Four days of music, comedy and art are set to transform downtown Bellingham.
Whether you are looking for a laugh, discovering a new favorite band, shopping for locally made goods or want to be transported to a vibrant world of art and color, Bellingham Exit, running Oct.10–13, has something for you.
Downtown Bellingham will once again be transformed into an electric world of multi-art sensory experiences. Now in its second year, the festival boasts a mosaic of local bands, artists, comedy, performances and art installations. In addition to the stellar lineup, Bellingham Exit will also host the Bellingham Bazaar, a two-day indie art market featuring over 30 Northwest-based vendors and artists. If you are looking to get a head start on holiday shopping, this might be the place to look.
Last year’s debut festival brought in around 7,400 attendees, according to festival coordinators. Complete with 54 individual shows, Bellingham Exit also had more than 150 artists performing across 15 different venues across downtown.
This year the festival will take place in and around four venues: Mount Baker Theatre Main Stage, The Wild Buffalo, The Shakedown and The Blue Room. Each venue will be transformed into a uniquely themed immersive experience. The Alchemy plant will transport you to a magical industrial factory, FinTasia will take you to a whimsical underwater world, and The Imagination room will help you visit the future. Artists Jocelyn Suzanna, Interactive Bellingham, Seth Frain and Abby Butzen are this year’s grant winners and help to make the transformations possible.
Headliners are Reggie Watts (comic, beatboxer and rapper), The Boulet Brothers (horror-themed drag performers), Joseph (folk-pop trio) and Laura Ramoso (comedy star).
There are several ways to experience the magic of Bellingham Exit this year. Festival passes allow for priority access and guaranteed entry at Mount Baker Theatre and The Wild Buffalo. Full access passes are limited to just 200 tickets. For those looking for flexibility, individual tickets are available for specific shows and there is a late-night EDM pass.
Mallard Ice Cream, Ritual Records, Ramble Tamble, Bantam and Guff Brewing will also host free pop-up concerts open to all. There are three, all-ages events and five, 21+ shows.
Bellingham Exit is the perfect place to get out of the house and shake off the seasonal depression blues with a blend of art and music.
— By Peyton Perdue