Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The Fire and Story winter festival returns to Bellingham’s waterfront on January 22, 2026, promising an expanded experience with immersive art and performances. Local art nonprofit Paper Whale plans to enhance the festival with more food options and a VIP ticketing option. Early bird tickets go on sale on October 22, 2025.
Tyler Higdon, 31, received a 10-year prison sentence for a DUI crash in Everson that killed 11-year-old Yaretzi Davila-Estrada. The incident occurred while Higdon drove at 100 mph with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.11. He will also serve a year and a half in community custody following his prison term.
Western Washington University extended President Sabah Randhawa's contract for two more years, now running through July 31, 2028. The Board of Trustees encourages Randhawa to take up to 30 days of professional assignment leave annually to enhance his leadership for the university.
My Bellingham Now highlights top locations in Northwest Washington to view autumn foliage. The article lists favorite spots ranging from local parks to scenic trails, encouraging residents and visitors to appreciate the seasonal beauty.
Air quality in Whatcom County shows a positive trend amidst this wildfire season, with data indicating cleaner air. Central Washington has faced significant challenges due to larger fires affecting the region's air quality.
Skagit County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on October 28 to consider implementing a 0.1% sales tax for public safety. This follows legislation allowing local governments to create such taxes for criminal justice funding. If approved, the tax would take effect on March 15, 2026, costing $1 per $100 spent in the county.
Whatcom County allocated $3.6 million in grant funding to expand supportive housing for residents with behavioral health needs. The initiative will create 37 new housing units, including 11 for individuals awaiting restoration services after a criminal charge. This project aims to enhance the local justice and behavioral health system.
Bellingham City Council adopted a new plan to address the potential threat of invasive freshwater mussels in local waters. The plan involves collaboration among local and state agencies to respond swiftly if these mussels are detected in Lake Whatcom. No invasive mussel species currently exist in Washington, but officials warn of potential risks from nearby infested areas.
Ferndale will experience traffic delays this week due to the closure of Ferndale Terrace for road reconstruction on Wednesday, Oct. 22. Lane closures on Main Street will also occur as utility work continues for the Civic Campus Project. Detour signs will guide drivers during these disruptions.
A strong weather system will bring heavy rain and gusty winds to western Washington, particularly Whatcom County, starting Thursday night. The National Weather Service warns of potential localized flooding and wind gusts up to 45 mph, which could cause minor power outages and damage to trees. Residents should prepare for challenging conditions over the weekend.