Skagit Valley Tulip Festival: Month-long festival celebrating tulips and the Skagit Valley. Visitors can stop by Tulip Town and RoozenGaarde to see fields in bloom. Admission is $7 per person, with children 5 and under free. Parking is free at both facilities. For tulip locations and special events throughout the month, see tulipfestival.org.

 

Rome Grange Community Pancake Breakfast: Sunday, April 1. Featuring made from scratch pancakes, french toast, biscuits and gravy, sausage, scrambled eggs, juice and coffee. Meet and greet local politicians as they serve coffee and breakfast. Adults $5.50, kids 6-10 $2, kids 5 and under free. 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Rome Grange, 2821 Mt. Baker Highway, Bellingham. Call (360) 739-9605.

 

11th Annual Stanwood-Camano Arts Guild at the Schoolhouse: April 1-30. Tulip fields provide a dramatic backdrop for this month’s Art in the Schoolhouse. Spend an afternoon discovering new artists and their current work while talking with them about their process. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Christianson’s Nursery, 15806 Best Road, Mount Vernon. (360) 466-3821, www.christiansonsnursery.com.

 

Spring Rexville Grange Art Show: During the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. Paintings, pottery, glass, photography, jewelry, felted hats, fine crafts, weaving, and wood all featured by local artists. Held in the basement of the Rexville Grange Hall, 19299 Rexville Grange Road, Mt Vernon. For more details, call (360) 466-0477 or see www.rexvillegrangeartshow.com.

 

Tuber Auction: Monday, April 2. Whatcom County Dahlia Society hosts “Tuber Auction” at Laurel Grange, 6172 Guide Meridian, 7 p.m. Free event.  Coffee and refreshments provided.

 

Birchwood Garden Club’s April Meeting: Wednesday, April 4. Kristin Crouch from Delta, B.C. will be our guest speaker.  Master Gardener for 25 years with the Vancouver Master Gardener Association,  she will be teaching us all about herbs.  Check out her garden blog, “ThatBloominGarden.com.”  Please join us! 7 p.m. Whatcom Museum Rotunda Room, 121 Prospect Street, Bellingham. www.birchwoodgardenclub.org. Birchwood Garden Club is open to anyone in Whatcom or Skagit County’s.

 

Dahlias: Wednesday, April 4. Discover how easy it is to have beautiful flowers blooming in your yard from July through November. The dahlia is a natural choice for our northwest climate and their long bloom time makes them very rewarding! Presented by Blaine C.O.R.E. (Community Orchards for Resources and Education). 4 p.m. Repeats Saturday April 7 at 10 a.m. Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street, (360) 305-3637.

 

Introduction to Fermented Foods: Thursday, April 5. Fermentation is an ancient practice used to preserve foods, create new flavors and increase nutritional value. Join Andy Walton at this hands-on workshop. Make sauerkraut and take home a jar to ferment and eat! Sample water kefir, a fizzy beverage that is fast and easy to make at home. Space is limited; registration required. 6:30 p.m. Lynden Library, 216 4th Street, (360) 354-4883.

 

30th annual Whatcom County Youth Fair 2017: Friday and Saturday, April 6-7. This 2-day learning fair is open to all ages 6-18. Registration to participate has ended; spectators welcome. Categories include animals, country crafts, horticulture, dairy, photography and more. Northwest Washington Fairgrounds in Lynden. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information visit the Whatcom County Youth Fair Facebook page.

 

Bellingham Farmers Market Opening Day: Saturday, April 7. Visit with 95+ farmers, food producers, makers, and more this first day of the season. The opening cabbage toss starts at 9:45 a.m. Non-profit fair on Railroad Avenue.  10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Depot Market Square, Bellingham. See bellinghamfarmers.org.

 

Whatcom County Dahlia Society Tuber Sale: Saturday, April 7. Explore and buy over 600 varieties of dahlias. Visit with local, knowledgable growers. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free entry. Bloedel Donovan Park, Bellingham. See whatcomcountydahliasociety.org.

 

Learn to Grow a Vegetable Garden: Saturday, April 7. Learn how to successfully grow a wide variety of produce throughout the year, including how to get started, planning your plantings, managing your soil and fertility inputs, and timing for succession harvests. 10:30 a.m. $10 per person or $8 each for 2 or more people registering together. Registration recommended. Cloud Mountain Farm Center, 6906 Goodwin Road, Everson. info@cloudmountainfarmcenter.org, (360) 966-5859.

 

Hypertufa: Make It and Take It: Saturday April 7. Kim Swanson will teach you how to make hypertufa containers. These light weight concrete planters have been used in Old-English gardens for centuries and they can become a part of your garden. $39 covers all supplies. 9 a.m. Garden Spot Nursery, Bellingham, 360-676-5480, garden-spot.com.

 

Make your own Hanging Moss Basket Workshop: Saturday, April 7. Prepare your very own moss basket. All materials included: wire basket, moss, soil, and plants! 10 a.m. VW Home and Garden, 8210 Portal Way, Blaine, (360) 366-3906, www.vwhomeandgarden.com.

 

Coiled Fabric Baskets: Saturday, April 7. Thick strips of fabric are twisted and bound together with yarn, strong cotton string, or thin strips of more fabric, with Instructor Aurora Lindquist. $28. 2-4:30 p.m. Ragfinery, 1421 N. Forest St. Bellingham, (360) 738-6977, ragfinery.com.

47th Annual Whidbey Weavers Guild Spin-In: Saturday and Sunday, April 7-8. Featured Spinner: Judith MacKenzie. Saturday – Spinning Demonstration; Sunday – Spinning Workshop. Along with your wheel or spindle, please bring one or more of the following: Lazy Kate, ball winder or nostepinne. Lots of vendors! Please bring your lunch and, if you’d like, some snacks to share. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oak Harbor High School – #1 Wildcat Way, Oak Harbor. Two day admission $15 with optional fiber packet available for $10. www.whidbeyweaversguild.org.

 

Starting Plants from Seed: Saturday, April 7. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn about selecting the right growing media and fertilizers, and how to stratify hard-to-germinate seeds and care for transplants. 1:30 p.m. Registration required, $30 course fee. Cloud Mountain Farm Center, 6906 Goodwin Road, Everson. info@cloudmountainfarmcenter.org, (360) 966-5859.

 

Tapestry Weaving: Saturdays, April 7, 14 & 21. Learn the basics of tapestry weaving and experiment with new techniques, and take home a small wall hanging, with Instructor Aurora Lindquist. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. $88. Ragfinery, 1421 N. Forest St. Bellingham, (360) 738-6977, ragfinery.com.

 

2nd annual Skagit Chili & Chowder Cook-off: Saturday, April 7. Hosted by Mount Vernon Chamber of Commerce. You choose the winner. 1-4 p.m. at Farmstrong Brewing Co., 110 Stewart Road, Mount Vernon. $15 gets you six samples and a vote (a large portion of your favorite). $25 to compete – professionals and amateurs are welcome. Send your team name and check to PO Box 1007 Mount Vernon, WA 98273 or drop by the chamber office at 301 W Kincaid St Mount Vernon, WA 98273. Contact Jeremy Kindlund at jeremy@mountvernonchamber or (360) 428-8547 for more information.

 

Anacortes Spring Wine Festival 2018: Saturday, April 7. Enjoy an afternoon with 30 wineries at Fidalgo Island for wine tasting, food pairings, and an in-house wine shop. Participants must be 21+. Port Warehouse Event Center, 100 Commercial Avenue, Anacortes. See http://anacortes.org/spring-wine-festival/.

 

Fragrant Shrubs for Pacific Northwest Gardens: Monday, April 9. This talk by Diana Wisen, Skagit County Master Gardener, will cover shrubs for every season and will include a plant list to take home. 6 p.m. Resources Room, Mt. Vernon Linrary. Free. For more information about this program, and other programs in the “Dig into Spring” series, contact Mike Bonacci at 360-336-6209, or check out the Events page on the library’s website at www.mountvernonwa.gov.

 

Vegan’s Delight! Tuesday, April 10. Chef Fong ventures into the vegan realm, and creates a shockingly delicious all-raw pad thai and other menu items. 6:30 p.m. Downtown Co-op Connections Building, Bellingham. $45. See http://communityfood.coop/events/2018-04/

 

Take the Confusion Out of Drip Irrigation Systems: Wednesday, April 11. Master Gardener and home irrigation expert Jeff Thompson cuts through all the confusion about low volume drip irrigation systems in a hands-on workshop sponsored by Washington State University Snohomish County Extension. Learn about designing and implementing a low volume drip irrigation system for the home gar­dener, including what parts to use, where to get them, and how not to waste resources by purchasing the wrong equipment. The workshop is offered two times: 1 p.m. and 6 p.m., at the Extension Education Center in South Everett in McCollum Park, 600 – 128th St. SE. The cost is only $20, or $30 for a couple sharing materials, and includes an extensive reference handout. For more information and to register, visit the Extension website at: http://extension.wsu.edu/snohomish/. For questions, call the Registrar at 425-357-6039 or e-mail her at christensen4@wsu.edu. The workshop will also be held again on Wednesday, May 16.

 

Knife and Tool Sharpening Workshop:  Wednesday, April 11. Local resident Phil McRee teaches you how to make your kitchen, garden, and shop tools easier and safer to use. The demonstration includes an opportunity to hone your newly acquired knowledge. Some equipment and tools are supplied; bring any you want to learn about or sharpen. 4 p.m. Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street, (360) 305-3637.

 

Project Neighbor Share: Growing a Garden: Thursday, April 12. Neighbors from the Foothills area will share expertise and swap ideas over a buffet provided by area eateries. All are welcome to partake in this community-wide exchange of knowledge, notions, and plain old neighborly chitchat. 6:30-8 p.m. The Community Hall at Van Zandt , 4106 Valley Highway (Highway 9), Deming.  The “Project NeighborShare” speaker series is made possible by the South Fork Valley Community Association with generous support from the Whatcom Community Foundation. Contact Matthew Thuney at southforkvalley@aol.com or 360-305-6939.

 

Crepes Savory and Sweet: Thursday, April 12. Cindy McKinney demonstrates delicious crepe recipes both savory and sweet. 6:30 p.m. Downtown Co-op Connections Building, Bellingham. $45. See http://communityfood.coop/events/2018-04/

 

Farming in Skagit Valley – with Waxwing Farm: Thursday, April 12. Join Taylor Barker and Arielle Luckmann, of Waxwing Farm, to talk about their organic farming journey. Free. 6:30 p.m. Mount Vernon Library,  Resources Room. For more information, contact Mike Bonacci at 360-336-6209, or check out the library’s website at www.mountvernonwa.gov.

 

26th Annual Garage Sale, Antiques & More: Friday and Saturday, April 13-14. Over 150 vendors, handcrafted items, live music and more. $3 admission. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. $3 on-site parking. Skagit County Fairgrounds, Mount Vernon. More information is available at www.skagitcounty.net/garagesale or call (360) 336-9414.

 

Woodfest 2018: Timber to Tech: Saturday and Sunday, April 14-15. This is the 20th year of celebrating woodworking and shop programs in Northwest schools. This year, WoodFest has been expanded to include both wood shop and technology program exhibits from local high schools. WoodFest also includes vendors with handcrafted wood and other products, incredible raffle prizes and live woodworking demonstrations by the Northwest Corner Woodworkers Association and the Northwest Washington Woodturners. Free admission. Expanded events Saturday: Eagle Haven Winery, Chainsaw Carving, plus Family Activities; Willowbrook Manor, High Tea and Tours. This is a sanctioned event of the Tulip Festival. Saturday hours 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday hours 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sedro-Woolley High School Gym, 1235 Third Street, Sedro-Woolley. For more information, visit www.sedro-woolley.com and scroll down to WoodFest.

 

Port Susan Home and Garden Show: Saturday, April 14. Hosted by Camano Island Chamber of Commerce. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Camano Center, 606 Arrowhead Rd, Camano Island. See the Facebook page for more information.

 

Learn the Artful Tradition of Espalier: Saturday, April 14. Espalier Fruit Growing is a unique training system for fruit trees that allows growers to maximize limited space while adding aesthetics to the garden. There are several espaliering training systems to choose from; if you’re considering creating a Belgian fence or growing cherries trained to a fan, this workshop is for you. The class will cover construction considerations, training, and which plants will succeed. Be prepared to be outside. $10 per person or $8 each for 2 or more people registering together. Registration recommended. Cloud Mountain Farm Center, 6906 Goodwin Road, Everson. info@cloudmountainfarmcenter.org, (360) 966-5859.

 

Native Plants and Birds: Saturday, April 14. Discover the benefits of native plants in your yard for birds, bees, bugs and beauty. North Cascades Audubon Society shares how and why growing native plants improves your backyard habitat. Great gardening ideas birds love and plenty of materials to get you started. 3 p.m. Deming Library, 5044 Mt. Baker Highway, (360) 592-2422.

 

Hanging Garden Spot Basket: Make It and Take It: Saturday April 14. Our designer, Nancy Elebak, will guide you in design, color, and plant choices to create something special this year. Make a sun or shade basket in an extra large 18 inch hanging basket. $79 class fee covers all supplies. 9 a.m. Garden Spot Nursery, Bellingham, 360-676-5480, garden-spot.com.

 

Flora and Fauna: 4th annual Runway Challenge: Saturday, April 14. Ragfinery presents its 4th annual runway “challenge,” this year titled Flora and Fauna. In conjunction with April’s Earth Day festivities, the theme celebrates our natural world in its elegance and wonder, challenging participants to design and construct costumes, garments, and accessories that embody the beauty and grace displayed in our natural world. Participants will share their creations on the runway at the Leopold Crystal Ballroom at 7 p.m. For more about the event and the artistic process for registrants, see ragfinery.org.

 

Garden Day: Saturday, April 14. WSU Master Gardeners and Common Threads AmeriCorps Food Educators will be on-site at both Community Food Co-op locations Bellingham between11 a.m. to 1 p.m. to share advice, answer questions, and host a planting seeds with kids activity. Check out the Garden Day raffle, too. The Cordata store is hosting “Co-op talks” in the roots room, short informational presentations on gardening topics. The following presentations are set: Your Delicious Habitat: The Future of Edible Landscaping in Bellingham, 11:15–11:30 am with Paul Kearsley, Ecological Designer; Bokashi Compost: Turn Your Kitchen Waste Into Gardening Gold in Just Weeks, 11:30–11:45 am with Nicole and Coulby Styles, Compost Masters; Basics of Seed Saving, 11:45 am–noon with Krista Rome, Resilient Seeds; Consult with Master Gardeners during a midday break, Noon–12:30 pm; No-till Mulched Gardening: Gardening to Keep your Soil Alive and Healthy, 12:30–12:45 pm with Terri Wilde, Garden Educator; and Garden Planting Strategies for Self-reliance and Food Storage, 12:45–1 pm with Bill Sterling, Community Organizer and Permaculturist.

 

2018 Skagit Conservation District Plant Sale: Saturday, April 14. Large selection of native plants. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. WACD Lynn Brown Materials Center, 16564 Bradley Road, Bow. Pre-order pick up Friday, April 14. For more details, see http://www.skagitcd.org/native_plant_sales.

 

Growing Stone Fruits: Cherries, Peaches, Apricots & Plums: Saturday, April 14.  This workshop covers planting, growing techniques, and pruning of stone fruits. Be prepared to be outside. 10 per person or $8 each for 2 or more people registering together. Registration recommended. 1:30 p.m. Cloud Mountain Farm Center, 6906 Goodwin Road, Everson. info@cloudmountainfarmcenter.org, (360) 966-5859.

 

Garden Soils: Key Ingredients for Success: Saturday, April 14. Join the WSU Whatcom Master Gardeners to discover the best tips and tricks for a successful summer garden. Learn about soil preparation, planting temperatures, and amendments. 2 p.m. South Whatcom Library, 10 Barn View Ct., Sudden Valley, Gate 2, Bellingham, (360) 305-3632.

 

Sewing Bootcamp: Saturdays, April 14 & 21. Get familiar with the care and use of your machine and solving basic sewing problems, take body measurements and learn to fit items to your own aesthetic and body type! Take away a short guide. Instructor: Brigitte Parra. $76. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.  Ragfinery, 1421 N. Forest St. Bellingham, (360) 738-6977, ragfinery.com.

 

Peeps for Keeps: Saturday, April 14. Hosted by the Whatcom Humane Society, this free workshop on raising chickens is perfect for beginners. Dalia Monterroso is an Ambassador for Scratch and Peck Feeds and the creator of Welcome to Chickenlandia. She will share what she knows about raising chicks, caring for a flock, and how chickens have changed her life. 2-3 p.m. Whatcom Humane Society, 2172 Division St, Bellingham. See the Facebook event page.

 

Wild Spring Greens and Tonics with Terri Wilde: Monday, April 16. Learn how to identify popular edible wild greens including nettles, winter cress, dandelion, and chickweed. Terri Wilde will demonstrate how to prepare tea, greens, and salads to make use of these readily available nutritional treasures. Samples provided. 6:30 p.m. $15. Downtown Co-op Connections Building, Bellingham. See http://communityfood.coop/events/2018-04/.

 

Know & Grow Workshop: Rain Barrels 101: DIY Tips & Tricks for Collecting Rain Water: Tuesday, April 17. Kevin Tate from Skagit PUD will share all the information you need to have a successful rain water collection system in place while we are still having our spring showers. There will be information about how to order a ready to use rain barrel: $65.22. No registration required. Free. 1-2:30 p.m. WSU Mount Vernon NWREC, 16650 State Route 536, Mount Vernon. http://extension.wsu.edu/skagit/mg/.

 

Traditional Peru: Tuesday, April 17. Antonio Diaz of Café Rumba shares traditional dishes from his native Peru including ceviche de pescado (rockfish cured in a tangy citrus marinade and served with sweet yams), lomo saltado (beef sirloin sautéed in balsamic vinegar and soy sauce with red onions, tomatoes, yellow chili, and potatoes), and crema volteada con quinoa (vanilla custard with Peruvian quinoa and berries in syrup). Antonio will also serve samples of chicha morada, a traditional Peruvian beverage made from purple corn. 6:30 p.m. $45. Downtown Co-op Connections Building, Bellingham. See http://communityfood.coop/events/2018-04/.

 

Dirt Fest 2018: Wednesday, April 18. Join the Common Threads team for a community-wide garden party at Parkview Elementary 2:30-4 p.m. All families from all schools are welcome to attend this free event. Plus, dine out at Goat Mountain Pizza from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. Mention Common Threads and 20% of your purchase will benefit Common Threads’ school gardening programs. For more information, to volunteer, or to get a garden started at your child’s school contact schoolgardens@commonthreadsfarm.org.

 

Container Gardening: Wednesday, April 18. Learn how to choose the right plants, containers, and watering techniques. Presented by Blaine C.O.R.E. (Community Orchards for Resources and Education). 4 p.m. Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street, (360) 305-3637.

 

No-Sew Braided Rugs: Wednesday, April 18. Come learn how to craft a beautiful no sew braided rug with Instructor Kirsten Wert. 6-8 p.m. $25 . Ragfinery, 1421 N. Forest St. Bellingham, (360) 738-6977, ragfinery.com.

 

Fermentation and Sprouting for Health with Andy Walton: Wednesday, April 18. Andy Walton discusses how sprouting and fermenting  grains, nuts and seeds can maximize their nutritional benefits and digestibility.  6:30 p.m. $20. Downtown Co-op Healthy Connections Classroom, Bellingham. See http://communityfood.coop/events/2018-04/.

 

Spotlight on Skagit: April 19. Join us at Spotlight on Skagit (formerly Schmooze Fair). Dozens of exhibitors and draws 1,000 attendees. It is the place to be if you are looking to cultivate existing business relationships, engage prospective new clients, and learn about the diverse industries, businesses, and non-profits that contribute to Skagit County’s economy. This year we are expanding Spotlight on Skagit’s focus to showcase the world-class innovation being generated right here in Skagit County! 4-7 p.m. Van Zyverden’s Warehouse, Burlington.  $10 for General Admission Tickets. For more information, contact Colleen at (360) 428-5972 or colleen@cceventplanning.com with any questions.   Completed registrations can be emailed to colleen@cceventplanning.com, faxed to (360) 336-6116, or mailed to EDASC P.O. Box 40, Mount Vernon, WA, 98273.

 

Product Development For Value-Added Foods: April 19. WSU Bread Lab, 11768 Westar Lane, Burlington. 8:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. This course is geared to small scale producers of preserves, sauces, dressings and vinegars, snacks, baked goods, and other value added products. Participants will be guided through the various steps from product concept development to actual product development steps, with an emphasis on factors to consider for scaling up the product from the kitchen to commercial production. The workshop will feature a guest panel discussion with farm and business owners who have successfully brought new products to market. Presenters: Dr. Girish Ganjyal, WSU Extension Food Processing Specialist, and Jeff Voltz, Project Manager, NABC. Guest panelists: Erin Baker, Founder/Owner, Erin Bakers Wholesome Baked Goods; Sarah Richards, Founder/Owner-Lavender Wind Farm; Dorcas Young, Founder/Owner-Lesedi Farm; Mylon Smith, Founder/Owner-Myshan Dairy. $95. Refreshments and lunch will be provided. To register, visit http://www.agbizcenter.org and click on View Classes & Workshops.

 

Five Ingredient Dinners: Thursday, April 19. Join Wellness Chef Kate MacKenzie as she prepares four healthy and delicious dinners using five or fewer ingredients. 6:30 p.m. $39. Downtown Co-op Healthy Connections Classroom, Bellingham. See http://communityfood.coop/events/2018-04/.

 

Sew Thoughtful: Walker Bags: Friday, April 20. This month the Snohomish County Clothing and Textile Advisors will be sewing walker bags for Kaiser Permanente Hospital Rehab. These bags button onto the walker and help make life easier for those who are dealing with a health challenge. Kits will be provided. Bring your sewing machine, regular sewing equipment and a few basic colors of construction thread. Serger not needed.  Bring your brown bag lunch and beverage. The meeting is 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Cedar Valley Grange, 20526 52nd Ave. W Lynnwood. For information call  Arlene (425)743-0118 or email at arlene283@gmail.com

 

34th Annual Tulip Festival Street Fair: Friday through Sunday, April  20-22. Stroll among hundreds of new and returning arts and crafts vendors, including art, photography, jewelry, clothing, gourmet food stuffs, unique gifts, and delicious food court offerings. Live music all day every day, face painting, street entertainers and artisan demonstration. Located on South 1st Street, Downtown Mount Vernon. Hours are Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and  Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Visit www.mountvernondowntown.org, email dep.mvda@gmail.com, or call (425) 321-7433.

 

Planting Day: Saturday April 21. Bring patio-sized containers from home or choose from our own fabulous collection. Our expert designers will help you gather the right combination of plants. Organic “Gardner & Bloome Blue Ribbon” soil will be provided free of charge for this special day. 9 a.m. Garden Spot Nursery, Bellingham, 360-676-5480, garden-spot.com.

 

Seed & Plant Swap & Sell at Concrete Community Center: Saturday, April 21. 10 am til 1 pm. Co-sponsored by Concrete Saturday Market and Marblemount Community Market. Finney Farm and Master Gardeners on site with garden info and advice! 45821 Railroad Ave., Concrete, WA 98237. Contact concretesaturdaymarket1@gmail.com.

 

3cs Farms Plant & Craft Sale: Friday and Saturday, April 21-22. Lots of hanging baskets starts, vegetables starts, perennials, wood carvings, birdhouses, jewelry, bags, and signs. 9 a.m. to 3p.m. Hosted by 3cs Farms, 6222 Mt Baker Hwy, Deming.  See the Facebook event page for more information.

 

Advanced Stone Fruit Growing, Two Part Hands-On Course: Saturday, April 21. In this first class, you’ll be working in the orchards pruning established trees, with hands-on instruction. You’ll practice applying pruning theory to trees of different ages. Stone fruits require special handling when pruning, and are pruned just as the fruit sets. Part 2 will be Saturday, June 2. Registration required, space is limited. $40 for both Part 1 & Part 2. Cloud Mountain Farm Center, 6906 Goodwin Road, Everson. info@cloudmountainfarmcenter.org, (360) 966-5859.

 

Ponds and Water Features: Saturday, April 21. Learn about the do’s and don’ts of ponds, including correct location, equipment, utilities, maintenance, and about the right plants and fish to put in your pond. Presented by Blaine C.O.R.E. (Community Orchards for Resources and Education). 10 a.m. Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street, (360) 305-3637.

 

Veggie Gardening 101: Seeds vs. Starts:  Saturday, April 21. WSU Whatcom Master Gardeners can help you navigate the best options for direct seed vs. using transplants or starts in your garden. Information includes planning, planting, and timing for best results. 2 p.m. South Whatcom Library, 10 Barn View Ct., Sudden Valley, Gate 2, Bellingham, (360) 305-3632.

 

9th Annual Whidbey Island Coop Tour by Rock’n Doodle 4H Poultry Club: Saturday, April 21. This self-guided tour will offer visitors some of Whidbey’s most clever coops and enclosures  between Oak Harbor and Clinton. There are a total of 7 stops. Coop owners and Rock’n Doodle 4-H Poultry Club members will be on hand at every location to share their experiences and to answer questions about raising poultry, coop design, manure management, and more. Tickets are $15 per car which admits all children and up to four adults. Get tickets through www.eventbrite.com.

 

Classic Charcuterie: Monday, April 23. The art of charcuterie is the art of using cured and salted meats such as bacon, sausage, and pâtés. Learn three simple but elegant charcuterie recipes that you can prepare at home as Chef Jesse Otero. 6:30 p.m. $45. Downtown Co-op Healthy Connections Classroom, Bellingham. See http://communityfood.coop/events/2018-04/.

 

Wild Halibut: Tuesday, April 24. Chef Robert Fong finds new ways to use the delicious big fish of the north. 6:30 p.m. $55. Downtown Co-op Healthy Connections Classroom, Bellingham. See http://communityfood.coop/events/2018-04/.

 

Sashiko Style Mending: Wednesday, April 25. Sashiko mending is a Japanese style of visible mending that uses embroidery stitching to create beautiful surface designs. Learn the basic and various patterns with Instructor: Erin Eggenburg. $27. 6 p.m. Ragfinery, 1421 N. Forest St. Bellingham, (360) 738-6977, ragfinery.com.

 

Mexican Kitchen: Mi Casa es Su Casa: Thursday, April 26. Ana Dominguez Jackson prepares authentic homestyle Mexican dishesAna Dominguez Jackson. $39. 6:30 p.m. Downtown Co-op Healthy Connections Classroom, Bellingham. See http://communityfood.coop/events/2018-04/.

 

Spring Book and Bake Sale: Friday and Saturday, April 27 & 28.  Browse a wide selection of great reads at the Friends of the Deming Library spring book sale. Hundreds of titles to choose from. Stock your bookshelves and support the Friends of the Deming Library. Open during the week for self-service during library hours. , and May 4 & 5 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Deming Library, 5044 Mt. Baker Highway, (360) 592-2422.

 

Everson Garden Club Plant Sale: Saturday, April 28. Lots of colorful perennials, (unusual as well as the old stand-bys), natives, shrubs and small trees at well-below retail prices. All our plants thrive in local climate. Vendors will offer veggie starts, specialty plants and crafts. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Everson Elementary School, 216 Everson-Goshen Rd, Everson. See the Facebook page for details.

 

Hydrangeas 101: Saturday April 28. Jill Porter of Baileys Nursery will share her years of experience, introducing new and old favorite varieties, along with information on their care and pruning. 9 a.m. Class is free. Garden Spot Nursery, Bellingham, 360-676-5480, garden-spot.com.

 

Scrapbooking, Crafts & More Sale: Saturday, April 28. 9 a.m. to noon. Burlington Parks and Recreation Center, 900 E. Fairhaven Ave. Browse the many booths of paper, stickers, pens, art stuff, stamps, craft supplies and more priced to sell. Bring a bag and checks/cash. Call Burlington Parks and Recreation at 360-755-9649.

 

17th annual April Brews Day: Saturday, April 28. Over 70 local and regional breweries participating in this benefit for the Max Higbee Center, a local non-profit providing recreational activities to teens and adults with disabilities. Food trucks and live local music on site. 21+ only. 6:30-10 p.m. Depot Market Square, 1100 Railroad Ave., Bellingham. For more information or to purchase tickets, see the Facebook event page or call (360)733-1828 or see maxhigbee.org.

 

Art Dolls: Saturday, April 28. Participants learn to sculpt with needle felting to create a doll head with detailed features. Paint with watercolor, and finish with dressing and decorating, with Instructor Patti Barker. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. $72. Ragfinery, 1421 N. Forest St. Bellingham, (360) 738-6977, ragfinery.com.

 

Growing Dry Beans & Grains in Whatcom County: Saturday, April 28. Krista Rome, owner/operator of local organic seed company Resilient Seeds (www.resilient-seeds.com) will present the ins and outs of growing dry legumes and grains in our cool Pacific Northwest climate. After four years of intensive variety trials and in her 10th year of growing these crops in Whatcom County, Krista has plenty of tips to share. Following the presentation, we will plant a few plots of favored dry legumes and grains at the Chuckanut Center gardens. Krista will also have seeds for sale. Hosted by Chuckanut Center. 1-3 p.m. Chuckanut Center, 103 Chuckanut Dr N, Bellingham. $5 per person, ages 14 and up (or with parent). Contact (360) 676-1859 or www.ChuckanutCenter.org.

 

Brews Day Brunch: Sunday, April 29. Continue the festivities of April Brews Day and help raise money for Max Higbee Center with a delicious all-ages brunch at Boundary Bay Brewery’s Beer Garden. $10 at the door. Music by The Elopements. ​Beer and mimosas available for purchase. Be sure to check out MHC’s renowned silent auction baskets available for bidding. Strats at 9 am. Boundary Bay Brewery, Bellingham. See the Facebook event page for details.

 

BelleWood Acre’s 4th Annual ~ Run for the Bees 5K: Sunday, April 29. It’s time for the annual farm run through BelleWood’s blooming orchard. Learn about bees and support bee research.  Entry includes snacks, drinks, and a BelleWood H20 Bottle. Food, music, and fun. Check-in is at 9 a.m. Race begins at 11 a.m. Cost: Adult/$24, children ages 3-10/$12, family package/$40. Register online at bellewoodfarms.com or 360-318-7720.

 

 

 

MAY

Project NeighborShare: Home Heating & Repair: May 3: Got tools? Get the skills you need to fix up and stay warm. Neighbors from the Foothills area will share expertise and swap ideas over a buffet provided by area eateries. All are welcome. 6:30-8 p.m. Community Hall at Van Zandt, 4106 Valley Highway (Highway 9), Deming. The “Project NeighborShare” speaker series is made possible by the South Fork Valley Community Association with generous support from the Whatcom Community Foundation. For more information, contact Matthew Thuney at southforkvalley@aol.com or 360-305-6939.

 

Native Plant Sale: Washington Native Plant Society-Salal Chapter: Saturday, May 5. Take advantage of the Washington Native Plant Society-Salal Chapter’s 19th annual spring sale to expand—or begin—your backyard habitat for wildlife. Time is from 10 a. m. to noon, in the Native Plant Garden area of the Skagit Display Gardens, at WSU’s NW Research and Extension Center (16650 State Highway 536) in Mount Vernon. Expect to find a good selection of native trees, shrubs, bulbs, perennials, ground covers and ferns. For more information and a list of plants available contact Brenda at nativegarden@fidalgo.net.

 

Snohomish County Master Gardener Foundation Plant Sale: Saturday, May 5. More than 5,000 tomatoes starts, 4,000 herb and vegetable starts, perennials, native plants, trees, shrubs, ground covers, perennials, living garden art. Master gardeners will be available to answer questions. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. WSU Snohomish County Extension, McCollum Park, 600 128th St. SE, Everett. (425) 357-6010, www.snomgf.org.

 

Goat Husbandry and Dairy for the Homestead: Saturday, May 5. Attend this workshop to learn the basics of home goat dairying. You will learn what to look for when purchasing animals, and get an overview of dairy breeds, necessary infrastructure, pasture basics, nutritional needs, milking, health care, and culling and butchering options. Sponsored by Scratch & Peck. 1:30 p.m. $10 per person or $8 each for 2 or more people registering together. Registration recommended. Cloud Mountain Farm Center, 6906 Goodwin Road, Everson. info@cloudmountainfarmcenter.org, (360) 966-5859.

 

WSU Whatcom County Extension Annual Master Gardener Plant Sale: Saturday, May 12. Over 20 varieties tomatoes, vegetable starts, perennials, herbs, natives and more! Master Gardeners available to answer questions at the Plant Clinic and Information Booth. Mini workshops, food sales, vendors and displays. Proceeds support the WSU Whatcom Master Gardener program. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Hovander Homestead Park, Ferndale.

 

Skagit County Master Gardener Sale: Saturday, May 12. Over 2,500 tomatoes (39 varieties), veggie and flower starts, native plants, perennials, herbs, trees, shrubs, and Mother’s Day gifts. Educational booths, art, food, plant and other vendors. Master Gardener help with gardening questions. Recycle your used plant pots. Enjoy early day gas engines, classic tractors and antique farm machinery too. 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Skagit County Fairgrounds, Mount Vernon, Building F. Free admission and parking. See a list of plant varieties at http://ext100.wsu.edu/skagit/mg/plant-fair/.

 

Using Tunnels and Hoop Houses for Productive Gardening: Saturday, May 12. This class will cover hoop house construction, planting, pruning and training, and management issues. Be prepared to be outside. 10:30 a.m. $10 per person or $8 each for 2 or more people registering together. Registration recommended. Cloud Mountain Farm Center, 6906 Goodwin Road, Everson. info@cloudmountainfarmcenter.org, (360) 966-5859.

 

Take the Confusion Out of Drip Irrigation Systems: Wednesday, May 16. Master Gardener and home irrigation expert Jeff Thompson cuts through all the confusion about low volume drip irrigation systems in a hands-on workshop sponsored by Washington State University Snohomish County Extension. Learn about designing and implementing a low volume drip irrigation system for the home gar­dener, including what parts to use, where to get them, and how not to waste resources by purchasing the wrong equipment. The workshop is offered two times: 1 p.m. and 6 p.m., at the Extension Education Center in South Everett in McCollum Park, 600 – 128th St. SE. The cost is only $20, or $30 for a couple sharing materials, and includes an extensive reference handout. For more information and to register, visit the Extension website at: http://extension.wsu.edu/snohomish/. For questions, call the Registrar at 425-357-6039 or e-mail her at christensen4@wsu.edu.

 

More events and updates are posted online at www.grownorthwest.com. Send your event information to editor@grownorthwest.com.