FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Season-Long Partnership Brings Free Music, Community Events, and Nonprofit Support to the Bellingham Waterfront
BELLINGHAM, WA — This summer, WECU and Kulshan Brewing are teaming up to bring an exciting season of music, community connection, and waterfront experiences to Trackside Beer Garden. Together, the organizations will present more than 40 events from May through September, creating a vibrant gathering place centered around free entertainment, local nonprofits, and community celebration.
At the heart of the partnership is a shared commitment to making the waterfront accessible and welcoming for everyone. WECU’s sponsorship will support a full lineup of live music, family-friendly programming, and special events at Trackside throughout the summer.
“Trackside has become one of the most exciting gathering places in our community,” said Jennifer Kutcher, President and CEO of WECU. “We’re thrilled to partner with Kulshan Brewing to create experiences that bring people together, support local nonprofits, and celebrate everything that makes summers in Bellingham special.”
Pour it Forward®
A major focus of the partnership is giving back to the community. From May through September, WECU and Kulshan Brewing will host monthly nonprofit benefit parties at Trackside, with 10% of Trackside sales donated to a featured nonprofit during each event. WECU will match the total donation to further support each organization’s mission.
The Pour it Forward Program starts May 31 with a benefit party supporting the Bellingham Bells Community Foundation. Additional nonprofit partners include Sustainable Connections, Animals as Natural Therapy, Whatcom Dream, and the Vamos Outdoors Project Noche Mercadito. Dates for these parties will be announced soon.
Member Benefits
The partnership also includes exclusive benefits for WECU members throughout the summer. WECU members receive 50% off table reservations at Trackside Beer Garden this summer. Use code WECU2026 when reserving online. Members will also receive 20% off tickets to Acid Ball Psych Fest on August 1 (more details to come), a psychedelic rock festival inspired by legendary artists including Pink Floyd, The Beatles, and The Doors.
Free Live Music all Summer Long
Live music will be a centerpiece of the summer season. Beginning in mid-June, WECU will support 37 free concerts at Trackside, including recurring Friday and Sunday performances. The summer lineup also includes Off the Rails, a seven-week Battle of the Bands competition held on seven consecutive Thursdays beginning July 2. The series will spotlight emerging local musicians and give the community a chance to support regional talent. During the first five weeks of Off the Rails, attendees can also visit the WECU tent to connect with WECU’s Real Estate team and ask questions about homeownership and lending.
Beer and Budgeting
Beyond entertainment, the partnership will also create opportunities for education and connection. Later this summer, WECU will host a free budgeting workshop at Kulshan’s K2 Taproom, where attendees can learn practical financial tips while enjoying a complimentary beverage provided by WECU.
Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday at Trackside
WECU’s partnership will allow Trackside to host its largest-ever Fourth of July celebration, featuring a concert by The True Loves, family-friendly games, and waterfront festivities in honor of America’s 250th anniversary and the spirit of community.
“We’ve always believed Trackside should be more than just a beer garden — it should be a place where the community comes together,” said David Vitt, owner of Kulshan Brewing. “Partnering with WECU allows us to expand what’s possible and create an unforgettable summer experience for Bellingham.”
Keep an eye on WECU and Kulshan’s social media pages and Kulshan’s website for more information.
About WECU
WECU is a member-owned, not-for-profit credit union headquartered in Bellingham, Washington. WECU was founded in 1936 as the Bellingham Teacher’s Credit Union. Today, it serves over 170,000 members with more than $3.0 billion in assets. WECU is committed to enhancing the financial well-being of its members and making a positive impact in the communities it serves.
About Kulshan Brewing Company
Kulshan Brewing Company is a Bellingham-based craft brewery dedicated to creating exceptional beer and meaningful community experiences. Through its taprooms and community spaces, including Trackside Beer Garden, Kulshan brings people together through local beer, live events, and community partnerships.
