AMY’S PICKS
‘Ha-Ha-Holiday,’ ‘Bellingham Buddies Save X-mas’
Dec. 15 and 22, The Upfront Theatre, 203 Prospect St.
When I was a performer at The Upfront, some of my favorite improv formats included the murder mystery “Hellingham” and whatever holiday themes we’d come up with for December shows. From replicating audience members’ cringey Christmas memories to creating original songs for the season, there was always a lot to work with. This month is no different.
“Ha-Ha-Holiday” shows feature the making of a new holiday “movie” filled with romance, merriment and cheer. Each show will be unalike, as the subject matter is based entirely off of audience suggestions. Does this mean a possible rom-com could intersect with something weird, like the subject matter of “Die Hard”? Yes, yes it does.
Also on the roster is “Bellingham Buddies Save X-Mas.” It’s a PG-13 improvised puppet show set in the Lettered Streets on Christmas Eve. Christmas is in danger and only the Bellingham Buddies can save it. What could go wrong? Tickets are $10–$15. Info: theupfront.com.
Solstice Holidaze Sistersesh
7–10 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 21, Cheba Hut, 305 W. Holly St.
Heads up: This won’t be a typical holiday event. PNW Cannasisters — a grassroots group of womxn and nonbinary humans with a goal to normalize and de-stigmatize cannabis use — will set up shop at the eatery known for its “toasted” subs named after marijuana strains. (No, the food does not contain the greens you’re thinking about.)
The fundraising, winter-themed event is open to all genders and will include various crafts and activities, accompanied by “dope” music. Additionally, there will be a selfie photo station and a raffle.
“We host fun, engaging events, gatherings and cannabis walks in the PNW, highlighting connections with other cannasisters through socializing, fun, crafting, activities, cannabis and HIGH vibes,” group founder Mimi Ashbaugh shared when she sent me a heads-up about the event. “‘Weed’ love to share more about our community and offerings and look forward to chatting with you.” Entry is $15. Info: eventbrite.com.
Million Dollar Quartet Christmas
7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 21, Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St.
The scene: It’s December of 1956, and four soon-to-be famous musicians — Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins — have gathered for a rock ‘n’ roll jam session where they play holiday hits such as “Run Rudolph Run,” “Jingle Bell Rock,” “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” and many more.
Thanks to talented musicians and actors Alex Swindle (Elvis), Bill Schott Sheets (Johnny), Brandon Fillette (Jerry) and Kurt Jenkins (Carl), the superstars will temporarily come back to life to recreate the true story of the Sun Records jam session. They’ll be joined by other singing and dancing cast members for the show, which promises to bring the stars back to life, at least for a night. Tickets are $36–$93. Info: mountbakertheatre.com.
‘It’s a Wonderful Life’
3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 22, Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon
Out of the 80-plus movies actor James Stewart made in his lifetime, this 1946 film taking place around Christmastime was reportedly his favorite — despite its unlikely subject matter.
The story begins in heaven, where a bumbling guardian angel named Clarence is sent to a small American town to help a guy named George Bailey who’s unsatisfied with his life and has jumped off a bridge to end his pain. When Clarence finally gets through to George by showing him how many lives he’s impacted, tears are apt to flow.
Although the movie wasn’t a bonafide commercial success when it first screened, it’s since become one of the most popular holiday films around. Its staying power will be evident at these free community screenings at the Lincoln, where people can settle in for a couple of hours to watch the tale unfold. Info: lincolntheatre.org.
Holiday History Hi-jinks
7–10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 22, Hotel Leo, 1224 Cornwall Ave.
In my experience, the Bellingham-based historians known as the Good Time Girls can make anything fun — whether it’s cemeteries, prostitution, murder, the city’s checkered past or the dirt on local landmarks.
While they’re typically on the street in costume leading entertaining and educational excursions, tonight’s event will take place indoors at the hotel’s spacious Crystal Ballroom.
“You’ll still get the history and fun times, but without the rain, sleet and snow,” organizers say. While staying snug and warm, you can learn about Belling-history, vie for prizes, mug for the photo booth, sing along to carols, order cocktail specials and bites from Amendment 21 (if you’re 21 and older), and ask questions about the city you live in. Festive attire is encouraged. Tickets are $30. Info: bellinghistory.com.
Jingle Jazz
7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 22, Buxton’s, 1904 Commercial Ave., Anacortes
I have a stack of CDs I recently dug out of my Christmas box while decorating, and the only ones that aren’t driving me completely bonkers are the “Country Christmas” album I purchased at a yard sale for $1 a couple of years ago and a couple of jazz-themed ones that make me want to dance.
If you, like me, are tired of saccharine-sweet Christmas music or overly religious songs, then this event featuring the 17-piece jazz band known as the A‘Town Big Band might be just the ticket to get you in the spirit of the season.
Attendees will hear arrangements by Gordon Goodwin, Chris McDonald, Tom Kubis and others, and will be encouraged to dance along to Christmas jazz favorites. Thanks to the Anacortes-based Manieri Endowment, the event is free. Info: Facebook.com/atownjazzband.
Model Railroad Holiday Open House
11 a.m to 3 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 23, 1469 Silver Run Lane, Alger
Kids of all ages will be welcome at this event hosted by the Whatcom Skagit Model Railroad Club, but the ones in charge of the action are adults who bring their love of trains and model railroads to life via building detailed layouts in both HO and N scales (the former is larger and easier to see, and the latter is smaller and allows for longer trains and better scenery).
The club has been around in various forms since 1995, so it’s a good bet that the members will be better able to explain to attendees the differences in layouts, etc. At this holiday event open to the public, attendees are invited to take a break from “shopping, decorating, caroling and binge-watching Christmas movies” to experience the “wonder that is model railroading.” Suggested donation is $3 per person or $5 per family. Info: whatcomskagitmrc.org.
ALL EVENTS
Thursday, Dec. 14
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.
‘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 Saturday. Info: lincolntheatre.org.
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.
Sheila Steinborn Exhibit
Through February, Gallery West, 1300 12th St.
See works by this award-winning artist of local scenes of Bellingham and surrounding areas at this Fairhaven-based gallery. Steinborn is showing a new exhibit of impressionistic oil paintings. She specializes in seascapes, local landscapes and does many scenes of Mount Baker from different viewpoints. Info: sheilasteinborn.com.
Friday, Dec. 15
Pacific Arts Market
10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Bellis Fair Mall
This 27th annual event concludes its run Friday through Sunday inside the mall, between JCPenney and the food court. Come out and meet the artists in their element and shop locally. Info: pacificartsmarket.com.
Lighted Christmas Stroll
5–8 p.m. Pioneer Village, 2004 Cherry St., Ferndale
The Ferndale Heritage Society hosts this annual event happening tonight and Saturday. Historic cabins and other structures will be lit up with more than 90,000 lights and costumed volunteers will be on hand as attendees listen to music, drop pre-written letters to Santa, take selfies at a lean-to at the Barr Barn and participate in a “seek and find the snowmen” scavenger hunt challenge. Entry is free, but donations will be accepted. Info: ferndaleheritagesociety.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 through Sunday. Tickets are $12.50–$17.70. Info: blainecommunitytheater.com.
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.
A John Prine Christmas
7 p.m., New Prospect Theatre, 207 Prospect St.
Folk troubadour and John Prine scholar Jenner Fox will be joined by special guests made up of members of groups such as Polecat, Petty or Not, and Skillethead to perform Prine’s classic hits and holiday-themed songs and stories. Audience members can expect to sing along if they want to. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Info: newprospecttheatre.org.
‘The Nutcracker’
7 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St.
Opus Performing Arts’ rendition of Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s ballet will include four showings through Sunday. Dancers of various ages are involved in the ballet, and the crew includes professional dance instructors, volunteers and artists. Tickets are $15–$25. Info: mountbakertheatre.com.
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.
‘The Snow Queen’
7 p.m., BAAY Theatre, 1059 N. State St.
Over the course of four weeks, Bellingham Arts Academy for Youth 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.
‘O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy’
7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, Mount Vernon
The comedic duo of James (Aaron Malkin) and Jamesy (Alastair Knowles) must stay afloat after a catastrophe strikes at a Christmas tea party, and they need to come up with a variety of hilarious solutions. People are invited to suspend their disbelief and open their imaginations. Tickets are $35–$64. Info: mcintyrehall.org.
The Dope Show
7:30 p.m., The Happy Place, 1215 Cornwall Ave.
Tyler Smith presents this standup comedy show where comedians perform, take a break to get super-high then attempt to perform again. Tickets are $20–$30. Info: eventbrite.com.
Saturday, Dec. 16
Final Bellingham Farmers Market
10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Depot Market Square, 1100 Railroad Ave.
Vendors from Whatcom and Skagit counties will be on-site at this weekly market, which concludes today. Monthly markets take place on the third Saturday of the month in January, February and March before the weekly market returns the first Saturday in April. Info: bellinghamfarmers.org.
Holiday Bellingham Dockside Market
10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Fishermen’s Pavilion, Squalicum Harbor
Local fisherfolk will be selling their fresh and frozen wares for the final market of the year. Today’s event will feature live music by the Bellingham Youth Jazz Band, a visit by Santa “Claws,” free cookies, fare from the Legoe Bay Reefnetter food truck and hot drinks by Sweet as Nectar beverage trailer. Participating vendors and products will be posted 24 hours in advance of the event. 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 Art Mart
10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Waterfront Artists Studio Collective, 1220 Central Ave.
More than a dozen artists who are part of the Waterfront Artists Studio Collective will open their doors for this inaugural event taking place Saturday and Sunday. Participants include Ria Harboe, AeTopus, Arlene Beacom Dan Brooks, Frankie Dammann, Dandy Lion Holistic Nutrition, Karen Frances, Frank Frazee, Christian Anne Smith, Karen Theusen and more. Paintings, glasswork, jewelry, leather crafts, prints, cards, aromatherapy products and more can be found. Info: riaharboe@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.
Open House
1–5 p.m., Lynden Heritage Museum, 217 Front St.
Actors will don period costumes and reenact timeless traditions of a bygone era to relive the charm of an old-fashioned Christmas at this annual event. Check out the exhibits, take horse-drawn wagon rides, sip hot cocoa and more. Entry is by donation; funds will go toward new interactive displays and children’s educational content. Info: lyndenheritagemuseum.org.
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: brownpapertickets.com.
Winter Celebration
6 p.m., Brodniak Hall, Anacortes High School, 1600 20th St.
Fidalgo DanceWorks presents this one-night-only contemporary dance concert. If you miss the winter recital or want to commemorate it, you can pre-order a DVD of the performance that will be available in January. Tickets are $12–$20; cost is $25 for the DVD. Info: fidalgodanceworks.org.
The Atlantics
6:30 p.m., FireHouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave.
This longtime band will present its 42nd annual Holiday Rock, Soul, Rhythm and Blues Dance Show performing swing charts of great holiday standards tonight in Bellingham and tomorrow from 5:30–9 p.m. at the Old Edison Inn. Featured songs include “Every Day Will Be Like a Holiday,” “Run Rudolph,” “Winter Wonderland” and “Christmas Celebration.” Entry is by donation. Info: firehouse-aec.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
Here to Sleigh
7 p.m., New Prospect Theatre, 207 Prospect St.
Bellingham Story Hour presents this special event featuring local storytellers sharing true stories about the holiday season. Live music, a micro-story medley made up of carols and special guests will be part of the festivities. The party starts with a Sparkle Night Soiree; the wearing of sequins is encouraged. Entry is $12–$20. Info: bellinghamstoryhour.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 perform 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.
Merry Bettymas Drag Show
8:30 p.m., El Suenito Brewing, 1926 Humboldt St.
Bellingham’s jolliest drag queen, Betty Desire, will host this event celebrating all things yule. Attendees can sing along to popular carols and enjoy the magic of “Bettymas.” Wear your ugliest holiday sweater or dress up as your favorite holiday movie character. Tickets are $15. Info: elsuenitobrewing.com.
Monday, Dec. 18
Holiday Karaoke
11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Boundary Bay Brewery, 1107 Railroad Ave.
This all-ages event will bring festive fun to the brewery’s bistro throughout the afternoon. The event is free, but reservations are recommended for those sitting in the bistro. Info: bbaybrewery.com.
Guffawingham
8:30 p.m., Boots Bar and Lounge, 1263 Barkley Blvd.
This weekly stand-up comedy show has returned 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.
Tuesday, Dec. 19
‘Nativity’
6:30 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St.
Dancing for Joy presents this annual winter performance to the stage tonight and again at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday. In the shows, the story of the Nativity is told through the language of dance, including jazz, lyrical, modern and ballet. Tickets are $15–$21 Info: mountbakertheatre.com.
Neil Allan and Anne Lamott
6 p.m., First Congregational Church, 2401 Cornwall Ave.
Village Books hosts this power writing couple to celebrate Allan’s book “Better Days: Taming Your Inner Critic.” The writer and spiritual coach focuses on new methods to combat anxiety and deepen your relationships. Lamott is a New York Times bestselling author and an inductee to the California Hall of Fame. Tickets are $30–$35 and include a copy of “Better Days.” Info: villagebooks.com.
Wednesday, Dec. 20
Brewery Tour
5:30 p.m., Boundary Bay Brewery, 1107 Railroad Ave.
Get a behind-the-scenes look into Boundary Bay’s operations and history and this one-hour tour. Tickets to the 21-plus event are $10 and include a pint of beer at the historic Mountain Room Bar. An additional tour takes place Dec. 27. Info: bbaybrewery.com.
Thursday, Dec. 21
To Whom It May Concern
7 p.m., New Prospect Theatre, 207 Prospect St.
This live monthly show focused on the reading of letters returns tonight. The show features real letters people have written or received, old family letters, missives from Whatcom Museum archives, improvised letters based on audience suggestions and more. A musician will accompany the readings. Entry is $15. Info: newprospecttheatre.org.
Caroling on Commercial
5 p.m., 819 Commercial Ave., Anacortes
Meet at the Visitor Information Center for this Sounds of the Season celebration. Dress for the weather and stroll down the avenue singing traditional Christmas carols with your friends and neighbors. Songbooks will be provided. Info: anacortes.org.
Christmas Celebration
7 p.m., First Christian Reformed Church, 1010 Front St., Lynden
Lynden Music Festival will host this traditional event with special guests singing Christmas carols. Performers include Sherman Andrus, Carolyn Canfield, Ewa Telaga, Molly Hazel and many more. Entry is by donation. The event benefits Project Hope. Info: 360-510-0656.
Christmas Carol-oke
7 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon
Arrive early for photos-ops with Missus Claus in the lobby, then join professional party starter Aireekah to take to the stage and belt out hits such as “Feliz Navidad” or “White Christmas.” Sing solo, or join fellow carolers. Tickets are $20. Doors open at 6 p.m. Info: lincolntheatre.org.
Journey’s Christmas Concert
7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, Mount Vernon
Harpist Bronn Journey will be joined by a small ensemble featuring strings, flute, clarinet, percussion and singers performing traditional Christmas songs. The concert of inspired music and lighthearted humor is suitable for all ages. Tickets are $26–$34. Info: mcintyrehall.org.
Saturday, Dec. 23
Holiday Shopping Serenade
5–7 p.m., Bison Bookbinding & Letterpress, 1207 Granary Ave., Suite 160
If you’re out and about doing some last-minute holiday shopping, drop by to hear singer-songwriter and guitarist Louis Ledford playing seasonal favorites. Entry is free. Info: bisonbookbinding.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.
