Jun Iida Quintet
6:30–8:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 10, FireHouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave.
No matter your thoughts on jazz music, Jun Iida is a talent worth watching. The up-and-coming trumpeter/composer puts his own spin on the genre, deftly blending styles ranging from contemporary jazz to blues, pop, classical and even hip-hop. Iida even weaves in influences from his Japanese heritage — but the resulting sound is wholly his own.
Presented by the Jazz Center of Bellingham, the Wednesday, April 10 show is in celebration of Iida’s new album, “Evergreen.” Iida will be joined at the FireHouse Arts and Events Center by keyboardist Dylan Hayes, Martin Budde, bassist Kelsey Mines and drummer Xavier LeCouturier. Info: jazzcenterofbellingham.org.
Whatcom County Home & Lifestyle Show
10 a.m. to 6 p.m., April 12–14, Northwest Washington Fair and Event Center, 1775 Front St., Lynden
If you’re in the midst of a remodel, building a home or simply on the hunt for a new dishwasher, you’ll find everything you need — or at least didn’t know you needed — at the Whatcom County Home & Lifestyle Show. This annual event, now entering its 43rd year, is the largest home show north of Seattle. As such, just about every home and garden pro in the region will be in attendance.
In addition to the exhibitors, attendees can look forward to workshops, food trucks, a Lego Masters building class, a reptile show and a very official-sounding, “professionally-sanctioned” BBQ competition (yes, really). The phrase “something for everyone” is often hyperbole, but the Home and Lifestyle Show really does cover all their bases. Info: biawc.com.
A Story to Live In: Poetry with Parisa Akhbari
3–5 p.m. Friday, April 12, Make.Shift, 306 Flora St.
Most writing workshops in Bellingham are geared toward adults — but A Story to Live In is specifically aimed at young people ages 14–22 (though creatives of all ages are welcome). The workshop is led by Seattle-based writer Parisa Akhbari, whose debut young adult novel, “Just Another Epic Love Poem,” was published on March 12.
Akhbari will begin the workshop by sharing poems from writers like Naomi Shihab Nye, Kahlil Gibran, Rumi and Anis Mojgani, all of whom inspired “Just Another Epic Love Poem.” Next, attendees will create their own poems using prompts from these works, all with the goal of “[making] meaning of personal experience.” The event is presented in partnership with Northwest Youth Services’ Queer Youth Services, and LGBTQ+ and BIPOC youth in particular are invited to take part. Info: makeshiftartspace.org.
Whatcom Land Trust 40th Anniversary Party
5:30–8 p.m. Friday, April 12, Structures Brewing, 601 W. Holly St.
Folks who regularly recreate in places like Stimpson Family Nature Reserve and Galbraith Mountain have Whatcom Land Trust to thank. Over the past four decades, Whatcom Land Trust has protected thousands of acres of lakes, rivers, farms, forests, meadows and wetlands throughout the county — and their work is far from finished. (Hint: We couldn’t be more excited to access Governors Point in the coming years.)
On Friday, April 12, the community is invited to celebrate Whatcom Land Trust’s 40th anniversary at Structures Brewing’s new Old Town location. Expect live music, a raffle, appearances from partner organizations, toasts from community members and — of course — birthday cake for all. Admission is free, and beer and food from Structures will be available. Info: whatcomlandtrust.org.
Uptown
7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 13, Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St.
R&B/soul group Uptown know how to start a party, no matter what decade they’re drawing influence from. Whether they’re covering the Jackson 5 or “Uptown Funk,” their music never fails to get crowds moving. This New York City-based supergroup is known to cover hits past and present, resulting in a stage show that transcends both genre and generation.
Described by Rick Sheppard of The Drifters as “a testimony to the genius of the producers, writers and artists of years gone by,” Uptown are in Bellingham for just one night, so snag your tickets before they’re gone. Each member is a soloist in their own right — so in addition to the powerhouse vocals, expect clever choreography and charisma in spades. Info: mountbakertheatre.com
Valley Made Market
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 14, Riverwalk Park, 501 Main St., Mount Vernon
The North Sound has so many incredible markets, but Valley Made is among my all-time favorites. Presented by the elSage Designs team in downtown Mount Vernon, this humble pop-up market has a whole lot of heart. ElSage owner Phoebe Carpenter Eells does her best to make the space as inclusive as possible, even offering scholarships to help emerging artisans avoid startup fees and overhead costs.
The April market is the first of 2024, and vendors are yet to be announced. Expect a healthy mix of apparel, jewelry, pottery and crafts, including folks like Mae Botanicals, MW Soapworks, Becky Laird Pottery, Fleurish Jewelry and more. Even if you’re not in the mood to shop, the live music and waterfront setting make this an event worth attending. Check Instagram @valleymademarket for updates. Info: valleymademarket.com.
ALL EVENTS
Calendar listings written by contributor Maya Heinselman.
Thursday, April 4
Beginner Macrame Class
6:30 p.m., Sliced, 70 Bellis Fair Pkwy.
Sliced is much more than just a place to get pizza. Hoag Road Maker Co. is hosting its first workshop at the restaurant this April. This beginner-level interactive class will teach you the basics of macrame and you’ll create and take home your own macrame plant hanger. Info: hoagroad.com.
Film Photography 101
6–8 p.m., Quicksilver Photo Lab, 1417 Cornwall Ave.
If you’re looking for some basic tips on how to use a film camera and handle film, then Quicksilver’s interactive class has just what you need. They’ll show you everything you need to know to get started, from how film cameras work to the ins and outs of choosing a camera, as well as how to handle the film. Info: quicksilverphotolab.com.
Friday, April 5
Wizards of the Northwest Coast
7:30 p.m., The Upfront Theatre, 203 Prospect St.
Improvisers at The Upfront Theatre will take you on a Dungeons and Dragons-esque adventure guided by none other than the audience. At this comedy show, you’ll not only get to watch the performers tackle a whole other world of dangers and camaraderie — you’ll be able to join in the fun, too! Info: theupfront.com.
12th Annual Recycled Arts Resource Expo (RARE)
April 5-27, Allied Arts Gallery, 1418 Cornwall Ave.
This juried festival is all about celebrating sustainability. By highlighting pieces made with recycled materials, the folks at Allied Arts hope to educate the community about the myriad ways art and sustainability can overlap. The exhibition opens Friday, April 5 and remains on display until Saturday, April 27, just in time to overlap with Earth Day. Info: alliedarts.org.
Saturday, April 6
Lend Us Your Ears Presents ‘Tiny Beautiful Things’ by Cheryl Strayed
2–4:30 p.m., Bellingham Theatre Guild, 1600 H. St.
Cheryl Strayed’s best-selling novel “Tiny Beautiful Things,” adapted for the stage by Nia Vardalos, is being presented in town with local actors. This novel is a collection of advice columns dealing with various issues people deal with throughout their lives. If you’re a fan of the book or television show, make sure to catch this live performance as well. Info: bellinghamtheatreguild.com.
Whatcom County Dahlia Society Tuber Sale
10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Bloedel Donovan Park, 2114 Electric Ave.
Whatcom County Dahlia Society’s Annual Community Tuber Sale is back this April, and just in time to plant. Tubers are sold for just $7; since each one can produce multiple blooms, just a few are sure to make your garden pop for this year (and years to come). Info: whatcomcountydahliasociety.com.
Jungle Jam
8 p.m. to 2 a.m., The Happy Place, 1215 Cornwall Ave.
The Jungle Jam showcases talented local individuals as they present their music, art installations, handmade creations and more. Check out the unique pieces at Artist Alley, participate in an ingenious scavenger hunt complete with prizes, and end the night with a stunning performance by Ellie Wild. Info: happy-place.co.
Fairhaven Gore and Lore Tours
7 p.m., April 6 and 13, Historic Fairhaven, Bellingham
The Good Time Girls, aka the community’s resident “Bellinghistory” experts, will be offering their popular Fairhaven Gore and Lore tours starting in April. Follow their expert guides through Fairhaven to learn about legendary local crimes, and indulge in eerie legends and lore. Info: bellinghistory.com.
Master Gardening Class
1 p.m., Sedro-Woolley Museum, 725 Murdock St.
A master gardener and a speaker from the Native Plant Society will be available to share their favorite tips on how to grow a thriving garden here in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re a newbie looking for how to start gardening or a seasoned gardener looking for even more suggestions, there’s something for everyone to learn from this class. Info: sedro-woolleymuseum.com.
8th Anniversary Block Party
12–8 p.m., Stones Throw Brewery, 1009 Larrabee Ave.
This year, Stones Throw’s annual family- and pet-friendly block party features live music from three bands, as well as food from the fish and chips food truck Galley2Go. Sit back and relax with some games and your favorite beer as you take a seat around one of their fire pits. Info: stonesthrowbrewery.com.
Sunday, April 7
‘The Kalliope Project: A Documentary’
3-4:30 p.m., FireHouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave.
Western Washington University students Maesie Halliday and Sophia Robertson present the creative process behind their photography portfolio: “The Kalliope Project.” The documentary depicts the hard work and dedication that goes into complex works like these, while also celebrating femininity and women-led creative projects as a whole. Info: firehouse-aec.com.
Wednesday, April 10
Kwame Alexander in Bellingham
7–8 p.m., Sehome High School, 2700 Bill McDonald Pkwy.
Poet/author/publisher/producer Kwame Alexander is on a mission to “change the world, one word at a time.” On Wednesday, April 10, he’s coming to Bellingham to spread his message and share his inspiring and award-winning works. Learn more about this award-winning author and his advocacy by meeting him in person. Info: villagebooks.com.
Nip-N-Sip Mosaic Workshop
6-9 p.m., Debbie Dickinson Studios, 932 N. State St.
Debbie Dickinson’s monthly workshop allows you to create a unique mosaic in a variety of shapes and sizes. For just $35, the studio provides all the materials you’ll need, along with instructions on how to create the mosaic and three hours of studio time to work on it. Info: debbiedickinson.com.
Friday, April 12
‘The Abduction from the Seraglio’
7:30–10:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way
The Pacific Northwest Opera presents one of Mozart’s first operas: “The Abduction from the Seraglio.” Jennifer Bromagen, Hallie Schmidt and Stephen Rumph — all successful talents with roots in the Pacific Northwest — star in this comedic and lively romance, presented alongside a witty musical composition. Info: mcintyrehall.org.
Saturday, April 13
Hovander Early Bloomer Plant Sale
10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Hovander Homestead Park, 5299 Nielsen Road
Whatcom County Master Gardener Foundation’s April plant sale features plants that are set to bloom in early spring. So, if you’re looking for a plant to spruce up your garden sooner rather than later, it’ll be worthwhile to check out this plant sale for a quick and easy solution. Info: whatcommgf.org.
Friends of the Anacortes Public Library Book Sale
10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St.
Gather ‘round, bookworms, because the Anacortes Public Library is hosting the kind of book sale you’ve been waiting for. For just $7, you can fill up your own reusable bag with books, CDs and DVDs from the collection they provide. Better yet, all of the proceeds from the sale go to the library’s programs and collections. Info: cityofanacortes.org.
Benefit for Palestine
4 p.m., Presence Studio, 1412 Cornwall Ave.
This fundraiser for the Palestinian Children Relief Fund will include everything from live Palestinian music, poetry from Rena Priest, drumming from Sikh Ragis and Dabke dancing. This event, called “What Makes Life Worth Living,” is being held to both celebrate Palestinian culture and support those in need through fundraising and donations. Info: whatcompjc.org.
Official PNW BBQ Competition
11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Northwest Washington Fair and Event Center, 1775 Front St.
The Pacific Northwest BBQ Association is hosting a professional barbecue competition in Whatcom County at the Home and Lifestyle Show. Sampling starts on Saturday and continues until winners are announced at 5:30 p.m. Sunday, so come and see who has the best barbecue skills and flavors (while supplies last). Info: pnwba.com.
Sunday, April 14
‘The Trouble With Wolves’
1 p.m., Pickford Film Center, 1318 Bay St.
Collin Monda’s “The Trouble With Woods” is a documentary on controversies surrounding wolf conservation efforts in the western United States. This showing ends with an open discussion, so the audience can share their thoughts on the issues presented in the film. Info: pickfordfilmcenter.org.
‘Earth: In Celebration of Our Home’
12–5 p.m., Meloy Gallery, 301 W. Holly St.
Catch the last day of this Earth-centric gallery exhibit at the Meloy Gallery. The multimedia exhibition features paintings, etchings, pottery and other fine arts by seasoned regional artists such as Linda Hughes and Jo Ford. All included works are available for purchase. Info: meloygallery.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.
Cocoa Laney is CDN’s lifestyle editor; reach her at cocoalaney@cascadiadaily.com; 360-922-3090 ext. 128.
