Community Calendar and Information Hub

The WhatcomTalk Events Calendar shares things to do around Whatcom County including Bellingham, Ferndale, Lynden, Blaine and beyond. Find fun activities and adventures throughout the region on our comprehensive events calendar. Have an event that isn’t listed? Click the green “Post your Event” button and our editors will review and approve within two business days.

May
8
Thu
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers
May 8 @ 4:15 pm – 5:30 pm
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers

One of the core goals of Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers (BBOP) is to honor and respect Polynesian cultural traditions through the promotion of both competitive and recreational outrigger canoe paddling for youth, families, and the community. Keiki (kids) ages 8-14 will enjoy games on and off the water and learn to paddle as a team in a 6-person outrigger canoe! Sign up for one or more of the 4 sessions throughout the summer, which includes opportunities to race with your BBOP team! We provide paddles and PFDs for free. Please see our website for more details, https://www.bbop.us/youth-program.

All youth must register before getting into a canoe. 

Visit our membership page for more info.

Practice Times: 4:15- 5:30pm

Dates: Tuesdays and Thursdays, May 6 – Aug 21, 2025

(Each session includes 8 practices, for a total of 10 hours of instruction)

Session 1: May 6 – May 29 Focus on Paddle Technique and Sprint Racing

Session 2: June 3 – June 26 Focus on Marine Ecology

Session 3: July 1 – July 24 Focus on History and Culture

Session 4: July 29 – August 21 Focus on Strength and Conditioning and long-distance competition

Location: Launching from the Community Boating Center.

?All kids get a BBOP t-shirt upon sign up

?No drop-ins allowed. No “make-up” for missed practices.

?A fee waiver is available (click here for info)

?All youth are welcome to participate in our BBOP race on August 16, 2025 to show off their new skills!

Ready to sign up? Register HERE.

Help is available for TeamSnap registration!

???

What to Wear

All youth are required to wear a PFD. We will have PFDs and paddles available, but bring a PFD and/or paddle if you have one. 

  • Dress in layers, avoid cotton. Rain gear help to keep the body warm and insulated. Tights worn for other sport work well.

  • Wear shoes that you don’t mind getting wet- neoprene booties with wool socks will help keep the feet warm.

  • Bring a change of clothes and a towel.

May
9
Fri
Edible Plant Identification in the Chuckanuts with Northwest Natura @ Chuckanut Mountain (Trail TBD)
May 9 @ 12:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Edible Plant Identification in the Chuckanuts with Northwest Natura @ Chuckanut Mountain (Trail TBD)

Join Naturalist,Jazmen Yoder on a hike along one of the Chuckanut Mountain trails to get outdoors in early spring and learn the names and flavors of edible plants as we go.

The trailhead is TBD based on abundant species. Expect some elevation gain but keep in mind we’ll be stopping frequently to botanize and learn about edible plant species.

Things to bring with you to class:
-Dress for the weather (warm outdoor clothing)
-Hiking shoes
-Snacks and water
-Notebook and pen (optional)
-Camera (optional)
-Your favorite field guide (optional)

Registered individuals will receive an email a 3-5 days prior to the event with trail info, driving directions, weather forecast, and a reminder of what to bring with you.

Please register via the event website.

May
10
Sat
Ethnobotany Tour at Sugarloaf Mountain w/ Northwest Natura @ Sugarloaf Mountain Trailhead
May 10 @ 12:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Ethnobotany Tour at Sugarloaf Mountain w/ Northwest Natura @ Sugarloaf Mountain Trailhead

Join Salish Sea Naturalist and Outdoor Educator, Jazmen Yoder on a hike to Sugarloaf Mountaintop while learning about traditional and modern uses of PNW native plants.

Anacortes Community Forest has incredible plant diversity. This tour will focus on edible and medicinal coastal prairie and mixed forest plant species and show you how to identify them. You will learn a ton about each plant including edible and medicinal uses, and traditional harvest, cooking, and agricultural techniques.

There is some elevation gain on this hike, but we will be stopping frequently to botanize.

Key takeaways:
-Plant identification skills
-Learn which species would be appropriate to forage for food or medicine and which should be left alone and admired based on their ecological role, restoration status, and/or cultural significance to indigenous peoples.
-Guided plant identification notes from the instructor using a whiteboard at each stop
-Find community outdoors with nature-loving folks on this hike through the forest to Salish Sea vistas!

Please register via the event website.

May
13
Tue
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers
May 13 @ 4:15 pm – 5:30 pm
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers

One of the core goals of Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers (BBOP) is to honor and respect Polynesian cultural traditions through the promotion of both competitive and recreational outrigger canoe paddling for youth, families, and the community. Keiki (kids) ages 8-14 will enjoy games on and off the water and learn to paddle as a team in a 6-person outrigger canoe! Sign up for one or more of the 4 sessions throughout the summer, which includes opportunities to race with your BBOP team! We provide paddles and PFDs for free. Please see our website for more details, https://www.bbop.us/youth-program.

All youth must register before getting into a canoe. 

Visit our membership page for more info.

Practice Times: 4:15- 5:30pm

Dates: Tuesdays and Thursdays, May 6 – Aug 21, 2025

(Each session includes 8 practices, for a total of 10 hours of instruction)

Session 1: May 6 – May 29 Focus on Paddle Technique and Sprint Racing

Session 2: June 3 – June 26 Focus on Marine Ecology

Session 3: July 1 – July 24 Focus on History and Culture

Session 4: July 29 – August 21 Focus on Strength and Conditioning and long-distance competition

Location: Launching from the Community Boating Center.

?All kids get a BBOP t-shirt upon sign up

?No drop-ins allowed. No “make-up” for missed practices.

?A fee waiver is available (click here for info)

?All youth are welcome to participate in our BBOP race on August 16, 2025 to show off their new skills!

Ready to sign up? Register HERE.

Help is available for TeamSnap registration!

???

What to Wear

All youth are required to wear a PFD. We will have PFDs and paddles available, but bring a PFD and/or paddle if you have one. 

  • Dress in layers, avoid cotton. Rain gear help to keep the body warm and insulated. Tights worn for other sport work well.

  • Wear shoes that you don’t mind getting wet- neoprene booties with wool socks will help keep the feet warm.

  • Bring a change of clothes and a towel.

May
15
Thu
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers
May 15 @ 4:15 pm – 5:30 pm
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers

One of the core goals of Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers (BBOP) is to honor and respect Polynesian cultural traditions through the promotion of both competitive and recreational outrigger canoe paddling for youth, families, and the community. Keiki (kids) ages 8-14 will enjoy games on and off the water and learn to paddle as a team in a 6-person outrigger canoe! Sign up for one or more of the 4 sessions throughout the summer, which includes opportunities to race with your BBOP team! We provide paddles and PFDs for free. Please see our website for more details, https://www.bbop.us/youth-program.

All youth must register before getting into a canoe. 

Visit our membership page for more info.

Practice Times: 4:15- 5:30pm

Dates: Tuesdays and Thursdays, May 6 – Aug 21, 2025

(Each session includes 8 practices, for a total of 10 hours of instruction)

Session 1: May 6 – May 29 Focus on Paddle Technique and Sprint Racing

Session 2: June 3 – June 26 Focus on Marine Ecology

Session 3: July 1 – July 24 Focus on History and Culture

Session 4: July 29 – August 21 Focus on Strength and Conditioning and long-distance competition

Location: Launching from the Community Boating Center.

?All kids get a BBOP t-shirt upon sign up

?No drop-ins allowed. No “make-up” for missed practices.

?A fee waiver is available (click here for info)

?All youth are welcome to participate in our BBOP race on August 16, 2025 to show off their new skills!

Ready to sign up? Register HERE.

Help is available for TeamSnap registration!

???

What to Wear

All youth are required to wear a PFD. We will have PFDs and paddles available, but bring a PFD and/or paddle if you have one. 

  • Dress in layers, avoid cotton. Rain gear help to keep the body warm and insulated. Tights worn for other sport work well.

  • Wear shoes that you don’t mind getting wet- neoprene booties with wool socks will help keep the feet warm.

  • Bring a change of clothes and a towel.

Cougars in The North West @ Backcountry Essentials
May 15 @ 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Cougars in The North West @ Backcountry Essentials

Come spend an evening with Brian Kertson, a carnivore
researcher from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, as he
dives into the fascinating world of cougar ecology and behavior. He’ll
also share essential safety tips for those exploring areas where these
majestic creatures roam.

May
17
Sat
Celebrate Community at Blaine’s Spring Block Party @ Downtown Blaine
May 17 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Spring is here, and Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District #2 invites the community to celebrate the season at Blaine’s Spring Block Party on Saturday, May 17, 2025 in Downtown Blaine, centered around Third and H Streets.

This all-day, family-friendly event is packed with live music, vibrant vendor booths, delicious food, and hands-on fun for all ages.

The Kids Zone (10 a.m. – 2 p.m.) will offer free activities for children, including a community-wide scavenger hunt with a prize generously sponsored by Hills Chevron, engaging games with prizes, and two storytime sessions hosted by the Blaine Public Library (10:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m.).

Starting at 1 p.m., the Beer Garden (located next to Bordertown Pizza) opens with an exciting live music lineup featuring:
• Gladstone – Acoustic set (1:00 p.m.)
• Paper Heart – 90s Grunge Covers (2:30 p.m.)
• SoundStation – Classic Rock Hits (4:00 p.m.)

Attendees can explore the Street Fair (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.), which features over 60 vendors showcasing handcrafted goods, local art, tarot readings, kids’ toys, clothing, bath and body products, craft kits, face painting, and more. It is a perfect opportunity to support local businesses and discover unique treasures made right here in our community.

Hungry? Enjoy a variety of food and drink options, including pizza, hotdogs, coffee, slushies, and specialty drinks from local vendors and food trucks.

“This event is all about bringing the community together,” said Olea Mills, Event Coordinator with BBBPRD2. “Whether you’re here to shop, dance, eat, or let the kids play—there’s something for everyone.”

Admission is free and all are welcome. For more details, visit bbbparkandrec.org.

May
18
Sun
Spring Naturalist Series (Day 2): Plants of the Pacific Northwest with Northwest Natura @ Deception Pass State Park or Anacortes Community Forest
May 18 @ 12:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Spring Naturalist Series (Day 2): Plants of the Pacific Northwest with Northwest Natura @ Deception Pass State Park or Anacortes Community Forest

This two-part series is designed for adults (16+) at any skill level that are interested in having fun outdoors learning more about flora, fauna, and natural history of the Pacific Northwest. We will meet two times during the month of May in Skagit County parks, focusing on universal botany wisdom, and ethnobotany of the PNW.

Each class will give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the ecosystem, learn names of plants, lichens, mushrooms, and engage in hands-on learning to deepen your awareness of the natural world.

Overall, we will be moving at a slow pace during each outing as we focus on our surroundings, have mini lectures, or engage in activities.

Expect some gentle to moderate hiking, and some kneeling or squatting.

Day 2: Ethnobotany of the Pacific Northwest Coast
This course will begin with a lecture-style intro to prehistory of the Pacific Northwest coupled with a robust acknowledgement of the peoples who have lived on and tended to the land for time immemorial.

Amble along the trail with breath-taking flora and coastal views and learn about traditional uses of plants, Indigenous agricultural practices, kin-centric ecological connections between plants and people, and so much more in this immersive walkabout focused on ethnobotany of the PNW Coast.

You can also expect:
-Foraging tips on edible species
-Wildlife and Bird sightings
-Relaxed community atmosphere
-Leisurely hiking in a beautiful park setting (expect some elevation gain but note that we will be pausing on the trail frequently)

Please register via the event website.

May
20
Tue
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers
May 20 @ 4:15 pm – 5:30 pm
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers

One of the core goals of Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers (BBOP) is to honor and respect Polynesian cultural traditions through the promotion of both competitive and recreational outrigger canoe paddling for youth, families, and the community. Keiki (kids) ages 8-14 will enjoy games on and off the water and learn to paddle as a team in a 6-person outrigger canoe! Sign up for one or more of the 4 sessions throughout the summer, which includes opportunities to race with your BBOP team! We provide paddles and PFDs for free. Please see our website for more details, https://www.bbop.us/youth-program.

All youth must register before getting into a canoe. 

Visit our membership page for more info.

Practice Times: 4:15- 5:30pm

Dates: Tuesdays and Thursdays, May 6 – Aug 21, 2025

(Each session includes 8 practices, for a total of 10 hours of instruction)

Session 1: May 6 – May 29 Focus on Paddle Technique and Sprint Racing

Session 2: June 3 – June 26 Focus on Marine Ecology

Session 3: July 1 – July 24 Focus on History and Culture

Session 4: July 29 – August 21 Focus on Strength and Conditioning and long-distance competition

Location: Launching from the Community Boating Center.

?All kids get a BBOP t-shirt upon sign up

?No drop-ins allowed. No “make-up” for missed practices.

?A fee waiver is available (click here for info)

?All youth are welcome to participate in our BBOP race on August 16, 2025 to show off their new skills!

Ready to sign up? Register HERE.

Help is available for TeamSnap registration!

???

What to Wear

All youth are required to wear a PFD. We will have PFDs and paddles available, but bring a PFD and/or paddle if you have one. 

  • Dress in layers, avoid cotton. Rain gear help to keep the body warm and insulated. Tights worn for other sport work well.

  • Wear shoes that you don’t mind getting wet- neoprene booties with wool socks will help keep the feet warm.

  • Bring a change of clothes and a towel.

May
22
Thu
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers
May 22 @ 4:15 pm – 5:30 pm
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers

One of the core goals of Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers (BBOP) is to honor and respect Polynesian cultural traditions through the promotion of both competitive and recreational outrigger canoe paddling for youth, families, and the community. Keiki (kids) ages 8-14 will enjoy games on and off the water and learn to paddle as a team in a 6-person outrigger canoe! Sign up for one or more of the 4 sessions throughout the summer, which includes opportunities to race with your BBOP team! We provide paddles and PFDs for free. Please see our website for more details, https://www.bbop.us/youth-program.

All youth must register before getting into a canoe. 

Visit our membership page for more info.

Practice Times: 4:15- 5:30pm

Dates: Tuesdays and Thursdays, May 6 – Aug 21, 2025

(Each session includes 8 practices, for a total of 10 hours of instruction)

Session 1: May 6 – May 29 Focus on Paddle Technique and Sprint Racing

Session 2: June 3 – June 26 Focus on Marine Ecology

Session 3: July 1 – July 24 Focus on History and Culture

Session 4: July 29 – August 21 Focus on Strength and Conditioning and long-distance competition

Location: Launching from the Community Boating Center.

?All kids get a BBOP t-shirt upon sign up

?No drop-ins allowed. No “make-up” for missed practices.

?A fee waiver is available (click here for info)

?All youth are welcome to participate in our BBOP race on August 16, 2025 to show off their new skills!

Ready to sign up? Register HERE.

Help is available for TeamSnap registration!

???

What to Wear

All youth are required to wear a PFD. We will have PFDs and paddles available, but bring a PFD and/or paddle if you have one. 

  • Dress in layers, avoid cotton. Rain gear help to keep the body warm and insulated. Tights worn for other sport work well.

  • Wear shoes that you don’t mind getting wet- neoprene booties with wool socks will help keep the feet warm.

  • Bring a change of clothes and a towel.

May
24
Sat
Bushcraft Basics: Fire & Shelter Building with Northwest Natura @ Northwest Natura Private Land
May 24 @ 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Bushcraft Basics: Fire & Shelter Building with Northwest Natura @ Northwest Natura Private Land

This course will take place on Private Land in Whatcom County off Highway 542 next to Boulder Creek ~2 miles east of Maple Falls, WA.

The skills we will cover in this outdoor workshop include:
-An Introduction to Bushcraft in the Pacific Northwest
-Survival priorities

Activities:
-Knots
-Shelter construction from raw materials
-Second shelter construction: simple tarp deployment
-Knife, ax, and saw practice with guidance if needed
-Fire-making tutorial using foraged materials and no lighter
-Use a ferro rod or flint & steel.
*Optional to make tea over a fire using wild edible/medicinal plants.

We will practice all of these skills together in this full-day course.

Northwest Natura is providing day-use materials including:

Morakniv 511 knives
Ferrocerium rods and strikers
Fire resources (wood, tinder)
Saws (limited number)
Axes (limited number)
Tarps, paracord, and other shelter supplies
Demo Equipment; examples of several kit items

More details provided via the event website.
Please register via the event website.

May
25
Sun
Bushcraft Basics: Natural Cordage with Northwest Natura @ Northwest Natura Private Land
May 25 @ 1:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Bushcraft Basics: Natural Cordage with Northwest Natura @ Northwest Natura Private Land

The Bushcraft Basics series by Northwest Natura teaches students practical outdoor skills like fire-making, shelter-building, knot-tying, and wildcrafting skills like weaving, making cordage, and more.

In this course you will learn how to make cordage using different plants that you forage.

Practice self reliance skills in this half-day course.

Key takeaways:
-Ethnobotany of various species of fiber plants
-How to harvest and process fiber from multiple species of plants
-Learn two techniques of twisting plant fibers into cords and ropes
-Improve your self-reliance skills in a casual group setting where you will meet folks who share your interests and love for nature.

***Please register via the event website.
More info available on the website as well.

May
27
Tue
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers
May 27 @ 4:15 pm – 5:30 pm
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers

One of the core goals of Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers (BBOP) is to honor and respect Polynesian cultural traditions through the promotion of both competitive and recreational outrigger canoe paddling for youth, families, and the community. Keiki (kids) ages 8-14 will enjoy games on and off the water and learn to paddle as a team in a 6-person outrigger canoe! Sign up for one or more of the 4 sessions throughout the summer, which includes opportunities to race with your BBOP team! We provide paddles and PFDs for free. Please see our website for more details, https://www.bbop.us/youth-program.

All youth must register before getting into a canoe. 

Visit our membership page for more info.

Practice Times: 4:15- 5:30pm

Dates: Tuesdays and Thursdays, May 6 – Aug 21, 2025

(Each session includes 8 practices, for a total of 10 hours of instruction)

Session 1: May 6 – May 29 Focus on Paddle Technique and Sprint Racing

Session 2: June 3 – June 26 Focus on Marine Ecology

Session 3: July 1 – July 24 Focus on History and Culture

Session 4: July 29 – August 21 Focus on Strength and Conditioning and long-distance competition

Location: Launching from the Community Boating Center.

?All kids get a BBOP t-shirt upon sign up

?No drop-ins allowed. No “make-up” for missed practices.

?A fee waiver is available (click here for info)

?All youth are welcome to participate in our BBOP race on August 16, 2025 to show off their new skills!

Ready to sign up? Register HERE.

Help is available for TeamSnap registration!

???

What to Wear

All youth are required to wear a PFD. We will have PFDs and paddles available, but bring a PFD and/or paddle if you have one. 

  • Dress in layers, avoid cotton. Rain gear help to keep the body warm and insulated. Tights worn for other sport work well.

  • Wear shoes that you don’t mind getting wet- neoprene booties with wool socks will help keep the feet warm.

  • Bring a change of clothes and a towel.

May
29
Thu
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers
May 29 @ 4:15 pm – 5:30 pm
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers

One of the core goals of Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers (BBOP) is to honor and respect Polynesian cultural traditions through the promotion of both competitive and recreational outrigger canoe paddling for youth, families, and the community. Keiki (kids) ages 8-14 will enjoy games on and off the water and learn to paddle as a team in a 6-person outrigger canoe! Sign up for one or more of the 4 sessions throughout the summer, which includes opportunities to race with your BBOP team! We provide paddles and PFDs for free. Please see our website for more details, https://www.bbop.us/youth-program.

All youth must register before getting into a canoe. 

Visit our membership page for more info.

Practice Times: 4:15- 5:30pm

Dates: Tuesdays and Thursdays, May 6 – Aug 21, 2025

(Each session includes 8 practices, for a total of 10 hours of instruction)

Session 1: May 6 – May 29 Focus on Paddle Technique and Sprint Racing

Session 2: June 3 – June 26 Focus on Marine Ecology

Session 3: July 1 – July 24 Focus on History and Culture

Session 4: July 29 – August 21 Focus on Strength and Conditioning and long-distance competition

Location: Launching from the Community Boating Center.

?All kids get a BBOP t-shirt upon sign up

?No drop-ins allowed. No “make-up” for missed practices.

?A fee waiver is available (click here for info)

?All youth are welcome to participate in our BBOP race on August 16, 2025 to show off their new skills!

Ready to sign up? Register HERE.

Help is available for TeamSnap registration!

???

What to Wear

All youth are required to wear a PFD. We will have PFDs and paddles available, but bring a PFD and/or paddle if you have one. 

  • Dress in layers, avoid cotton. Rain gear help to keep the body warm and insulated. Tights worn for other sport work well.

  • Wear shoes that you don’t mind getting wet- neoprene booties with wool socks will help keep the feet warm.

  • Bring a change of clothes and a towel.

May
31
Sat
Blaine Borderline 5K @ Blaine Marine Park
May 31 @ 10:00 am
Blaine Borderline 5K @ Blaine Marine Park

Ready, set, GO! Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District #2 invites runners, walkers, and community members of all ages to lace up and take part in the Blaine Borderline 5K on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Blaine Marine Park.
This 5K walk/run welcomes everyone—whether you’re striving for a personal best or enjoying a scenic morning by the water. Walkers are encouraged to participate and experience the course at their own pace.

Participants who register before May 10 will receive a commemorative event shirt. After crossing the finish line, enjoy food, local vendors, and a beer garden near the waterfront at Gateway 1890 Taphouse.

Thanks to Fairhaven Runners and local business sponsors, prize drawings and gift baskets will also be part of the festivities. Children below the age of 14 are not required to register and may participate for an opportunity to win a medal.

The day’s schedule includes:
• Doors open at 8:30 a.m.
• Race time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
• Location: Marine Park, Blaine, near the amphitheatre.

“This event is about movement, connection, and community spirit,” said Laura Nesse, Activity Coordinator with BBBPRD2. “Whether you run, walk, or gather to cheer, we look forward to seeing everyone at Marine Park.”
Gather your friends and family, and register today:
Sign up on Eventbrite: blaineborderline5k.eventbrite.com

Arboretum Day: Nature Walks, Music & More! @ WWU Outback Outdoor Classroom
May 31 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Arboretum Day: Nature Walks, Music & More! @ WWU Outback Outdoor Classroom

Arboretum Day is an annual celebration hosted by the Ecological Restoration Club at Western Washington University, held at the Outback Farm with activities extending into Sehome Hill Arboretum. This community event features faculty-led interpretive hikes on geology, ecology, and birdwatching, a restoration work party focused on removing invasive plants from the Outback Creek riparian zone, and plant-based T-shirt printing led by an art teacher. The day wraps up with live music from Blue Collar Grass Band, creating a fun and engaging atmosphere for all ages. Learn more at www.serwwu.org/arb-day.

Jun
3
Tue
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers
Jun 3 @ 4:15 pm – 5:30 pm
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers

One of the core goals of Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers (BBOP) is to honor and respect Polynesian cultural traditions through the promotion of both competitive and recreational outrigger canoe paddling for youth, families, and the community. Keiki (kids) ages 8-14 will enjoy games on and off the water and learn to paddle as a team in a 6-person outrigger canoe! Sign up for one or more of the 4 sessions throughout the summer, which includes opportunities to race with your BBOP team! We provide paddles and PFDs for free. Please see our website for more details, https://www.bbop.us/youth-program.

All youth must register before getting into a canoe. 

Visit our membership page for more info.

Practice Times: 4:15- 5:30pm

Dates: Tuesdays and Thursdays, May 6 – Aug 21, 2025

(Each session includes 8 practices, for a total of 10 hours of instruction)

Session 1: May 6 – May 29 Focus on Paddle Technique and Sprint Racing

Session 2: June 3 – June 26 Focus on Marine Ecology

Session 3: July 1 – July 24 Focus on History and Culture

Session 4: July 29 – August 21 Focus on Strength and Conditioning and long-distance competition

Location: Launching from the Community Boating Center.

?All kids get a BBOP t-shirt upon sign up

?No drop-ins allowed. No “make-up” for missed practices.

?A fee waiver is available (click here for info)

?All youth are welcome to participate in our BBOP race on August 16, 2025 to show off their new skills!

Ready to sign up? Register HERE.

Help is available for TeamSnap registration!

???

What to Wear

All youth are required to wear a PFD. We will have PFDs and paddles available, but bring a PFD and/or paddle if you have one. 

  • Dress in layers, avoid cotton. Rain gear help to keep the body warm and insulated. Tights worn for other sport work well.

  • Wear shoes that you don’t mind getting wet- neoprene booties with wool socks will help keep the feet warm.

  • Bring a change of clothes and a towel.

Jun
5
Thu
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers
Jun 5 @ 4:15 pm – 5:30 pm
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers

One of the core goals of Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers (BBOP) is to honor and respect Polynesian cultural traditions through the promotion of both competitive and recreational outrigger canoe paddling for youth, families, and the community. Keiki (kids) ages 8-14 will enjoy games on and off the water and learn to paddle as a team in a 6-person outrigger canoe! Sign up for one or more of the 4 sessions throughout the summer, which includes opportunities to race with your BBOP team! We provide paddles and PFDs for free. Please see our website for more details, https://www.bbop.us/youth-program.

All youth must register before getting into a canoe. 

Visit our membership page for more info.

Practice Times: 4:15- 5:30pm

Dates: Tuesdays and Thursdays, May 6 – Aug 21, 2025

(Each session includes 8 practices, for a total of 10 hours of instruction)

Session 1: May 6 – May 29 Focus on Paddle Technique and Sprint Racing

Session 2: June 3 – June 26 Focus on Marine Ecology

Session 3: July 1 – July 24 Focus on History and Culture

Session 4: July 29 – August 21 Focus on Strength and Conditioning and long-distance competition

Location: Launching from the Community Boating Center.

?All kids get a BBOP t-shirt upon sign up

?No drop-ins allowed. No “make-up” for missed practices.

?A fee waiver is available (click here for info)

?All youth are welcome to participate in our BBOP race on August 16, 2025 to show off their new skills!

Ready to sign up? Register HERE.

Help is available for TeamSnap registration!

???

What to Wear

All youth are required to wear a PFD. We will have PFDs and paddles available, but bring a PFD and/or paddle if you have one. 

  • Dress in layers, avoid cotton. Rain gear help to keep the body warm and insulated. Tights worn for other sport work well.

  • Wear shoes that you don’t mind getting wet- neoprene booties with wool socks will help keep the feet warm.

  • Bring a change of clothes and a towel.

Jun
10
Tue
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers
Jun 10 @ 4:15 pm – 5:30 pm
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers

One of the core goals of Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers (BBOP) is to honor and respect Polynesian cultural traditions through the promotion of both competitive and recreational outrigger canoe paddling for youth, families, and the community. Keiki (kids) ages 8-14 will enjoy games on and off the water and learn to paddle as a team in a 6-person outrigger canoe! Sign up for one or more of the 4 sessions throughout the summer, which includes opportunities to race with your BBOP team! We provide paddles and PFDs for free. Please see our website for more details, https://www.bbop.us/youth-program.

All youth must register before getting into a canoe. 

Visit our membership page for more info.

Practice Times: 4:15- 5:30pm

Dates: Tuesdays and Thursdays, May 6 – Aug 21, 2025

(Each session includes 8 practices, for a total of 10 hours of instruction)

Session 1: May 6 – May 29 Focus on Paddle Technique and Sprint Racing

Session 2: June 3 – June 26 Focus on Marine Ecology

Session 3: July 1 – July 24 Focus on History and Culture

Session 4: July 29 – August 21 Focus on Strength and Conditioning and long-distance competition

Location: Launching from the Community Boating Center.

?All kids get a BBOP t-shirt upon sign up

?No drop-ins allowed. No “make-up” for missed practices.

?A fee waiver is available (click here for info)

?All youth are welcome to participate in our BBOP race on August 16, 2025 to show off their new skills!

Ready to sign up? Register HERE.

Help is available for TeamSnap registration!

???

What to Wear

All youth are required to wear a PFD. We will have PFDs and paddles available, but bring a PFD and/or paddle if you have one. 

  • Dress in layers, avoid cotton. Rain gear help to keep the body warm and insulated. Tights worn for other sport work well.

  • Wear shoes that you don’t mind getting wet- neoprene booties with wool socks will help keep the feet warm.

  • Bring a change of clothes and a towel.

Jun
12
Thu
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers
Jun 12 @ 4:15 pm – 5:30 pm
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers

One of the core goals of Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers (BBOP) is to honor and respect Polynesian cultural traditions through the promotion of both competitive and recreational outrigger canoe paddling for youth, families, and the community. Keiki (kids) ages 8-14 will enjoy games on and off the water and learn to paddle as a team in a 6-person outrigger canoe! Sign up for one or more of the 4 sessions throughout the summer, which includes opportunities to race with your BBOP team! We provide paddles and PFDs for free. Please see our website for more details, https://www.bbop.us/youth-program.

All youth must register before getting into a canoe. 

Visit our membership page for more info.

Practice Times: 4:15- 5:30pm

Dates: Tuesdays and Thursdays, May 6 – Aug 21, 2025

(Each session includes 8 practices, for a total of 10 hours of instruction)

Session 1: May 6 – May 29 Focus on Paddle Technique and Sprint Racing

Session 2: June 3 – June 26 Focus on Marine Ecology

Session 3: July 1 – July 24 Focus on History and Culture

Session 4: July 29 – August 21 Focus on Strength and Conditioning and long-distance competition

Location: Launching from the Community Boating Center.

?All kids get a BBOP t-shirt upon sign up

?No drop-ins allowed. No “make-up” for missed practices.

?A fee waiver is available (click here for info)

?All youth are welcome to participate in our BBOP race on August 16, 2025 to show off their new skills!

Ready to sign up? Register HERE.

Help is available for TeamSnap registration!

???

What to Wear

All youth are required to wear a PFD. We will have PFDs and paddles available, but bring a PFD and/or paddle if you have one. 

  • Dress in layers, avoid cotton. Rain gear help to keep the body warm and insulated. Tights worn for other sport work well.

  • Wear shoes that you don’t mind getting wet- neoprene booties with wool socks will help keep the feet warm.

  • Bring a change of clothes and a towel.

Jun
16
Mon
Bull Kelp Monitoring in Whatcom County @ Online via Zoom
Jun 16 @ 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Bull Kelp Monitoring in Whatcom County @ Online via Zoom

What is bull kelp and why does it matter?! Tune in to learn about the importance of bull kelp and the efforts to monitor and protect this marine species in Washington State.
Presented by: Jeff Whitty, Kelp Program Manager at the Northwest Straits Commission and Eleanor Hines, Whatcom County MRC Volunteer

Please register for this free event at whatcomwin.org/speaker-series

Jun
17
Tue
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers
Jun 17 @ 4:15 pm – 5:30 pm
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers

One of the core goals of Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers (BBOP) is to honor and respect Polynesian cultural traditions through the promotion of both competitive and recreational outrigger canoe paddling for youth, families, and the community. Keiki (kids) ages 8-14 will enjoy games on and off the water and learn to paddle as a team in a 6-person outrigger canoe! Sign up for one or more of the 4 sessions throughout the summer, which includes opportunities to race with your BBOP team! We provide paddles and PFDs for free. Please see our website for more details, https://www.bbop.us/youth-program.

All youth must register before getting into a canoe. 

Visit our membership page for more info.

Practice Times: 4:15- 5:30pm

Dates: Tuesdays and Thursdays, May 6 – Aug 21, 2025

(Each session includes 8 practices, for a total of 10 hours of instruction)

Session 1: May 6 – May 29 Focus on Paddle Technique and Sprint Racing

Session 2: June 3 – June 26 Focus on Marine Ecology

Session 3: July 1 – July 24 Focus on History and Culture

Session 4: July 29 – August 21 Focus on Strength and Conditioning and long-distance competition

Location: Launching from the Community Boating Center.

?All kids get a BBOP t-shirt upon sign up

?No drop-ins allowed. No “make-up” for missed practices.

?A fee waiver is available (click here for info)

?All youth are welcome to participate in our BBOP race on August 16, 2025 to show off their new skills!

Ready to sign up? Register HERE.

Help is available for TeamSnap registration!

???

What to Wear

All youth are required to wear a PFD. We will have PFDs and paddles available, but bring a PFD and/or paddle if you have one. 

  • Dress in layers, avoid cotton. Rain gear help to keep the body warm and insulated. Tights worn for other sport work well.

  • Wear shoes that you don’t mind getting wet- neoprene booties with wool socks will help keep the feet warm.

  • Bring a change of clothes and a towel.

Bone Arrowheads, Archery, & Bow Plant Ethnobotany w/ Northwest Natura & Firecraft Northwest @ Northwest Natura private land
Jun 17 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Bone Arrowheads, Archery, & Bow Plant Ethnobotany w/ Northwest Natura & Firecraft Northwest @ Northwest Natura private land

Discover the ancient skill of archery with a focus on the plants of the Pacific Northwest!

In this 3-hour field session collaboration, join Jazmen Yoder of Northwest Natura and Ryan Johnson of Firecraft Northwest to study native and naturalized plants of the region that can be used for archery.

What to Expect:
-Learn how to identify the plants that can be used to wildcraft bows and arrows.
-Handcraft a deer or elk leg bone arrowhead to take home.
-Field archery practice session that will teach beginners how to handle, hold, and shoot longbows and recurve bows safely.

What to bring:
-Dress for the weather
-Snacks and water
-Notebook and pen (optional)
-Your own bow and arrows (optional; materials provided by instructors)

Directions and Location:
-Registered individuals will receive location details, driving directions, weather forecast details and other info in an event-reminder email a few days prior to the event.

Bone Arrowheads, Archery, & Bow Plant Ethnobotany w/ NWN & FCNW @ Northwest Natura land
Jun 17 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Bone Arrowheads, Archery, & Bow Plant Ethnobotany w/ NWN & FCNW @ Northwest Natura land

Discover the ancient skill of archery with a focus on the plants of the Pacific Northwest!

In this 3-hour field session collaboration, join Jazmen Yoder of Northwest Natura and Ryan Johnson of Firecraft Northwest to study native and naturalized plants of the region that can be used for archery.

What to Expect:
-Learn how to identify the plants that can be used to wildcraft bows and arrows.
-Handcraft a deer or elk leg bone arrowhead to take home.
-Field archery practice session that will teach beginners how to handle, hold, and shoot longbows and recurve bows safely.

Registration and more info on the event website.

Jun
19
Thu
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers
Jun 19 @ 4:15 pm – 5:30 pm
Youth Outrigger Paddling Lessons @ Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers

One of the core goals of Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers (BBOP) is to honor and respect Polynesian cultural traditions through the promotion of both competitive and recreational outrigger canoe paddling for youth, families, and the community. Keiki (kids) ages 8-14 will enjoy games on and off the water and learn to paddle as a team in a 6-person outrigger canoe! Sign up for one or more of the 4 sessions throughout the summer, which includes opportunities to race with your BBOP team! We provide paddles and PFDs for free. Please see our website for more details, https://www.bbop.us/youth-program.

All youth must register before getting into a canoe. 

Visit our membership page for more info.

Practice Times: 4:15- 5:30pm

Dates: Tuesdays and Thursdays, May 6 – Aug 21, 2025

(Each session includes 8 practices, for a total of 10 hours of instruction)

Session 1: May 6 – May 29 Focus on Paddle Technique and Sprint Racing

Session 2: June 3 – June 26 Focus on Marine Ecology

Session 3: July 1 – July 24 Focus on History and Culture

Session 4: July 29 – August 21 Focus on Strength and Conditioning and long-distance competition

Location: Launching from the Community Boating Center.

?All kids get a BBOP t-shirt upon sign up

?No drop-ins allowed. No “make-up” for missed practices.

?A fee waiver is available (click here for info)

?All youth are welcome to participate in our BBOP race on August 16, 2025 to show off their new skills!

Ready to sign up? Register HERE.

Help is available for TeamSnap registration!

???

What to Wear

All youth are required to wear a PFD. We will have PFDs and paddles available, but bring a PFD and/or paddle if you have one. 

  • Dress in layers, avoid cotton. Rain gear help to keep the body warm and insulated. Tights worn for other sport work well.

  • Wear shoes that you don’t mind getting wet- neoprene booties with wool socks will help keep the feet warm.

  • Bring a change of clothes and a towel.