I visited this unique art market in Bellingham with a $25 budget. Here’s what I got
Art markets are a staple in Bellingham.
For months, I have been planning to visit one for The Bellingham Herald’s On a Budget series, which focuses on affordable fun and cheap eats in Whatcom County.
I decided to stop by Wonderz Market, an all-ages event featuring about 100 vendors selling art, clothing, jewelry, trinkets and more.
Here’s what I got on a $25 budget:
What is Wonderz Market in Bellingham?
Elijah Ryan and his partner founded Wonderz Market in 2023 after traveling to Seattle or Portland to sell vintage goods, The Bellingham Herald previously reported.
Free, monthly events are held March through October on Commercial Street and at Wink Wink, an adult intimate shop.
Ryan described the Bellingham art market as “a creative space for the people, by the people.”
“As a born and raised Bellingham local, this has been the space I’ve craved since being a kid — (a place) where you can come as you are to shop, sell or just hang out with our immensely talented and creative community,” Ryan told The Herald via email.
“The need to support local is in our DNA, and Wonderz fosters that need seamlessly for young adults and those young at heart,” Ryan added, explaining that “you’ll feel the palpable energy of love and creativity buzzing through all who attend.”
What’s in store at Commercial Street event?
When I arrived at Wonderz Market around noon on June 27, the place was already packed. Typically, when I visit markets, I always take a lap to get a lay of the land and see what’s available.
After walking along the 1300 block of Commercial Street, I popped into Wink Wink to see what tattoos and body modifications were available. Several of my friends have gotten tattoos at Wonderz Market events, so I was curious what was there.
Inside, I found three tattoos artists and a tooth gem booth. I didn’t get one, but it was a nice place to visit.
When I stepped back out to Commercial Street, I walked around to see if anything stood out to me. Since I planned to get decor, my eyes naturally wandered to booths featuring different prints and paintings.
Because of the time and effort that go into painting or handcrafting the art pieces, most of them were outside my budget. However, some of the smaller pieces were a little more affordable.
What did I buy on a $25 budget?
I started by purchasing a snail print on yellow card stock for $5 from Eden Vaughn Arts. I decided on the snail because it matched some of my current decor.
As I wandered around the street, occasionally greeting friends and petting random dogs I came across a booth of art pieces by Erika Rae Heins Art featuring cats.
After flipping through multiple pieces, I found a painting with cats mimicking the poster for the musical “The Sound Of Music.”
I grew up with a deep love of movie musicals and musical theater so I knew I had to figure out some way to fit it in my market haul.
That’s when the person running the booth informed me that she was selling postcard versions of larger prints.
When I picked up a postcard inspired by “The Sound of Music,” I saw it was part of a $18 pack of 10 postcards depicting cats as characters in musicals such as “Hamilton” and “Wicked.” I was sold.
After purchasing two items, I was close to my budget limit. I decided to try to find another, smaller item.
I had come across stickers at various booths for $3 apiece, the perfect price tag. Plus, I really like stickers.
I bought a sticker by Sadie Omohundro showing a fox curled up in a chair with a book and a cookie for $3.
The thing I enjoyed the most about being at Wonderz Market was chatting to vendors, artists and other people.
Every vendor, whether I purchased something from them or not, struck up a conversation with me.
Getting to know the people in my community better was just as valuable as anything I could’ve bought from there.
Is Wonderz Market affordable?
After purchasing the snail print, 10 postcards and a fox sticker, my total at Wonderz Market came to $26 including tax, one dollar over my budget.
I was very satisfied with what I got.
Although affordable options are available at the market, it’s worth remembering that the vendors have small businesses— and those aren’t cheap to run.
When is next Wonderz Market event in 2026?
Want to visit? The next Wonderz Market will be on Saturday, July 25, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the 1300 block of Commercial Street and Wink Wink.
Where should I go next?
Have a suggestion for my next stop? Email me at jhawkins@bellinghamherald.com or fill out the Google form below.