dating. Along the way she weighs reconciliation against starting fresh. The book will resonate with anyone who has looped Taylor Swift breakup songs or realized they overshared about an ex on a first date. Anne H. Putnam is a writer and editor, the author of Navel Gazing and numerous essays, and she makes her home in Northwest Washington with her family. Ashleigh Renard is an ice-skating coach turned publishing coach and nonprofit director, the author of Swing, and the creator of the widely viewed How to Keep Monogamy Hot video series. After her debut and viral content, she confronted the unraveling of the marriage she had worked to improve for two decades, and she brings nearly three decades of coaching experience helping people identify strengths, align with purpose, and contribute to meaningful change.

Arne Hanna Aquatic Center

Autism Family Swim Social

Families in the autism community can enjoy free swimming at Arne Hanna Aquatic Center. FACES Northwest has rented the entire facility to create a comfortable, welcoming experience. All children under 7 must have an adult in the water within arm’s reach at all times, regardless of swimming ability. At least one parent or caregiver must remain on site to supervise. No registration is required. Please bring a swimsuit and a towel.

Patty Larkin and more

This concert brings together Patty Larkin and Lucy Kaplansky. Patty Larkin pairs adventurous, virtuosic guitar work with soulful singing and imaginative, emotionally rich lyrics, and she has been expanding the singer songwriter landscape for more than three decades. Lucy Kaplansky began performing in Chicago folk clubs as a teenager, moved to New York City soon after high school, and became a sought after collaborator within a closely knit community of writers and performers. Her tenth album, The Lucy Story, released in January 2025, gathers mostly unreleased recordings that map her path from home tapes at sixteen to appearances in major venues, clubs, and studios throughout the United States and Europe. The collection moves through jazz, bluegrass, traditional folk, country, and pop, underscoring the wide range of her voice.

Wicked Timing

Wicked Timing makes its first appearance at MJ’s Martini Bar with a set of feel-good tunes. The group speaks highly of the venue, describing it as a standout spot for martinis.

MJ's Martini Bar

SOLD OUT — Bellingham Kids' Fishing Derby - BELLINGHAM, WA 2026

The Bellingham Kids’ Fishing Derby is a children’s fishing activity. Online sign ups are unavailable. For registration details, contact the organizers during normal business hours.

Whatcom Falls Park

Canterbury Court Apartments

May Fiber Arts and Culinary Meetup

This bi-monthly meetup brings together fiber arts enthusiasts and culinary adventurers for hands-on making, conversation, and a shared potluck at Canterbury Court Apartments. Bring your project, your questions, and your curiosity. The space welcomes crafting, informal mentoring, and resource sharing, and participants are welcome to post requests or questions in advance. If you plan to contribute to the potluck, please provide an ingredient list for display and, when possible, minimize overlap and avoid common allergens or restricted items such as almonds, gluten, dairy, and meat. For parking, do not use covered spaces, as those are reserved. Some community members have severe sensitivities to nuts and strong scents, so please avoid bringing or using anything that could trigger a reaction. This gathering is hosted by the Shire of Thornwold, a branch of the Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc., and serves as an official channel for the group. All participants are expected to uphold SCA core values, act with courtesy, honor, chivalry, and respect, comply with SCA policy and modern law, and refrain from harassment or bullying. Hate speech is not tolerated, including speech or symbols that offend, threaten, or insult individuals or groups based on race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or other traits.

Lucy Dacus

Lucy Dacus takes the stage with opener FIGHTMASTER. The musician from Virginia has been praised by Rolling Stone as one of the foremost songwriters of her generation. Her solo albums include No Burden (2016), Historian (2018), Home Video (2021), and Forever Is A Feeling (2025). In 2023 she had a landmark year with boygenius, her band with Phoebe Bridgers and Julien Baker, whose album the record earned broad acclaim and three GRAMMY Awards. Forever Is A Feeling drew recognition from Variety for its romantic spirit and reached number one on both the Billboard Rock Album Chart and the Billboard Folk/Americana Album Chart. After that release she further proved her live presence, touring worldwide and selling out notable venues including Radio City, Red Rocks, and the O2 Academy Brixton.

Holidays

SOLD OUT — Mother's Day Party at Big Rock Garden Park - BELLINGHAM, WA 2026

Online sign ups are not available for this activity. To register, contact the organizers during regular business hours for guidance. The Friends of Big Rock Garden Park are mentioned in connection with this activity.

Big Rock Garden Park

Wander Women Sunday Adventures

This group is for women-identifying individuals of all ages and skill levels, and meets on Sundays.

Wander Brewing

MAY11

Bellingham Public Library - Central Library

Resource Navigation with Community Health Plan of Washington

Meet with Adrian, a Community Health Worker for Whatcom County with Community Health Plan of Washington, to get one-on-one support navigating local resources, understanding insurance benefits, and more. Individuals without Community Health Plan of Washington coverage can still receive assistance with resource navigation, but plan-specific benefits are available only to members. This takes place in the SkillShare Space at the Central Library.

MAY13

Sustainability Social Hour

Connect with sustainability-minded people in a relaxed setting focused on joy, collaboration, and community building. This casual social hour takes place at Kulshan Brewing - K2 and welcomes everyone. Organized as a quarterly series in collaboration with Maul Foster Alongi and ReSources, it is a friendly way to share ideas, meet like minded attendees, and spark meaningful connections.

Kulshan Brewing Co

MAY13

Tig Notaro: Out of Nowhere

This event spotlights Tig Notaro, a Mississippi-born comedian who also works as an actor, writer, director, producer, and podcast host. A nominee for Emmy, Grammy, WGA, and SAG honors, she has been named by Rolling Stone among the 50 greatest stand-up comics. Her HBO special Boyish Girl Interrupted earned nominations from both the Emmys and the Grammys, and the Netflix documentary Tig received a GLAAD nomination. She wrote, produced, and starred in the partly autobiographical Amazon Prime Video series One Mississippi, which earned praise from critics and several award nominations. Notaro co-hosts the comedy podcast Handsome with Fortune Feimster and Mae Martin. Her memoir I’m Just a Person is a New York Times bestseller. She also released Drawn, the first fully animated stand-up special for HBO. Her newest special, Tig Notaro: Hello Again, is on Prime Video and has earned multiple Emmy nominations.

MAY13

SOLD OUT — Badminton Blitz

Badminton Blitz offers a fast-paced indoor badminton experience with a playful spin on tournament play. Participants switch courts between matches and can play up to four games each week. For each game, partners are assigned to keep matchups fresh. This event takes place at Bloedel Donovan Park.

Bloedel Donovan Park

MAY14

G. Leigh Lyons- Avery McShane

An author event with G. Leigh Lyons showcases the fast-paced Avery McShane adventure series in the Readings Gallery at Village Books in Fairhaven. In these stories set in the Venezuelan jungle, eleven-year-old Avery and his friends, the Machacas, retreat to a secret treehouse and are thrust into a mystery after a cowboy is found dead and talk spreads of missing silver spurs. A perilous visit to the forbidden banana plantation run by Pablo Malo brings a harrowing encounter with guard dogs and deeper questions. To get to the truth, the boys must be brave and face dangers that reach beyond the jungle before the clock runs out. This free event also highlights the experiences that shaped the series. Born in California, G. Leigh Lyons grew up in Venezuela, Ecuador, and Iran. He later spent three decades as a geologist and business executive and attended Harvard Business School. His work took him and his family to Bolivia, Argentina, and Mexico, and he draws on those years abroad in crafting Avery McShane’s adventures.

MAY14

Tig Notaro: Out of Nowhere

This event features Tig Notaro, a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, and podcast host. She hails from Mississippi, is a nominee for Emmy, Grammy, WGA, and SAG honors, and was recognized by Rolling Stone as one of the 50 greatest stand-up comics. Her HBO special Boyish Girl Interrupted earned both Emmy and Grammy nominations, and the Netflix documentary Tig received a GLAAD Award nomination. She created, produced, and starred in the semi-autobiographical series One Mississippi, co-hosts the comedy podcast Handsome with Fortune Feimster and Mae Martin, and authored the New York Times bestselling memoir I’m Just a Person. Her HBO special Drawn was the first fully animated stand-up special. Most recently, Tig Notaro: Hello Again premiered on Prime Video and earned multiple Emmy nominations.

MAY14

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro brings a wide-ranging career in comedy and entertainment to Mount Baker Theatre. Originally from Mississippi, Notaro is a nominee for Emmy, Grammy, WGA, and SAG honors and is known as a comedian and podcast host as well as an actor, writer, director, and producer.

Lara Messersmith-Glavin- RUINER

At Village Books in Fairhaven, Lara Messersmith-Glavin presents her newest book, Ruiner, an epic fantasy set in a world where warfare has been replaced by contests of storycraft. Tellers face each other by shaping storylight, and a tale lost in combat can take a piece of its creator with it. Early praise highlights immersive world-building, memorable characters, and a propulsive narrative that explores power, play, community ties, and social systems. The story follows Kell, a ritual lorist who guides her people across a shifting desert using sacred pulsar stones. When the imperial capital of Soogway seizes those stones for mining, she travels to the city as her clan’s envoy and a reluctant combat teller if diplomacy falters. It also follows Shade, a resourceful genderqueer street fighter and gifted storyteller from the city’s underground circuits, whose training with a secretive patron reveals dangerous new abilities. As the first book in the Tellers series, Ruiner brings clashing worldviews to the forefront as characters confront an encroaching extractivist power. The novel delves into trauma, the cost of resistance, and the nature of violence when stories themselves are the battleground. Messersmith-Glavin is the author of the award-winning essay collection Spirit Things. She writes nonfiction and speculative work, teaches creative writing, coaches movement practices for all bodies, and serves on the editorial board of Perspectives on Anarchist Theory magazine. She lives in the Pacific Northwest and enjoys forests, crows, tide pools, and collecting languages, patterns, and magical objects.

Habitat's 7th Annual Trashion Show!

At Bellingham Circus Guild, Habitat Whatcom hosts the seventh annual celebration of fashion crafted from reclaimed materials. Local designers embrace an earth focused haute couture theme, transforming recycled, repurposed and discarded items into striking runway looks. The program includes a full runway show, games, snacks and drinks, both a silent and a live auction, and the popular Brown Bag contest. Proceeds support affordable homeownership in Whatcom County while showcasing creative, sustainable reuse in the community. Designer applications are open for this edition of the Trashion Show.

Bellingham Circus Guild

SoundStation

SoundStation, a lively five piece cover band from Bellingham, delivers a high energy mix of classic, indie, and pop rock and roll.

Skylark's Beer Garden

Angus Mac Bell- Adventure Ace: Valley of the Giant Snakes

Local author Mac Bell presents the first book in his new children’s Adventure Ace series at Village Books in Fairhaven. The tale begins when Ace crash lands his supersonic jet in a strange valley filled with wonder and slithering danger. He journeys through a forest of giant mushrooms and comes face to face with fanged, oversized creatures, blending fast-paced action with a playful spirit. General admission is free, with an optional ticket that includes a copy of Adventure Ace: Valley of the Giant Snakes purchased in advance. Bell has been crafting adventure stories since childhood and earned a BA in Media/Theater Arts from Montana State University. Inspired by classic cartoons and a desire to spark kids’ imaginations, he introduces Valley of the Giant Snakes as the opening installment of the series.

Theater

Michael Carbonaro: Wonderboy

At Mount Baker Theatre, Michael Carbonaro, known from truTV’s The Carbonaro Effect, delivers a live performance packed with surprising illusions, offbeat humor, and family-friendly fun. After his first theater tour, he introduced his live show Carbonaro: Lies on Stage, and now presents a charismatic mix of comedy and inventive magic that leaves audiences of all ages amazed.

Interurban Trail Fairhaven

Run Like a Girl Half Marathon/10k/3k

Celebrate the spirit of Other Mother’s Day with a run that centers on you. Run Like a Girl features half marathon, 10K, and 3K distances on the Interurban Trail in Fairhaven, offering a chance to step back from caring for loved ones, pets, plants, and children and to tap into your own strength. All proceeds support scholarships for the Girls on the Run program.

DEAL - An Evening of Grateful Dead Music

DEAL brings a high-energy, plugged-in four-piece sound to The Shakedown, celebrating the music of the Grateful Dead with respect and a bold creative streak. Two sets unfold on a foundation of tight rhythms and freewheeling improvisation, diving into experimental jams that chase unexpected paths and keep the moment alive.

WAST Spring Show

More than 20 artists from across Whatcom County are opening their workspaces for the inaugural spring edition of the Whatcom Artist Studio Tour. This free, self-directed experience offers a look inside active studios, opportunities to talk with the makers, and the chance to acquire original art directly from the source. Participating studios include those of Suzanne Averre, Shawna Morris and Don Anderson, Kate Underwood, Lorna Libert, Adrien Converse, Mary Ennes-Davis, Brian Kerkvliet, Mark Wharton, Kimberly Wiles, Karen Theusen and Tommy Gibson, and Robin Reece, along with a collective featuring Anita Merina, Ceci Lopez, Deborah Dole, Holly Zwolinski, Kathleen Ball, Maggie Chen, Roxanne Michael, and Sierra James. It is a chance to see creativity in motion throughout the county and connect with the people behind the work.

Whatcom County

Viva Las Vegas with a Vintage Vibe

Enjoy a vintage Vegas vibe at a long-running benefit hosted at Hotel Bellwether. Now in its 26th year, this champagne luncheon pairs elegant dining with an auction featuring handbags and garden items. Proceeds support the Whatcom Dispute & Resolution Center and youth education programs at the Whatcom Family YMCA. Ticket options include tables for ten, with early bird and standard pricing available.

Hotel Bellwether

Theater

Michael Carbonaro

Michael Carbonaro, recognized for the truTV series The Carbonaro Effect, brings his live production Carbonaro: Lies on Stage to Mount Baker Theatre. The television trickster steps from screen to stage for a performance built around the playful deceptions fans know him for.

MAY17

Patrick Dixon- Mending Holes

Pacific Northwest commercial fisherman and poet Patrick Dixon appears in the Readings Gallery at Village Books in Fairhaven for an event centered on his collection Mending Holes. The book weaves scenes from years working Alaska’s waters with reflections on personal growth, hard-won lessons, and memory. The fishing life becomes a lens for wider themes, from the ocean’s risk and wonder to leaving the past behind and the ache of seeing what matters slip away. Dixon is a retired educator and commercial fisherman based in Olympia, Washington. He serves on the board of the Olympia Poetry Network and previously edited poetry for North Pacific Focus, the quarterly of National Fisherman magazine. He received an Artist Trust grant to edit Anchored in Deep Water: The FisherPoets Anthology, his chapbook Arc of Visibility earned the Alabama State Poetry Morris Memorial Award, and he won the Cirque Poetry of Place competition. His memoir, Waiting to Deliver, recounts two decades of salmon gillnetting on Cook Inlet, Alaska. Mending Holes is published by MoonPath Press.

MAY17

FREE. NorthWest Free Repair Event

Bring a broken item you can comfortably carry. If possible, the NW Free Repair team will repair it for free. Bellingham Makerspace hosts the NW Free Repair group for this event.

Bellingham Makerspace

MAY17

Queer Writes! — Bellingham Queer Collective

This group is for individuals who want to discover themselves and express it through writing. There will be no judgement or expectation. This is a space for each person to document their personal journey through life through observations, experiences, and dreams. The group shares the discipline of writing on a regular basis without rules. The time together includes a short hello and update, followed by 90 minutes of writing, then a deep breath and a thought about what happened while writing, as everyone departs. The goal is to build a robust group of Queer Writers sharing energy to understand how they exist.

BQC Center

MAY18

Stability games for kids with Hypermobility

At Whatcom Family Village, children ages 6 to 12 explore Kim’s movement puzzles and stability games designed for kids with hypermobility. The class focuses on corrective exercises tailored to growing bodies, aiming to build core engagement, encourage active posture, ease pain, lower the chance of repeat injuries, and make play more comfortable while supporting activity through puberty. The session opens with time for questions, and participants receive a free PDF of the exercises for reference. A parent or caregiver must attend with the child. Class fee is $30.

MAY20

Drop-in Social Hours — Bellingham Queer Collective

Drop in to visit with friends, make new acquaintances, or spend time on your own. You can check out a book, play games, read, listen to music, and enjoy complimentary hot or cold beverages and snacks.

MAY21

Drop-in Social Hours — Bellingham Queer Collective

Drop in to visit with friends, make a new friend, hang out on your own, check out a book, play a game, read, listen to music, and enjoy a beverage and snack.

MAY22

John Giordanengo- Ecosystems as Models for Restoring our Economies

At Village Books in Fairhaven, international speaker John Giordanengo explores how the workings of the jungle can inform practical paths toward a more sustainable economy. Drawing on stories from around the world and little-known findings, he illustrates how resilient ecosystems can guide the design of human systems. This program traces back to two questions he raised in business school in the early 1990s. Do Earth’s ecosystems and our economies follow similar patterns, and how can that insight be used to build a sustainable future? Giordanengo continues to pursue these ideas through research, publications, and talks across the globe. He has founded three companies and co-founded four NGOs focused on sustainable economies, restoration, and conservation. His latest effort, the Economic Restoration Institute, collaborates with public, private, and philanthropic groups to help economies become more regenerative, resilient, and sustainable. His work is fueled by a deep appreciation for nature, music, and the challenges shared by people everywhere.

MAY22

Wild Buffalo House Of Music

Jigitz

Find tickets for jigitz at Wild Buffalo House Of Music.

North Bellingham Golf Course

North Bellingham Spring Shootout

North Bellingham Spring Shootout is a golf tournament at North Bellingham Golf Course. The event overview brings together everything needed in one place, including the schedule, tournament news, results, course details, and contact information, along with other helpful updates.

Thomas Lowe Fleischner- Astonished by Beauty

Village Books and the North Cascades Institute present a Nature of Writing Series event with author and naturalist Thomas Lowe Fleischner at Village Books in Fairhaven. The conversation centers on his book, Astonished by Beauty: A Field Guide to the Practice of Paying Attention, which explores how the practice of natural history can renew a relationship with the living world. Through concise, personal accounts that range from the Alaskan Arctic to the Amazon, Fleischner shares approachable ways to build a deeper bond with landscapes and wildlife. The program emphasizes attentive observation as a path to noticing more clearly and feeling more connected, while highlighting the link between personal well-being and the health of the planet. Blending reflection with practical guidance, the book offers grounded steps for living with care, presence, and respect for the wild beauty that surrounds us. Thomas Lowe Fleischner is the co-founder of the North Cascades Institute, a naturalist and conservation biologist, and the author or editor of multiple works, including The Way of Natural History and Nature, Love, Medicine. He served as founding director of the Natural History Institute, is Faculty Emeritus at Prescott College, and is a Fellow of the Linnean Society of London. His leadership includes roles within the Ecological Society of America and the Society for Conservation Biology, and his recent work has advanced recognition of the Mogollon Highlands Ecoregion’s rich biodiversity in the American Southwest. The North Cascades Institute inspires environmental stewardship through transformative learning in nature and has connected people, place, and community throughout the Pacific Northwest since 1986.

Dragonfly Outfitters Grand Opening

Dragonfly Kayak Tours, a fixture in the Bellingham paddling community since 2017, is celebrating the opening of a new retail space at Squalicum Harbor. The event features a selection of new and used kayaks, paddle boards, and gear, along with coffee and sweet treats. Attendees can connect with fellow ocean enthusiasts and enter a drawing for a free kayak tour. Those spending time at Zuanich Park for Ski to Sea will find an opportunity to visit the shop.

Dragonfly Outfitters

Queer Latine Society — Bellingham Queer Collective

Connect with fellow members of the Latinx community for conversation and mutual support focused on the unique challenges of being queer within Latinx culture. Share experiences, learn from one another, and explore ways to navigate these realities together.

Stones Throw Brewing Company

River Spell

A Memorial Day block party at Stone’s Throw Brewing in Bellingham, Washington features a performance by River Spell.

Read the Room

Enjoy an improv comedy show where comedians create scenes and stories inspired by live Tarot readings from audience members. This special event, featuring Jordan and The Stone Moon, has become a regular part of the monthly lineup. The venue welcomes all ages, and shows with mature content are advertised accordingly.

The Upfront Theatre

MAY24

Brian Putnam- Dancing, Dharma... and Dogs

Author Brian Putnam appears at Village Books in Fairhaven to share his debut novel, Dancing, Dharma... and Dogs. The book traces Jeremy’s path from a childhood shaped by fear to a life opened by careful listening and observation, revealing a reality that stretches beyond what first appears. Guided by mysterious helpers, he discovers joy, wonder, and a touch of magic, with dogs woven into his journey. The program highlights themes of mindfulness and the mystical at the heart of the story, along with perspective from the author on bringing this world to the page. Putnam is a lifelong resident of the Pacific Northwest who earned BA and MA degrees in Theatre Arts from Western Washington University in 1982 and 1985. After a career in education that included directing high school theatre, he returned to Bellingham and resumed writing fiction. He lives in Bellingham with his wife, Robyn, and their dogs, Toula and Finn, and spends time on Vancouver Island.

MAY24

Awkward Family Photos - Mini Photo Sessions

Karate Church turns into a retro portrait studio for short sessions that revel in the art of the intentionally awkward family photo. Think mall-era nostalgia brought to life... dreamy focus, upright poses, oversized emotion applied to ordinary moments, classic backdrops, theatrical positioning, and carefully styled hair for that earnestly over-the-top vibe. Give yourself permission to recreate the throwback portraits you remember, or the ones you always deserved. Partners, siblings, best friends, and parents fit right in. This is not subtle, minimal, or emotionally buttoned-up, and trying to keep a straight face is part of the challenge. Expect knowingly awkward, laugh-out-loud dramatic portraits you will be tempted to frame without explanation.

Karate Church

MAY24

Rainbow Refugees — Bellingham Queer Collective

A supportive discussion space for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals who have relocated from red areas to Bellingham. Conversations center on settling into the community and the realities of moving and starting over. It brings together Rainbow Refugees to share experiences and connect with others navigating similar transitions.

MAY27

Drop-in Social Hours — Bellingham Queer Collective

Stop by to hang out with friends, meet new people, or just spend some time alone. You can also check out a book, play a game, read, listen to music, and enjoy a hot or cold drink and a snack.

MAY28

Drop-in Social Hours — Bellingham Queer Collective

Drop in to visit with friends, make a new friend, hang out on your own, check out a book (soon), play a game, read, listen to music, help yourself to a hot or cold beverage and snack, and more!

MAY29

El Agave and Paint ~ Floral Boot 19

A creative evening at El Agave Fairhaven features a Date and Paint session with a floral boot theme. Participants work together to craft a beautiful piece, play with color, spend time with friends, and tap into their artistic potential. El Agave serves fresh Mexican cuisine and offers a full bar with margaritas, and food and beverages are not included in the ticket price. Admission is $20 for attendees under 18 and $35 for adults.

El Agave Fairhaven

MAY30

Meridian High School (Washington)

Meridian 3v3 Tournament May 30-31st

Now in its 19th year, the Meridian 3v3 tournament takes place at Meridian High School in Washington. Registration is open, and the sign-up link can be found in the comments. Event rules are available through Whatcom Youth Soccer.

JUN1

Dan Godwin Community Center

Coffee & Conversation

A relaxed coffee or tea gathering for parents and caregivers of loved ones with developmental delays, disabilities, and ongoing healthcare needs. Connect with other caregivers in the community, discover helpful resources, and exchange perspectives, insights, and successes in a welcoming setting. This event is for adults only. Light refreshments will be available. RSVPs are appreciated but not required. For details or to RSVP, email p2p@arcwhatcom.org or call 360-715-0710.

JUN11

Saliva

Saliva delivers a hard rock set powered by their trademark intensity and a catalog that spans decades. The band first broke through with anthems like Click Click Boom and the Grammy-nominated Your Disease, then followed with the double platinum Every Six Seconds and 2002’s Back Into Your System, which produced hits including Always, Raise Up, and Rest In Pieces. Since 2011, vocalist Bobby Amaru has guided the group through releases such as Rise Up, Love, Lies & Therapy, 10 Lives, the Every Twenty Years EP, and Revelation, highlighting steady growth through lineup changes while holding onto their core sound. Their live presence also honors the spirit of founding guitarist Wayne Swinny, whose influence continues to shape the music. Most recently, Revelation: Retold expanded their 2023 album with guest vocal appearances, previously unreleased tracks, and reimagined favorites like Time Bomb, Horizon, and Devil’s World, underscoring the band’s resilience and creative momentum.

JUN13

Dungeons and Drag Queens Bellingham: Ride into Pride!

Three drag queens bring the beloved tabletop roleplaying game to life on stage in Bellingham’s New Prospect Theater, turning dice rolls into a fast, funny, and fabulous Pride celebration. Comedian Paul Curry takes the role of Dungeon Master while improvisational musician Carson Cutter fuels the momentum, guiding a brand new quest packed with danger, sharp banter, and moments where the audience helps steer the story. Coverage from Seattle Times, Seattle Gay News, and South Seattle Emerald has highlighted its mix of geek culture and queer self-expression, its crowd-pleasing reputation, and its playful blend of fantasy and comedy. Dungeons and Dragons is a collaborative storytelling game in which one person narrates and handles supporting characters while the rest play heroes in the adventure, and when drag takes the lead anything can happen. This production is not affiliated with Wizards of the Coast.

JUN13

The Polish Ambassador in Bellingham

This performance blends electronic production with live energy from a multifaceted artist who works as a musician, producer, recording artist, composer, and label head, always ready to move the dance floor. Launched as David Sugalski’s sound art passion project and an imaginative persona, the act first connected with listeners on early digital radio. It has grown into a top EDM and live crossover project with millions of fans worldwide, often featured at music-centered gatherings and boutique electronic festivals across the country. Expect vivid, color-rich soundscapes, purposeful artistry, and the well-known jumpsuit. As the founder of Jumpsuit Records and an environmentally minded early supporter of permaculture action, the music pairs feel-good grooves with a sense of mission.

JUN20

Karen Odden & Judith Starkston

A joint event at Village Books in Fairhaven features historical authors Karen Odden and Judith Starkston, highlighting their newest novels, An Artful Dodge and Achilles's Wife. Odden’s book follows Kit Jimeson, a nimble young thief in 1879 London who dreams of leaving an all-women gang and building a more secure life for her sister. Her plans are derailed when Maggie O’Connell returns from years in an Australian penal colony, determined to reclaim control and seek vengeance, forcing Kit into a daring heist that could be her way out. Starkston’s story revisits Greek myth as Achilles is concealed in a girl’s disguise by his divine mother to thwart fate, and Mia, the king’s eldest daughter, finds inspiration in this enigmatic companion. When the truth emerges, it sparks a marriage, draws the ire of a goddess, and sets Mia on a path that tests her leadership, family bonds, and capacity for sacrifice. The authors bring notable backgrounds to their work. Odden holds a PhD in English from New York University, taught Victorian literature at UW-Milwaukee, and is a USA Today bestselling writer of five crime novels set in 1870s London, with nominations for the Lefty, Anthony, Agatha, and Derringer Awards and inclusion in Best Mystery Stories of the Year. Starkston writes historical fantasy and mythic retellings rooted in the Bronze Age cultures of the Greeks and Hittites, often centering figures such as Deidamia and Briseis and a powerful Hittite queen, and she studied Classics at the University of California, Santa Cruz and Cornell and lives in Davis, California.

JUN20

Cordata Neighborhood Park

Move to the rhythm with UVC at the amphitheatre in Cordata Park for a lively and fun time.

Cordata Park

JUN24

Hillary Behrman in conversation with Maria McLeod- Lake Effect

Village Books in Fairhaven hosts a reading and conversation with Pacific Northwest author Hillary Behrman, featuring her debut short story collection, Lake Effect, with writer and journalism professor Maria McLeod joining the discussion. Spanning settings from Seattle to Istanbul and moving through rugged mountains, vivid cityscapes, and desert edges, these stories follow characters navigating love, work, and the distances that can grow between people. Paula’s waking life blurs with dreams, Oliver wrestles with family lore as he builds a relationship with Daniel, siblings Alex and Marcie are bound together and tested across the years from youthful mischief to a birth that goes terribly wrong, and Miles searches for his mother in a camp tucked beneath a tangle of freeways. The collection lingers where solitude and intense bonds meet, asking how far care can reach and where it falls short. Lake Effect received the Mary McCarthy Prize in Short Fiction, selected by Lauren Groff, and has earned praise from both Groff and Nina McConigley for its craft, empathy, and sense of adventure. Behrman’s stories have appeared in journals and magazines, in short story dispensers, and in anthologies, and her work has been noted for its humanity and unsettling power. She lives and writes in the Pacific Northwest, having raised two children and worked as a children’s civil rights lawyer and public defender. McLeod’s poetry and prose have been widely published in the United States and abroad, she has received multiple literary prizes and nominations, and her books include the poetry chapbooks Skin. Hair. Bones. and Mother Want.

JUN27

The Cloud Drops Big Band at the Oddfellows Temple Room

Experience an evening of live jazz, social dancing, and showcases at The Orion. The night begins with a beginner swing lesson taught by Bailey McCully and Damian Cade, followed by a dance featuring The Cloud Drops along with special performances. The Cloud Drops is a Seattle dance band originally assembled for the Stormy Weather Jazz Dance Festival. Their repertoire includes more than 60 original charts by Jonathan Doyle, Jacob Zimmerman, and Matt Weiner, with additional contributions from fellow band members, and the lineup brings together leading musicians from around the Northwest. Admission is offered on a $15 to $25 sliding scale.

The Orion

JUN27

Trackside Beer Garden - Kulshan Brewing Co.

chuckanut ride to trackside!!

Riders will meet at the Hobby Lobby in Mount Vernon for a group departure. The route follows the highway toward Chuckanut through Sedro, with a planned stop at the Fred Meyer in Bellingham to refuel and pick up water before continuing.

JUN28

Bellingham Swimrun

Set at Lake Padden Park, Bellingham Swimrun offers a Pacific Northwest counterpart to Otillo Orcas Island. Participants alternate between forested trail running and swim segments in Lake Padden. Choose between the Long Course at 16 kilometers with six swims, or the Short Course at 6 kilometers with three swims for a more approachable option.

Lake Padden Park

JUL2

Poetry Readings with Ted McMahon, Jed Myers, & T. Clear

Village Books in Fairhaven hosts an evening of poetry with Seattle writers Ted McMahon, Jed Myers, and T. Clear. Ted McMahon’s Visitations draws on Buddhist perspectives and on dreamwork and archetypal ideas associated with Carl Jung and Joseph Campbell, with poems that move from deep hurt toward compassion. McMahon was born in 1946 to second-generation Irish parents and grew up near Boston in postwar neighborhoods for returning veterans. He studied at Williams College and Duke University School of Medicine, completed a pediatrics residency at what is now Seattle Children’s, and practiced outpatient pediatrics in Eugene and Seattle for several decades. His poems have appeared in The Seattle Review, The Comstock Review, and The Journal of the American Medical Association, among other publications. He is the author of the chapbook First Fire and the collection The Uses of Imperfection, has served as an editor with Floating Bridge Press and the online journal Bracken, and is seeking a publisher for his manuscript Keeping Watch. Jed Myers presents Can’t Be Far, his recently released fourth full-length collection, a book that traces an upriver search for courage. Its title poem honors Alexei Navalny and points to a bravery that asks us to face difficult truths, speak clearly even when it is resisted, acknowledge our own failings, and refuse complicity in the mistreatment of others. The poems suggest that the wellspring of such resolve is close at hand, in the human heart. Myers has worked across many roles, including writer, musician, psychiatrist in therapeutic practice, teacher, essayist, photographer, literary editor, and father of three. He walks the wetlands near his Seattle home and often takes part in collaborations that weave music and poetry. He is married to writer and theater-maker Alina Rios. T. Clear shares Egg Money, her second book from MoonPath Press, a lyrical yet unsentimental collection that follows the small, persistent labors that sustain a life. Beneath the imagery of the chicken coop lie metaphors for racism, poverty, food insecurity, and ecological crisis, as well as a sharp look at the stratifications of modern society, seen through encounters with chickens, rats, household pets, and people. Moving between domestic work and environmental decline, these poems imagine hen tending as both livelihood and vocation, and they ask how we measure worth when the survival of animals, land, love, and self is at stake. Clear is a founder of Floating Bridge Press, an associate editor at Bracken Magazine, and a facilitator of Easy Speak Seattle. Her first full-length book, A House, Undone, received the 2022 Sally Albiso Award from MoonPath Press.

JUL5

Mary Jacobs- She Takes the Helm

This event at Village Books in Fairhaven spotlights She Takes the Helm, Mary Jacobs’s account of building a life on the water. Her story traces a rise from deckhand to a seasoned captain who led Kodiak’s first all-women seining crew, sharing the realities of commercial fishing and the pull of the ocean. Jacobs’s background includes a childhood in a Boston suburb with her sister and mathematician mother, summers with her father in Malibu, and a move to Alaska in 1971 after leaving the University of California. She worked ashore, then shipped out, buying progressively larger and more seaworthy boats, and in the 1990s often fished with her children aboard a 50-foot vessel named Renaissance. In 2020 she moved to Anacortes, Washington, to be closer to her children, grandchildren, and many Alaskan friends. She stays active with gardening, hiking, and writing, adding depth to a seafaring narrative drawn from real life.