Good morning, Bellingham.

The City of Bellingham launched two grant programs to support fan zone events and downtown beautification with over $400,000 in funds for 2026 community activities tied to the world’s soccer tournament — proposals for projects including community watch parties, designated venues, and family-friendly soccer events will be accepted through Dec. 10. This funding comes from local tourism dollars and a $50,000 state grant passed through the Downtown Bellingham Partnership to support local businesses and organizations.

The state Department of Social and Health Services said all basic food assistance programs including SNAP will end after Oct.

31 if federal funding is not restored—hundreds of employees may face temporary layoffs beginning Nov. 4. Gov. Bob Ferguson noted that roughly 1 million Washington residents use SNAP each month to buy food.

Whatcom County Health and Community Services will host an open house on November 12 at 4:30 p.m. at 925 N Forest St.—a free event offering guided tours and a health presentation before taking community members’ questions.

The Sounders lost 3-2 on penalty kicks after a scoreless playoff opener against Minnesota United plus they will host game two at Lumen Field next Monday.

The Seahawks designated rookie fullback Robbie Ouzts for a return to practice and honored Whatcom County high school coaches, while the Kraken host the Canadiens tonight.

Seattle’s Sounders lost their MLS playoff opener to Minnesota United after a scoreless game went to penalty kicks, and they will host a must-win Game 2 at Lumen Field on Monday.

Whatcom County high school football coaches Ron Lepper and Nick Lucey were honored by the Seahawks — each receiving a $500 donation and a pregame brunch invitation at a season-ending game.

High Step Society Dance Party

9 PM - 1 AM — Wild Buffalo House Of Music — Cost Info not specified — Experience a dynamic blend of jazz with a big band atmosphere at this unique dance party.

Beyond the Veil Concert

7-9 p.m. — Mount Baker Theatre — $34 — Celebrate Halloween with a spine-tingling concert featuring ghostly tunes and a costume catwalk.

The Sea - Film Screening

3-4 p.m. — Firehouse Arts & Events Center Bellingham — $5-$15 — Experience a poignant exploration of aging and relationships through the art of dance and film.

Intro to the Laser Cutter

4-6 p.m. — Bellingham Makerspace — Free for members — Ask questions and get insights on your laser projects with expert guidance from Jason Davies.

25th Annual Nordic Fest

10 AM – 4 PM — Ferndale Events Center — $5, FREE Under 13 — Celebrate Nordic culture with crafts, baked goods, and all-day entertainment.

Building Hope: Numan Gala

12-5 a.m. — 1650 Baker Creek Pl, Bellingham, WA — Fundraising event — An evening of dinner, a silent auction, and 80's dancing to support orphaned children in Ethiopia.

Intro to Vector Graphics Workshop

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Bellingham Makerspace — Class fees apply — Learn to create art and cutting files using free software Inkscape.

Finding Nemo Jr.

7 p.m. — BAAY Theatre — $12 — Experience an enchanting journey as Marlin and Nemo venture across the ocean to reunite.

Dave Laster: Skis, Shovels, and Stories Book Launch

4-5 p.m. — Village Books and Paper Dreams — Free entry — Explore the thrilling tales of Dave Laster's adventures with the Sun Valley ski patrol in the 1960s.

Natasha Tripplett - Downtown Doors Launch

2-3 p.m. — Village Books and Paper Dreams — Free event — Explore community themes through Natasha Tripplett's heartwarming picture book.