Calling all creative souls and music enthusiasts! Bellingham Exit is back for its second annual celebration, set to transform the city into a vibrant hub of artistic expression from Oct. 10 to 13.
Building upon its 2023 debut which attracted over 7,400 attendees, Bellingham Exit 2024 aims to be an even more immersive experience.
This year's theme, "Magical Worlds," encourages audiences to embark on a journey of artistic discovery through captivating performances, interactive installations and a collaborative spirit that permeates the entire festival.
“Last year’s Exit Festival was wonderful, the energy was electric and the variety of music across different venues was incredible,” said Sarah Hill, a festival attendee. “I can’t wait to see what they have in store for us this year!”
A City Transformed: Your Urban Playground
Forget traditional, single-venue festivals, Bellingham Exit embraces the city itself as its stage.
Attendees can explore hidden-gem bars, established performance halls like the Mount Baker Theatre and unique art spaces throughout downtown Bellingham. Each venue aims to offer a distinct experience woven into the festival's tapestry.
The band Actress rocks out at Ritual Records during last year's festival in Bellingham, Wash. on Oct. 13, 2023. Apart from the core venues, other downtown businesses host pop-up shows throughout the festival to keep the vibes going. // Photo courtesy of Forrest Templin
"As we grow, we're fostering a DIY, fringe-festival atmosphere," Festival Director, Hunter Motto said. "We're excited to collaborate with more venues and event organizers for a citywide shakedown to the tune of meaningful arts & culture experiences."
An Array of Talent Awaits
The festival hosts a dynamic lineup featuring established headliners and fresh new faces. From comedian and musician Reggie Watts to folk-pop trio Joseph and their soulful serenades, the headlining roster promises something for every taste.
To celebrate the 10th anniversary of Joseph's debut album, "Native Dreamer Kin," the band will perform the entire album live, followed by a selection of their greatest hits.
For those who prefer hip-hop or blues, Blu & Exile and Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band are sure to please. Indie music fans will also find plenty to enjoy, with performances from Sego, Cytrus and The Free Label.
The core venues — The Shakedown, The Blue Room and Wild Buffalo — will be reimagined as portals to fantastical worlds. Partnering with Mark Kuntz from Bellingham TheatreWorks, the festival brings the "Magical Worlds" theme to life through interactive art installations, blurring the lines between reality and imagination.
Orions Belte is pictured performing at The Shakedown during last year's festival in Bellingham, Wash. on Oct.13, 2023. Partnering with Mark Kuntz, it was transformed into the “MushRoom." // Photo courtesy of Forrest Templin
"Last year, we promoted more than 150 artists across 15 venues," said Forrest Templin, a community marketer. "This year, we're excited to share marketing support for satellite events, while also weaving the Magical World theme throughout the entire festival experience."
The musical lineup boasts far more than just headliners. Attendees can immerse themselves in the sounds of indie folk supergroup Bonny Light Horseman, Australian psychedelic rockers Babe Rainbow and alternative rock band Atlas Genius.
Electronic music fans will groove to the sounds of Robert DeLong, Mr. Carmack and Justin Martin.
Ticketing for Every Budget
Bellingham Exit offers flexible options for those attending the festival. Single-show tickets range from $20 to $60, while festival wristbands provide access to every show throughout the weekend, starting at $120. Night owls can also grab a Late-night Electronic Dance Music pass for $60 to keep the party going.
Prepare to embark on a journey of artistic discovery, musical exploration and community spirit. Bellingham Exit is more than just a festival; it's a citywide celebration of creativity and connection.
“Our festival features music, art, comedy, dance parties, art vendors and curiosities on the fringe of expectations,” Motto said. “Artists and fans will exit the familiarity of downtown music venues and enter spaces transformed into living, breathing art installations.”
For more information, visit www.bellinghamexit.com or follow @bellinghamexit.
Evan Riley (he/him) is a city life reporter for The Front this quarter. He is a fourth-year student at Western working towards his major in News/Editorial journalism. He has dreams of becoming a travel writer and is continually thinking about where he'll go next.
You can reach him at evanriley.thefront@gmail.com
