Unity in the Community

Set in Riverfront Park, this diversity festival is the largest multicultural celebration to happen in the Inland Empire. Over 6,000 people attended last year's Unity festival, and this year is expected to draw an even bigger crowd!

Participate in this year's theme, "Where's Waldo Scavenger Hunt", organized by members of Youth 'N Action. Do your good deed for the day and donate school supplies to the Back-to-School Supply Give-Away. Check out the Cultural Village that brings the heart and soul of countries like South Africa, Turkey, Persia, Scandinavia, China, and many more, to Spokane. Or, if you just feel like kickin' it beneath the sun, bring a funky beanbag or lawnchair and immerse yourself in the entertainment. In the past, Unity has had Chinese dancers, Hawaiian singers, Gospel choirs, theatre performances, and belly dancing.

Spokane has a lot to offer by way of its history and the diverse population that calls this city home. Join us August 18, from 10am to 4pm to watch the performances, travel the booths, and see the wonders of Spokane. If you have questions, visit www.nwunity.org/ or email Unity at the Community at info@nwunity.org. Volunteers are always welcome!

Uncommon Gifts

Spokane's Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture (MAC), founded in 1916, has gone above and beyond when it comes to its duties of collecting historical artifacts and documents. Inspiring appreciation of all things historical, cultural, and downright fascinating, the MAC once again has delighted visitors with its new exhibit, Uncommon Gifts.

Showcasing seven internationally known artists with ties to the Inland Northwest, this exhibit proudly displays the Liberty Mutual/Safeco Insurance corporate collection. Artists include Jacob Lawrence, Fay Jones, Morris Graves, Barbara Thomas, and George Tsutakawa. Visitors can expect to see almost 500 works created on paper, 130 canvas and panel pieces, and more than 180 three-dimensional objects of glass, ceramic, bronze, and mixed media persuasion.

The Uncommon Gifts exhibit runs from June 25 to August 25. While you're there, check out the MAC's previously mentioned Dig It! The Secrets of Soil exhibit, or the Two to Tango: Artist and Viewer, Lasting Heritage. The MAC is a cultural showplace that strives to bring the past and present together with community events, rare pieces, and local artists. For more questions, visit the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture website, or call 509.456.3931.