Good morning, Bellingham.

The Northwest Clean Air Agency urges local residents in Island, San Juan, Skagit, and Whatcom counties to reduce car use + avoid burning yard waste to improve air quality as the New Year begins.

The agency recommends opting for public transit, biking, or walking to help lower pollution.

Bio Bug advises homeowners in Whatcom County to check crawl spaces and attics for winter pests that may cause costly damage and health risks.

The pest control company offers free inspections and tips to seal entry points and reduce moisture, helping prevent larger infestations as weather warms.

The NW Clean Air Agency (NWCAA) advises residents in Island, San Juan, Skagit, and Whatcom counties to protect the air this New Year by driving less, carpooling, and avoiding burning yard waste or wood indoors.

The agency urges locals to check its website for daily air quality updates.

Whatcom Veterinary Hospital warns pet owners that winter toxins (antifreeze, road salt and ice melt) can be life threatening to pets and advises calling a veterinarian immediately if exposure is suspected.

The new year brings local activity: Mount Baker Ski Area has record snow for ski lessons, and downtown offers improv at The Upfront Theatre with a heavy metal show at Shakedown on Saturday at 9 p.m.—plus, fresh seafood is available at the Dockside Market on the first and third Saturdays.

Local HVAC experts at Feller Heating & Air Conditioning urge homeowners to service heating systems now to prevent midwinter breakdowns caused by cold, damp conditions — they advise cleaning filters, clearing debris, and checking insulation to extend system life.

2026 Awards & Installation Banquet

5-11 p.m. — Silver Reef Casino Resort — $100/person or $700/table — Celebrate in Roaring '20s style with cocktails, dinner, and dancing to SpaceBand.

Super Smash LIVE

8 PM - 12 AM — Blue Room — Extra Controllers Available — Experience a live jazz fusion performance of the Super Smash soundtrack while playing casual games or tournaments.

Noah Gundersen Live Concert

7-10 p.m. — Wild Buffalo House Of Music — Tickets starting at $95 — Experience an unforgettable evening with Noah Gundersen in Bellingham.

Puzzle Hustle

6-7:30 p.m. — Bloedel Donovan Park — $30/team — Compete in a jigsaw puzzle race for a chance to win prizes.

Community Work Party at Fairhaven Park

10 a.m.-1 p.m. — Fairhaven Park Pavilion — Free — Help improve the Outdoor Classroom and Native Plant Garden while enjoying the outdoors.

Bellingham Symphony Orchestra: Smitten

3-6 PM — Mount Baker Theatre — Tickets available — Experience a delightful musical evening with the Bellingham Symphony Orchestra.