Bellingham to Host 2024 WCL All-Star Game: What to Expect

By: Merrick Parnell

Later this month, on July 17th, the top baseball players of the West Coast League (WCL) will gather in Bellingham, Washington, for the All-Star Game, which the Bells will host.

From July 16th to 17th, the Bells will host the league during the All-Star Game (ASG) for the third time, the first since the 2015 season (previously in the early 2000s).

“This year, there was a bid process for the first time, and teams submitted formal bids to the WCL Board of Directors to host the ASG. Bellingham was selected from several options,” said Stephanie Morell, General Manager of the Bells.

“I think it’s an incredible honor to be chosen by the WCL to host this game in its inaugural year in its new format. It’s also an amazing opportunity for us to showcase our game experience, city, and fan base, all of which are top-notch,” Morrell continued.

She is also excited about the partnership between the West Coast League, the Bells, and Visit Bellingham (Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism).

According to Becky Mandelbaum of Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism (BWCT), they supported the competitive bid process among competing communities to win the right to host this event at Joe Martin Stadium. BWCT offered funds for event hospitality and helped secure funding from the State of Washington Tourism’s Sports Incentivization Grant, awarded in April 2024. BWCT is also running a Bellingham getaway sweepstakes for game attendees.

“We anticipate a boost to our local economy as visitors dine and explore before the All-Star Game. According to Destinations International’s Economic Impact Calculator, this event’s anticipated direct economic impact is nearly $300,000. This is a great opportunity to showcase Bellingham and surrounding areas as a fantastic host for a high-profile destination sporting event,” Mandelbaum said.

All-Star Game Festivities and Events:

In addition to the All-Star Game, fans can attend:

● Community Champions Game: Featuring adaptive, unified play with members of local non-profit the Max Higbee Center.

● Pro-Style Player Workout: Fans can watch All-Star players showcase their skills in a professional-style workout.

● Skills Competition: Exciting contests will highlight the talents of the league’s best players.

● All-Star Game: The main event where top West Coast League players compete against each other.

● Post-Game Fireworks Show: A dazzling display to conclude the day’s festivities.

A full schedule can be found here: Bellingham Bells 2024 All-Star Game Schedule.

League officials are thrilled to bring the All-Star Game back to Bellingham, as expressed in a previous statement from the game’s announcement.

“The return of the All-Star Game is a testament to the league’s commitment to excellence. It’s a celebration of the remarkable talent within the West Coast League, and we can’t wait to see all our stars together again,” said WCL Commissioner Rob Neyer.

For more information and tickets, visit bellinghambells.com. Information about planning your stay and vacation around the ASG in Bellingham can be found at bellingham.org, or you can email [email protected] for specific questions regarding your stay.

You can get your tickets to the Community Champions Game and the 2024 WCL All-Star Game at bellstickets.com