Good morning, Bellingham.

Rock and Rye Oyster House, a downtown seafood and cocktail spot in the Herald Building, announced that next Thursday, June 25, will be its final day after 12 years of service, with discounted oysters starting Thursday, June 18 to mark its anniversary.

Marine researchers spotted a new Southern Resident Orca calf traveling with the L Pod on Sunday, June 14 — the calf, estimated to be 1-3 months old, is the second born in 2026 in the San Juan Islands, according to the Center for Whale Research.

Washington state's Department of Health reopened shellfish harvesting in north Whatcom County on Thursday, June 18 — covering Point Roberts, Birch Bay and Drayton Harbor — after biotoxin levels dropped, although harvesting remains closed from Sandy Point south.

WSDOT has reduced Hwy 9 to one lane north of Bengen Road for a bridge deck inspection and paving project from Nugent’s Corner to Nooksack as crews alternate traffic; the intersection at E Badger and Benson roads in Lynden will close Sunday night with detours until next Friday, June 26.

Washington State Ferry engineers raised concerns about burnout and a widening wage gap between deck and engine crews at a press conference on Colman Dock on Wednesday, June 17; union representatives warned that if the gap is not addressed, more ferry delays could follow.

Whatcom County hosts busy weekend events as the free 80th annual Lummi Stommish Water Festival (with canoe races and a veteran parade) runs today through Sunday, Juneteenth cookouts occur in Ferndale and Bellingham, a kids kite festival takes place at Birch Bay, and live music fills venues.

Two official fan zone watch parties will host fans watching the US vs. Australia World Cup match tomorrow at noon; one will be held at the block party in front of Commercial Street Parking Garage (with a massive LED screen) and the other at Trackside Beer Garden downtown.

Fans in Bellingham can attend two official watch parties in downtown Bellingham for the US vs Australia soccer match in Seattle at noon tomorrow (one at Commercial Street Parking Garage and one at Trackside Beer Garden).

Tool Fair

Join us Father's Day Weekend, June 19–20, for the Hardware Sales 30th Annual Tool Fair — Bellingham's favorite tradition celebrating 30 years of community, featuring live demos, vendor booth raffles, a Super Raffle, exclusive Tool Fair merch, and a Beer Garden at Stemma West. Meet reps from your favorite tool brands, score deals, and keep the fun going at participating local businesses all weekend long.

Mason Bee Revolution with Dave Hunter

6-7 p.m. — Village Books and Paper Dreams — Free entry — Explore the crucial role of mason bees in pollination with expert insights and engaging discussions.

Laughs @ Larrabee Comedy Night featuring Brett Emerson

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Larrabee Lager Co — Cost info not provided — Enjoy an evening of nonstop laughs with standout comedians Brett Emerson, Mariah Dodd, and Jay Markowitz.

Rhys Langston Live at The Shakedown

8-11 p.m. — The Shakedown — Tickets required — Experience the genre-defying sounds of Rhys Langston and his eclectic live set.

Eternal Wave Live Concert

Jul 3-4 — The Shakedown — Tickets not specified — Experience infectious surf rock vibes with Eternal Wave and Where’s West? in a night of catchy tunes and dance moves.

Jontavious Willis Live

8-11 p.m. — The Shakedown — Ticket info available — Experience the vibrant fusion of traditional and modern Blues that brings audiences to their feet.

NW Tune-Up 2026

5-10 p.m. — Waterfront Pump Track — Ticket required — Experience world-class mountain biking, live music, and community culture in Bellingham, WA.

Northwest Tune-Up 2026

5:50-9:50 p.m. — Waypoint Park — Cost not specified — Enjoy an evening with modern crooner Stephen Day in the heart of Bellingham.

Iris Fisher Smith Book Launch

4-5 p.m. — Village Books and Paper Dreams — Free entry — Discover a heartfelt memoir that inspires hope and resilience through the journey of faith.

Club Weezer with DJ Mandy Moorhol

9 p.m. — The Shakedown — Tickets available — Indie rock and slacker rock fans unite for a vibrant dance party with DJ Mandy Moorhol.

Phoebe Wahl: Story Rug Book Release Event

4-5 p.m. — Village Books and Paper Dreams — Free entry — Celebrate the release of Phoebe Wahl's 'Story Rug' with a craft activity and an engaging conversation.