BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Exciting changes are happening in Downtown Bellingham this February with three major business updates set to bring fresh energy to the community.
A new family-friendly business, Little Stars Toy Store and Playhouse, is set to open in mid-March at 1418 Cornwall Ave. This charming toy shop fills the recently vacated space left by Allied Arts, which has relocated just down the street to 1213 Cornwall Ave.
To celebrate the move and its 45th anniversary, Allied Arts hosted a grand re-opening party on Friday, February 7.
Little Stars is engaging with the Downtown Bellingham Partnership and looking forward to participating in the City Block Program, a facilitated discussion series for local businesses. As the newest addition to District 4, owners Janice and Alex are eager to connect with their fellow entrepreneurs and contribute to the vibrancy of their neighborhood.
The City Block Program, led by the Downtown Bellingham Partnership, encourages business owners and managers to collaborate with their immediate neighbors. Unlike traditional networking events, this initiative is free to join, has no membership fees and is focused on solving real challenges and creating new opportunities.
One successful example of the program’s impact can be seen in District 5’s Commercial Street. When businesses there faced rising issues with antisocial behavior, they came together to develop a positive solution. With the support of the Downtown Bellingham Partnership, they launched the Commercial Street Block Party, an annual event that has since become a local tradition.
Downtown Bellingham continues to grow with more exciting business openings on the horizon:
- Love from London, a bubble waffle ice cream shop, is set to open soon at 1301 Commercial St., bringing a sweet new treat option to the area.
- Aslan Brewing is investing in its Depot location at 1322 State St., adding a new kitchen to better serve food alongside its extensive tap list, craft cocktails, and 21+ events. Previously, food orders were fulfilled at Aslan’s main kitchen on Forest Street and transported to the Depot, so this expansion will enhance the experience for hungry beer lovers.
