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Summer in Skagit Valley is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy everything the region has to offer. From scenic hiking trails and waterfront adventures to farmers markets, festivals, and charming small towns, there's something for everyone. Whether you're exploring local parks, relaxing by the water, or attending community events, Skagit Valley comes alive with sunshine, beautiful scenery, and unforgettable summer fun for families, friends, and visitors alike. Skagit Speedway Giant Firework Show Celebrate Independence Day with an unforgettable evening at the Skagit Speedway Giant Fireworks Show, presented by Les Schwab Tire Center, on July 4, 2026. Held at 601 Seafarers Way in Anacortes, this exciting event combines the thrill of racing with a spectacular fireworks display that lights up the night sky. It's a perfect way for families and friends to wrap up their Fourth of July celebration with high-energy entertainment and a patriotic finale. River Walk Summer Concert Series Experience the magic of summer at the Mount Vernon Chamber of Commerce's Riverwalk Summer Concert Series! Every Thursday evening in July and August, starting July 9, the Skagit Riverwalk Plaza comes alive with two hours of incredible live music beginning at 6:00 PM. Bring your lawn chairs, pack a picnic, and enjoy family-friendly performances from talented local and regional artists as you relax, dance, and soak in the stunning sunset views along the beautiful Skagit River. It's the perfect way to spend a warm summer evening in Historic Downtown Mount Vernon! Ragnar Road Northwest Passage Team Races Experience the adventure of a lifetime as you and your team race from the Canadian border to Whidbey Island! This unforgettable road relay takes you through some of the Pacific Northwest's most breathtaking scenery, from lush forest trails to spectacular coastal views. Along the way, you'll pass iconic landmarks, soak in the fresh sea air, and create memories that will last long after you cross the finish line. Port of Anacortes-Summer Concert Series Get ready for an unforgettable summer at Seafarers' Memorial Park! Kick things off with the annual Rock the Dock celebration on July 4, featuring live performances by Queen Mother and Dana Osborn Band, delicious food, a beer garden, and a spectacular fireworks show at dusk. The fun continues all summer long with the Summer Concert Series, bringing fantastic local Northwest bands to the park every Wednesday and Friday in July and Fridays in August. Grab your friends, bring a chair, and enjoy great music, beautiful waterfront views, and an incredible community atmosphere! Final Thoughts There are a lot of great Activities to have a great time this summer in Skagit Valley! And Here at By Design Auto we believe you should be accompanied in all of your adventures in a Safe, Reliable and Fun Vehicle so stop by this summer and see what we have to offer here at By Design Auto

The Fourth of July in Skagit Valley is a special time when families and friends come together to celebrate Independence Day. People enjoy local parades, fireworks, community events, and picnics while taking in the valley's beautiful farms, rivers, and mountain views. The holiday is filled with patriotism, fun, and a strong sense of community, making it a memorable summer tradition for both residents and visitors. And there's no better way to celebrate your independence than by buying a new car and hitting the open road! Sedro-Woolley, Logger Rodeo The Sedro-Woolley Logger rodeo is one of Washington's oldest and most cherished Independence Day celebrations, dating back to 1886. Held each year around the Fourth of July, the event honors the region's rich logging heritage with exciting logging competitions, chainsaw carving, a grand parade, carnival rides, live entertainment, and fireworks. The Logger rodeo brings the community together while celebrating the traditions and hardworking spirit that helped shape Sedro-Woolley. Anacortes, Rock The Dock, All day festivities, and Fireworks Celebrate an unforgettable Fourth of July in Anacortes with a full day of patriotic fun! The festivities kick off at 10:00 AM with the annual town photo and patriotic program at the corner of Commercial Avenue and 5th Street. At 11:00 AM, line the streets for the colorful Fourth of July Parade as it makes its way down Commercial Avenue with festive floats, marching bands, and community spirit. As the sun begins to set, head to Seafarers' Memorial Park at 5:00 PM for Rock the Dock, featuring live music, delicious food, and a lively waterfront atmosphere. Then cap off the celebration at 10:00 PM with a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the sky over Fidalgo Bay—the perfect ending to an incredible Independence Day! Mount Vernon, Fabulous 4th of July Celebration! Celebrate Independence Day at the Fabulous 4th of July Celebration at Skagit Riverwalk Park! Grab your camping chair or blanket and settle in for an unforgettable evening as live music fills the park beginning at 8:00 PM. Then, as the sun sets, look to the sky for a spectacular fireworks show over the Skagit River, launching at approximately 10:00 PM. It's the perfect way to spend the holiday with family, friends, and plenty of patriotic fun! La Conner, 4th of July Hometown Celebration Celebrate Independence Day at La Conner's 4th of July Hometown Celebration! Starting at 5:00 PM at the La Conner Marina, this festive evening is packed with live local music, delicious food vendors, a lively beer and wine garden, and the famous Schuh Farms strawberry shortcake. Gather with family and friends to enjoy the small-town charm before looking to the sky for a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the waterfront at approximately 10:00 PM. It's the perfect way to celebrate the Fourth of July in one of the Skagit Valley's most scenic communities! Concrete, 4th of July The celebration kicks off at 3:00 PM with a festive parade making its way down Main Street to Silo Park! After the parade, keep the fun going at the community party, where family-friendly activities, great food, and hometown spirit come together for an unforgettable afternoon of celebration. Here at By Design Auto we believe buying a car should be special and exciting so stop by this July and see what we have to offer!

Most used cars look great online, but what really matters is how they perform after you drive off the lot. If you’re searching for reliable used cars near Mount Vernon, the goal is not just finding a vehicle, it’s finding one you can trust long term. Whether you're commuting daily, heading toward Bellingham, or just need something dependable for everyday driving, knowing what to look for, and where to look, makes all the difference. What Actually Makes a Used Car Reliable Finding used cars in Skagit County is easy, choosing the right one is where most people slow down. A reliable vehicle comes down to a few key things: A strong maintenance history A clean vehicle background report Solid mechanical condition Real performance on the road Listings and photos only tell part of the story. Seeing the vehicle in person, and taking it for a test drive, gives you a much clearer picture of what you’re actually buying. Why a Third Party Inspection Matters One of the most important steps in buying a dependable used car is making sure it has been properly inspected. At By Design Auto, every vehicle goes through a third party inspection before it is offered for sale, with evaluations completed by JP Automotive. That extra step matters. It means the condition of the vehicle is not based on guesswork, or just a dealership opinion, it is verified by an independent local shop. For buyers, that creates more confidence and helps avoid unexpected repairs later. Clean History and One Owner Vehicles Another major factor in long term reliability is the vehicle’s history. Cars with clean history reports and fewer previous owners tend to have more consistent maintenance and fewer unknown issues. That is why many buyers specifically look for one owner vehicles, they are often easier to evaluate and more predictable over time. At By Design Auto, the focus is on vehicles that meet those standards, helping reduce uncertainty for buyers who want something dependable. Choosing the Right Dealership Near Mount Vernon Not all dealerships operate the same way, and where you buy matters just as much as what you buy. A quality dealership should offer: A carefully selected inventory Transparency about condition and history A straightforward, low pressure buying experience Financing options for different situations At By Design Auto, the goal is to make the process simple and clear, so you can focus on finding a vehicle that fits your needs without unnecessary pressure. Why Burlington Is a Smart Place to Buy Just a few minutes from Mount Vernon, Burlington is a convenient place to shop for used cars, especially with easy access from Interstate 5. There is also a financial benefit. Burlington has one of the lower sales tax rates in Western Washington, which can make a noticeable difference in your total purchase cost. For many buyers, it is worth making the short drive to compare options and find the right vehicle. A Straightforward Way to Buy a Used Car At By Design Auto, the approach is simple, focus on quality, transparency, and long term reliability. That includes: Third party inspections on every vehicle Clean history, well maintained inventory Vehicles selected for real world reliability A clear and straightforward buying process This approach helps make the experience more predictable, and a lot less stressful. Frequently Asked Questions What mileage is best for a used car Lower mileage can help, but maintenance history is often more important than the number on the odometer. Are one owner cars better In many cases, yes. They usually have more consistent care and fewer unknown issues. Should I get a used car inspected before buying Yes, a third party inspection is one of the best ways to confirm a vehicle’s condition before making a decision. At By Design Auto, that step is already handled for you, with every vehicle inspected by JP Automotive, a trusted local shop. Final Thoughts Finding reliable used cars near Mount Vernon does not have to be complicated, but it does come down to choosing the right place to buy. When a dealership focuses on proper inspections, clean vehicle history, and carefully selected inventory, it removes much of the uncertainty from the process. At By Design Auto, that is the goal, to offer vehicles you can feel confident driving every day. If you are in the Mount Vernon or Burlington area, the next step is simple: stop by, take a look at the available inventory, and see how the vehicles feel on the road.

Skagit Valley doesn’t always get recognized as a driving destination, but it quietly sits among some of the most scenic and diverse roads in Washington. The region offers everything from coastal highways and mountain views to wide-open stretches that cut through the valley. Whether you’re getting comfortable in your new vehicle or just looking for a drive that feels worthwhile, these are a few routes in and around Skagit Valley that are worth exploring. 🌉 Deception Pass – One of Washington’s Most Dramatic Drive s One of the most iconic drives near Skagit Valley is through Deception Pass State Park. Crossing the bridge here feels like stepping into a completely different landscape. The road winds between forested cliffs and deep blue water, and the bridge itself stands out as a striking piece of the view, stretching high above the water and framing the surrounding scenery as you cross. What makes it special: Elevated bridge views over strong tidal currents below Forested approaches that suddenly open into sweeping scenery The bridge itself, with its dramatic height and structure, becoming part of the experience It’s a short drive, but one that leaves a lasting impression every time you go over it. 🌊 Chuckanut Drive – Slow, Scenic, and Classic Washington Between Burlington and Bellingham sits Chuckanut Drive, a winding coastal route that hugs the cliffs above Samish Bay. This road is all about atmosphere. It’s not designed for speed, it’s designed for enjoying the ride. That said, it also happens to be a lot of fun in something more performance-oriented. A sports car really comes alive here, where the tight corners and elevation changes make the drive feel more engaging and connected to the road. Highlights include: Tight curves with ocean views peeking through the trees Quiet forest sections with shaded canopy cover Scenic pull-offs overlooking the water and coastline It’s the kind of drive where you naturally slow down and take your time, or if you’re in the right car, enjoy how well it responds to every turn along the way. 🚗 I-5 from Burlington to Bellingham – The Everyday Scenic Stretch While Interstate 5 is often thought of as purely functional, the stretch between Burlington and Bellingham offers a surprisingly enjoyable drive. This section of Interstate 5 runs through open Skagit Valley landscapes and gradually transitions toward the hills of Whatcom County. Along the way, you’ll see wide farmland views, stretches of trees lining the roadway, and the well-known Bellingham Rock, which is spray painted and adds a bit of local character to the drive. On a clear day, you’ll notice: Wide farmland views stretching across the valley Distant mountain backdrops along the horizon Tree-lined sections that break up the open stretches And right along this stretch, in Burlington, WA, you’ll find By Design Auto on the way up to Bellingham. 🚘 Final Thoughts Skagit Valley and the surrounding areas offer a surprising variety of driving experiences that often get overlooked. From the dramatic coastal scenery of Deception Pass, to the winding coastline of Chuckanut Drive, to the open stretches along I-5, each route brings its own feel and perspective. At By Design Auto, we believe the right vehicle isn’t just about getting you where you need to go, it’s about how the drive feels along the way, and making every mile something you enjoy.

Spring in Washington State brings one of the most breathtaking sights in the Pacific Northwest, the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. Each year, thousands of visitors travel to the Skagit Valley to witness vibrant fields of tulips in full bloom, creating a colorful landscape that feels straight out of a postcard. If you are planning a visit this season, there is no better way to explore the area than in a reliable, comfortable vehicle from By Design Auto. What Is the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival? The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is an annual celebration of spring, typically held throughout April. Visitors can stroll through expansive tulip fields at locations like Tulip Town and Roozengaarde, visit local gardens, shop for fresh flowers, and enjoy family-friendly events hosted throughout the valley. With multiple farms participating, each offering unique varieties and displays, no two visits are ever the same. From sunrise photo sessions to sunset walks among the blooms, the festival offers unforgettable experiences for couples, families, and photographers alike. Make It a Full Skagit Valley Experience Beyond the tulips, the Skagit Valley offers plenty to see and do: Visit local farmers markets and roadside stands Enjoy fresh, seasonal cuisine at nearby restaurants Explore scenic drives along the valley and waterfront Having a quality vehicle allows you to take advantage of everything the region has to offer, without feeling rushed or limited. Why Choose By Design Auto? At By Design Auto, we take pride in helping drivers find vehicles that fit their lifestyle and budget. Whether you are looking for a fuel efficient sedan for a day trip or a spacious SUV for a family outing, our inventory is carefully selected to meet your needs. Our team is committed to providing: Transparent pricing Quality, 3rd party inspected vehicles Friendly, no pressure customer service We are here to help you hit the road with confidence, whether you are heading to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival or anywhere your journey takes you. Plan Your Visit Today The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is a limited time event that showcases the beauty of spring in Washington. Do not miss your chance to experience it in comfort and style. Stop by By Design Auto today to find the perfect vehicle for your next adventure. Let us help you make this tulip season one to remember.

March Madness is here, and the excitement isn’t just on the basketball court. It’s happening at By Design Auto! We’re bringing the fun of the tournament right into our dealership with a special promotion that gives you the chance to test your shooting skills and win great prizes. 🎯 Take Your Shot When you purchase a vehicle at By Design Auto, step up to our Pop-A-Shot basketball game and test your skills for a chance to win: Make 5 shots in a row: Win a Starbucks gift card ☕ Make 10 shots in a row: Win a Railroad Pizza gift card 🍕 🏀 Step Back to the Three-Point Line and Win Big Feeling confident? Take a step back to the three-point line for a shot at our bigger prizes. 👉 Make 3 three-point shots in a row and choose from: Free extra key for your new vehicle 🔑 Free tank of fuel ⛽ 🎉 Bonus Prize Every vehicle purchase during the promotion will also be entered for a chance to win a 50-inch flat-screen TV 📺 Join the Madness At By Design Auto, we believe buying a vehicle should be exciting and memorable. Stop by during March Madness, take your shot, and see what you can win. You might just drive away with a new vehicle and an awesome prize to go with it. Promotion details: Pop-A-Shot challenge available March 19–April 8. TV giveaway valid for 90 days from promotion start date. See dealership for full details.

Ethan’s Smile Foundation Night - Feb 14th This Week in Cardinal Athletics! #GoCards On Wednesday, our men’s and women’s basketball teams will travel to Everett before returning home to take on Whatcom for Ethan’s Smile Foundation Night. Saturday, February 14, SVC Athletics and Skagit Valley College Foundation have partnered with the Ethan’s Smile Foundation to host Hoops & Hearts, with donations supporting the Ethan's Smile Foundation. We hope to see you there for a great night of basketball and community support. Raffle prizes at halftime of each game (can purchase upon entry) Youth teams from PNW Rain playing during halftime A beer garden upstairs in the gym ($25 entry fee) SVC Men vs. Whatcom — 4:00 PM SVC Women vs. Whatcom — 6:00 PM For more information about the Ethan’s Smile Foundation please visit: https://www.ethanssmile.org/ Lucha Mania 2026 - Feb 22nd About Join Lucha Libre Volcánica for a FREE, family friendly event and come cheer on your favorite luchadores! Lucha libre is a free-style, theatrical, professional wrestling style that originated in Mexico. Lucha Libre Volcánica is the premier Lucha Libre troupe in the Pacific Northwest. Sunday, February 22 3pm - 5pm Valley Dreams Sports Hub | 1625 Walnut St, Burlington WA **Please NO Food or Drinks at the venue. ---------------------------------------------------- ¡Acompaña a Lucha Libre Volcánica en un evento GRATIS, familiar y lleno de emoción! Ven a apoyar y animar a tus luchadores favoritos. La lucha libre es un estilo de lucha profesional libre y teatral que se originó en México. Lucha Libre Volcánica es la compañía principal de lucha libre del Noroeste del Pacífico. Domingo, 22 de febrero 3pm - 5pm Valley Dreams Sports Hub | 1625 Walnut St, Burlington, WA **Por favor, NO se permiten alimentos ni bebidas en el recinto Contact 1645 S Walnut Street Burlington , WA 98233 Date(s) Sunday February 22, 2026 Prices FREE Amenities ADA Accessible Free Parking WiFi Available 2026 March Open-Bowling - Mar 1st About Get ready to roll at the 2026 March Open—an exciting, all-ages bowling tournament taking place on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at 225 Riverside Ln, Mount Vernon, WA. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or stepping onto the lanes for the first time, this one-day event offers the perfect mix of fierce competition and a fun, high-energy atmosphere. Bowlers will compete in a scratch tournament with a $1,100 first-place prize (based on 48 bowlers). The field is limited to 66 participants, so early registration is strongly encouraged. Enjoy music, excitement, and a lively, family-friendly setting as you showcase your skills and chase strikes all day long. Event Schedule Check-in: 9:00 AM Practice: 9:50 AM Start Time: 10:00 AM Entry Fee: $150 (cash only) Registration is now open. Gather your friends, family, or teammates and secure your spot before the lanes fill up. Don’t miss your chance to be part of one of Mount Vernon’s premier bowling events—join us at the March Open and let the pins fall where they may. Contact 225 Riverside Lanes Mount Vernon, WA 98273 Date(s) March 1, 2026 Prices $150 Cash

At first glance, the numbers 1500, 2500, and 3500 on pickup trucks may seem like nothing more than part of the model name. In reality, they represent important differences in power, performance, and purpose. What do these numbers really mean and more importantly, how do they affect your driving experience? Whether you’re towing a trailer, hauling equipment, or simply looking for a dependable truck for everyday use, understanding these classifications matters. From the Ford F-Series to the Chevrolet Silverado and Ram lineup, knowing the difference between light-duty and heavy-duty trucks is key to choosing the right model. In this post, we’ll break down these truck classes with a focus on towing comfort, capability, and which option best fits your lifestyle. What Is a 1500 Truck? Everyday Comfort Meets Real-World Capability The 1500 series trucks like the Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado 1500, and Ram 1500 are considered light-duty pickups. These trucks are incredibly popular because they strike a near-perfect balance between power, comfort, and daily drivability. For most truck owners who don’t need to tow massive trailers or haul heavy equipment every day, a 1500 truck is more than capable. In terms of towing, today's 1500 trucks can handle anywhere from 8,000 to over 13,000 pounds, depending on the engine and configuration. That makes them ideal for towing bass boats, small campers, utility trailers, and even some mid-sized travel trailers. Take the Ford F-150, for example it offers a range of engines from a powerful fuel-efficient 3.5L V6 EcoBoost to a 5.0L V8 that’s rated for over 13,000 pounds of towing with the right setup. Chevy’s Silverado 1500 is also a towing leader with its available 6.2L V8, and the Ram 1500 stands out for its smooth ride, thanks to its available class-exclusive air suspension. One of the biggest advantages of a 1500 truck is ride comfort. These trucks are designed with the everyday driver in mind, offering features like quiet cabins, smooth suspensions, and tech-loaded interiors. Many models now come equipped with luxury-level interiors, large touchscreens, and advanced towing technology making them a pleasure to drive whether you're hauling or not. What Is a 2500 Truck? The Sweet Spot for Towing Power and Utility If you’re towing larger trailers more often, or if you need more muscle for work or recreation, a 2500 truck also known as a three-quarter-ton might be the best fit. Trucks like the Ford F-250 Super Duty, Chevy Silverado 2500HD, and Ram 2500 are designed for heavy-duty use, but still offer a balance between capability and comfort. These trucks typically have stronger frames, beefed-up suspensions, and bigger brakes compared to their 1500 counterparts. That means you can safely tow up to 20,000 pounds or more, depending on the setup and whether you're using a diesel engine or a gooseneck trailer. For instance, the Chevy Silverado 2500HD with the 6.6L Duramax diesel engine is a powerhouse, capable of towing over 18,000 pounds. The Ram 2500 with the Cummins turbo diesel is another fan favorite, especially among RV owners who want dependable long-haul performance. In terms of ride quality, 2500 trucks do ride a bit stiffer when unloaded; that's simply a result of their heavier-duty suspension components. However, newer models have come a long way in blending towing capability with comfort. Higher trims of the F-250 Lariat or Platinum, feel refined, offering leather interiors, adaptive cruise control, and advanced trailering packages. Their heavier-duty design helps reduce sway and improves handling when towing, giving drivers added peace of mind. What Is a 3500 Truck? The Ultimate Workhorse for Maximum Towing When you need the absolute highest towing capacity, a 3500 truck is your go-to. These one-ton trucks, like the Ford F-350, Chevy Silverado 3500HD, and Ram 3500, are engineered for the most demanding jobs. Think gooseneck trailers, horse trailers, construction equipment, or multi-car haulers, this is where the 3500 series truly shines. Towing capacities in this class can reach well over 35,000 pounds, especially when equipped with dual rear wheels (dually) and a diesel powertrain. For example, the Ram 3500 with the High-Output Cummins diesel engine can tow up to 37,000 pounds with a gooseneck setup making it one of the most capable pickups on the market. Ford’s F-350 Super Duty, when configured with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel, is another industry leader in heavy-duty towing. Whether you're hauling heavy loads, towing a fifth-wheel, or simply want the added confidence that comes with serious capability, today’s 3500 trucks show that strength and comfort can go hand in hand. Just like the 2500 series, high-end trims like the F-350 King Ranch, Silverado High Country, and Ram 3500 Limited offer premium features and upscale interiors proving that you don’t have to sacrifice luxury to get the job done. Which Truck Should You Choose? Choosing between a 1500, 2500, or 3500 truck comes down to how much you tow, how often you do it, and how important ride comfort is to your daily life. If you're looking for a truck that can be your daily driver and occasionally pull a trailer, a 1500 like the Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado 1500, or Ram 1500 will serve you well. If you’re towing heavy trailers frequently or need more commercial-grade durability, the 2500 series gives you the best of both worlds. But if you need to tow the absolute max, especially with gooseneck or fifth-wheel trailers then a 3500 is the right truck for the job. Need Help Deciding? Visit By Design Auto Today At By Design Auto, we carry a full lineup of pre-owned trucks from Ford, Chevy, and Ram, and our team is here to help you find the truck that fits your lifestyle. Whether it’s for weekend adventures, serious hauling, or jobsite reliability. Stop by, take a test drive, and let us help you compare the ride quality, towing features, and trim levels across the 1500, 2500, and 3500 series. Your perfect truck is waiting and we’re here to help you find it.

September Events Welcome to the beautiful Skagit Valley, come up and enjoy the sights, events and stop in and see us at By Design Auto Group. Below is a list of some upcoming events in our area, check them out! 26th - 27th Skagit Speedway Survive The 55 IMCA Modifieds, Midgets Starts at 7pm Located at 4796 Old Hwy 99 N Burlington WA 98233 27th - 28th B'Town Fall Fest Free Family Fun with Food Vendors and Kids Activities 10am - 3pm both days Located at Maiben Park 1011 Greenleaf Ave Burlington WA 98233 28th 42nd Oyster Run Free Motorcycle Event, no required route or time, Vendors, Food and Live Music 9am - 5pm Downtown Anacortes WA 98221