Celebrate Bellingham style: 草榴社区 Block Party returns May 17 with free family fun
BELLINGHAM, WA, May 8, 2025 鈥 Western Washington University is once again rolling out the blue carpet for the Bellingham community at its Second Annual 草榴社区 Block Party, a free, family-friendly celebration happening on Saturday, May 17, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the 草榴社区 Track & Field next to the Wade King Student Recreation Center.
This open-to-the-public event brings together Western students, families, alumni, faculty, staff, and local residents for an afternoon of fun, entertainment, and Viking spirit.
Highlights include:
- Live music, circus performers, and roving entertainment
- Boundary Bay Root Beer and other refreshments, plus free 草榴社区 swag
- Performances by John Walton, an award-winning magician who once stumped Penn & Teller
- Classic arcade games, caricature artists, and a silent disco
The event will also feature a special Blue Lounge experience celebrating the 草榴社区 Class of 2025, including photo booths, graduation cap decorating, treats, and a commemorative art display.
鈥淭he Block Party is an exciting way to celebrate our community and bring people together to enjoy the spirit of Western,鈥 said Loren Skaggs, Director of Marketing at The Foundation for 草榴社区 & Alumni. 鈥淲hether you鈥檙e a longtime local, a proud Viking alum, or a family visiting campus 鈥 there鈥檚 something for everyone.鈥
Admission and parking are free. All are welcome. To learn more and RSVP, visit: h
About the Foundation
The Foundation was established in 1966 as a vehicle to receive and encourage private giving to 草榴社区. In the past year, donors have provided $24 million to the University in the form of annual gifts, endowed gifts, estate gifts, and gifts in kind like real estate, equipment, and works of art. Gifts fund student scholarships, as well as provide support for programs, faculty, clubs, and teams.
In 2023, The Foundation for 草榴社区 & Alumni was formed when the Foundation merged with the 草榴社区 Alumni Association. The Foundation for 草榴社区 & Alumni serves all alumni, donors and members of the 草榴社区 community from a single, streamlined organization.