AMY’S PICKS
Birchwood Garden Club
7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 3, Whatcom Museum’s Old City Hall, 121 Prospect St.
While one might think it’s too early to start thinking about gardening, we are now cautiously inching back toward the light and members of this longtime garden club are well aware there are many fellow planting enthusiasts who are already planning their next yard project.
Per usual, the club will be hosting a special guest at the monthly meeting at the museum’s Rotunda Room. Abe Lloyd, a senior instructor at Western Washington University’s College of the Environment, will be discussing “Native Plants for Native Pollinators.”
Lloyd, a longtime member of the Komo Kulshan chapter of the Washington Native Plant Society, has been studying pollinators through the Shuksan Conservancy and studying bumblebees since 2015. He’ll share tips about what people who want pollinators in their gardens should look for this spring, and will gladly answer questions. Membership is open to anyone in Whatcom or Skagit counties. Info: birchwoodgardenclub.org.
‘The Burden of Not Having a Tail’
Jan. 4–20, Idiom Theater, 1417 Cornwall Ave.
The latest iteration of Idiom kicks off its 21st season at a new space in downtown Bellingham with this show directed by Glenn Hergenhahn and featuring the talents of actor Dawn Hunter, who will helm the one-woman show.
The work by playwright Carrie Barrett takes place at a bunker-side chat where audiences are invited to prepare for the up-and-coming end of the world by witnessing a thorough primer on worst-case scenarios.
While that may sound like a downer, the play promises humor alongside its poignancy and thought-provoking exploration. Eventually, show-goers will discover the reason behind the main character’s self-imposed isolation.
Hergenhahn said the production playing on various nights through Jan. 20 “marks the beginning of what promises to be a season filled with creativity and engagement.” Stay tuned for updates. Tickets to “The Burden of Not Having a Tail” are $12–$16. Info: www.idiomtheater.org.
First Friday Artwalk
6–8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 5, downtown Anacortes
If you’ve ever been to Commercial Avenue in Anacortes, you’re probably well aware it’s a stroll-friendly walkway where you can find a variety of things to look at, eat and purchase. This monthly event is the perfect time to purposefully meander its city blocks.
Tonight’s Artwalk lineup includes The Majestic Inn and Spa, where both realist and whimsical works by artist Megan Marler will be on display. At the Scott Milo Gallery, pieces by featured artist Jennifer Bowman and others have been replenished since opening in early December (check out the studios above the gallery to peruse paintings by Cathy Schoenberg and Michael Clough).
At Trinity Skate, multimedia art by Carol Cuminale will be on display. She is a collector of words and mixes them with color splashed for one-of-a-kind art pieces. Browse the gallery and enjoy snacks and beverages. You’ll likely find other gems on your stroll, so keep your eyes open. Info: anacortesart.com.
Gina Touché & Friends
7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 5, Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon
I’ve written about Skagit Drag creator Christopher Sadler — aka Gina Touché — before, but his goal to create safe public spaces for the LGBTQ community to perform outside of the bar scene bears repeating.
This event marks the second year of the Skagit Drag Live Vocal Show, which will feature an array of vocal talent from both familiar favorites and new faces. Since the event is a way for performers to connect with the community, audience members are invited to sing along if it moves them.
Sadler’s said his alter ego, Gina Touché — described as a “sassy, Southern, glitter-bearded live singer” — came about because he loved to say “damn Gina,” and use the inflection “touché.” A friend pointed out it would make a swell drag name, and Sadler agreed. See Gina in action, and you’ll likely agree. Tickets are $20. Info: lincolntheatre.org.
Eric Eschenbach exhibition opening
3–5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 6, Smith and Vallee Gallery, Edison
Those looking for a post-holiday day trip can’t go wrong with a trip to Edison. I’m going to throw out a few ideas of how to make the most of your afternoon, and you can pick and choose from my suggestions.
I’d start off with a late lunch at the Old Edison Inn, where I recently enjoyed a pan-fried oyster dinner and my significant other mowed down a hyper-local Bow Burger featuring grass-fed beef, Golden Glen Creamery cheese and a Breadfarm bun.
After lunch, mosey down the block to I.E. Edison, where the gallery is currently hosting a group exhibition, “Winter’s Teeth.” Showing through January, the works have been replenished as people have purchased pieces to take home for the holidays.
Around 3 p.m., make your way to Smith & Vallee for a meet-and-greet with Eschenbach, whose landscape paintings in encaustic and oil are apt to depict man’s impact on nature. It will show through January, so if you can’t make the Jan. 6 event, plan a visit for later in the month. Info: smithandvalleegallery.com.
Depot Comedy Club
8 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 7, Aslan Depot, 1322 N. State St.
Once a month, established stand-up comedians from around the Pacific Northwest make their way to Bellingham’s classiest beer joint to share their talents. Audiences sip on their favorite beverages, settle in for a couple of hours and end their weekends on a positive note.
For the first show of 2024, Jeremiah Coughlan, Jaci Terjeson and Vanessa Dawn will be the featured performers.
Coughlin, who said he “physically resembles what would happen if Chris Farley ate Bob Ross,” brings his candid, conversational brand of self-deprecating humor onstage. Terjeson is a comedian who took fifth place in the recent Seattle International Comedy Competition, and Dawn is an Oklahoma transplant whose comedy “sneaks up on you like an unmarked car at a DUI checkpoint.” Tickets are $20. Info: aslanbrewing.com.
Writing Group Gatherings
Throughout the year, Village Books, 1220 11th St.
Writing can seem like a solitary endeavor, but it doesn’t have to be.
If you’re hoping to be more creative in 2024, a number of writing groups already exist at Village Books’s Fairhaven locale. For example, a Morning Poetry Group meets the first and third Tuesdays of the month. All you need to do is bring at least one original poem of yours to share and be read out loud. Fellow writers will discuss the work, give feedback and further assist you with your writing goals.
Other VB Writes groups include Prompts, an Evening Poetry Group, Nonfiction & Memoir (new!), Environmentalist Anonymous: A Creative Writing Group, Fiction I and II and Shut Up and Write (also new). Groups typically meet in the Writers’ Corner on the mezzanine level of the story or in the Readings Gallery on the lowest level of the bookstore. Check the website for more details, and get writing. Info: villagebooks.com.
ALL EVENTS
Thursday, Dec. 28
Holiday Trees Celebration
Through Dec. 31, Hotel Bellwether, One Bellwether Way
This 12th annual event features 18 trees decorated by local businesses. Vote in person or online for your favorite by donating funds to Skookum Kids — a local volunteer-staffed facility dedicated to providing care and support for children entering foster care. The minimum suggested amount is $10; those who vote will be entered into a prize drawing for an overnight stay at the hotel’s Lighthouse Suite. Info: hotelbellwether.com.
MegaZapper
Through Dec. 30, 2:30 p.m., Spark Museum of Electrical Invention, 1312 Bay St.
Catch extra shows of this live-action science and history presentation this week, taking place daily through Saturday. Elements of the show include a variety of eye-popping machines reminiscent of Frankenstein’s laboratory. The centerpiece is a “Cage of Doom.” Participants ages 18 and older can enter it and be bombarded with volts of electricity. Entry is $5 (in addition to general admission). Info: sparkmuseum.org.
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
7:30 p.m., The Upfront Theatre, 203 Prospect St.
Bellingham’s longest-running improv show takes place every Thursday, featuring a rotating performance format as well as special guest players. Tickets are $10–$14. Info: theupfront.com.
Cole Anderson
7 p.m., Lairmont Manor, 405 Fieldston Road
This accomplished pianist and native Bellinghamster returns to his former stomping grounds from his current home base in Palo Alto, California to share his prodigious talents. He will perform music Fanny Mendelssohn Hensel, Nikolai Kapustin, Franz Liszt, and Federico Mompou. Tickets are $5 for students and $20 for adults. Order online or purchase at the door. Info: brownpapertickets.com.
Friday, Dec. 29
Harvesting Joy
11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Ben Mann Studios, 1000 Harris Ave.
For the final weekend of 2023, take 55 steps up the Morgan Block Building in Fairhaven for this “hot cider meets cool art” event that has been taking place Fridays through Sundays since the beginning of November. Mann will be on hand to greet visitors, sell art and talk about his process. Info: ben-mann.com.
Patron Appreciation Day
1–4 p.m., South Whatcom Library, 10 Barn View Drive, Sudden Valley
Friends of the South Whatcom Library will host a sweets-focused potluck celebrating their engaged readers. Bring a baked treat to contribute or just enjoy the hot cider and goodies outside of the library. Info: wcls.org.
Deck the Old City Hall
Noon to 5 p.m., Whatcom Museum’s Old City Hall, 121 Prospect St.
Attend the last weekend of this five-week event through Sunday. View decorated holiday trees in the Rotunda Room, check out the dazzling decor throughout the building and take a peek at the exhibits currently on display. Admission is by donation, with proceeds going to support museum exhibitions and programming. Info: whatcommuseum.org.
The Lights of Christmas
5–9 p.m., Warm Beach Camp, Stanwood
Sign up for a time slot for this drive-thru event, which continues through Saturday night. See more than one million lights in dazzling displays, listen to Christmas music on your car’s radio and stop at one of the two activity stops along the route. Tickets are $32–$60 per vehicle, and advance purchase is required. Info: thelightsofchristmas.com.
‘The Snow Queen’
7 p.m., BAAY Theatre, 1059 N. State St.
Over the course of four weeks, Bellingham Arts Academy for Youth will feature four different casts of students ages 9–12 performing this “playful remix” of the classic fairy tale by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen. Showings happen Fridays through Sundays through Jan. 7. Tickets are $12. Info: baay.org.
Railroad Earth
7:30 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St.
The longtime New Jersey septet known as Railroad Earth heads to the MBT’s historic main stage to share stellar song-craft, bluegrass, soul and rock. Starting at 6:15 p.m., there will be Boundary Bay beer garden in the Walton Theatre, and Danielle’s Back East BBQ will be selling their delicious fare to ticket-holders. Tickets are $30–$60. Info: mountbakertheatre.com.
White Elephant
7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., The Upfront Theatre, 203 Bay St.
If you have an unwanted, funny or weird gift you received over the holidays and don’t want anymore, bring it along to showings happening Friday and Saturday. Exchange it with an improviser, who will open it onstage and make it become a part of the show (don’t worry, you’ll get a gift in exchange). Tickets are $10–$16, but those bringing presents will get 50% off of their entry fee. Info: theupfront.com.
Saturday, Dec. 30
Semiahmoo Sips
2–4 p.m., Semiahmoo Resort, Blaine
Every Saturday, head to a special wine tasting hosted in the Semiahmoo Wine Cellar, where a sommelier pours samples of four different wines from a rotating menu. Charcuterie and cheeses to pair with the wines are also available for purchase. Entry is $20 per person, and no registration is required. Info: Semiahmoo.com
Fairhaven Ghost Tour
6:30 p.m., Sycamore Square, 1200 Harris Ave.
Professional psychic Charles Crooks will lead a walking tour as he tells stories of local ghosts and his own experiences. The tour begins and ends in the courtyard of Sycamore Square near the center fountain. Expect PG-13 language. Please read the terms and conditions before purchasing your ticket. The hourlong tour is $25. Info: bellinghamghosttours.com.
Blair Bomber: Tries His Best Live
8 p.m, The Thirsty Badger, 1501 E. Badger Road, Lynden
This comedian, podcaster and “tantric yoga guru” — a native of Lynden — will bring his “ironic, observational and completely literal” comedy to the stage. Entry is free, but show up early if you want a good seat. Info: thethirstybadger.com.
Sunday, Dec. 31
New Year’s Eve Balloon Drop
4 p.m., Whatcom Museum’s Lightcatcher Building, 250 Flora St.
Head to the Family Interactive Gallery (FIG), create crafty party hats in the art studio, then capture the moment in a photo booth. The FIG will be open from noon to 5 p.m. that day, with a 4 p.m. balloon drop. Entry is included with $5–$10 admission. Info: whatcommuseum.org.
A Very Upfront New Year
7 p.m., 9 p.m. and 11 p.m., The Upfront Theatre, 203 Prospect St.
The improvised performances will include revisiting the best shows and memories from the past year. Tickets are $16 for the 7 p.m. show, $22 for the 9 p.m. gig and $28 for the late-nighter (includes a midnight champagne toast). The first two shows are all-ages, the third is 21-plus. Info: theupfront.com.
New Year’s Eve Contra Dance
8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Franklin Academy, 1509 E. Victor St.
Seattle-based bands Indigo Bunting and The Electrodes will provide live tunes, and Isaac Banner will do the calling. Suggested donation is $15–$25 general, $10 for students. Bring a snack to share; non-alcoholic beverages will be provided for a midnight toast. Info: bellinghamcountrydance.org.
New Year’s Eve Fundraiser
8 p.m. to midnight, New Prospect Theatre, 207 Prospect St.
Bellingham Repertory Dance and the New Prospect Theatre will join forces for this joint fundraiser. Expect karaoke, plenty of dancing, delicious drinks and the warm feeling that comes with knowing you’re supporting the arts. Entry is $25 for adults. Tickets for youth are $10; they’ll be welcome until 10 p.m. Info: newprospecttheatre.org.
Monday, Jan. 1
Resolution Run and Padden Polar Dip
11 a.m., Lake Padden Park, 4882 Samish Way
If you make it through New Year’s Eve intact, christen 2024 by attending this annual event. The outdoor action kicks off with a run (or walk) around the 2.6-mile trail and, at noon, features a “refreshing dip” in the lake. Popcorn and warm beverages will be provided, and locker rooms will be open for changing. Costumes are encouraged. Entry is free and no registration is required. Info: cob.org.
Polar Bear Plunge
Noon, 7876 Birch Bay Drive, Blaine
This 41st annual event features a warming tent at Beach Cat Brewing Brewing Company, where there will be on-site registration and the sale of T-shirts and sweatshirts (can be pre-ordered). If you’re up for it, join RE Sources from 9–10:30 a.m. for a trash pickup on the beach. The plunge happens at noon on the dot. Info: birchbaychamber.com.
Tuesday, Jan. 2
Stage Performance Workshop
6:45 p.m., Makerspace, 1 Bellis Fair Pkwy
If you’re starting the new year determined to tackle your stage fright, sign up for this workshop with Rachel Carter. This workshop is for both the stage frightened and the seasoned professional! You will learn some skills to improve your stage performance no matter your experience. Entry is free. Info: bet.toastmastersclubs.org.
Friday, Jan. 5
First Friday
6–10 p.m., throughout downtown Bellingham
Attend this monthly celebration showcasing local artists and galleries, places to eat and drink, late-night shopping, events, live music and more. Fresh programming happens each month, so come explore and find out something new about the place you live (or are visiting). Check Downtown Bellingham Partnership’s website beforehand for a map. Info: downtownbellingham.com.
Saturday, Jan. 6
Dockside Market
10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Fishermen’s Pavilion, Squalicum Harbor
Local fisherfolk will be selling their fresh and frozen wares at this twice-monthly market. Visit the dock early to find the best selection of seafood options. Details and participating vendors and products are posted 24 hours ahead of sale days. Info: bellinghamseafeast.org.
Luminary Globe Workshop
10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Museum of Northwest Art, 121 S. First St., La Conner
Youth ages 8 and older can register to design and decorate a pre-made luminary globe — like the round paper lanterns you might see decorated for the Jan. 26 Illuminight winter walk in Mount Vernon. Luminaries are decorated with bright-colored tissue paper and are designed to show the beauty of the watershed and community here in Skagit County. Workshops happen hourly; please register in advance. Info: monamuseum.org.
Flamenco Feroz
8 p.m., The Blue Room, 202 E. Holly St.
Oleaje Flamenco’s Amelia Moore (dance), Daniel Azcarate (vocals) and Jed Miley (guitar) will joined by powerhouse Jose Moreno of New York City for this special show by Oleaje Flamenco. Moreno is a singer, dancer, percussionist and guitarist who was born into a family of Flamenco artists and has enjoyed an illustrious career. Tickets are $25. Info: blueroombham.com.
Sunday, Jan. 7
‘Calendar Girls’
3 p.m., FireHouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave.
As part of Kuntz and Company’s Documenting Grace Film Series, watch this film about an unlikely group of women ages 60-plus who are bonded by love and dance — and glitter. Entry is $6–$12. Info: kuntzandco.org.
Salsa Workshop
6–8 p.m., The Majestic, 326 E. Walnut St.
Join Bellingham’s Salsa Collective to learn more about salsa dancing or increasing your skills. No experience, partner, special clothes or shoes required. The event happens every Sunday. Suggested donation is $7 to help pay for use of the space, but if the amount is prohibitive, come on in (no questions will be asked). Info: TheSalsaCollective.bham@gmail.com.
Drag Me 2 Church
9:30 p.m., Rumors Cabaret, 1119 Railroad Ave.
This community drag show takes place every Sunday, featuring rotating host Sage Valentine, Jizzy Pop, Feather Fatale, and Faye — as well as a rotating weekly cast. Entry is by donation; funds support Lifelong and Planned Parenthood. Tips are also encouraged. Info: rumorscabaret.com.
Before heading out to attend in-person happenings, check with individual venues to make sure the event is still taking place as scheduled.
The A-List appears weekly. To submit an event for consideration, email calendar@cascadiadaily.com.
