COCOA’S PICKS

Spring Wine Walk

5:30–9 p.m. Friday, May 10, downtown Bellingham

The annual Spring Wine Walk is a downtown Bellingham tradition (and conveniently scheduled just in time for Mother’s Day). Nineteen downtown shops will transform into pop-up tasting rooms, with each one pouring a different regional wine, all in celebration of “sipping and shopping local.” Grab a glass, bring your mom and get to know the downtown Bellingham retail scene by way of wine.

This event is known to sell out, so make sure to snag tickets in advance. General admittance is $45 and includes 10 tasting tickets, a complimentary tasting glass and a tote bag. VIP tickets are also available for $65 and include early check-in, a reception at Aslan Depot and three additional tasting tickets. Info: downtownbellingham.com.

Mother’s Day at Big Rock Garden

1–4 p.m. Sunday, May 12, 2900 Sylvan St.

The Wine Walk might be a Mother’s Day classic, but not every mom is into wine and shopping. Some prefer to spend time in nature — preferably accompanied by light refreshments, live music and perhaps a series of impressive sculptures. If your mom falls in the latter category, the Big Rock Garden event is your best bet for celebrating her special day. 

What’s more, if you’ve never visited Big Rock Garden, the Mother’s Day event is a handy excuse to get to know this hidden gem. The 2.5-acre park features 37 permanent works by distinguished international and local artists. What’s more, you’ll be just in time to catch sight of rhododendrons and azaleas in full bloom. The event is free to all, but please leave pups at home. Info: cob.org. 

‘L’Amant Anonyme’ (The Anonymous Lover)

May 9–12, times vary, FireHouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave.

What do you get when you combine the neon-tinged camp of ‘80s Las Vegas with the high-brow dramatism of French opera? The answer: “‘L’Amant Anonyme,” an adaptation of “The Anonymous Lover” by Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges. 

Léontine is a widow with a less-than-rosy outlook on love, but her skepticism doesn’t deter the attention of a secret admirer. Things get interesting when Léontine hosts a wedding for her niece, Jeanette, at a chapel in Las Vegas — and her admirer is rumored to be in attendance.

WWU Opera will stage this all-ages, two-act chamber opera at the FireHouse Arts and Events Center for the weekend of Thursday, May 9 only. And while the libretto might be in French, English speakers needn’t fear — English subtitles will be provided. Make sure to reserve your spot online and get there early to snag a “wedding pew” seat close to the stage. Info: cfpa.wwu.edu.

The Air Force Band of the Golden West Concert Band

7 p.m. May 8–9, locations vary

The Band of the Golden West is “dedicated to telling the Air Force story, honoring military heritage and enhancing the morale of service members and civilians.” They’ve been known to perform everything from standard concert band and wind ensemble pieces to jazz, pop, Broadway and more.

Ahead of Memorial Day, the Concert Band — aka the largest performing ensemble within the United States Air Force Band of the Golden West — has two performances in Whatcom County. The first is at Blaine Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, May 8, followed by a show at Bellingham High School on May 9. Both performances are at 7 p.m. and free to the public. Info: afbandconcerts.com.

Buster Keaton Silent Film Festival

7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 11, Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St.

More than half a century after his death, Buster Keaton’s work lives on at Mount Baker Theatre during this celebration of silent film. Known for classics including “Sherlock Jr.,” “Our Hospitality” and “The Navigator,” the ‘20s-era star has charmed generations of audiences with his inimitable physical comedy and stoic expression.

The Mount Baker Theatre event includes three films — “One Week,” “Cops” and “Sherlock Jr.” — each accompanied by Dennis James, the theater’s resident organist. Yes, Mount Baker Theatre has a resident organist (and no, he has no known relation to the Phantom of the Opera). Info: mountbakertheatre.com.

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ALL EVENTS

Calendar listings written by contributor Maya Heinselman.

Thursday, May 2

‘Citizen Hurricane!’

7:30–9 p.m., The Upfront Theatre, 203 Prospect St.

“Citizen Hurricane!” is a rock-and-roll comedy routine with an improvised set where you, the audience, can choose which way to spin the story — and the music. David and Ken will mix comedy routines akin to “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” with improvised songs inspired by bands like Radiohead, Foo Fighters and Jack White. Info: theupfront.com.

Friday, May 3

Fiesta de Lagers at El Sueñito Brewing

May 3–5, El Sueñito Brewing Company, 1926 Humboldt St.

El Sueñito Brewing is starting its Cinco de Mayo celebrations in style with a Fiesta de Lagers, or Lager Festival. For the occasion, they’ll be featuring eight lagers from El Sueñito as well as five from Seattle-based breweries. Individuals from each of the breweries will also be in attendance so you can pick their brains about their companies and their brews. Info: elsuenitobrewing.com.

Renaiddance: Beyoncé Celebration

8:30 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St.

Grab your fellow Beyoncé fans and head over to The Shakedown for a Queen B-themed listening party. Be prepared to hear Acts I and II of her album “Renaissance” and other music from the genres that inspired these songs, including country, disco and techno. Info: shakedownbellingham.com.

Saturday, May 4

Pitch in for Parks — Kiwanis Park

10 a.m. to noon, Kiwanis Park, 500 S. 18th St.

In the mood to spruce up one of our local parks? You can join a whole team of individuals in weeding the garden beds and putting new plants in the ground at Kiwanis Park. Guidance and tools are provided, so even if you’ve never weeded or planted before, you can still join. Info: mountvernonwa.gov.

Draw the Forest

10 a.m. to noon, Museum of Northwest Art, 121 S. 1st St., La Conner

If you’re interested in trying out plein air painting but aren’t sure where to start, then Trish Harding’s class is a perfect fit. Using her own pictures of outdoor scenes, she’ll walk you through how to do a simple charcoal sketch of a scene, then fill it in with color to complete it. Info: monamuseum.org.

Serial Killers: Tournament of Serial Theater

7 and 9 p.m., Idiom Theater, 1417 Cornwall Ave.

In this monthlong theater tournament, thespians compete for their shows to be crowned the best serial play of them all. One group has been voted out each week, and after weeks of competition, the final showdown is ready to commence. Info: idiomtheater.org.

Fourth Annual Spring Street Market

10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Lynden Community/Senior Center, 401 Grover St.

Enjoy a community breakfast and garage sale, complete with craft vendors and even food trucks. Proceeds from the street market go toward the Lynden Community/Senior Center’s Meal Program, which provides older individuals with a variety of fresh-cooked meals served in convenient ways. Info: lyndencommunitycenter.org.

Wander’s 10th Anniversary Block Party

Noon, Wander Brewing, 1807 Dean Ave.

Wander Brewing is celebrating its 10th anniversary by hosting an entire weekend chock full of activities. On Saturday, for example, the brewery is putting on an extensive block party complete with food trucks, sweet treats, bounce houses, face painting, music, beer (of course) and so much more. Info: wanderbrewing.com.

Sunday, May 5

EN Valley Farmer’s Market Opening Day

10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Everson City Park, 201 Lincoln St., Everson

Vendors from across Everson, Nooksack and Sumas valley are getting ready for the first EN Valley Farmer’s Market of the season. If you’re looking for in-season fruits and vegetables, handmade goods, fresh food and other locally sourced items, check out the market every Sunday until Sept. 29. Info: envalleyfarmersmarket.com.

Monday, May 6

Revenge of the 6th: ‘Star Wars’ Trivia Fundraiser

6–9 p.m., Stemma Brewing Co., 2039 Moore St.

Stemma Brewing is hosting a “Star Wars” trivia night, and you have the chance to earn themed prizes while supporting the Max Higbee Center. The center supports individuals with developmental disabilities by helping them grow and find community through recreational activities. Info: stemmabrewing.com.

Tuesday, May 7

‘Genuine Skagit Cooking’ Release Party

5–7 p.m., Christianson’s Nursery, 15806 Best Road, Mount Vernon

Celebrate the flavors and ingredients grown in Skagit Valley with the release of a new cookbook: “Genuine Skagit Cooking.” Join Genuine Skagit Valley as it unveils its unique collection of recipes from groups and individuals who call the region home — complete with samples of foods straight from the book itself. Info: genuineskagitvalley.com.

Wednesday, May 8

Photographic Fundamentals: Bird Photography

6–8 p.m., Hillcrest Park, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon

If you own a camera and want to learn more about how to use it, join Brad Weeks in his interactive photography class. He’ll show you the ins and outs of camera settings and picture-taking techniques as you and the rest of the class learn how to capture images of birds. Info: mountvernonwa.gov.

Friday, May 10

Junior Musical: ‘Pippi Longstocking’

7 p.m., Bellingham Arts Academy for Youth, 1059 N. State St.

BAAY students will enact the adventures of the classic children’s book character Pippi Longstocking in this upcoming production. Get ready to see these young talents sing, dance and act their hearts out among cardboard props made just for the occasion. Info: baay.org.

Saturday, May 11

2024 Skagit County Master Gardener Plant Fair

8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Skagit County Fairgrounds, 501 Taylor St.

This is a great chance for Skagitonians to pick up any garden-related goods they might need, including plants, pots, garden decorations, beekeeping supplies and more. Gardening demonstrations will also be available for those wanting to learn more about growing, pruning, propagating and planting new finds. Info: skagitmg.org.

Hovander Plant Sale

9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Hovander Homestead Park, 5299 Nielsen Road

The Whatcom County Master Gardeners’ annual Hovander Plant Sale is back and better than ever. With a full supply of perennials, vegetables, shrubs and all the tools and supplies you need to help them thrive, you’re bound to find the perfect new addition to your spring garden. Info: whatcommgf.org.

Fairhaven Art Walk

4–7 p.m., Historic Fairhaven Village

Head to historic Fairhaven on Saturday, May 11 to celebrate the neighborhood’s vibrant and thriving arts scene. Art Walk attendees can browse artwork on display in shops and stores, admire pieces from more than 20 local artists and even take some favorites home. Info: members.enjoyfairhaven.com.

Sunday, May 12

The Amazing Bubble Man

2 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon

Louis Pearl, aka the Amazing Bubble Man, will take the stage on Mother’s Day to exhibit the stunning tricks he can do with … bubbles? Yes, you read that correctly: Whether it’s making bubble volcanoes or fog-filled ones, Pearl puts on a show worth remembering. Info: lincolntheatre.org.

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.