AMY’S PICKS
Holiday Trees Celebration
Daily through Dec. 31, Hotel Bellwether, One Bellwether Way
I’m not the type of person to leave my Christmas tree and decorations up through Easter, but I do enjoy having the warm glow of lights in the living room at least through the end of the year.
That’s also the case at the 12th annual Holiday Trees Celebration, where 18 trees decorated by local businesses will shine through New Year’s Eve. But the spirit of the season doesn’t stop there. Those viewing the trees in person or online can also cast a vote for their favorite tree by donating funds to Skookum Kids — a local volunteer-staffed facility dedicated to providing care and support for children entering foster care.
The minimum suggested amount is $10, and those who donate and vote will be entered into a prize drawing for an overnight stay at the hotel’s iconic three-story Lighthouse Suite. One hundred percent of money raised will go to Skookum Kids, so even if you don’t score a night at the inn, you’ll still be winning. Info: hotelbellwether.com.
Sweat! Dance Party and Drag Show
10 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 27, Rumors Cabaret, 1119 Railroad Ave.
Snap out of your post-Christmas haze by heading to the most welcoming dance floor in town — a place where I have spent many nights dancing (and sweating) like no one is watching.
Rumors has long been a safe space for Bellingham and Whatcom County’s LGBTQ+ community, and is a venue where you aren’t judged by what you wear, who you love or whether you dance like Elaine from “Seinfeld” or a polished contestant on “Dancing With the Stars.”
This event takes place every other Wednesday, starts promptly at 10 p.m., and is hosted by MX&LBP, who are joined by various drag performers for each show. The high-energy events are described as the “perfect middle-of-the-week pick-me-up you need,” and entry is free. Donations and tipping are highly encouraged. Info: rumorscabaret.com.
Girls on Shred Pint Night
6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 28, Aslan Depot, 1322 N. State St.
I’ve rarely shredded anything beyond cheese or lettuce, but that doesn’t mean I don’t have deep respect for those who seek adventures on snowy mountains, mountain bike trails, skate parks and beyond.
The Washington faction of Girls on Shred, which started in Montana and is dedicated to empowering female-identifying, nonbinary, and trans folks through action sports skill-building and accessible events, will host. Avalanche safety in backcountry terrain will be at the forefront of discussion and attendees should bring related questions to be answered by a trained professional.
In addition to meeting new shred buddies and getting familiar with the basics of traveling in backcountry terrain, the event is also a fundraiser. For every pint of beer sold during the event, $1 will be donated to Girls on Shred. Have a beer (or two) and get empowered. Entry is free. Info: aslanbrewing.com.
Cole Anderson
7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 28, Lairmont Manor, 405 Fieldston Road
At least once a year, accomplished pianist and native Bellinghamster Cole Anderson returns to his former stomping grounds from his current home base in Palo Alto, California to share his prodigious talents.
We’re lucky he keeps “us” on his mind. Anderson has performed throughout the United States, Europe, Asia, New Zealand and Latin America, so he has his choice of where to schedule concerts. Time and again, he returns to Whatcom County.
For the Thursday night show, the composer and teacher will perform music from Fanny Mendelssohn Hensel, Nikolai Kapustin, Franz Liszt, and Federico Mompou. With a repertoire spanning from the classics to more contemporary works, attendees can rest assured they’re in for a compelling evening of music. Tickets are $5 for students and $20 for adults. Order online or purchase at the door. Info: brownpapertickets.com.
Railroad Earth
7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 29, Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St.
In Bellingham, you don’t even need to be outside to host a beer garden. To wit: In the hour before the longtime New Jersey septet known as Railroad Earth heads to the MBT’s historic main stage, the smaller Harold and Irene Walton Theatre will transform into a beer garden where Boundary Bay Brewery will be pouring some of their most popular brews. Additionally, Danielle’s Back East BBQ will be selling its delicious fare to ticket holders.
Back to the music. For more than 20 years, Railroad Earth have been sharing stellar song-craft, bluegrass, soul and rock, starting with their 2001 release, “The Black Bear Sessions.” Although the lineup has changed a bit since then, founding members Todd Sheaffer, Tim Carbone, John Skehan, and Carey Harmon are still on board. Tickets to the show are $30–$60, and many still remain. Info: mountbakertheatre.com.
White Elephant
7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., Dec. 29–30, The Upfront Theatre
Last year’s white elephant gift exchange at the Cascadia Daily News was cutthroat, with gift-openers “stealing” coveted items out of the hands of their co-workers when it was their turn to choose a gift. No blows were exchanged, but emotions got heated.
Hopefully, the four White Elephant shows happening at The Upfront won’t get out of hand — but you never know.
If you have an unwanted, funny or weird gift you received over the holidays and don’t want anymore, bring it along. Exchange it with an improviser, who will open it onstage and make it become a part of the show (don’t worry, you’ll get one in exchange). Tickets are $10–$16, but those bringing presents will get 50% off of their entry fee. If you don’t have a gift, don’t worry. Info: theupfront.com.
‘The Boys in the Boat’
Dec. 24–28, Regal Barkley Village, Bellingham;
Dec. 24–Jan. 4, Anacortes Cinemas, 415 O Ave.
If you’ve been paying attention to CDN stories in the past week, you’re likely already aware the movie “The Boys in the Boat” — and the book that preceded it — have a number of local ties.
The true story by Redmond-based author Daniel James Brown is based on the remarkable rowing crew from the University of Washington who won the Olympic gold medal in Berlin in 1936, snatching it from Adolf Hitler’s Germany.
Stroke oarsman Don Hume of Anacortes was one of the “boys” in the boat, and one of the stories reporter Meri-Jo Borzilleri focused on was his diary entries from the days preceding and through the race. The diary is fascinating reading, and shows how dedicated the athletes were to their sport.
Screenings of the movie will take place in Bellingham and Anacortes through Christmas weekend, and a Dec. 30 special showing of “The Boys in the Boat” in Anacortes will include words by the UW rowing historian who consulted on the book, members of the Hume family, historical context from the Samish Canoe Family, and interpretive panels from the Anacortes Museum. Tickets to that sold-out screening were $50, but there are many additional screenings to choose from. Info: fandango.com.
ALL EVENTS
Thursday, Dec. 21
Holiday Festival of the Arts
Daily through Christmas Eve, 1331 Commercial St.
Last-minute gift offerings by more than 100 vendors can be perused and purchased from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 24. Info: alliedarts.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.
‘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. It 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.
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 Mrs. 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.
Holiday History Hi-jinks
7–10 p.m., Hotel Leo, 1224 Cornwall Ave.
The historians known as The Good Time Girls will host this annual event. Attendees 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.
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.
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.
‘Million Dollar Quartet Christmas’
7:30 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St.
In December of 1956, four soon-to-be famous musicians — Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins — gathered for a rock n’ roll jam session where they played holiday hits such as “Run Rudolph Run,” “Jingle Bell Rock,” “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” and many more. Actors and musicians will re-create the magic in this show. Tickets are $36–$93. Info: mountbakertheatre.com.
Friday, Dec. 22
‘It’s a Wonderful Life’
3 p.m. and 7 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon
Free screenings of this 1946 film taking place around Christmastime will bring this tale about George Bailey, his guardian angel and the power of redemption to life. Settle in to watch the tale unfold. Info: lincolntheatre.org.
Holiday Bazaar
4–9 p.m., Skagit County Fairgrounds, 501 N. Taylor St., Mount Vernon
Today and from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, find arts and crafts vendors, baked goods, custom items, laser works, food vendors (and food samples) and more. Entry and parking is free. Info: skagitcounty.net/fairgrounds.
The ‘O’ Antiphons
7 p.m., First Congregational Church of Bellingham, 2401 Cornwall Ave.
Vox Antiqua Choral Ensemble presents this concert composed in the sixth century and used in vespers and masses each Dec. 17–23. The choral service is free to the public, but donations will be welcome and will benefit Doctors Without Borders. Info: fccb.net.
‘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.
Jingle Jazz
7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 22, Buxton’s, 1904 Commercial Ave., Anacortes
The 17-piece jazz band known as the A ‘Town Big Band will present arrangements by Gordon Goodwin, Chris McDonald, Tom Kubis and others, and attendees are encouraged to dance along to Christmas jazz favorites. Thanks to the Anacortes-based Manieri Endowment, the event is free. Info: Facebook.com/ATownJazzBand.
‘Ha-Ha-Holiday,’ ‘Bellingham Buddies Save X-mas’
7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., The Upfront Theatre, 203 Prospect St.
Based on audience suggestions, “Ha-Ha Holiday” features the improvised making of a new holiday “movie” filled with romance, merriment and cheer. At 9:30 p.m., watch “Bellingham Buddies Save X-Mas” — 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.
Saturday, Dec. 23
Holiday Toy Box
10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St.
Mom’s Closet & Pantry — who will provide free toy distribution for families in need, as well as Christmas decorations and small artificial-lighted trees — will host this event. Come meet Santa and take your own photos, have kids make gifts at craft tables, and meet “Mom” and her helper elves. Coffee, hot cocoa and apple cider will be available. Info: Facebook.com/momsclosetandpantry.
Model Railroad Holiday Open House
11 a.m to 3 p.m., 1469 Silver Run Lane, Alger
Adults and kids of all ages are welcome at this event hosted by the Whatcom Skagit Model Railroad Club. Check out 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). Suggested donation is $3 per person or $5 per family. Info: whatcomskagitmrc.org.
Photos with Santa
Noon to 4 p.m., Bellewood Farms, 6140 Guide Meridian Road
Take free photos with Santa for the final day during Christmastime at Bellewood. Hear local musicians and carolers, sip on warm cider or festive adult drinks, sit around the bonfire and cook s’mores, and check out last-minute gifts. Info: bellewoodfarms.com.
Bellingham Old Town Art Stroll
Noon to 5 p.m., Old Town Bellingham
Check out art studios and galleries in Bay Street Village and beyond during this monthly event focused on working artists in the historic neighborhood. Pop-up galleries and entertainment are also part of the stroll, which started last summer and continues on the fourth Saturday of every month. The stroll is free to the public and free to all participants. Info: meloygallery.com.
The House Wrens
2–4 p.m., Boundary Bay Brewery
Jan Peters and Kera-Lynne Newman of The House Wrens will be performing Irish and other tunes as duets with fiddle/harmonica and fiddle/guitar. The special holiday show will be in the taproom, but families in the bistro will be able to enjoy the music as well (reservations are recommended). Info: bbaybrewery.com.
Semiahmoo Sips
2–4 p.m., Semiahmoo Resort, Blaine
Every Saturday, head to a special wine tasting hosted in the Semiahmoo Wine Cellar, where a sommelier pours samples of four different wines from a rotating menu. Charcuterie and cheeses to pair with the wines are also available for purchase. Entry is $20 per person, and no registration is required. Info: Semiahmoo.com.
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.
Sunday, Dec. 24
Holiday Shopping
8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Semiahmoo Marina Gift Store, 9540 Semiahmoo Pkwy, Blaine
Take the chance to support local vendors by purchasing their arts and crafts. While you’re there, grab a holiday latte or bowl of soup before or after crossing items off your Christmas list. Info: semiahmoomarina.com.
Wednesday, Dec. 27
Merry Magic Day Camp
9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Blaine Pavilion, 635 8th St.
Sign up your kids ages 6–12 for this Harry Potter-themed day of games and crafts hosted by Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2. Fees are $35 per child, and advance registration is required. Info: 360-656-6416 or bbbparkandrec.org.
MegaZapper
2:30 p.m. daily through Dec. 30, Spark Museum of Electrical Invention, 1312 Bay St.
Catch extra shows of this live-action science and history presentation this week, taking place daily through Saturday. Elements of the show include a variety of eye-popping machines reminiscent of Frankenstein’s laboratory. The centerpiece is a “Cage of Doom.” Participants ages 18 and older can enter it and be bombarded with volts of electricity. Entry is $5 (in addition to general admission). Info: sparkmuseum.org.
Friends Book Sale Meet and Greet
3–6 p.m., Birch Bay Bookmobile stop, 7948 Birch Bay Drive
Friends reps will be available for questions, selling books and receiving donations for the Birch Bay Vogt Library Express building. Stop by and say hello. Info: wcls.org.
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 at 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.
Trivia Night
7–9:30 p.m., K2 Brewery, 1538 Kentucky St.
Use your noggin and drink some beer at this weekly event. Prepare to pony up a $2 buy-in for each person, with teams of up to six people. Seating is limited, so show up early to secure your spot. Info: kulshanbrewing.com.
Thursday, Dec. 28
Note of Thanks
10 a.m. to noon, Bellingham Public Library, 210 Central Ave.
Children of all ages can learn lessons about gratitude at this annual event which provides a variety of crafting supplies so they can make thank-you notes for friends and family who were generous around the holidays. Entry is free. Info: bellinghampubliclibrary.org.
Friday, Dec. 29
Harvesting Joy
11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Ben Mann Studios, 1000 Harris Ave.
For the final weekend, take 55 steps up the Morgan Block Building in Fairhaven for this “hot cider meets cool art” event that has been taking place Fridays through Sundays since the beginning of November. Mann will be on hand to greet visitors, sell art and talk about his process. Info: ben-mann.com.
Patron Appreciation Day
1–4 p.m., South Whatcom Library, 10 Barn View Drive, Sudden Valley
Friends of the South Whatcom Library will host a sweets-focused potluck celebrating their engaged readers. Bring a baked treat to contribute or just enjoy the hot cider and goodies outside of the library. Info: wcls.org.
Deck the Old City Hall
Noon to 5 p.m., Whatcom Museum’s Old City Hall, 121 Prospect St.
Attend the last weekend of this five-week event through Sunday. View decorated holiday trees in the Rotunda Room, check out the dazzling decor throughout the building and take a peek at the exhibits currently on display. Admission is by donation, with proceeds going to support museum exhibitions and programming. Info: whatcommuseum.org.
Saturday, Dec. 30
Fairhaven Ghost Tour
6:30 p.m., Sycamore Square, 1200 Harris Ave.
Professional psychic Charles Crooks will lead a walking tour as he tells stories of local ghosts and his own experiences. The tour begins and ends in the courtyard of Sycamore Square near the center fountain. Expect PG-13 language. Please read the terms and conditions before purchasing your ticket. The hourlong tour is $25. Info: bellinghamghosttours.com.
Blair Bomber: Tries His Best Live
8 p.m, The Thirsty Badger, 1501 E. Badger Road, Lynden
This stand-up comedian, podcaster and self-described “tantric yoga guru” — a native of Lynden — will bring his “ironic, observational and completely literal” comedy to the stage. Entry is free, but show up early if you want a good seat. Info: thethirstybadger.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@casadiadaily.com.
