Inside Bellingham: August 1, 2025

Opportunities for artists, new park plans, First Friday fun, and more: A news roundup from the City of Bellingham

August 01, 2025 - by City of Bellingham Communications Team

Seeking artists! 

Want to see your artwork featured around Bellingham? The City is putting together a roster of talented artists for future projects, and we want to hear from you! Future opportunities including designing, fabricating, and installing public art, with project budgets ranging from $50,000 to $195,000. Qualified artists may be considered for one or more future projects. The deadline to apply is noon on September 12. Visit our One Percent for the Arts webpage to learn more

Shape the future of Bellingham parks 

Got a playground wish list, a dream trail expansion, or strong opinions about spray parks? Visit our open house on Wednesday, August 6, 5:30-7:30 PM, at Bellingham High School. You’ll get to hear about the City’s PROS Plan (Parks, Recreation, and Open Space) and share your ideas. You can also find more ways to share your feedback and get involved at the PROS Plan Engage Bellingham page

Pop-up shadow art at Whatcom Museum 

Head to the Whatcom Museum’s Lightcatcher building August 1-3 for a one-weekend only exhibition by artist Heather Dawn Parks and the Femme Metal Collective. Expect an immersive world of light, shadow, and sound with large-scale sculptures made of cut metal and paper. Tonight, August 1, will also feature live beats from DJs Radiant Heat and Lotus Drops from 6-8:30 PM. Don’t forget to check out the rest of the museum, too — it’s a Free First Friday

Summer fun continues at Lee Memorial  

Lee Memorial Park (Central Library lawn, 210 Lottie St.) is still buzzing with family-friendly summer events. Join us for Summer Night Stories on Wednesday, August 6, and Fun Fridays on Friday, August 8. Visit our webpage for the full schedule of events at Lee Memorial Park

Repairs at Lake Padden August 4-14 

Starting Monday, August 4, repair work will take place near the Lake Padden Dog Park, affecting both the parking lot and the ballfield. Here’s what to expect:  

  • The southern third of the parking lot will be closed. 
  • The restrooms in that area may be temporarily unavailable, but portable toilets will be provided. 
  • There will likely not be fresh water available for pups within the dog park, so bring a bowl!  
  • Trail users should follow posted detour signs around the ballfield. 

Please use caution and follow all signage in the area. 

An annotated map of a park showing a future construction zone
Part of the Lake Padden Dog Park parking lot and ballfield will be blocked off for repairs next week.

Media Contact

Melissa Morin
Communications and Community Relations Director
City of Bellingham
mmmorin@cob.org or (360) 778-8100