Knitting, chess, bingo: Clark County bars, taprooms think outside the pint

After a couple years of staying home, everyone seems a bit uncertain about where to go and what to do. Clark County bars are luring customers back with activities that you might not associate with drinking establishments, like knitting, bingo and chess. None of these events take reservations so they’re good for a last-minute night out.

Knitting

• Niche Wine Bar, 900 Washington St., Suite 130; 360-253-1742; www.nichewinebar.com; no cover charge.

Niche’s knitting club has become increasingly popular at the wine bar’s new spacious location on Washington Street. Jen Langdon, whose partner is Niche’s chef, approached owner Leah Jackson about hosting a knitting club several years ago. The group meets once a month in the library room. Knitters bring their own projects and materials, and can buy food and wine to fuel their crafting. To find out when the group meets next or learn about other Niche events, like its book club, call or email the bar (see above).

Drag bingo

• UnderBar, 1701½ Broadway; 360-258-1146; www.underbar.pub; no cover charge.

The enthusiastic response to monthly drag shows and adult bingo nights led UnderBar owner Mark Joseph to offer drag bingo 8-10 p.m. on the second Thursday of the month. Drag queen hosts Nashville Hott and Syda Pickles perform during a break from bingo.

Chess

• Brothers Cascadia Brewing, 9811 N.E. 15th Ave.; 360-718-8927; brotherscascadiabrewing.com; no cover charge.

The Hazel Dell taproom hosts a monthly chess night at 6:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of the month. Participants can improve their chess skills in a fun and educational environment. All ages and levels are welcome. The early time is intentional so that kids can participate. Updated event information is posted on Instagram and Facebook.

Line dancing

• Ashwood Taps & Trucks, 1535 E St., Washougal; 360-210-5421; www.ashwoodtapsandtrucks.com/events; $10.

Ashwood owner Megan Davis has always dreamed of hosting line dancing at her establishment. Late one night she went down a rabbit hole looking for instructors and found Kat Nichols. They pulled off the first event with only a week of planning, but 36 guests showed up. Since then, Ashwood has hosted five more line dancing events led by Nichols with about 50 people. No special shoes or attire are required. Participants don’t need to have any experience; most guests don’t. Line dancing events are held roughly every two weeks and are listed on the website. The next one is 7-9 p.m. Feb. 23.