Good morning, Bellingham.

A study by the Washington Hospitality Association shows that dining out in Washington is more expensive than in other states—prices are almost 14% higher than the national average.

Seattle ranked second after San Francisco for high dining costs among major cities.

Washington Parks and Recreation officials announced that state parks will be free on select national holidays in 2026 and a Discover Pass will not be needed on those days.

The first fee-free day will be Jan. 1 with First Day Hikes starting at 11 a.m. at Birch Bay State Park — free days will also be held on Veterans’ Day, National Public Lands Day, and during an early June Free Fishing weekend.

The Bellingham Parks and Recreation Department said public access to Boulevard Park is limited while workers restore two beach areas near Woods Coffee.

The project will run through the end of December and continue into spring 2026—detoured parking and night work noise may affect residents—.

The state Department of Health confirmed 10 people got sick from E. coli after eating cheeses from Twin Sisters Creamery that were recalled on Oct.

24. Health officials advised people to throw out any cheese without a clear batch number—this recall covers Whatcom Blue, Farmhouse, Mustard Seed and Peppercorn varieties and most cases have occurred in Washington.

Local sports teams posted key updates as Mariners' Cal Raleigh finished four votes behind Aaron Judge for the MVP and the Seahawks will face the Rams on the road this weekend—college and high school tournaments are ongoing with volleyball, soccer, football, and basketball matchups scheduled, the Kraken rallied for a comeback win last night, and WWU women's soccer advanced to the conference championship tomorrow.

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.

Intro to the Laser Cutter Workshop

4-6 p.m. — Bellingham Makerspace — Free for members — Get expert advice from Jason Davies on your laser projects and explore related tools.

Krampus Night 2025

6:30-10 p.m. — Chuckanut Bay Distillery — $35 — Experience a night of festive mischief with music, dancing, and a visit from Krampus.

Blaine Holiday Harbor Lights

6 PM - 1 AM — 701 Peace Portal Dr, Blaine, WA — Free entry — Experience the festive spirit with a day full of holiday activities and dazzling lights.

Laser Cutter Office Hours

4-6 p.m. — Bellingham Makerspace — Free for members — Get expert advice on laser projects from Tool Champion Jason Davies in an informal Q&A session.

Esme's Adventures in Another World

7-3:30 p.m. — BAAY Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Embark on a magical journey with Esme in this original production full of music and adventure.

Walton Magic

1-7 p.m. — Mount Baker Theatre — Check website for ticket prices — Enjoy a captivating performance full of mind-bending magic, laughter, and wonder by resident magician John Walton.

Intro to Vector Graphics Workshop

6:00–7:30 p.m. — Bellingham Makerspace — 50% scholarship available — Learn to use Inkscape to create stunning vector graphics for various applications.

Contra Dance: Dec 13th

7-10 p.m. — Bellingham Public Library Fairhaven Branch — $12-$15, $8 students — Enjoy an engaging evening of dancing with live music by Heliotrope and expert calling by Laura Mé Smith.

S.O.S. Signs of Strength Film Screening

3-5 p.m. — Firehouse Arts & Events Center Bellingham — Free entry — Experience a powerful dance film exploring resilience through the stories of military veterans and their journey of strength.