Downtown Bellingham is a lively place year-round, but there's something special about being here on warm summer evenings. The sun stays high in the sky as the sidewalks fill up with people of all ages. Singles are out on the town, meeting friends. Families are strolling to Mallard Ice Cream after dinner. And like my husband and I, lots of couples are venturing out for a fun—and delicious—date night. My perfect downtown Bellingham summer date night consists of three stops, at some of my favorite places. Yes, my definition of a perfect summer date night is one where I get to choose where we go. Luckily, my husband and I like all the same things, so he was happy too. (Right, honey?)
A wine tasting is the perfect kick-off to an evening out. You get just enough to prepare your palate for the rest of the evening, with three or so little tastes. At Seifert & Jones, they host wine tastings every Friday evening and Saturday afternoon. The tasting lineup changes weekly, and there is always a theme, whether it's the region from which the wines hail, or wines to complement different dishes, such as seafood or your holiday weekend BBQ. 
Stop by for a chance to expand your knowledge, as well as your palate. Shop owners Ted Seifert and Diane Jones are as welcoming as can be and they love introducing customers to new discoveries. I guarantee you'll taste at least one you'll like. And if you're a rosé freak like me, be sure to feast your eyes on this display of summer wine perfection. 
My love for the Temple Bar is no secret, so it stands to reason it's not to be missed on date night. The sidewalk tables are perfect for catching a breeze and watching the world go by, while sipping a frosty summer cocktail or refreshing glass of—you guessed it—rosé. 
By this point of the date, it's time for some food, Fortunately, we were in the right place, for on that subject, Temple Bar never disappoints. Their new menu is filled with yummy-sounding small bites and more substantial plates that cover everyone's tastes. We started with salads and shared an appetizer. 
Whether you're on a downtown Bellingham culinary trek, or catching a movie at the Pickford Film Center, I can't think of a finer wrap up to a special night out than Pure Bliss Desserts. We shared a slice of Berries & Creme and a split of brut. How did it taste? My husband said it best when he declared, "Man, they can bake a cake!" 
As on any date night that involves a drink or two, we traveled by bike for safety. And on this perfect early July evening, we didn't even need jackets. Ahh, Bellingham in summer. Is there anywhere better? Just make sure you get here for a date night to remember before this fleeting season passes you by.
Take your pick—there's plenty to bring you to downtown Bellingham this summer! Art Walk, First Friday of every month Sidewalk Sale, July 10 - 12Downtown Sounds, July 15, 22, 29 Pickford's Rooftop Cinema at the Parkade, July 17 and 31, August 14 and 28, September 11 Chow Downtown (Formally known as Bite of Bellingham), September 20 Seifert & Jones Wine Merchants 19 Prospect St., Bellingham, WA 98225 360- 393-3271 Open Tuesday - Saturday 10:00 – 6:00Temple Bar 306 W. Champion St., Bellingham, WA 98225 360- 676-8660 Every day, 3:00– closePure Bliss Desserts 1424 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, WA 98225 360-739-1612 Monday noon – 6:00, Tuesday – Saturday noon – 10:00
