4th of July Events

I can already see it: couples and families spread around the flowing waters at Riverfront Park. The delicious aroma of grilled meat, pastries, and and other edibles wafting its way enticingly past my nose. The sound of barking dogs, children's laughter, and park rides as they tilt and whirl with their trusting riders. And later on, of course, the sky will light up with the annual Larry H. Miller Fireworks Display in bedazzling colors that thunder through the air.

This is what the annual 4th of July Celebration at Riverfront Park can offer you. Wednesday, July 4 brings in the Spokane Jazz Orchestra beginning at 11am. The Numerica Credit Union Free Children's Meadow is a place for the kiddies to run crazy. Combine all of that with greasy, delicious foods, more great music, arts and crafts, park rides, and other family events, and you can be sure that Spokane will be celebrating the holiday in style. The aforementioned fireworks will light up around 10:30pm, so make sure to get some great seats. Admission and viewing of the fireworks are free, but for a couple of extra bucks ($8 to be exact), you can reserve a special place.

For more information on rides, events, or reserving a spot, ring up 509.625.6601, or visit the Riverfront Park official webpage.

The 8th Annual Elkfest

In 1995, three friends came together with a single purpose in mind: dish out some mouth-watering grub, pair it with an array of sweet microbrews, and serve it in an atmosphere complete with warm smiles and friendly faces. This concept brought about the opening of Moon Time in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Soon after, John Grollmus, Brad Fosseen, and Jeff Meagher opened up three other restaurants: The Elk right here in Spokane, The Two Seven over on the South Hill, and The Porch in Hayden Lake, Idaho.

"Great music. Good beer. Corn pasta." That's the mantra so modestly placed at the center of this year's Elkfest poster, promoting Spokane's 8th annual Elkfest, the creative baby of The Elk restaurant. This true indie music festival caters to those looking to make some sweet summer memories and party on the streets of downtown Spokane. Friday, June 8th at 5 pm kicks off the start of the good times, beginning with the BBBBandits and some Northwest rock and roll. The line-up continues until 9 pm, but no worries... It continues Saturday, June 9th at 1pm, and again Sunday, June 10th at 1pm. Show up to get a taste of artists like My Goodness (a two man garage-blues band with tones akin to the Black Keys); Real Life Rockaz (cue the easy beats of reggaeton, hip-hop soul, and jazz ); and Whiskey Dick Mountain (for those throngs of hipsters and aging punks).

Whatever your tune of choice, Elkfest is sure to have something for you to rock out to. Join the festivities on the streets of Browne's Addition, and get a taste of history along with the good chow and great music. Here's a toast to seein' you there!