COCOA’S PICKS

‘Pippin’

June 14–30, times vary, Bellingham Theatre Guild, 1600 H St.

If you love the Shoestring Circus and Bellingham Circus Guild, then the Bellingham Theatre Guild’s next production might also be of interest. Its version of “Pippin” is an update of the classic show, chronicling the “musical story of one man’s journey to be extraordinary.” It follows Pippin, the young heir to the Frankish throne, as he discovers fulfillment “not in extraordinary endeavors, but rather in the unextraordinary moments that happen every day.” 

First staged in the ’70s under the direction of Bob Fosse, “Pippin” was revived on Broadway in 2013 to rave reviews (and four Tony Awards). The show is still running today, but you don’t have to go to New York City to catch it: Director Michelle Kriz’s version debuts in Bellingham Friday, June 14 with weekend shows until Sunday, June 30. Info: bellinghamtheatreguild.com.

Birch Bay Kite Festival 

11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Saturday) and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Sunday), June 22–23, Birch Bay State Park, 7290 Birch Bay Drive, Birch Bay

What comes to mind when you picture a kite? The classic, diamond-shaped model is ubiquitous in American culture but, as I recently learned, the world of kites is surprisingly vast. In addition to diamond kites, there are box kites, stunt kites, pocket kites and delta kites — and all these kites (and more!) can be seen at the Birch Bay Kite festival. 

This two-day kite extravaganza takes place at Birch Bay State Park, and in addition to flying kites, attendees can learn to make their own. There’s also entertainment from Wren the Juggler, a golf cart/bicycle poker run, children’s painting lessons and live music courtesy of Michael Dayvid. As with all good festivals, 20-plus food and craft vendors will also be in attendance. Just remember to pack sunscreen. Info: birchbaywa.org.

Solstice Community Paddle

7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 20, Larrabee State Park Boat Launch, 245 Chuckanut Drive

The longest day of 2024, aka the summer solstice, is just around the corner on Thursday, June 20. Beach bonfires and barbecues are traditional solstice celebrations — but for something slightly more offbeat, consider ringing in the official start to summer on the water.

This community event is hosted by Wildcat Cove Paddle and is BYOB (bring your own boat). Both kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are welcome; just make sure to remember your safety gear, whistle and white light source. Finally, while the event is free of charge, advance registration is required. Info: wildcatcovepaddle.com. 

June Makers Market

Friday, June 21, 4–9 p.m., Time and Materials Taphouse, 954 N. State St.

Right after solstice, you’re invited to celebrate the second official day of summer at Time and Materials with art, live music and good food. Start the evening by browsing goods from a variety of local creatives; then, kick back with a beer and Smash Burger and bask in the warmth of a summer evening.

The market is a collaboration between Time and Materials, Julian & Company and Northwest Youth Services (NWYS). If you need more incentive, know that $1 from every beer sold benefits NWYS — the only nonprofit in the North Sound benefiting youth experiencing homelessness. Julian & Company will even host a silent auction, and the community is invited to contribute items valued at $25 or more. Info: timeandmaterials.us.

Flicks in the Park

9 p.m. Friday, June 21, Pioneer Park, 2004 Cherry St., Ferndale

Ferndale’s downtown has evolved quite a bit over the past few years, and if you haven’t spent time there recently, I recommend using their “summer of fun” series as an excuse to check out what’s new. Grab dinner and maybe a drink at a local restaurant/brewery beforehand, then mosey over to Pioneer Park for showtime at 9 p.m. Fairhaven isn’t the only town to have a summer movie series — and if you missed seeing “Barbie” on the big screen, here’s your next chance.

Make sure to bring a blanket, comfy chairs and maybe a few snacks. As a heads up, the next film in the event lineup is “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem” on June 28, followed by “Kung Fu Panda 4” on July 12 and wrapping with “Migration” on Aug. 23. Info: cityofferndale.org/summer.

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ALL EVENTS

Calendar listings written by contributor Maya Heinselman.

Friday, June 14

‘An Iliad’

7:30–9 p.m., June 14–16, Idiom Theatre, 1417 Cornwall Ave.

A reimagining of Homer’s classic “Iliad,” Lisa Peterson and Denis O’Hare’s “An Iliad” gives a fresh take on the legend of the Trojan War and the heroes that played a part in it. Experience these tales in a new light with the performers at Idiom Theatre until June 16. Info: idiomtheatre.org.

Saturday, June 15

Explore Outdoors: Bugs at Bakerview

10 a.m. to noon, Bakerview Park, 3101 E. Fir St.

Got a kid that’s fascinated with insects, arachnids and all other things that crawl? They’re sure to get a kick out of this interactive learning experience focused on a wide variety of native creepy-crawlies. Families are invited to search for these critters at the park and play games to learn more about them. Info: mountvernonwa.gov.

‘That’s Gay!’

8 p.m., The Upfront Theatre, 203 Prospect St.

Queer comedy show “That’s Gay!” is coming to perform alongside those at The Upfront Theatre in celebration of Pride Month. Come join the Vancouver-based group’s entertaining antics as they showcase some of the best of contemporary queer comedy. Info: theupfront.com.

‘Vaudevillingham’

7 p.m. and 9 p.m., Bellingham Circus Guild, 1401 6th St., Suite 102

It’s time once again for the Bellingham Circus Guild’s monthly open-stage show. Be prepared to witness anything from ax juggling to mad-lib singalongs from both professional and new performers. Bring the whole family to the 7 p.m. show, or attend the 9 p.m. show for adult-friendly “anything goes” acts. Info: bellinghamcircusguild.com.

Trees of the PNW: An Evening at the River

3–7:30 p.m., Deming

Northwest Natura is offering a three-part wildcrafting series so you can learn a bit more about trees native to the Pacific Northwest. Each class will begin with an informational and exploratory look into specific trees and materials found in nature, while the second half will be a hands-on workshop allowing you to use these natural materials in a craft. Info: northwestnatura.com.

The Flying Karamazov Brothers

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

This internationally-renowned tetrad features “eccentric lunatics” that bring everything from outrageous juggling acts to intensely dramatic scenes — all while making the audience laugh until they cry. Bring the whole family to cheer them on as they stage absurd (and hilarious) stunts. Info: lincolntheatre.org

Sunday, June 16

Father’s Day Car Show

9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Bellewood Farms & Distillery, 6140 Guide Meridian

Bellewood Farms is hosting a car show for automotive enthusiasts from all around. It’s the perfect father’s day festivity for the gearhead in your family, taking a trip to see some fantastic cars while you enjoy a bourbon tasting and food from the Ten Mile Cafe Grill. Info: gearheadswc.com.

Monday, June 17

‘Neverwonderland of Oz’

6:30 p.m., June 14–17, Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St.

The three heroines of Neverland, Wonderland and Oz are sisters who join forces to defeat the evil villains of each of their respective stories in this thrilling spin on classic tales. Don’t miss out on your last chance to watch Wendy, Alice and Dorothy save their worlds in this creative crossover. Info: mountbakertheatre.com.

Tuesday, June 18

The Cats’ Pajamas Purride Party

Noon to 6 p.m., NEKO Cat Cafe, 1130 Cornwall Ave.

The NEKO Cat Cafe is hosting the cutest and fluffiest Pride Month party of all. Drinks, snacks and, of course, plenty of furry friends will be present for your enjoyment. On top of all that, proceeds from the party go straight to Bellingham Queer Collective to support the creation of a community center. Info: nekocatcafe.com.

Sips of Summer: Lemonade and Lawn Games

6–7:30 p.m., Cornwall Park, 3424 Meridian St.

Sample a variety of lemonades and vote for your favorites as you try to stay cool in the warming weather. In addition to the refreshments, you can show off your lawn game skills while facing off against your friends at this special event for Christ the King Community Church. Info: ctk.church.

Thursday, June 20

Summer Solstice Yoga and Sound Bath

5:30-7 p.m., Fairhaven Park Labyrinth, 107 Chuckanut Drive N.

This serene yoga session is followed by an even more relaxing sound bath to completely immerse you in the beauty of nature. Just make sure to bring a yoga mat or blanket and some comfortable clothes. Info: cob.org.

Friday, June 21

‘Legends’

6:30 p.m., June 21–23, Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St.

All kinds of music legends, from ABBA to The Beatles, will be celebrated through dance at this showcase. Local kids of all ages will perform routines to the tune of classic hits, and the energy is sure to get your blood pumping — and maybe inspire you to get out of your seat and join in. Info: mountbakertheatre.com.

‘Whose Live Anyway?’

8–9:30 p.m., June 21–22, Swinomish Casino and Lodge, 12885 Casino Drive

This comedy show, akin to the classic “Whose Line Is It Anyway?”, features some beloved comedians, including Ryan Stiles and Greg Proops. Jump in when the team asks for suggestions on new ideas to include in their set. Info: swinomishcasinoandlodge.com.

Queer Maker’s Market

5-9 p.m., Inner Child Studio, 715 W. Orchard Drive, Suite 2

Support queer artists and local businesses alike in this maker’s market. From food and games to face painting and free goodies, there’s plenty of entertainment options to enjoy — but you’ll also have the chance to purchase gifts for the loved ones in your life. Info: innerchildstudio.org.

Saturday, June 22

‘Cry It Out’

2-4 p.m., Bellingham Theatre Guild, 1600 H St.

Molly Smith Metzler’s hit comedy, “Cry It Out,” focuses on the lives of three women as they juggle their newfound roles as mothers along with other obstacles in life — including medical, familial, and psychological matters. “Cry It Out” highlights its protagonists’ similarities and differences as they navigate the twists and turns of life with kids. Info: bellinghamtheatreguild.com.

Chef in the Market

10 a.m. to noon, Bellingham Farmers Market, 1100 Railroad Ave.

Chefs will be providing locally-sourced meals to foodies to enjoy at the upcoming Farmers Market. The first day of this new series will feature not one, but two chefs demoing a few of their favorite recipes. Info: bellinghamfarmers.org.

Sunday, June 23

Bellingham Queer History Tour

3-5 p.m., Rumors Cabaret, 1119 Railroad Ave.

Bellingham’s Good Time Girls have something special in store for us this Pride Month: a downtown walking tour to teach you everything you ever wanted to know about the LGBTQ+ history in Bellingham. You can also look forward to a performance by drag queen Betty Desire. Info: bellinghistory.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.