Spokane Bike Swap & Expo For local bike enthusiasts, this weekend is akin to a trip to Disneyland. The annual Spokane Bike Swap returns with over 50 exhibitors selling new bicycles and accessories so you can prepare for the nice weather ahead. Cyclists are invited to sell their bikes or buy a new one (or a few new ones — we won’t tell!) There are opportunities to learn about bikes and bike culture as well. Register your new bike with Spokane C.O.P.S., learn how to load a bike on an STA bus rack and much more. The Spokane Bike Swap is also a great chance to donate bikes you’ve outgrown or don’t ride anymore to help out those who can’t afford to purchase one. Bike on over to the fairgrounds and see what you can find!
Northwest Winterfest Most folks love the illuminated wonders that pop up around Christmastime. Most folks also hate being cold. For the very large Venn diagram of those overlapping populations, Northwest Winterfest hits the festive sweet spot. The indoor, self-guided walking tour at the Spokane County Fair and Expo Center features an array of lighted lanterns depicting holiday favs like Santa, reindeer, and a host of hand-painted trees that each has a cultural focus (from a Pakistani tree to a Norwegian one). With live music, food and holiday beverages also offered up, Northwest Winterfest brings some cheer to the season that the whole family can enjoy (kids 10 and under get in free with an accompanying adult admission).
Farm Girl Quilt Show The three-day show features over 600 quilts on display, master quilter demonstrations, a quilted items sale and over 50 merchants and vendors. Oct. 20-22; Fri-Sat from 10 am-6 pm, Sun from 10 am-4 pm.
Spokane County Interstate Fair People near and far, young and old — the time is nigh! The 72nd annual Spokane County Interstate Fair & Rodeo kicks off this Friday for its 10-day run. Beyond the usual attractions and activities — tasty concessions, carnival rides, animals, agriculture and domestic arts exhibits — this year’s fair boasts grandstand entertainment from Craig Morgan, Clint Black, Martina McBride and X Ambassadors. For the liveliest action, head to the rodeo events, tractor rally and demolition derby. Throughout the fairgrounds, local groups also perform and share their talents with the community, ranging from illusionists to princess story time, dancing, hypnotists and more. (Find the complete schedule for the North Stage, rodeo and other events online.) Among the fair’s many animal highlights, don’t miss the kids’ Mutton Bustin’ or pig races! And, if you go on the weekend (Fri-Sun), meet this year’s live mascot, Ced
Spokane Scottish Highland Games Grab your kilts and prepare for a day filled with bagpipe ballads, dancing and impressive feats of strength at the Spokane Scottish Highland Games. Throughout the day, there will be live Celtic music, Highland dancing and a performance from the Scottish Country Dancers, as well as sheep and cattle exhibitions and a British classic car show. Attendees can watch athletes compete in a variety of intense events, including a Caber toss and hammer throw. Check out local blacksmith Levi Arbogast of Battle Mountain Forge and his masterful craft, or grab onto the rope in the tug-of-war that follows the opening ceremonies. Then check out vendors to find traditional food and a variety of goods.