Neighborhood-Kids All Local. All for Kids. All the Time.

Take Me Out to the Bellingham Bells

by Theresa Carpine6/4/2009 10:25:30 AM

The Bellingham Bells take the field.
Photo courtesy Bellingham Bells

If the kids are singing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” but the prospect (and price) of a trip to Seattle is less than appealing, consider a local alternative with our very own Bellingham Bells. An evening with the Bells, Bellingham’s collegiate league baseball team, is a great option if you’re looking for affordable family fun this summer.

The Bells started as a team of local players in Bellingham in the 1940s. Since that time, they  traveled around Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia to play local teams. In 2005, the Bells joined the West Coast League with seven other Northwest teams.

Assistant General Manager Matt Hargleroad thinks that one of the benefits of a collegiate league team in Bellingham is the ability to provide fans with more access to players. Kids always have the opportunity to get a baseball autographed by players, and Matt noted that several Bells have advanced to the Majors.

“Jeff Francis, who pitched for the Colorado Rockies in the 2007 World Series, played for the Bells,” Matt said. “A great amount of talent comes through Bellingham with the team.”

Cluck, the Bellingham Bells Mascot, at last year's opening game.
Photo courtesy Bellingham Bells

Along with the enjoying the game itself, the Bellingham Bells offer all the sights and smells associated with a trip to the ballpark. At Joe Martin Stadium, typical concessions like hot dogs, popcorn, Cracker Jacks, soda, and beer (for the grown-ups) are available for purchase; no outside food or drink is allowed, although visitors can bring an empty water bottle. Team merchandise and souvenirs can also be purchased at games.

Between innings, the Bells also organize special events on the field. “We let kids sweep dirt off the bases with a broom, and we also have contests with fans. We try to switch things up as much as possible, so it’s something fresh every night,” Matt explained.

Some special Bells Promotions that Matt says families will really enjoy are Fireworks Night and Family Feast Night. At no extra cost on June 5, July 3, and August 1, families can enjoy the razzle dazzle of a fireworks show after the game. On Haggen $1 Family Feast Nights (June 12 & 26 and July 24 & 31), hot dogs, sodas, and ice cream is $1. “It’s a great chance to bring the family to a game and feed everyone for relatively cheap,” Matt said.

Ticket prices themselves are extremely affordable. General admission is only $6 for adults and $5 for kids 12 and under; kids under 3 get in free! Options for season ticket packages, group deals, and birthday party plans are also available. Call the Ticket Office at (360) 527-1035 for details.

So if you’re craving some baseball this summer, check out the Bellingham Bells. Visit Neighborhood-Kids.com Activities to see if you can make the next game!

A Note About the Author: Theresa Carpine

Theresa Carpine graduated from WWU in 2006 with a BA in English Literature. She enjoys yoga, listening to music, riding her bike in downtown Bellingham, and babysitting really cute kids.