COCOA’S PICKS

Spirits & Cider Stroll

5:30–9 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 8, 114 Magnolia St.

For the second year in a row, downtown Bellingham will be transformed into a series of pop-up tasting rooms. That’s right, folks: It’s time for the Spirits & Cider Stroll.

The excuse to taste locally made craft beverages is enough to sell me, but there’s more to this event than booze alone. Drink samples will be paired with a dose of Bellingham history, and attendees can poke their heads into corners of downtown that they might not get to experience otherwise. General admission is $50, but $15 more gets you access to a VIP reception in Chuckanut Bay Distillery’s new mezzanine, plus a tour of the distillery’s historic building. (Fun fact: It’s the former home of the Bellingham JCPenney!) Info: downtownbellingham.com.

Fairhaven Chocolate Walk

1–5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10, 1106 Harris Ave.

If cider and whiskey aren’t enough to tempt you out on the town, perhaps chocolate will do the trick. The Fairhaven Chocolate Walk is one of my personal favorite yearly events, and for good reason: Storefronts across historic Fairhaven will be passing out unique chocolates, most of which are produced regionally. Beyond the sugar high, this walk is also a great excuse to get to know Fairhaven’s local business scene.

There are 18 total chocolates to sample, and this year’s participating chocolatiers include Seattle Candy Company, Chukar Cherries, Boehm’s Chocolates and Bellingham’s own K’UL Chocolate. Attendees receive a bag to bring their chocolates home in, so if you have the self-restraint, you can even save some for your Valentine (or your future self). Info: enjoyfairhaven.com.

Mardi Gras in Concrete

3–7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10, Concrete Town Center, 45920 Main St.

Concrete might seem like an unusual location for a Mardi Gras celebration, but year after year, this sleepy mountain town draws a surprisingly large crowd. In fact, they host the only family-friendly, free-of-charge Mardi Gras event in all of Western Washington. It doesn’t matter if you’re 8 or 88 — if you like dressing up and dancing in the street, you’re invited to join in on the fun.

Even more unexpectedly, this year’s celebration has a theme: “Fungi is Fun.” Winners will be announced for a fungi photo contest, and after the 3 p.m. parade ends, crowds can head straight to Concrete’s Fungi Film Fest for just $5.

Mardi Gras and mushrooms might not be an obvious pairing, but the combo is certain to make for an extremely memorable afternoon. Laissez les bons temps rouler! Info: concrete-wa.com.

BQC Hearts Desire Dance

7–10:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10, Hotel Leo, 1224 Cornwall Ave.

There aren’t many reasons to get dressed up in the dead of winter — but the Hearts Desire Dance is a rare exception. Presented by the Bellingham Queer Collective in the Hotel Leo Crystal Ballroom, this Valentine’s Day event promises to be a sparkly, swanky good time. It’s also an opportunity for LGBTQ+ folks to connect and build community.

Appetizers are included in the $35 ticket cost, and there will also be a full bar available. The ballroom event ends at 10:30 — to the relief of those of us who aren’t 21 anymore — but if all that dancing has you feeling energized, the party continues at Amendment 21 until midnight. Glitter is not required (but highly encouraged). Info: bellinghamqueercollective.org.

Hearts for Housing Masquerade Gala

5–9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10, Four Points by Sheraton, 714 Lakeway Drive

It’s no coincidence that Lydia Place’s philanthropy events are some of the most well-attended in Whatcom County. First and foremost, all proceeds help the nonprofit support families experiencing homelessness in Whatcom County, and that’s a mission we can all get behind. But beyond that, these events are just plain fun — and who doesn’t love having fun for a good cause?

Lydia Place’s annual Valentine’s Day event is just around the corner, and this edition looks to be extra magical. Don your masquerade-themed best for an evening combining “fantasy and philanthropy,” enjoy a three-course meal (plus champagne and appetizers) and participate in raffles and a dessert dash. You’ll share the evening with like-minded community members who use their dollars to make a difference. Info: lydiaplace.org.

Super Bowl Watch Party

2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 11, Aslan Depot, 1322 N. State St.

As one of my friends recently put it, Aslan Depot functions somewhat like Bellingham’s living room. This downtown taproom is one of the few to offer genuinely cozy seating, and between the jazz nights, DJs, comedy events and maker’s markets, there’s always a reason to go hang out. 

Given how much there already is to do at Aslan Depot, it only makes sense to spend Super Bowl Sunday here too. The game will be screened live on a projector, and beyond the requisite craft beer, sports fans can expect house-made wings and nachos. Even if you can’t commit to an entire football game, you could at least swing by to catch Usher’s halftime show on the big screen. Info: aslanbrewing.com. 

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ALL EVENTS

Friday, Feb. 2

Downtown Bellingham First Friday

6–10 p.m. Friday, Feb. 2, downtown Bellingham

These monthly community events are an excuse to explore new pockets of Bellingham, as well as meet the retailers and artists who give the downtown corridor its character. Businesses stay open late, artists open their studios and live music can be found around every corner. Info: downtownbellingham.com.

A Celebration of Black Music

7:30 p.m., Western Washington University Performing Arts Center Concert Hall

This annual concert, celebrating the contributions of Black jazz and classical musicians, features the Western Flute Ensemble, conducted by Mehrdad Gholami; a duet by Mehrdad Gholami, flute, and Jeffrey Gilliam, piano; a piano solo by Milica Jovanović; the WWU Jazz Big Band and Combos conducted by Kevin Woods; and the University Choir, conducted by Kyre Rengstorf with guest clinician Richard L. Hodges. Info: cfpa.wwu.edu.

Texas Guitar Quartet

7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, Skagit Valley College, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon

What a treat to have this acclaimed classical guitar ensemble come to our region. The quartet’s impressive resume includes performances at the Encuentro Internacional de Guitarra in Nicaragua, Victoria Bach Festival, Guitar Foundation of America Convention, and Festival Internacional del Noreste in Mexico, and they’ve presented a series of concerts in historic cathedrals along the Camino de Santiago in Spain. Info: mcintyrehall.org.

Saturday, Feb, 3

La Conner Birding Festival

Starts at 10 a.m. both days. Feb. 3–4, Maple Hall, 104 Commercial St., La Conner

With more than 16,700 acres of wildlife area to explore, the Skagit Valley is a bird-watching wonderland. The La Conner Birding Festival has historically been one of the biggest annual events for the Skagit birding community. This year’s lineup includes a winter birding showcase, as well as workshops and discussions led by avian experts. Author Tony Angell will also be giving a presentation, entitled “For Ravens, Crows, and Other Birds, Timing is Crucial,” on Saturday night. Info: lovelaconner.com. 

Ska-kom Seed Swap and Fix-it Fair

12–4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 3, Chuckanut Brewery, 11937 Higgins Airport Way

The Ska-com Seed Swap and Fix-it Fair is a great excuse to get out, meet fellow gardeners and stock up on seeds for the new season. All services are by donation, and you’re also welcome to simply show up, enjoy a pint and learn about why seed diversity is so important for the environment. Info: burlington-chamber.com.

‘Lend Us Your Ears: ‘Mary’s Wedding‘

2 p.m., Bellingham Theatre Guild playhouse, 1600 H St.

Attend a play reading of Canadian playwright Stephen Massicotte’s set in 1920 on the Canadian prairie about two young adults in love and how World War I changes their lives. The reading will be performed by Bellingham actors Spenser Stumpf, Sarah Miller and Riley Myers, and it contains adult language situations. No reservations necessary; it’s general seating. bellinghamtheatreguild.com.

The Bellingham Dixieland All Stars

3 p.m., Jansen Art Center, 321 Front St., Lynden

Bandleader Bob Storms delves into his repertoire of more than 2,000 songs and tunes inspired by music from the 1920s and 1930s. The octet comprises Bob Storms, leader and reeds; Nancy Button, vocalist; Frank Kuhl, trumpet; Isaac Poole, trombone; John Flancher, bass; Tim Volpicella, guitar; Randal Wade, piano; and Brent Storms, drums. Info: jansenartcenter.org.

Winter Showcase

4 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St.

Dancers from The Dance Studio, from youngsters to advanced performers, showcase tap, jazz, hip-hop, ballet, lyrical and contemporary styles perform in a kid-friendly event, led by longtime dancer and choreographer Britt Burton and her team of creative and talented instructors. Info: mountbakertheatre.com.

Fairhaven Art Walk

4–7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 3, Historic Fairhaven

With more than 20 participating artists, this event gives folks a unique opportunity to put their finger on Fairhaven’s creative pulse. Attendees are invited to wander the neighborhood’s charming red-brick streets and immerse themselves in an afternoon of “community, creativity and culture.”  Info: enjoyfairhaven.com. 

The New Old Time Chautauqua

7 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon

This performance celebrates the 50th Anniversary of the Flying Karamazov Brothers, jugglers extraordinaire, plus you’ll enjoy Artis the Spoonman’s hot dog spoon playing; hula hooper, rope twirler, and trumpet player Vanessa Vortex; troubadour guitarist Jim Page; Bellingham poet Kevin Murphy; and the colorful The Fighting Instruments of Karma marching band. Info: lincolntheatre.org.

Sunday, Feb. 4

2 p.m., McIntyre Hall, Skagit Valley College, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon

Starry Night Chamber Players

An ensemble of instrumentalists on violins, cello, guitar, mandolin and trumpet will attempt hyper-speeds on their respective solos and small groups. Performing are Richard Rorex on lead guitar; David Holzemer, Tara Weaver and Sharyn Peterson on violin; David Jones on bass; David Janicki on mandolin; Malcolm Peterson on trumpet; Matthew Rehfeldt on cello; and Lorraine Earle on piano. Refreshments are included in the tickets. The intimate Chamber Music concert takes place in the Studio Space at McIntyre Hall. Info: mcintyrehall.org.

Bellingham Chamber Music

3 p.m., Hotel Leo Crystal Ballroom, 1224 Cornwall Ave.

The Bellingham Chamber Music Society presents an afternoon of Nordic and American music, featuring Carl Nielsen’s “Serenata in Vano” and Franz Berwald’s “Grand Septet,” as well as string quartets by living American female composers Jessie Montgomery and Caroline Shaw. A reception will follow the concert. Info: musicinbellingham.com.

Tuesday, Feb. 6

Northwest Naive Narrative

4–8 p.m., Jansen Art Center, 321 Front St.

In this one-day workshop taught by Dan Stockwell, participants will learn how to tell stories using clay and underglazes. Bring your own image or use one provided by the instructor; either way, the goal is to transfer an image onto clay and learn more about the Northwest Naive Narrative painting style. Info: jansenartcenter.org.

Wednesday, Feb. 7

Greene’s Corner Story Lantern

6–8 p.m., Greene’s Corner, 2208 James St.

How better to build community than through storytelling? In this event, akin to “The Moth,” speakers will share true tales about their lives. Come and share a tale of your own, or simply listen to what others have to say — either way, you’re bound to make a few new connections. Info: greenescorner.com.

‘Out of the Box: Broadway’s Next Hit Musical‘

7:30 p.m. Wednesday–Friday, Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St.

The Tony Awards might be prestigious — but the so-called “Phony Awards” are certainly funnier. In this musical theater-themed improv event, audience members make up song titles for performers to transform into brand-new, Broadway-style productions. Info: mountbakertheatre.com.

Thursday, Feb. 8

Cat Yoga

6–7:30 p.m., NEKO Cat Cafe, 1130 Cornwall Ave.

If you’re looking to take your yoga practice to the next level, have you considered adding kittens to the mix? What could possibly go wrong?! NEKO Cat Cafe is hosting an all-levels intuitive yoga flow, and if our predictions are correct, hilarity is bound to ensue. Bring your own yoga mat, and make sure to stay after class for some bonus kitty time. Info: nekocatcafe.com.

Friday, Feb. 9

Like, Totally! An ’80s Themed Party for Queer Adults

8 p.m., The Blue Room 202 E Holly St 301, Ste. 401

Don your best leg warmers, tease your hair and head to the Blue Room for this ’80s-themed dance party. This event is specifically aimed at LGBTQ+ individuals, and in addition to a live DJ, partygoers can expect art, vendors, drag performers and more. Info: blueroombham.com.

Eli West: Northwest Roots

7 p.m., New Prospect Theatre, 207 Prospect St.

As a trained songwriter and designer, Eli West takes an architectural approach to songwriting. He structures each song like a “[house] built by hand,” and his melodic, thoughtful musicianship is sure to enchant crowds. Join him at New Prospect Theatre for an intimate evening of song. Info: newprospecttheatre.org.

Saturday, Feb. 10

Valentine’s Poetry Workshop

12–3 p.m., Tri-Dee Arts, 215 S. 1st St.

Want to do something extra special for your sweetheart this Valentine’s Day? The Skagit River Poetry Foundation and Tri-Dee Arts in Mount Vernon are joining forces to host a poetry workshop, and you’re invited to “explore the universal power of love through poetry and paper crafting.” The $15 ticket price includes all supplies, and pre-registration is encouraged. Info: skagitriverpoetry.org.

Visible Mending Workshop

11 a.m.–1 p.m., Whatcom Museum’s Lightcatcher building, 205 Flora St.

Whether you’re an experienced fiber artist or simply looking to make old clothing last longer, this sewing workshop promises to be both informative and fun. Learn sashiko-style stitching from the folks at Ragfinery in collaboration with Whatcom Museum’s “Acts of Healing and Repair” exhibition. Info: whatcommuseum.com.

Sunday, Feb. 11

Documenting Grace … a Dance Film Series

3–4:30 p.m., FireHouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave.

Kuntz and Company’s ongoing dance film series continues at the FireHouse Arts and Events Center. The Feb. 11 installment will be “The Dancing Man — Peg Leg Bates,” which follows the titular tap dancer from Southern minstrel shows to his work during the “golden age of television” on the Ed Sullivan Show. Info: enjoyfairhaven.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.