AMY’S PICKS
Lighted Christmas Stroll
5–8 p.m., Dec. 8–9 and 15–16, Pioneer Village, 2004 Cherry St., Ferndale
If you missed the Olde Fashioned Christmas the Ferndale Heritage Society hosted at Pioneer Park the first weekend of December, don’t despair. The group dedicated to keeping the city’s history alive will be back in action for two weekends at this annual event.
Although the 15 historic cabins and other structures won’t be open for perusal like they were on Dec. 1-2, they will be lit up with more than 90,000 lights. Additionally, costumed volunteers will be on hand to guide the way as attendees listen to Christmas music, drop pre-written letters to Santa in a special mailbox, sip on hot beverages, take selfies at a lean-to at the Barr Barn, and participate in a “seek and find the snowmen” scavenger hunt challenge.
Santa hasn’t yet committed to making an appearance, but if you’re lucky you might spot him as you stroll the ADA-compliant sidewalks around the log cabin village circle. Entry is free, but donations will be gladly accepted. Info: ferndaleheritagesociety.com.
Elvis and Celine Dion Christmas Party
6 p.m. Dec. 9 and 14, FireHouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave.
Since I recently received a Facebook friend request from Jeffrey Fullner — who has a poster for this event as his profile photo — I’m pretty sure Jeffrey Elvis didn’t legally change his last name to reflect the performer he’s been channeling for more than a decade. But I do know he’s had success bringing the King of Rock and Roll to life.
This will be Elvis’s fourth year bringing the Christmas party to the FireHouse, and for the two shows happening this month, he’ll be joined by performer Jenn Ryan, who will take on the role of Celine Dion to help sing holiday favorites as well as Dion faves such as “My Heart Goes On.”
Those joining the tribute artists will get the star treatment. General admission tickets are $35 and include a glass of wine and appetizers. VIP tickets are $55 and include a bottle of wine per couple and a private table. Info: jeffreyelvis.com.
‘A Christmas Story’ 40th Anniversary
Dec. 10 and 13, Regal Barkley Village, 3005 Cinema Place
A few of the things that stand out to me about this film based in Cleveland in the early 1940s include a kid getting his tongue frozen on a flagpole; 9-year-old Ralphie being told “You’ll shoot your eye out!” by his mom, his teacher and a disgruntled Santa when he expresses his wish for a Red Ryder air rifle; and a fishnet-clad “leg lamp” that arrives at Ralphie’s house and is greatly admired by his father.
It’s hard to believe it’s been 40 years since this film based on stories by celebrated American humorist Jean Shepherd came out (Shepherd also provides the film’s narration and wrote the script for the movie). Each of the three screenings will include an introduction by critic and historian Leonard Maltin, who will discuss the Christmas classic’s story and cast. Tickets are $13–$16. Info: fathomevents.com.
‘Josephine’
7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10, New Prospect Theatre, 207 Prospect St.
Singer, dancer and actress Josephine Baker was born in St. Louis, Missouri in 1906, but had to move to Paris, France to become the international superstar she was meant to be.
“Josephine: A Burlesque Cabaret Dream Play” details Baker’s triumphs and travails with dynamic performer, costume designer and choreographer Tymisha “Tush” Harris in the lead role of the one-woman musical combining cabaret, theater and dance.
Baker, a Black woman who refused to perform to a segregated audience in the United States, was more than an entertainer. She also contributed to the civil rights movement, aided the French Resistance during World War II, adopted children of many nationalities, and left a legacy that won’t soon be forgotten.
“In a period of profound division in the world, we are excited to present the story of a woman who broke boundaries of race, gender and sexuality in a time before America had begun coming to terms with the concept of diversity,” director Michael Marinaccio said. Tickets are $20. Info: newprospecttheatre.org.
‘O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy’
Dec. 13 at Mount Baker Theatre; Dec. 15 at McIntyre Hall
When the comedic duo of James (Aaron Malkin) and Jamesy (Alastair Knowles) make their return to the Pacific Northwest to present this flagship show for the first time since 2021, audiences should expect to be swept out to sea in a figurative flood of tea.
To stay afloat after a catastrophe strikes at a Christmas tea party, James and Jamesy must come up with a variety of hilarious solutions — some of them involving show-goers, others relying on their comedic chemistry. In another twist, the audience is real and onstage events are make-believe to James, and, to Jamesy, onstage events are real and the audience doesn’t exist.
It’s all a bit of a mind twist, but laughter will move the show along, and people are invited to suspend their disbelief and open their imaginations. Ticket prices vary from $28–$70. Info: mountbaketheatre.com or mcintyrehall.org.
‘The Nutcracker’
Dec. 15-17, Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St.
When reporting a story about Opus Performing Arts’ rendition of Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s ballet “The Nutcracker” last December, I was surprised to hear that in order to pull off a performance of this scope, dancers need to start rehearsing in the summer.
Artistic Director Brooke Evans told me that more than 130 dancers of various ages were involved in the ballet, and the crew included professional dance instructors, volunteers and artists. Throw in a crazy amount of costuming and props, and advance planning was necessary.
Another important thing Evans wanted audience members to know is that Opus’s production deviates from the “classic.” The Stahlbaum family is from a working-class household rather than a wealthy one, and the show doesn’t include troubling racist tropes or cultural appropriation, such as “yellow face” and dancing in caricature.
“Ballet needs to evolve from its 600-year-old history and move toward being an inclusive art form,” Evans said. Indeed. Tickets are $15–$25. Info: mountbakertheatre.com.
Holiday Art Mart
10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Dec. 16–17, 1220 Central Ave.
Across from the Jalapeños restaurant on Holly Street, a boxy white building looks out over Bellingham Bay. Inside are studios from some of Whatcom County’s most celebrated artists comprising the Waterfront Artists Studio Collective.
At this inaugural two-day event, 12 of them will be opening their doors to the public and inviting them in to take a look at their spaces and do some creative Christmas shopping.
Ria Harboe, a Lummi Island resident, has had a studio in the collective for about seven years. When she and three other collective members participated in the Whatcom Artist Studio Tour in October, they decided it would be fun to do a holiday daytime event as well.
Harboe said she enjoys the camaraderie they have as a group as much as the privacy she has when she closes the studio door to work.
“We have a really diverse group of artists right now and happen to be really supportive of each other,” she said. “Our group events are a really fun way to engage with the public but also connect with each other.” Info: riaharboe@gmail.com.
ALL LISTINGS
Thursday, Dec. 7
Holiday Festival of the Arts
Daily through Christmas Eve, 1331 Commercial St.
Offerings by more than 100 vendors can be perused and purchased through the holidays, with live music, crafts and demos taking place on Saturdays and Sundays. Info: alliedarts.org.
Tales of the Season
6 p.m., Village Books, 1200 11th St.
As part of Fairhaven Winterfest, attend a live group reading of short stories on the theme of “A Mid-Winter Night’s Dream.” Printed copies of each selected story will be available for guests to take home. Entry is $6 (fees will be applied to Winterfest activities). Info: villagebooks.com.
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
7:30 p.m., The Upfront Theatre, 203 Prospect St.
Bellingham’s longest-running improv show takes place every Thursday, featuring a rotating performance format as well as special guest players. Tickets are $10–$14. Info: theupfront.com.
Friday, Dec. 8
Pacific Arts Market
10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Bellis Fair Mall
This 27th annual event continues Fridays through Sundays through Dec. 17 inside the mall, between JCPenney and the food court. Come out and meet the artists in their element. Info: pacificartsmarket.com.
Valley Made Holiday Market
5–8 p.m., the Vinery at Christianson’s Nursery, Mount Vernon
More than 50 makers will be selling their wares at this three-day event, which continues from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. If you’re looking to shop small, you can’t go wrong here. Info: valleymademarket.com.
‘The Man Who Saved Christmas’
7 p.m., Black Box Theater, Blaine High School
Blaine Community Theater presents this musical by Ron Lyle, loosely based on the true story of A.C. Gilbert — the inventor of the Erector Set. The family-friendly production shows weekends through Dec. 17. Tickets are $12.50–$17.70. Info: blainecommunitytheater.com.
‘The Nutcracker’
7 p.m., Brodniak Hall, 1600 20th St., Anacortes
Fidalgo DanceWorks presents a showing of this famous ballet tonight and at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday. Attendees can take the magical journey with Clara, her Nutcracker Prince and other iconic characters. Tickets are $17–$27. Info: fidalgodanceworks.org.
‘The Snow Queen’
7 p.m., BAAY Theatre, 1059 N. State St.
Over the course of four weeks, Bellingham Arts Academy for Youth will feature four different casts of students ages 9–12 performing this “playful remix” of the classic fairy tale by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen. Showings happen Fridays through Sundays through Jan. 7. Tickets are $12. Info: baay.org.
‘Seussical the Musical’
7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon
Presented by NITE Theater, this play is described as a “whimsical romp through some of the classic Dr. Seuss stories from our youth.” Expect to see characters such as the Grinch, Cindy Lou-Who, the Cat in the Hat, and Horton the Elephant (among others). Tickets are $16–$34; performances take place through Dec. 16. Info: lincolntheatre.org.
Ha-Ha Holiday
7:30 p.m., The Upfront Theatre, 203 Prospect St.
On Friday and Saturday night, improvisers will create a holiday “movie” based on audience suggestions. Additional showings of the festive format continue through Dec. 22. Ticks are $10–$16. Info: theupfront.com.
‘A Christmas Carol’
7:30 p.m., The Claire Theatre, 655 Front St., Lynden
Show up for the second weekend of this oft-produced play focused on a grumpy old man who can’t find the holiday spirit without the help of a trio of ghosts who point him in the right direction. Tickets are $13–$18. Limited tickets remain. Info: theclaire.org.
Bellingham Buddies Save X-mas
9:30 p.m., The Upfront Theatre, 203 Prospect St.
If you’ve never seen an improvised puppet show, now is your chance. The action happens in Bellingham’s Lettered Street on Christmas Eve, where Christmas is in danger and only the Bellingham Buddies can help save the season. The shows are suitable for ages 12 and older. Tickets are $10–$16. Info: theupfront.com.
Saturday, Dec. 9
Bellingham Farmers Market
10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Depot Market Square, 1100 Railroad Ave.
Approximately 90 vendors from Whatcom and Skagit counties are on site at this weekly market, which continues every Saturday through Dec. 16. Info: bellinghamfarmers.org.
Holiday Market on the Farm
10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Fair Cow’s Path Farm, 4186 Loomis Trail Road, Blaine
Beef cuts and gift packages, tallow balm, soaps, hand-woven willow products, teas, flower seeds and dahlia tubers, wintertime botanical creations, and sweet treats can be found at this festive event. Info: faircowspathfarm.com.
FriendShop Holiday Book Sale
10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St.
Whether you’re looking for a gift for a friend or to expand your book collection, find a wide selection of adult fiction and non-fiction, children’s books as well as CDs and DVDs in like-new condition. All proceeds support the library. Info: library.cityofanacortes.org.
Community Holiday Craft Fair
10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Blaine Middle School, 975 H St.
Both student and community vendors will be on site for this fundraiser to benefit the school’s Parent Teacher Student Organization. In addition to the handmade crafts, gifts, candles, jewelry and more, there will be student performances and raffle prizes. Info: 360-332-8226.
Children’s Holiday Market
11 a.m to 1:30 p.m., Bloedel Donovan, 2214 Electric Ave.
Peruse and purchase gifts and goodies created by area youth. All sales are cash only, no item will be priced at more than $10, and small bills are encouraged. Entry is free to browse and shop. Info: cob.org.
‘Christmas in Our Hearts’
2 p.m., Lairmont Manor, 405 Fieldston Road
The Bellingham Chamber Chorale presents its winter holiday concert and fundraiser. Doors open at 1:15 p.m. with wine and hors d’oeuvres. Tickets are $100. Proceeds will help fund the hiring of professional soloists and musicians for the chorale’s “Messiah” concert — a unique musical experience happening in June. Info: bellinghamchamberchorale.org.
Town Tree Lighting and Santa Party
4 p.m., Concrete Theatre and beyond
Kick off the fun at a music recital in the theater, featuring the students of Starweaver Music Lessons. At 6 p.m. head to the town tree for a lighting and merriment, then go back inside for treats and photos with Santa. Info: concrete.wa.com.
Holiday Makers Market
4–9 pm, K2 Brewery, 1538 Kentucky St.
This third annual makers market will support local creatives who strive to be sustainable and environmentally conscious. Kulshan will donate $1 per pint sold during the market, and all participating makers will donate 10% of sales in lieu of a vending fee to the United Way of Whatcom County. Info: kulshanbrewing.com.
Holiday Home Tour
5–9 p.m., throughout Sedro-Woolley
This event hosted by the Sedro-Woolley Museum will give attendees a chance to get sneak peeks at both the exteriors and interiors of seven historic houses in the city. The fun kicks off at the museum’s headquarters at 727 Murdock Street, where refreshments will be served and booklets with a map and details of each house will be provided. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. Info: sedro-woolleymuseum.com.
‘Wizard People, Dear Bellingham’
7 p.m., New Prospect Theatre, 207 Prospect St.
“Professor” Brett Niley will perform a one-man reinterpretation of “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.” A live band will provide the score, and a foley team will provide sound effects while a mutated version of the film is projected behind the action. Wear a wizard costume if you have one, as there will be a costume contest at intermission. Tickets are $15–$20. Info: newprospecttheatre.org.
‘Once Upon a Time’
7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, Mount Vernon
Skagit Symphony will feature seasonal works with guest artist Marcel Helland and Debussy’s seldom-heard “Rhapsody for Saxophone and Orchestra.” The show will end with Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker.” Tickets are $10–$50. Info: mcintyrehall.org.
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Sunday, Dec. 10
A Very Merry Holiday Market
11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Eagle Haven Winery, Sedro-Woolley
Explore the creations of local small businesses, artists and crafters, visit with Santa and sip on wine and other beverages during this daylong event. Donations for the local food bank and homeless shelter will also be accepted. Info: eaglehavenwinery.com.
Second Sunday Jazz
2 p.m., Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St.
Guitarist and composer Jack Radsliff will be the featured performer at this free monthly concert. Radsliff has developed a reputation as a sideman, which has led him to work with some of the Pacific Northwest’s biggest names. Info: jazzatthelibrary.com.
Amatum!
3 p.m., McIntyre Hall, Mount Vernon
Cantabile Chamber Choir presents this 75-minute, family-friendly concert featuring songs of love toward Christmas, earth and each other. The singers will be accompanied by strings. Tickets are $25–$40. Info: mcintyrehall.org.
Holiday Magic!
3 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St.
Guest conductor James Ray will helm this Bellingham Symphony Orchestra concert featuring holiday classics programmed for both youth and adults, with a selection of seasonal classics such as “Sleigh Ride,” “Polar Express” and “Silent Night.” Hot cocoa will be served during intermission. Tickets are $15–$39. Info: mountbakertheatre.com.
The Gateway Show
7:30 p.m., The Blue Room, 202 E. Holly St.
Stand-up comedians will head onstage and tell their best jokes, leave during intermission to get high, then return to come back and attempt to tell more jokes. Tickets are $20 ($30 for VIP). Info: blueroombham.com.
Monday, Dec. 11
Guffawingham
8:30 p.m., Boots Bar and Lounge, 1263 Barkley Blvd.
This weekly stand-up comedy show has returned from the ashes and can be attended every Monday. Each show will feature a host, and people can show up early to sign up for a slot on the roster. Info: Facebook.com/guffawingham.
Friday, Dec. 15
Bellingham Community Chorus
7 p.m., St. James Presbyterian Church, 910 14th St.
“To Everything, There is a Season” will be the theme of performances taking place tonight and at 3 p.m. Saturday. The shows will include inspiring and joyful seasonal music. Entry is $10–$20. Info: bellinghamcommunitychorus.org.
Vaudevillingham
7 p.m. and 9 p.m., Cirque Lab, 1401 6th St.
Bellingham Circus Guild presents this monthly community open-stage variety show, which is described as being “uncharted, unapologetic and unbelievable.” The early show is family-friendly and open to all ages, and the later show is “anything goes.” Entry to the fundraiser is by donation; $10-$20 is suggested, but give as you are able. Info: bellinghamcircusguild.com.
Saturday, Dec. 16
Holiday Bellingham Dockside Market
10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Fishermen’s Pavilion, Squalicum Harbor
Local fishermen will be selling their fresh and frozen wares for the last time this year. Visit the pavilion early to find the best selection of seafood options. Get the seafood you need for your holiday meals or for gifts. Live music, hot drinks, Santa “Claws,” free cookies and the Legoe Bay Reefnetter food truck will also be part of the festivities. Info: bellinghamseafeast.org.
Creative Winter Festival
10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Pioneer Pavilion, 2007 Cherry St., Ferndale
The City of Ferndale Arts Commission will host this event featuring arts and crafts vendors, live music and a whole lot of holiday cheer. Info: ferndale.creative@gmail.com.
Holiday Makers Market
Noon to 6 p.m., Bellingham Cruise Terminal, 355 Harris Ave.
Bellingham Makers Market will host this two-day event taking place today and Sunday. Shoppers will find an array of creations from 50 talented local vendors selling everything from hand-crafted soaps to sustainable goods, art, food items, clothing, candles and jewelry. Info: bellinghammakersmarket.com.
Rockin’ Yule Bazaar
6 p.m., Buxton’s, 1904 Commercial Ave.
Anacortes Music Project hosts this annual fundraiser with live music by 10 local bands playing holiday hits, a bake sale, beer and wine, snacks and a gift tree. Entry to the all-ages event is $10–$25 (free for those 12 and younger). Info: yule2023.brownpapertickets.com.
Intergalactic Holiday
7 p.m., Blaine Performing Arts Center, 975 H St.
At showings tonight and 2 p.m. Sunday, Day-to-Day Dance will tell the story about what happens after an inquisitive alien lands on Earth determined to find Santa Claus after journeying to the North Pole. More than 50 dancers ages 3 to adult will take part in the shows. Tickets are $15. Info: daytodaydance.com.
Kulshan Chorus
7:30 p.m., First Congregational Church, 2401 Cornwall Ave.
“Fearless: A Concert for Hope and Togetherness” will see this longtime ensemble of community singers sing for peace, perseverance and pleasure by celebrating cultural traditions from around the world. The event will include a holiday singalong to celebrate the light of this joyful season. Tickets are $20–$25. Info: kulshanchorus.org.
Snow Kissed
8 p.m., The Blue Room, 202 E. Holly St.
Unique Technique Dance hosts this adult dance showcase. The show is for those 18 or older, and tickets are $25. Info: blueroombham.com.
Sunday, Dec. 17
Holiday Ukulele Concert
1 p.m., Whatcom Museum’s Old City Hall, 121 Prospect St.
As part of Deck the Old City Hall, the Community Ukulele Players will give an hourlong performance. While you’re there, check out the decorated trees on display throughout the month. Entry is by donation. Info: whatcommuseum.org.
An Evening of Holiday Music
6:30 p.m., Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, 1720 Harris Ave.
Various vocal and instrumental groups from Bellingham will join together to present “Celebrate the Season.” Cookies and ciders will be served following the concert. Entry is free, but concertgoers are encouraged to bring a nonperishable food item for the Southside Food Bank. Info: 360-733-6749.
Magical Strings’ Celtic Yuletide
3 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 721 Front St., Mount Vernon
At this 45th annual event, expect lively and soulful music, storytelling and Irish step-dancing at this annual show performed by the ever-expanding Boulding family. Philip and Pam Boulding founded Magical Strings in 1978, the same year they began the Celtic Yuletide concerts with their family. Tickets are $20–$29. 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.
