Every Wednesday, Western Washington University students and staff flock downtown to celebrate Western Wednesday, a day when over 60 local businesses offer student discounts. From restaurants and gyms to salons and boutiques, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
For those who want to shop ‘til they drop,’ Third Planet Boutique offers a 10% student discount on Wednesdays. Shop owner and Manager Erika Millage said they appreciate their student customers and the community surrounding their business.
“Having a giant hub where people are brought together with similar interests is very impactful in building community,” Millage said.
Third Planet Boutique, located at 200 W Holly St., is pictured on Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2024, in Bellingham, Wash. The boutique sells items ranging from clothing and jewelry to keychains and stickers. // Photo by Madelyn Jones
At Pickford Film Center, all students and teachers in Whatcom County receive free popcorn with the purchase of a ticket. Marketing Manager Gray Gordon describes the student body as a key part of their demographic.
“It means we can take risks in our programming and know there’s an audience of students who will show up and come see it,” Gordon said.
Those looking for a more interactive experience may enjoy SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention; they offer $1 off general admission for students on Wednesdays. Charlie Bryan, their visitor engagement manager, said one aspect of Bellingham they enjoy is collaborating with the university to get more student engagement.
“It’s a world-class museum right here in Bellingham,” Bryan said. “So to have this resource at your fingertips… is just something incredible and it’s something that we always feel grateful to share with everyone.”
For those looking to get involved, the museum offers volunteer opportunities to the community.
SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention, located at 1312 Bay St., is pictured on Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2024, in Bellingham, Wash. The museum offers an interactive experience designed to be enjoyed by all ages. // Photo by Madelyn Jones
The Blue Room, an all-ages live entertainment venue, offers Western students a discount of $2 to $5 off most shows, even those not scheduled on a Wednesday.
Martijn Wall, co-founder and owner of the Blue Room, said students make up a large part of their customer base, and the Blue Room generates more income when school is in session. According to their website, they prioritize local artists and seek to provide a platform to make them more accessible.
“[It’s] about the youth and the college and young people,” Wall said. “Our Bellingham young people and young artists are the most deserving of that platform.”
Tim Cornia, founder and chief baking officer of Buddy’s Barkery, a pet food and treat supply store in Ellensburg, Wash, said he enjoys operating his business in a college town and being able to participate in and sponsor school-related events.
“Every finals week, the campus has a Paws and Relax day where students can take a break from studying and get some dog love at the library,” Cornia said. “The bakery provides doggie gift bags for the therapy dogs.”
Western senior Zachary Connor said he has used a student discount at various places in Bellingham and appreciates that businesses take the time and effort to put student discount programs in place.
“I think it’s really wonderful to see this kind of engagement with our community,” Connor said. “And I hope it’s beneficial for businesses.”
Madelyn Jones (she/her) is a campus life reporter for The Front this quarter. She is a fourth-year News/Editorial pre-major and Anthropology minor. When she’s not working on a story, she likes reading and listening to music. You can reach her at madelynjones.thefront@gmail.com.
