1. Fashion forward
Couve Couture, Vancouver’s spring fashion extravaganza, puts fashion at the forefront during two April 13 shows — 3:30 and 7:30 p.m. — at the Fort Vancouver National Site’s Artillery Barracks, 600 E. Hatheway Road. See the au courant collections of six Washington designers and get some fresh inspiration for your closet. These are occasions to see and be seen; attendees are encouraged to dress in their most fashionable outfits, from timeless classics to avant garde ensembles. Nibbles and drinks will be available to purchase at a cash bar. Tickets range from $15 to $25, available at tickettomato.com. couvecouture.com
2. Leaping lizards!
April 13 at the Water Resources Education Center, 4600 S.E. Columbia Way, is all about lizards … and snakes … and salamanders … and frogs … and the other amphibians and reptiles that live in the Columbia River watershed. Start the day at 9 a.m. with the annual Critter Count, where you and your kids can help track amphibian and reptile populations at local natural areas. Then, from 1 to 3 p.m., learn fascinating facts about reptiles at one of two Creature Feature critter shows, complete with tips on how to be a “herp hero” and protect our creepy-crawly friends. 360-487-7111 or www.cityofvancouver.us/watercenter
3. Feel the burn
The lively Scottish trio The Fire will jig, fiddle, strum and pipe their way across the Old Liberty Theater’s stage at 7:30 p.m. April 12 at 115 N. Main St., Ridgefield. This high-energy band features International Scottish Fiddle Champion Rebecca Lomnicky, instrumentalist David Brewer of the Celtic band Molly’s Revenge and the versatile Adam Hendey on guitar and bouzouki. Hear original takes on traditional tunes with bagpipes, guitar, bodhran and even a whistle or two. Tickets are $25, available by calling 360-887-7260 or at the door. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. with beer and wine to buy in the lobby. www.oldlibertytheater.com
4. Back to the land
If you’re interested in making your little plot of land greener and more productive with the latest information on sustainable pasture management, weed control, water quality, pollinator habitats, tractor safety and — that perennial favorite — septic systems, the Small Acreage Expo on April 13 is the place for you. It’s happening from 8:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. at Vancouver’s 78th Street Heritage Farm, 1919 N.E. 78th St. Register by the end of the day April 12 and get a box lunch included in your $15 fee; otherwise, admission is $25 at the door. To see the full list of activities and workshops, visit smallacreageexpo2019.bpt.me.
