Ways to keep kids entertained during rainy weather in Birch Bay, Blaine

Ah, western Washington – its beaches, mountains and forests. And then there’s the “big dark,” the term used to describe our gloomy days from October to March. Personally, I love these dark, rainy days that allow me to cozy up next to the fireplace while the rain pounds on the windows.

But you know who may not enjoy this? Bored kids stuck inside, full of pent-up energy. It’s all relaxing until your six-year-old repeats for the 9,876th time that they’re bored and want to do something – anything – but not something in the house. Thankfully, here in Birch Bay and Blaine, there are plenty of activities for kids.

First, outdoor play is almost always an option. Grab those rain boots and a good rain jacket before heading to Birch Bay State Park, where the trees provide enough cover for kids to stay mostly dry while exploring.

On days when staying outside isn’t feasible, Blaine Public Library offers various activities. Storytime and Chess are held every Wednesday, and Lego Club is on Tuesdays. One of my favorite activities with my little one is to enjoy a hot chocolate from one of our local bakeries in Blaine, then browse for books at the library and let him play in the youth section, where he often sees friends from school for an impromptu playdate – no planning required.

Another great, free option is the open gym time at the Birch Bay Activity Center. Families can use the gym and its play equipment for free on Fridays. Whether kids want to play basketball, make hula hoops twirl or just run around, the open gym is a fantastic way for them to burn energy. Teens can enjoy teen time open gym every Thursday, and Saturdays are open to everyone. Check the times on the calendar at bbbparkandrec.org.

For young athletes, the Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 (BBBPRD2) offers youth sports clinics, including pickleball in Birch Bay on Sunday, November 24. The district has also previously offered clinics for rugby, volleyball, gymnastics and tennis, so keep an eye out for those. Teens aren’t left out either. Teen strength training sessions led by coach Kyle Long teach safe and effective weightlifting techniques.

Other options in our area include fantastic afterschool programs from the Boys and Girls Clubs of Whatcom County and enrichment activities from our parks and recreation district. This November, BBBPRD2 will offer afterschool care during early release week.

The holidays are fast approaching. On Friday, December 6, kids can join a parents’ night out at the Birch Bay Activity Center, followed by the Holiday Dash on Saturday, December 7, featuring a mini obstacle course, a festive 5K, chili, hot cocoa, holiday music and Santa. On Thursday, December 19, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be line-dancing at the Blaine Pavilion, and on Friday, December 20, the BBBPRD2 will host the free Family Movie Night: Santa Special at Birch Bay Activity Center.

As we embrace the big dark of fall and winter, let’s take advantage of these wonderful opportunities for our kids in Birch Bay and Blaine. So grab those rain boots, and go play.

Celine Mauger is the activity coordinator at Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2.