COCOA’S PICKS

Bellingham Scottish Gathering 

9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, June 1, Marine Park and Semiahmoo Spit, 200 Marine Drive, Blaine

If you need an excuse to don your favorite kilt, look no further: the Bellingham Scottish Gathering is just around the corner. Occurring on Saturday, June 1 this year, the annual event is a celebration of all things Scottish, from bagpipes to dance, athletics and storytelling. All this takes place in Blaine, where the “working harbors of Scotland are mirrored in the city’s active fishing and boating communities.”

This year’s agenda includes two noteworthy competitions: Scottish athletics and the City of Bellingham Highland Dancing Championship, the latter of which was recently sanctioned by the Royal Scottish Official Board of Highland Dancing. Other attractions include Scottish clan booths, a beer garden and golf at the nearby Semiahmoo Resort. Info: scottishdancesociety.org.

Farmers Day Parade

10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 1, 10th Street, Lynden

Whatcom County’s oldest and longest-running community event pays tribute to our rich agricultural heritage. The free-to-attend parade is still going strong after more than a century, making it one of Lynden’s most beloved traditions. Farming machinery from the past and present will be front and center — because who needs parade floats when you have tractors, horses and trucks? Beyond agricultural equipment, spectators can expect entertainment from a “menagerie” of live bands, cars and performers.

The parade starts at 10:30 a.m. at 10th Street in Lynden and ends on 3rd Street. It’s family-friendly and free to attend; just make sure to show up early to secure a good spot (and maybe grab a pastry from Lynden Dutch Bakery to enjoy while you wait). Info: lynden.org.

Whatcom Youth Pride

11 a.m. Saturday, June 1, downtown Bellingham

Established in 2019, Whatcom Youth Pride exists to make LGBTQ+ youth feel seen, supported and celebrated. Can you imagine a more wholesome way to kick off Pride Month?

On June 1, this heartwarming parade is back in all its sparkly splendor — and while the occasion is meant to celebrate LGBTQ+ youth, you don’t have to be a kid or parent to enjoy it. All community members, allies included, are invited to stand on the sidelines and cheer these kids on. 

The parade begins at Bellingham High School, traverses through downtown Bellingham, and winds up back at the school for a resource fair, food and entertainment. Expect laughter, (joyful) tears, creative signs, Free Mom Hugs and copious amounts of glitter. Info: whatcomyouthpride.com.

Beer Prom 2024: A Night with the Stars

6–10 p.m., Saturday, June 1, Trackside Beer Garden, 300 W. Laurel St.

It’s time to admit it: High school prom was … actually kind of overrated? Leave it to hormone-ridden teenagers to place undue importance on a chaperoned party — and honestly, how many of us actually ended up happily-ever-after with our prom dates? But while I’m fine leaving high school prom in the past, I like the idea of an adult prom re-do: think dress-up, dancing and fun, except with way less pressure (and perhaps more craft beer).

Lydia Place’s Beer Prom fundraiser is essentially this — and if the idea of adult prom isn’t tempting enough, know that these festivities fund a good cause. The night is all about “glitz, glamor and giving back,” with all proceeds serving Lydia Place’s mission to disrupt the cycle of homelessness in Whatcom County. The 21-plus celebration features live music, dancing, games and even a costume contest. What’s more, 17 breweries will be debuting eight beer collaborations, and attendees get to pick their favorite. Info: lydiaplace.org.

‘Paranormal Cirque’

May 31–June 3, Bellis Fair Mall, 1 Bellis Fair Parkway

As someone who read Steven King’s “It” at an inadvisably young age, I’m of the staunch opinion that all clowns — not just the demonic ones — deserve to be feared. But if regular red-nosed clowns aren’t creepy enough to spook you, the performers at “Paranormal Cirque” are sure to do the trick. This circus/cabaret/theater hybrid bills itself as “poised between fun and the most uninhibited fear,” promising to “transport you to a dark world inhabited by creatures with incredible circus art abilities.”

In other words, “Paranormal Cirque” is more like an after-dark version of Cirque du Soleil than Barnum and Bailey. The one-of-a-kind event is touring throughout Washington and will be in Bellingham for just one night — but make sure to leave the kiddos at home. No one under 13 is admitted, and kids under 17 must be accompanied by an adult. Info: paranormalcirque.com.

Bellingham Naked Bike Ride

4 p.m. Sunday, June 2, Karate Church, 519 E. Maple St.

The Naked Bike Ride is exactly what it sounds like: fleets of bikes parading through downtown Bellingham, with almost all riders in varying states of undress. Not everyone is naked naked — but you might see more chest hair than you’d expect on an ordinary Sunday afternoon. Even so, the nudity is celebratory, not salacious.

Whatcom County’s annual Naked Bike Ride is actually part of a grander tradition, World Naked Bike Ride Day, but leave it to Bellinghamsters to make this oddity their own. Every Naked Bike Ride is dedicated to the “safety and respect for all bodies, cyclists and the environment.” Bellingham’s 2024 ride is meant to raise awareness about the city’s recently-released draft Urban Forest Plan, which organizers feel doesn’t go far enough to protect existing mature trees.

Want to join the fun? Participants will convene at the Karate Church (aka “Church of Elf Defense”) for body painting at 4 p.m. The ride kicks off at 5 p.m. and is followed by an afterparty. Info: bellinghamnakedbikeride.com.

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ALL EVENTS

Calendar listings written by contributor Maya Heinselman.

Friday, May 24

Ski to Sea Block Party

4 p.m. Friday, May 24, Boundary Bay Brewery, 1107 Railroad Ave.

If you’re looking to celebrate before the big race, head to Boundary Bay’s beer garden from 4 p.m. onward on Friday. Over the course of the evening, attendees can expect games, craft brews and even a special fish fry menu. The Legendary Chucklenuts will provide live music starting at 6 p.m., and $1 per pint will benefit Hunger Vs Hunger, which supports the Bellingham Food Bank. Representatives from Ski to Sea will also be in attendance with race merchandise. Info: bbaybrewery.com.

Saturday, May 25

102nd Whatcom Memorial Day Parade

Noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 25, downtown Bellingham

For more than a century, the Memorial Day Parade has served as a reminder for Bellinghamsters to “remember and honor those who have given the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the United States Armed Forces.” This year’s parade kicks off at the corner of Cornwall Avenue and Alabama Street and is free to attend. The party will continue down Cornwall before wrapping up around 3 p.m. that afternoon. For more information about sponsorship and participation, visit the Memorial Day Parade’s website. Info: whatcommemorialdayparade.com.

Memorial Weekend Block Party

Noon to 9 p.m., Stones Throw Brewery, 1009 Larrabee Ave.

With all the Memorial Day weekend block parties and Ski to Sea celebrations around town, add Stones Throw to your list of stops. Listen to live music, indulge in food truck fare and enjoy all varieties of great beer and other drinks at this family-friendly spot. Info: stonesthrowbrewery.com.

Outdoor Drawing for Beginners

1–3 p.m., Hillcrest Park, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon

Whether you’re looking to learn to draw nature scenes or refine existing skills, you’re invited to join artist Katherine Hovde as she guides you through depicting cedar and fir trees in your artwork. She’ll offer one-on-one suggestions for some more personalized attention, so get comfy and get ready to draw. Info: mountvernonwa.gov.

Kate Mageau, ‘Warning Signs Vol. I, II, and III’

6-7 p.m., Village Books, 1200 11th St.

Kate Mageau, Seattle-based author of “Warning Signs,” is coming to Village Books to share her story. As a domestic violence survivor, these memoirs depict her experience with domestic violence and her journey toward healing after getting out of an unhealthy relationship. Info: villagebooks.com.

Whidbey Ren Faire 2024

10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Whidbey Island Fairgrounds and Events Center, 819 Camano Ave., Langley

If you’re a fan of Renaissance faires, then you’ll have to check out Whidbey Island’s first-ever Ren Faire this weekend. Don your favorite Renaissance-era outfits and enjoy all kinds of beloved faire activities, including jousting tournaments, a medieval marketplace, jesters, folk dancers, crafts, swordplay and more. Info: whidbeyislandrenfaire.org.

Sunday, May 26

Fairhaven Festival 

11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, May 26, Fairhaven

Ski to Sea is exciting for participants and spectators alike, but the race isn’t the only can’t-miss event on May 26. The Fairhaven Festival — aka “Bellingham’s biggest block party” — is one hell of an afterparty, with live musicians, food trucks and more than 60 artisan vendors taking to the streets. Race spectators can join the party starting at 11 a.m. (well before racers are due to cross the Marine Park finish line), and the celebrations don’t stop until well into the evening. Info: enjoyfairhaven.com.

Ski to Sea Party

3:45–5:45 p.m., Paws For A Beer, 501 Harris Ave.

Bring your pup with you as you sip a refreshing beer at Paws For A Beer. Get ready to just kick back, listen to some live music from SpaceBand, a group that specializes in ‘90s and 2000s-era hits and watch your furry friends play. Info: pawsforabeer.com.

Tuesday, May 28

Bellingham Story Hour

6:30–8 p.m., New Prospect Theatre, 207 Prospect St.

Listen to the people sitting right next to you share all kinds of true stories they have. Any and every kind of tale might be shared by those who volunteer, so if you have something you might like to share, now’s your chance. Info: newprospecttheatre.org.

‘Soylent Green’

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

Part of Lincoln Theatre’s “Yesterday’s Tomorrow, Today” film series of dystopian futuristic films, “Soylent Green” presents a version of New York City that struggles with a devastating food shortage and a housing crisis — leading corporations to take drastic measures. Info: lincolntheatre.org.

Thursday, May 30

Craft Party

6:30–8 p.m., Cheba Hut, 306 W. Holly St.

Ever wanted to learn how to make your own jewelry? Here’s your next choice: Join Sunshine Crafting Company at Cheba Hut on Thursday to learn how to make colorful pom-pom earrings to take home (and perhaps pair your craft with a delectable sandwich). Info: chebahut.com.

Friday, May 31

‘Space Trek: The Musical’

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

The Upfront Theatre team’s latest show, “Space Trek: The Final Upfrontier,” is now also a musical. For just one night, they’ll be putting their own twists on the Space Trek theme using suggestions from you and the rest of the audience to create a musical masterpiece. Info: theupfront.com.

‘Stuffed’ Film Viewing with Taxidermy Q&A

6:30–9 p.m., Old City Hall, 121 Prospect St.

Allis Markham from Prey Taxidermy is coming to Bellingham to share her documentary, “Stuffed,” which details the art and importance of taxidermy. She’s also bringing in some of the animals she’s taxidermied so audiences can get a closer look at the uncanny beauty of her work. Info: whatcommuseum.org.

Saturday, June 1

Trees of the PNW: An Evening at the Lake

3-7:30 p.m., Ferndale

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

JAT & The Extraterrestrials

2-4 p.m., Meloy Gallery, 301 W. Holly St., Suite D6

Clay sculptures and paintings by local artists will be on display at Meloy Gallery starting on June 1. These art pieces are all inspired by extraterrestrial life, so if you have any stories about otherworldly phenomena, be ready to share them. Info: meloygallery.com.

Anacortes Waterfront Festival 2024

10 a.m., Cap Sante Marina, 1019 Q Ave., Anacortes

Admire the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest as you engage with the community, listen to live music and check out interactive exhibits at this year’s Anacortes Waterfront Festival. This get-together is a perfect way to start your summer and is sure to be a blast for everyone. Info: anacortes.org.

Sunday, June 2

Fix-it Fair

12–3 p.m., Pumped Bellingham, 112 Ohio St.

If you’re in need of a quick fix for anything from clothing, small appliances, bikes and more, then stop by the Fix-it Fair at Pumped Bellingham, where individuals from several different local businesses will be more than happy to help you with a repair. Info: pumpedbellingham.com.

A Celebration of Piping

3 p.m., Littlefield Celtic Center, 1124 Cleveland Ave., Mount Vernon

This fundraising event for the Celtic Arts Foundation supports piping and drumming competitions in Pacific Northwest communities. At this event, you’ll get the chance to witness some impressive bagpipe performances from several local musicians, as well as door prizes, a whiskey bar and more. Info: celticarts.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.