New Sipping Grounds for This Beach Cat | Beach Cat Brewing

Beach Cat Brewing’s first location opened in 2020 after Jake Gobeille, owner and director of operations, unexpectedly fell in love with the craft. Now he’s opening a second location at 1010 C Street on Bellingham’s Downtown Waterfront. Gobeille is hoping to open this spring, but curating the right culture and environment is crucial: “We have to make…

A Decade of Festivities at Hotel Bellwether

As Christmas draws closer, Hotel Bellwether is busy preparing its 10th annual Holiday Tree Lighting Event.

Savor the San Juans Returns for Its 14th Year

It could be argued that the best way to experience a region is through its food, and there’s no shortage of local bounty in the San Juan Islands. You’re invited to indulge your senses at the 14th annual Savor the San Juans event, back in full force after going virtual in 2020.  

Pumped Bellingham Makes It Easy to Shop Sustainably

Leah Foster knows firsthand that cutting down on waste can be a daunting task. Working in the airline industry made her mindful of our society’s reliance on disposables, and after becoming a mother, she noticed that her own family was going through more of everything. Household necessities such as shampoo, dish soap, and baby products are traditionally sold in plastic. However, finding sustainable alternatives proved challenging.  

Creative Rebellion on Commercial Street

Artist collective formed in 2020 provides space and community for all

Imbibing Italian-Style at Bar Cicotti

Visitors can now top off their visit to the Whatcom Museum with an Italian-style beverage at Bar Cicotti.

New Wednesday Bellingham Farmers Market at Historic Waterfront

The Bellingham Farmers Market (BFM) is kicking off the summer with a brand-new market located in the historic waterfront district.

Bellingham Resident Named WA’s New Poet Laureate

Bellingham resident Rena Priest was recently named the 6th Poet Laureate of Washington State.

Birch Bay Drive Construction Nears Completion

Residents of Birch Bay can soon look forward to a construction-free drive along Birch Bay Drive. The shoreline that runs parallel to the road has been under construction for the past two years as part of an ongoing project by Whatcom County, but the project should be completed this April, barring any major storms.  According to the project website, the purpose of…

Picture Perfect

A New Studio Offers Opportunities for Bellingham Creatives

Tiny Desks, Huge Impact

As 11,907 K-12 students in Bellingham grind away at their studies this school year, some have a harder time than others when it comes to finding a comfortable workplace at home. Shawn Serdahl of A1DesignBuild in Bellingham recognized this issue for his own kids and promptly ordered desks for both of his daughters.  “When my family was getting our two girls set up at home for remote learning, we realized that our youngest did not have a great place for online…

Tony’s Coffee wins 2021 Macro Roaster of the Year

Bellingham’s own Tony’s Coffee has been awarded Macro Roaster of the Year for 2021 by Roast coffee magazine in their November/December issue.  

New Climbing Gym Set to Arrive in 2022

Chalkboard climbing gym plans to open doors in 2022, joining Vital as a space where climbers can train, socialize, and practice their sport. 

Brews on the Beach

If you’re looking to enjoy a cold one on the beach, head to Blaine’s newest beachfront brewpub, Beach Cat Brewing.

Saving Your Smile During COVID-19

Suffering from a case of “mask mouth?” The stress of 2020 may have taken a toll on your oral hygiene, here’s a guide on how to save your smile during COVID-19.

Welcome BECU to the Neighborhood

On September 16, Whatcom County celebrated the opening of its first BECU Neighborhood Financial Center (NFC).

Twin Sisters Creamery Named Number One Cheese Shop in Washington

Ferndale’s own Twin Sisters Creamery has been named the best cheese shop in Washington by Taste of Home magazine.

Bellingham Alive Goes International

Whatcom Community College is bringing Bellingham Alive across the globe.

Need a safe day trip? Check out the Farm Stand Loop.

Sustainable Connections is inviting the community to explore farm fresh flavors and experiences with the Local Farm Stand Loop. 

Say Aloha to a New Urban Village

The Bellingham Housing Authority continues to develop the former site of the Aloha Motel

Who Knew? 4/20 Edition

Weed lovers: It’s your special day! If you’re celebrating 4/20 today, have you ever wonder how this number got a “higher” meaning?

Galloway’s Emerges Victorious at Bellingham Cocktail Week

Allison Sutherland from Galloway’s Cocktail Bar dominates during Bellingham’s Cocktail Week.

Bringing Access to Art

Whatcom Museum is introducing new accessibility initiatives for people with sensory processing disorders, dementia, and memory loss.

Worth Every Penny

The next time you find yourself at Leader Block Wine Co. & Eatery in Ferndale, prepare for a shiny surprise. In January, the restaurant installed a coin floor made from more than 41,000 pennies.

Desert Dreaming

The Seattle Mariners head to spring training to begin the 2020 season.

A Place to Play

Since 2008, the Bellingham Circus Guild has bolstered the circus arts and performers of Whatcom County—offering one-of-a-kind shows, classes, and events.

Bellingham’s Only Happy Meower

Having successfully opened its first location in Captiol Hill, NEKO—a cat cafe—will soon be opening a Bellingham location at 1130 Cornwall Avenue.

Big Move for Tiny Homes

Over the summer, HomesNow! Not Later—a nonprofit that provides safe, temporary housing—received a permit allowing them to operate in Fairhaven.

Shaping Clay & Community

Heather Hitts opened Burnish Clay Studio last February on North State Street, joining Bellingham’s vibrant clay community.

Leader Block Leads in Wine

On July 3, Leader Block Wine Co. & Eatery in Ferndale announced some big news: It has received an Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator.

Brewing Pink

Bellingham has launched it’s own chapter of The Pink Boots Society (PBS)—a nonprofit aimed at helping women brewers find a seat at the industry table.

New Beer in Town

Family-run brewery, Stemma Brewing Co., opened its doors in June—a long-time dream for owners Jason Harper and Kimberley Harper.

Tiny Hands at Work

Tiny Onion Cooking School, founded by Annalee Dunn, offers classes that aim to introduce food and nutrition to children in a fun, engaging way.

Not in Vain

Bellingham’s newest hair salon, Vanity Hair Studio opened on May 28 of 2019—the second location of the popular Seattle salon.

Kids Take the Stage at Mount Baker Theatre

Mount Baker Theatre welcomes 180 kids aged 7–18 to their stage this month for three separate week-long theater camps hosted by Missoula Children’s Theatre.

Oh, Deer!

Karen Chapman’s new book helps those looking to plant a beautiful fence-free garden, without attracting hungry, roaming deer.

Local Scholarship Foundation Sets Students Up for Success

The Mount Baker Scholarship Foundation endowment has reached $2.8 million, continuing to support graduating seniors of Mount Baker Senior High School.

After Store Fire, A New Home

Animals rescued from a fire at Hohl Feed and Seed by the Bellingham Fire Department, now find new homes through the Whatcom Humane Society.

Maybe, A Moose

Allegiant Air is now offering direct flights between Bellingham International Airpport and Anchorage, Alaska. Pack your bags and look for moose!

A History of Tulips in the Valley

A look at the history behind the beautiful Skagit Valley Tulip Festival shows a vibrant Dutch background. Visit Tulip Town and RoozenGaarde this April!

Chrysalis Inn & Spa Gets Fresh Update

The Chrysalis Inn & Spa is getting an update. Renovations will stay aligned with the original look created by architect Betty Blount of Zena Design Group.

WECU Gets Fresh Look

Whatcom Educational Credit Union is rebranding their organization to become simply WECU. Jennifer Kutcher is the CEO and Keith Mader is a program manager.

Latitude Kitchen and Bar

Jeff Holmes, owner of the Loft, has a second location on Sunset Drive, The Latitude Kitchen and Bar. Steven Engels is the executive chef.

Sweet Move

Owned by Kevin Buck, Chocolate Necessities changed locations last fall and now has two stores where you can enjoy artisan chocolate, gelato, wine and beer.

Simplify Your Space in 2019

Professional organizer Monika Kristofferson of Efficient Organization gives you some hints to help simplify your space and clear the clutter this new year.

What the Heck is a Drink Called Shrub?

Josh and Tomo Kramer are the founders of Cascade Shrub Farm, bringing you a healthy, refreshing, locally infused cocktail and soda mix.

Music, Clothing for a Cause

Suzanne Smith, owner of Betty Be Good, held a fundraiser and raised $10,000 for Engedi, an organization providing support to survivors of human trafficking.

Lummi Nation Purchases Loomis Trail Golf Course

The Lummi Nation purchased the Blaine Loomis Trail Golf Course, located on original tribal land. It will be an addition to the Silver Reef Hotel and Casino.

Tapping into Your Inner Bird Nerd

You can help out your local chapter of the National Audubon Siciety by becoming a citizen scientist and counting birds for the Christmas Bird Count.

Slow Down, Eat Food, Give Thanks

Slow Food USA practices slowing down, understanding where food comes from, and enjoying the local bounty in Island and Skagit Counties.

High-Flying Teas

Scout Urling, owner of Flying Bird Botanicals, makes locally sourced organic tea and drinking chocolate, sold in various locations around Bellingham.

Homeless Get Comfort from Donated Socks

Carolyn Colwell of Your City Sports has donated thousands of socks to the homeless, working with Rachel Tinnell of the Lighthouse Mission Ministeries.

Bringing the Outside in

Infuse your home with living plants from Babygreens, flowers from your local greenhouse or for a bit more fun, try temporary floral tattoos from Tattly.

Frightful Film Festival Rocks Bellingham

Bleedingham, a local horror short-film festival, gives filmmakers a chance to bring their own terrifying stories to the screen, being held Oct. 27-28.

Chuckanut Bay Distillery is Making a Big Move

Award winning Chuckanut Bay Distillery is opening a new restaurant and event space located in the center of downtown Bellingham.

(Electric) Pedal Power

Bellingham Alive writer Melissa McCarthy tries riding an e-bike for the first time. Electric bikes are safer and better for the environment.

Nonprofit Online College Sees Growth, Growing Pains

Western Governors University is a national nonprofit online college. WGU is designed for people with families and careers who need more flexibility.

Spreading Pure Bliss

Pure Bliss desserts is expanding! A new extended menu will include more savory options and an expanded alcohol selection.

Whopping Changes and Wagging Tails at the Whatcom Humane Society

Changes are coming to the Whatcom Humane Society and the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, including the location of this year’s Dog Days of Summer festival.

Farm to Coffee Table

Derek and Debbie Peris share their passion for fresh-roasted coffee with the community at Barnyard Coffee Roasters in Blaine.

Hidden Gem: North Cascades National Park Turns 50

The North Cascades National Park, or the “American Alps,” contains nearly 400 miles of accessible trails with 94% of the acreage designated as wilderness.

Whatcom CC’s New Look

Whatcom Community College is planning major renovations, including a new facility for student and staff collaboration and student dorms.

Mortality Meets Coffee Klatsch

When you hear about a group called Death Café meeting in a funeral home, you may not think it would be a lively group. But, according to the founder of the Death Café of Whatcom County, Sandy…

Grabbing Life By the Horns

The first bite transports you to a warm, Mississippi morning. The array of spices paired with a hint of pineapple…

Cascadia Womens Film Fest Returns

Last month was Women’s History Month, but we don’t have to stop celebrating just because it’s April. The second annual Cascadia International Women’s Film Festival is April 12–15 at Pickford Film Center in downtown Bellingham. This festival screens films directed exclusively by women, honoring their strides in a predominately male dominated field Cascadia will spotlight a variety of feature films, documentaries, and animated pieces, directed by…

Hard-to-Kill Plants

So, you’ve never muddied your hands with garden soil. You can never remember what a perennial is. You’ve drowned or deprived all your past plants. Do not despair. Below is…

All-Ages Entertainment Downtown

The Ruckus Room Arcade and Fun Center Looking to provide an all-ages space downtown for Bellingham’s under-21 crowd, Collin Topolski and Emmalyn Smith opened the Ruckus Room Arcade and Fun Center in August of 2017. The co-owners designed the space with the basements and bonus rooms of middle-class American families of the 1970s in mind. Orange and green walls…

Yes in a Dress- Nuu-Muu

Athletic leisure wear is all the rage, but what about a functional athletic garment that looks as pretty as your non-athletic garments? What about telling your daughter she can play basketball in a dress? What about getting dirty without sacrificing style? Enter Nuu-Muu, the Bellingham-based company that designs athletic dresses. The company has garnered quite a following…

On the hunt for Totality

Photographer and Friends Find Magic and an Eerie Light During Solar Eclipse The tent flaps are pushed aside and a cold breeze greets my nose, I know that today is the day. With excitement in the air, I quietly rouse my camp, making sure to tread lightly, as it is only 5:30 in the…

Award-Winning Infant Care In Anacortes

Island Hospital Center for Maternal & Infant Care An Anacortes care center is one of just 13 winners of an international award for promoting healthy and successful breastfeeding practices. The Island Hospital Center for Maternal & Infant…

Information Technology Degree Boosts Whatcom Community College

Whatcom Community College is already making a name for itself as a place to be trained in the rising field…

White Snow Geese Enthrall, but Have a Dark Side

Drive through Skagit Valley’s fields from December through February and you’ll likely see hundreds of pristine white birds waddling about the muddy fields. Continue watching and you’ll see a magnificent sight when the flock suddenly takes flight and your field of vision looks like a fuzzy, snowy television screen. Martha Jordan, executive director of the Northwest Swan Conservation Association (NWSCA) explains the impressive display is thanks to a “flock mentality” and…

Current, Classic Video Games Fill a Niche

Best Buds Gaming Lounge As Hugh and Alexis Newmark manage their shop, a little brown package arrives. It has been sent from Germany, which could only mean one thing. Giddy with excitement, they carefully open it on the bar. It’s the European version of the classic…

Farm-to-Table Cheese

Ferndale Farmstead From “seed-to-cheese,” Ferndale Farmstead is conquering every step of making artisan Italian cheese, and it all happens on the Ferndale farm. The 680 cows that…

A Circus Story

I lived near Bellingham for 22 years before discovering there’s a circus in town. It’s aptly named Vaudevillingham and is put on by the Bellingham Circus Guild. Located just down the road from the hub of Fairhaven in a big warehouse, the circus puts on a show the 15th of every month. The event is a variety, kind of anything-goes, circusstyle experience. Each act…

More Local Art? Step Right Up

Fairhaven Fourth Friday Art Work Fairhaven is Washington’s best-kept secret, according to artist and shop owner Scott Ward, who moved north…

Small Brewery, Large Taste

Atwood Ales With a yank, the doors of the old barn are pulled open, revealing a network of interconnected piping, flashing lights and chromed steel woven between ancient boards. With only two barrels of small-batch brew coming…

Farms Tour: Cows. Alpacas. Sea Urchins?

Skagit Valley Festival of Family Farms If you’ve ever wondered just how does that food get from farm to table, or if you simply want to channel your inner Laura Ingalls Wilder, the Oct. 7 and 8 Skagit Valley Festival of Family Farms can help. It’s held during harvest season, but there’s more than gathering going on. Activities range from educational exhibits to markets to gardening demonstrations to the chance for kids to pet farm animals and…

Living Intentionally and Collaboratively

Bellingham Cohousing Coffee hour starts at 10 a.m. each morning. Residents sit quietly in the common house and drink their coffee while catching up with neighbors. Six acres of land was bought in 1997 and three years later,…

Quirky Play About The Pig War Comes to Life

Only some people are aware of the major dispute between Great Britain and the United States over who had rightful ownership of the San Juan Islands, referred to as The Pig War. The mid-1800s conflict never actually resulted in physical combat, but was instead resolved diplomatically. It is quite likely that just a handful of people know that…

Celebrating the Sea

Bellingham SeaFeast Festival After a successful maiden voyage in 2016, SeaFeast is returning to Bellingham September 22 and 23 for two days of games, live music, and of course, good eats. The festival celebrates the history and tastes of the Salish Sea, and admission is free. The feasting begins Friday with a “sea-feed” downtown, where attendees can purchase a ticket to eat their fill of Dungeness crab, salmon, and oysters, alongside local craft beer and wines. Food trucks will be serving…

A Bigger Slice of the Pie

Pizza’zza Expands in Fairhaven After about six months of renovation Pizza’zza officially reopened in June as a full-service, sit-down restaurant and tap room. While the carryout counter has been a part of what was once Yorky’s…

Pickin’ Washington’s Bluest Jewels

Bow Hill Blueberries Summertime means warm breezes, crab boils, and berry picking. If you haven’t already visited Bow Hill Blueberries in Bow, then you’re missing out on some of Washington’s best berries. The farm has been selling blueberries since 1947, owned by the Anderson family until…

Master Chef Opens Specialty Bakery

Opera Pastries and Coffee Those hungry for a taste of France have a new destination to try in downtown Bellingham. Opera, a French pastry and coffee shop, officially opened its doors…

Wonder Woman

Barb Demorest Barbara Demorest’s story is one that begins with a diagnosis and leads to a ripple of hope for thousands, extending from her Bellingham community all the way to women of rural Uganda. In July of 2011, Demorest received the devastating call that a lump she had biopsied was indeed breast cancer. She would undergo a mastectomy and, due to complications, Demorest was unable to be reconstructed. After hearing about…

Heliotrope Hotel

Retro Vibe Meets Pacific Northwest Mood Bellingham’s hotel accommodations have long lacked a middle ground; a space that neither has the price tag of The Chrysalis Inn nor the disconcerting nature of the motels on North and South Samish Way. In May, however, The Heliotrope Hotel filled that void. Located…

Dog Paddle

Pups rehabilitate in the pool Carrie Lane, owner of K9 Lap of Luxury, was first inspired by the powers of canine hydrotherapy at a pool in Fall City. Lane showed her…

Tech-Savvy Surgery Comes to Bellingham

The Bellingham medical community has something new and exciting to talk about — the da Vinci Surgical System. The robotic system is praised for its minimally invasive surgeries, which can make for quicker recovery times and easier healing. Local surgeons are already making use of the da Vinci, and are experiencing great success…

Best Day Ever

Serial entrepreneur Anne-Marie Faiola is at it again. In addition to Bramble Berry, her soap-making supply company, Faiola has set to work on providing both mental and physical betterment through an extension of her Bramble Berry brand, called Best Day Ever. It all began with the people she worked…

Sips to Your Health

If you haven’t stopped by Saku Tea at the Tide Lines Gallery yet, then make your way to the cozy tea…

Finding A Place

There’s something for everyone at The Comics Place. My Little Pony comics are interspersed with Mad Max and Marvel. Six shelves are dedicated to both tabletop and board games, and an island in the center of the entryway provides the familiar and cacophonous scrape and clatter of the many-sided dice required to play tabletop games. And even though…

Wonder Woman – Erin Monroe

September is Workforce Development Month, a time to honor workforce development professionals who support job seekers, local employers, and economic development in their communities. Here in Snohomish County, it was a busy month for…