Daring, hands-free storytelling. Live without a net.
No phone. No notes. No props. Six-minute stories. The audience decides the winner.
Some of the best conversations happen, and the craziest stories are told, around a campfire. In Bellingham, Campfire Story Hour brings the camaraderie indoors, out of the rain. Let’s get together to tell and hear stories.
Why does Bellingham need to hear stories?
Because we are interesting people who might benefit from learning from one another. Plus, the long, cold rain is coming. We need indoor things to do.
Rather than spend the winter staring at screens, let’s get together, share a beverage or two, hear some stories, and, maybe, have a laugh.
What to expect
Like a Dead setlist, no two stories or Campfire Story Hours will be the same.
Each event has a theme. Up to ten performers will have 6 minutes apiece to tell an original, true story to the best of their recollection of the experience.
Doors open at 6:30, stories start at 7, and run till 8:30.
The audience will rate each story to generate the score.
The top score earns the performer the win. The winner is celebrated.
Want to tell your story?
The Campfire Story Hour is an open-mic short storytelling competition that features genuine, original stories that happened to you.
Check the schedule for upcoming events. Click the Sign Up link attached to the event. There are ten spaces available for each event. If a slot is open, grab it.
There might be open slots available the night of the event – y’know because life-stuff = no-shows. Check at the door.
Why is it competitive?
It’s a chance to bet on yourself. Public speaking is nerve-racking. Telling a story is risky. Competition raises the stakes. Performers need the moxie to step up to the mic. Audiences deserve the performers’ best. You got this.
Why Tuesdays?
Campfire Story Hour is an effort to make the (unscientifically proven) longest day of the workweek feel a little bit better. And because Tuesday is often the slowest night out on the town. It’s a low-key affair. Get out, be around people, listen to someone new tell you a story that is important to them.
Looking for an excellent date night option?
Doesn’t matter if it’s your first date or just something different to do. Campfire Story Hour is a low-stress option for you to try. Enjoy (up to) ten, 6-minute stories over coffee, chai, or a cocktail. Discuss what you both experience, share your opinion, and vote for the story you liked best. And maybe gain a new insight into the person you’re with.
Who goes on dates on Tuesday nights?
Tuesday is the perfect night for a first date. Tuesday nights do not place the same premium as a weekend night. Weekends are for you to recuperate and recharge. Tuesday night dates allow you to decide who you want to share your weekend with.
Is the Campfire Story Hour family-friendly?
Yep, it’s intended to be. Unless the location for a specific event does not allow people under 21 years old to enter. Content and language will span a spectrum from TED Talk to South Park. There may be content not suitable for young audiences. The performers are instructed to warn audiences about mature or triggering material before beginning their story.
How do I host a Campfire Story Hour?
Please fill out this form. The form asks for the details we need to make a successful Campfire Story Hour happen at your location.