Events in Bellingham today

A casual gathering of car lovers takes place at Bellis Fair Mall, presented by Broken Motor Car Club. Enthusiasts of classics, exotics, muscle cars, trucks, motorcycles, and daily drivers are welcome. Coffee and pastries from local vendors will be available. Upon arrival, attendees should check in at the Broken Motor Car Club table so attendance can be recorded for insurance purposes. To keep the meet safe and enjoyable, no burnouts, excessive revving, or reckless driving are permitted, and participants are asked to follow event signage and parking directions while respecting the venue and fellow attendees. Admission is free.

Start paddling with confidence in a welcoming, small-group class at Lake Padden designed for first-time kayakers and returning learners. The morning focuses on core boat control, including key strokes and maneuvering skills. After a lunch break, please pack your own meal, the afternoon is devoted to safety, practicing how to rescue yourself and assist a partner back into their kayak. By the end, you will be ready for relaxed outings close to shore, a useful stepping stone before connecting with a local paddling club or planning longer adventures on your own. Group size is limited to maximize personal attention, and all gear is provided, from kayaks to wetsuits, and included in the fee. Instruction is led by Josh White, an ACA Level 3 Coastal Kayak Instructor. For ages 18 and up. The fee is $195.

This free community offering in Bellingham, Washington features two days of restful practice. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required.

This artisan market showcases work from local artisans and offers a welcoming place to discover memorable pieces while supporting the people who made them.

At Lightcatcher Studio at the Whatcom Museum, explore intermediate scientific illustration in watercolor with natural history artist and Burke Museum Ornithology Collections Manager Madison Erin Mayfield. The day begins with observational sketching, then progresses to two completed paintings, one featuring seasonal summer flowers and another depicting a Blackburnian Warbler native to the eastern United States. Expect guidance on rendering specimens with technical accuracy while strengthening the observational skills that enhance any painting. This workshop is intended for adults 18 and older who maintain a regular drawing practice and have some painting experience. Enrollment is limited to 10 participants. Museum admission and all materials are included, and you are welcome to bring your own watercolors, brushes, and paper if you prefer. A 30 minute lunch break is built in. Members $140 and the public $160. Registrations are nonrefundable, with transfers permitted when requested at least 24 hours in advance. Please arrive within 15 minutes of the start time.

Imports & Classics presents the second annual waterfront car show celebrating car culture across classics, JDM, exotics, and high performance builds. The show welcomes all makes and models and is organized by a passionate team of enthusiasts. Expect 18 award categories, a live DJ, raffles, and a welcoming, all ages atmosphere. Vehicle registration is $20 with pre registration and $25 on the day of the show, while spectators are free. The lot is gravel, so lowered vehicles should use caution. Event guidelines prohibit burnouts, speeding, and reckless driving, and ask that everyone respect each other, the City, and the Port of Bellingham. For questions, email Milad@importsandclassics.com.

ʻOno Kitchen & Bar presents its outdoor concert series with John Cruz featured on the bill. An opening set will take the stage before his performance, offering a live music experience that brings a bit of Maui to the Pacific Northwest.

Learn to paddle with confidence and care in a sea kayaking class that centers safe, responsible techniques. Build the fundamentals for independent outings, become familiar with essential gear, refine stroke mechanics for efficient travel, and practice smooth launch and landing skills. The session also highlights cold water preparedness and clear communication on the water so everyone in a group can stay connected. This experience acknowledges a long-standing relationship with the ocean, honoring traditions from the ingenious hunting practices of northern Indigenous peoples to the maritime labor and coastal navigation carried by African and Indigenous ancestors, reflecting a shared heritage with the sea.

This free, family-friendly gathering features local illustrator Luciana Navarro Powell, the creator behind Squirrel Draws Big Feelings, and includes a hands-on chalk art activity. Through the characters Squirrel, Porcupine, and Bear, the book explores what it feels like when emotions run high and how creativity can offer calm. As the story unfolds, Squirrel channels big feelings into chalk drawings, and friends who are unsure at first discover that making art together, sharing, and friendship can help. With rhyming text and lively mixed-media artwork, the book encourages readers to express themselves even when words are hard to find. Registration is requested to help anticipate audience size. Powell is an award-winning illustrator who started her career in Brazil, moved to the United States in 2002, and now lives in Washington state. She has illustrated more than twenty children’s books and enjoys hiking with her family in the Pacific Northwest.

An outdoor screening of The Princess Bride is part of Fairhaven Outdoor Cinema’s 25th anniversary season of films beneath the night sky. Set at Historic Fairhaven’s Village Green, this long-standing summer tradition brings together families, friends, visitors, and the greater Bellingham community for an evening filled with entertainment and hometown charm. Before the movie even begins, families spread out blankets, friends share dinner, kids play on the Green, and neighbors reconnect on a beautiful summer evening. Many attendees pack a picnic, grab pizza from OVN, and pick up something sweet from Sweet Haven or It's The Sweet Things, then settle in for a night of community, connection, and outdoor fun.

Experience the ghostly side of historic Fairhaven on a walking tour that travels up and down Harris Avenue, stopping at places connected to reports of haunted activity. Explore notable spots along the route that have a reputation for hauntings. Recommended for ages 13 and up.

Move with friends in the open air as the sun sinks over Bellingham Bay at Zuanich Point Park. Wireless headphones will be provided so you can dance to a varied playlist broadcast by radio, and gear will be available on a first come, first served basis. Plan to meet by the statue to get set up. This gathering welcomes everyone, including people of all shapes and sizes, every color, 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 on site. Donations are appreciated and can be made via Venmo, PayPal, credit card, or with cash or check at the event. If moving in public feels new, participants can choose their own pace, express themselves in ways that feel right, let go of self judgment and judgments about others, and enjoy the feeling of moving together. Share a few songs and a sunset, then settle into the simple pleasure of knowing your body is already part of the dance of life.

Come enjoy an improvised rock musical with a live band called “I Can’t Believe It’s Not Rock.” The show follows a mismatched band as they create brand new rock songs and ridiculous storylines on the spot, with everything from rival bands and mythical festivals to shady managers and possibly saving the world. You’ll give the suggestion, and they’ll bring the noise. This is an all-ages show featuring live local talent, with instrumentals provided by guest musicians.

The lineup brings together Gallowmaker, Constance Tomb, Slow Goat, and Fomorian for a night of post-punk, gothic rock, and heavy metal. Admission is $12 in advance or $15 on the day of the show.

Head to The Upfront Theatre for Saturday Night High, a 420 show featuring improvised stoner-comedy. Expect a set of improv games with a highlarious twist, with wild characters, lots of laughs, and plenty of unpredictable moments throughout the evening. This is an 18+ event, so plan accordingly. The venue does not allow outside food or beverages, and smoking indoors is not permitted, with additional cannabis-related rules noted for Washington state.

This quiet morning of practice takes place at Sansui-ji temple or online, centered on seated and walking meditation. The structure is intentionally simple, with no dokusan interviews and very little ritual, offering a straightforward retreat to settle in deeply. It is offered on the second Sundays of July and August while the weekly Sunday Program is on summer hiatus. New participants are encouraged to attend a weekly practice meeting first and request an orientation to the meditation style, forms, and procedures. Coordinated by Ikushun Desiree Webster.

Discover a stately 1910 residence built for influential citizen Victor Roeder, born on Bellingham Bay in 1861. The house and surrounding grounds were later donated to Whatcom County for public use in 1971. Tours are offered through a collaboration between the Whatcom County Historical Society and Whatcom County Parks and Recreation. Group sizes are limited and participation is first come, first served. Street parking is available, with accessible parking located at the rear of the building.

Bring any broken item that you can comfortably carry to the NW Free Repair event, and the volunteer team will evaluate it and fix it for free if they can. Owners need to be present and participate during the repair, and kids must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Some basic parts and materials may be provided, but if special parts are needed, you’ll be responsible for purchasing them. Items must be suitable for a public setting and the event does not accept things like gasoline or petroleum-based items, leaking or hazardous items, items with strong noxious odors, or large items that can’t easily be carried.

Co-Working Cafe at the BQC Center is a weekday morning quiet-time space for anyone who wants to work, read, or study in a safe, community-supported environment. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, snacks, drinks, access to a book lending library, and office supplies while you focus.

A long-running Bellingham tradition invites generations of participants to the track for a friendly mix of racing, jumping, and throwing. From a quick dash like the 100 meters to the shot put and high jump, there are options for beginners and experienced athletes alike. Open to ages 2 and up, this welcoming series focuses on community spirit and approachable competition at Civic Field. Entry is $6 per person per meet, with an individual season option for $45 that includes a T-shirt, and a $125 family pass for up to five members of the same household without a T-shirt. Coordinated by Jim Pettinger and supported by Coldwell Banker Bain.

Put your knowledge to the test at a weekly trivia night led by Justin Smith. Take part solo or gather a team of up to six. There is a $2 buy-in for each participant, and prizes are awarded to the top three teams, plus a special nod for the most creative team name. This Monday series is presented by Fountain Brewing at Zeeks Pizza.

Under the Herald sign in downtown Bellingham, this long-running trivia night at ʻOno Kitchen & Bar has brought people together since 2017. Hosted by Quizmaster Randall of World’s Best Trivia, it is free to play and welcomes locals, students, and teams of all ages. Expect raffles and prizes, a touch of zaniness, and friendly competition that keeps the evening lively.

Start the morning with Whatcom Young Professionals at ROAM Coffee + Beer, where attendees enjoy coffee, meet other young professionals, and engage in meaningful conversation. Each gathering offers time to network, share updates, and explore a guided question that sparks discussion about both career growth and personal development. The format is simple and connection focused, helping participants strengthen relationships and discover fresh perspectives. Those exploring Whatcom Young Professionals may attend as a guest for up to three visits. Similar meetups take place on multiple mornings each week at coffee shops in Bellingham and Ferndale.

Co-Working Cafe is a weekday morning quiet-time space hosted at the BQC Center for anyone who wants to work, read, or study. Enjoy free Wi-Fi along with snacks, drinks, and access to a book-lending library and office supplies while you settle in for focused time with community.

This recurring open mic takes place on the second Tuesday of each month and spotlights local musicians as they take the stage to share their work, creating an evening full of surprises. Performers interested in a slot can sign up with Nick Taylor at Bellinghome School of Music at (360) 922-0382.

Bellingham Script Studio meets at New Prospect Theatre for an active, free screenwriting program where local writers at any stage can develop new work. Participants share pages in a private, supportive, writer-centered setting and receive feedback on works in progress, completed scripts, concepts in development, and strategies for getting new projects off the ground. Each session features up to three scripts, with a maximum of fifteen pages each, including shorts or excerpts from features. Scripts are placed in the queue in the order they are received. To get in the lineup, send pages in professional screenwriting format to joshua.krenz@gmail.com. When it is your turn, bring printed copies for every character being read, plus one for narration. Newcomers are welcome, as are producers, directors, and actors. Actors can practice cold reading while connecting with the local film community.

Test your knowledge at a weekly trivia night hosted by the crepe makers, with plenty of prizes up for grabs. Each week features a different theme, offering a new set of questions every time.

Blind Pilot returns with In the Shadow of the Holy Mountain, the band’s first album in eight years, shaped by a creative reset after a prolonged spell of writer’s block for frontman Israel Nebeker. He stepped back, reimagined his approach, and wrote a full album in a month before bringing the songs to the group with a renewed openness so they could evolve together. Produced by Josh Kaufman, the record brings fresh energy to their refined blend of folk and indie rock and follows 2016’s And Then Like Lions. Core members Ryan Dobrowski, Luke Ydstie, and Kati Claborn lean into instinct and chemistry, capturing an intuitive, play-it-together feel, while the album also features contributions from Dave Jorgensen and Ian Krist. Touring will focus on the quartet, and the spirit of the night centers on connection, letting the music breathe and highlighting the bond between the band and the audience.

Drop in for practical help from Arc of Whatcom County staff with applications and paperwork related to developmental disabilities. Staff can explain Developmental Disabilities Administration services, walk through the eligibility application and assessment, help set up a Social Security Administration account, outline the steps for applying for Supplemental Security Income, and suggest what documentation to gather. Guidance is also available on guardianship, including the court petition process and reporting, as well as getting started with Partners4Housing and preparing for a Residential Assessment. Support includes information on the Washington State Disability Parks Pass and the Federal Access Pass. No RSVP is needed, and assistance is provided as staff are available. Attendees may use a printer, scanner, and paper shredder at no cost. Time may be limited, so plan to focus on getting oriented and starting your paperwork. Privacy cannot be guaranteed because multiple people may be helped at once. For private one-on-one support, contact the organization to schedule an appointment at a different time. If the office is closed due to a holiday or severe weather, this session will be cancelled. Materials and information shared are educational in nature and are not legal, financial, or professional services. Staff are not attorneys and do not provide legal or financial advice. For those needs, seek assistance from a qualified professional.

This hands-on program invites young engineers to build, create, and explore with LEGO bricks, Magnatiles, Plus-Plus pieces, and more. Participants will take on projects such as constructing bridges and designing bird nests and fairy homes using materials from nature. It is designed for children ages 5 to 7. The cost is $99, and pre-registration is required.

Drop in for Bellingham Queer Collective social hours to hang out and connect with friends, meet someone new, or just spend time on your own. There are options like reading, listening to music, playing games, and checking out a book soon. Help yourself to hot or cold beverages and snacks throughout the hangout.

Flux Yoga and Lululemon team up for an outdoor yoga class at Fairhaven Village Green in support of Lydia Place. The session welcomes every experience level and highlights breathing, movement, and community connection. Please bring your own mat. Tickets are $25 with advance purchase through Lydia Place or $30 on site. The first 30 purchasers receive a special gift bag.

Morning Buzz gathers young professionals over coffee for meaningful networking and conversation at Makeworthcoffeeroasters. Each session offers time to connect, share updates, and dig into a thoughtful question that supports both professional development and personal growth, creating a simple way to build relationships and gain fresh perspectives. Those curious about Whatcom Young Professionals may attend up to three times as guests. Morning Buzz happens multiple times each week at local coffee shops, with this meetup taking place at Makeworthcoffeeroasters.

The Waterfront Terrace hosts a finale concert for Blues, Brews & BBQ featuring local favorite Chris Eger & the Powerhouse Horns. The Chris Eger Band brings a lively mix of blues, rock, and American roots, led by Chris Eger, an award-nominated singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist, with a veteran Northwest lineup that includes a driving rhythm section and the Powerhouse Horns. Guests can enjoy barbecue fare, craft brews, and cocktails with waterfront views as boats glide across Bellingham Bay. General admission is $15 for adults and $10 for kids 10 and under, plus taxes and Eventbrite fees, and includes guaranteed entry, the live band, fireworks, and a generous barbecue dinner. A separate $30 barbecue menu crafted by the chef features barbecue favorites, sides, and seasonal fare, with limited quantities available for pre-sale and a smaller amount available at the event while supplies last. To-go food and craft cocktails from Lighthouse Bar & Grill are available on the Terrace. Attendance is limited, with a small number of tickets potentially available at the door until sold out, and pre-purchased tickets guarantee entrance. Seating is first come, first served. A cash bar is available and alcohol is not included in ticket prices. Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended due to limited covered seating. Tickets are non-refundable, and if rain causes a cancellation, refunds are issued minus Eventbrite fees.

Beach Cat Brewing South Paw hosts a playful trivia night with craft beer and good-natured rivalry. Teams can include no more than six people who pool their knowledge across a wide mix of facts in a lighthearted, cat themed atmosphere.