After the success of its debut, Paper Whale’s Fire & Story is returning for round two! From Jan. 23-25, this all-ages event will illuminate the darkest nights of the year with four artistic wood-burning fires and over 50 unique performers spread across the Bellingham Waterfront.

Photograph by Mataio Gillis
With Fire & Story’s extensive line-up, attendees can expect three curated evenings showcasing a variety of performers, including storytellers, comedians, poets, authors, musicians, fire dancers, glass sculptures, and Lummi Nation and Nooksack Tribal members. In addition to all of the fun from year one, Fire & Story 2025 promises projection art, a sauna sanctuary, a 21+ lounge, new fire installations, and even more light art and illuminated installations.
Paper Whale held the first Fire & Story in 2024 with the hopes of optimizing an underutilized public space to introduce a meaningful community experience.
“Culturally, our community is missing a significant Winter season experience that brings people together [and] one that showcases the creative diversity and aesthetic integrity of our artistic community,” says Paper Whale Director Nick Hartrich.
Fire & Story not only gathers people for a celebration of arts, it embodies the power of community. Organizing an event as bold as this is no easy feat, but it’s a labor of love for Paper Whale and the many local businesses, artists, performers, and volunteers that put it together. As a result, Fire & Story is quickly becoming a beloved winter tradition.
“Fire & Story was really spectacular. So beautifully and thoughtfully produced. The attention to detail was as amazing as the big-picture vision. A gift to our community,” says 2024 storyteller Julie Trimmingham.
Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience. Tickets are available at fireandstory.com, so mark your calendar and prepare for the next chapter of Fire & Story!
Bellingham Waterfront across from the Granary Building, 1145 Granary Ave., fireandstory.com