1. Riverside fun
Celebrate the rivers and waterways that shape the land during Ridgefield’s Big Paddle. Beginning at 7 a.m. June 6, participating paddlers can enjoy a breakfast in downtown Ridgefield, followed by check-in at 8 a.m. The welcoming ceremony and Chinook blessing begins at 9 a.m. as the flotilla of kayaks, canoes and paddleboards set out for a two-hour tour of Lake River, exploring the confluence of the Columbia, along with stops at interpretive sites. There also will be community activities at the Paddlers’ Village with music by ChicaMarimba, an obstacle course, and a scavenger hunt in downtown Ridgefield. The free activities run until 6 p.m. at the Port of Ridgefield, 111 W. Division St., Ridgefield. www.ci.ridgefield.wa.us
2. Firehouse party
Clark County Fire District 6 hosts a community event of fun and learning during the annual Station Open House. Visitors can see car extractions, watch demonstrations by K-9 units, take an ambulance tour or try the junior firefighter challenge. There will be a visit from the Life Flight helicopter along with safety information, free hot dogs and refreshments donated by community organizations. The event runs noon to 4 p.m. June 6 at the Hazel Dell Fire Station, 8800 N.E. Hazel Dell Ave., Vancouver. Admission is free. 360-576-1195 or www.ccfd6.org
3. In step
See the progress and skill of local student dancers during Columbia Dance School in Performance. This end-of-the-year celebration will showcase every school dancer in contemporary, ballet and classical dance styles. The performance begins at 4 p.m. June 6 and 3 p.m. June 7 at the Royal Durst Theatre, 3101 Main St., Vancouver. Tickets are $12, $10 for seniors and students, and $5 for ages 12 and younger. 360-737-1922 or www.columbiadance.org
4. Mushroom hunting
Seattle author Langdon Cook will share tips on backyard foraging. His book, “The Mushroom Hunters,” explores the ruffian subculture of people who hunt for wild mushrooms. Cook will share his knowledge on how to identify, gather, cook and preserve a variety of wild edibles at 6 p.m. June 11 at Vintage Books, 6613 E. Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. 360-694-9519 or www.vintage-books.com
