FROM RIDES TO RIBBONS: ENJOY THE BEST OF SPOKANE COUNTY INTERSTATE FAIR

As Spokane Valley basks in the late summer warmth, an annual tradition welcomes the early whispers of fall: the Spokane County Interstate Fair. This vibrant ten-day festival bridges the seasons with a celebration of community spirit. 

The fair has blossomed into one of the Inland Northwest’s largest and most anticipated events from its humble roots in honoring the region’s rich agricultural heritage. Bringing together the best of our community, the fair offers a diverse range of attractions–from exhilarating rides and live entertainment to 4-H livestock shows, artisanal crafts, and global cuisines. 

This year’s fair celebrates under the banner, The World is a Fair, in honor of the 50th Anniversary of Expo ’74, Spokane’s pioneering environmentally themed world’s fair. To commemorate this milestone, the fair introduces the World Market, a colorful new space brimming with global artisan crafts, diverse performances, fresh fruits, and a spectrum of ethnically diverse foods.

The fair, which runs from September 6 to 15, is a must-visit for all ages. Gates are open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, closing a bit earlier at 8:00 p.m. on Sunday. On Fridays and Saturdays, the excitement continues until 10:30 p.m., with gates opening earlier on weekends at 10 a.m. 

Secure your savings with pre-fair discounted tickets, on sale until September 5th. Tickets for adults ages 14-64 are priced at $10 for a one-day entry, while tickets for youth ages 7 to 13, seniors 65+, and military personnel are available for just $7. Children 6 and under enjoy free admission. Tickets can be easily purchased online at TicketsWest.com. 

The Spokane County Interstate Fair also features designated appreciation days with free admission for various community members:

• Monday, September 9—Senior Day: For seniors aged 55+, the fair rolls out the red carpet with games and activities at the North Lawn Pavilion from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. that prove age is just a number!
• Wednesday, September 11—Heroes Day: Military personnel, law enforcement officers, firefighters, hospital staff, and first responders. The fair tips its hat to these everyday superheroes by offering a well-deserved day of complimentary fun. Capes are optional but highly encouraged.
• Sunday, September 15—School Staff Day: K-12 and college staff from public and private schools. It’s a celebration of those who educate and nurture, offering them a break from lesson plans and grading for a day of laughter and recreation with loved ones—no hall passes required! On September 15, kids 13 and under can attend the fair for free—just donate a new or gently used coat and receive a complimentary ticket. This will bring warmth to hearts and bodies as the weather cools.

Whether you’re seeking thrills or simple pleasures, the fair is your perfect send-off to summer. It’s a beloved tradition that captures the heart and soul of our community. Step into the scene to feel its lively spirit and see firsthand what makes our region’s culture and community so special.

FREE FESTIVITIES

Once inside the fairgrounds, a world of free entertainment awaits you! With a rich array of events and exhibits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy without spending an extra dime.

EVENTS

Prepare to be captivated by a lineup of exhilarating and engaging spectacles:

• Racing Pigs: Watch as juvenile pigs dash around a small dirt track in a race that’s as entertaining as it is adorable.
• Kids Pedal Tractor Races: Young fairgoers can test their strength and coordination by attempting a full pull on these charming kid-sized tractors.
• Mutton Busting: Future rodeo stars can ride or race sheep in this fun and challenging activity. Kids ages 4 to 7 are welcome to join the action and experience the thrill of a junior rodeo.
• Top Cops High Dive Show: Watch in awe as daring divers plunge from heights up to 80 feet into a pool that’s a mere 26 feet wide and 9.5 feet deep, delivering a breathtaking performance that will captivate all.

The North Stage also features an exciting lineup of performances that will keep you entertained throughout your visit. Enjoy the talents of regional and local artists performing music in various genres, offering a dynamic soundtrack to your fair experience. Don’t miss the ever-popular hypnotist show, a family favorite that promises to enchant and amuse all ages. With acts rotating throughout the week, every visit to the North Stage brings something new and exciting. 

Keep an eye on the schedule for specific events and times so you don’t miss out on these fantastic attractions.

EXHIBITS

Reconnect with the soulful beginnings of the fair through a diverse range of exhibits that celebrate agriculture and home arts:

• Animal Exhibits: Get close to this year’s mascot, Bo the Goat, and explore 4-H livestock shows featuring beef cattle, horses, llamas, chickens, rabbits, sheep, and pigs. Showcase animals like longhorns and Cedar, the fair’s resident highland cow, bring a special charm to the barnyard experience.
• Still Exhibits: Stroll through an array of displays featuring handcrafted items. Admire and buy local goods, including canned fruits and vegetables, baked treats, intricate needlework, stunning photography, personalized jewelry, custom airbrush apparel, unique wood-carved signs, and home decor. Don’t forget to capture a moment with a caricature drawing to remember your visit!

These free festivities offer a perfect blend of entertainment, education, and engagement, providing endless opportunities to explore and enjoy the fair without breaking the bank. 

EXCLUSIVE EVENTS

For those seeking premium entertainment, exclusive events offer thrilling spectacles and live performances that promise to elevate your fair experience.

GRANDSTAND ENTERTAINMENT

Experience the excitement of grandstand events, where for a nominal additional cost, you can witness thrilling competitions and showcases:

• Rodeo: Sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, the rodeo features events such as bareback riding, barrel racing, bull riding, steer wrestling, and tie-down roping. Catch the action on Friday, September 6, and Saturday, September 7. Check the program schedules for detailed event timings and additional information.
• Truck and Tractor Pull: On Friday, September 13, don’t miss the powerful displays of strength and skill at the Truck and Tractor Pull. Experience the adrenaline as drivers rev up their engines and maneuver massive weights with skill and strength. 
• Demolition Derby: Witness the adrenaline-pumping Demolition Derby on the final Saturday and Sunday, September 14 and 15. Cheer for your favorites as they navigate the arena, crashing and smashing their way to victory.

All events start at 7 p.m.; general admission tickets are $9.

CONCERTS

Amid the fair’s grandstand events, enjoy three electrifying concerts featuring renowned artists:

• Tuesday, September 10: Enjoy Clay Walker with special guest Eddie Montgomery of Montgomery Gentry. This evening of country storytelling and toe-tapping rhythms perfectly complements the fair’s down-home atmosphere.
• Wednesday, September 11: Experience Ian Munsick’s captivating performance, where his soulful Wyoming roots shine through in every note, promising another night of heartfelt country melodies.
• Thursday, September 12: Groove to Flo Rida’s electrifying beats and dance along to his chart-topping hits, bringing a vibrant urban flair to the fair’s musical lineup.

Each concert begins at 7 p.m. with no opener, ensuring you dive right into the music. General admission, which grants access to both the concert and the fair, is priced at $40 for all ages. For those seeking a touch of luxury, reserved seating options offer a more exclusive and comfortable way to enjoy the show.

These exclusive events add a thrilling dimension to your visit, offering unforgettable entertainment and excitement. Plan ahead to secure your tickets and make the most of your fair experience.

CARNIVAL SPINS AND SNACKS

A visit to the fair wouldn’t be complete without enjoying the classic rides and traditional foods that define every carnival experience. Whether you’re soaring on the Ferris wheel or savoring a funnel cake, these timeless delights are sure to create lasting memories of joy and nostalgia.

RIDES

Partnering with Butler Amusements, the Spokane County Fair & Expo brings you an extraordinary selection of your favorite carnival rides. From gentle attractions for children to towering super spectaculars that offer thrilling views, there’s something for every level of adventure seeker.

The Main Lawn Carnival opens its gates at 3 p.m. Monday through Friday and at 12 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, while Kiddyland welcomes younger guests starting at noon daily. For those seeking unlimited fun, P.O.P. (Pay One Price) ride bracelets are available, priced at $35 from Monday through Thursday and $37 on Fridays through Sundays. These bracelets allow fairgoers to enjoy rides throughout the day without any extra charges.

Please note that the purchase of a ride bracelet does not include your Fair Admission ticket. To enjoy unlimited rides within the carnival area, be sure to get both an admission ticket to the fair and a ride bracelet.

Prefer to pay as you go? Individual Ride and Game Tickets are $1 each. The minimum ticket purchase is 18 tickets plus a $2 service fee. Rides typically require 3-5 tickets, while games can require 10 or more tickets.

FOOD AND DRINKS 

Treat yourself to an array of delectable options at the fair, where food lovers will find options to satisfy every craving. Indulge in classic fair favorites like ice cream, funnel cakes, kettle corn, BBQ, and corn on the cob. In addition, the World Market delivers a delicious array of global flavors, from Greek and Mexican to many other international specialties. 

For the adults looking to unwind, the beer garden offers a refreshing retreat amidst the fair’s lively atmosphere. This mature space is perfect for relaxing with friends or taking a break from the excitement. Enjoy an array of options from local craft beers and popular favorites to unique brews that reflect the region’s vibrant brewing culture. 

Embrace the fun of the carnival rides and the fair flavors, making your visit a truly memorable experience. Whether spinning on the rides or savoring the snacks, the fair offers a delightful blend of excitement and taste for everyone to enjoy.

COMFORT CLOSE BY

With so much to see and do, you’ll want to extend your stay beyond just one day. Booking your stay in Spokane Valley not only puts you close to the fairgrounds but also grants you easy access to a range of local attractions and amenities, offering the perfect blend of convenience and comfort.

The Valley hotels cater to various needs, from family-friendly accommodations with spacious rooms and on-site amenities such as outdoor pools to quieter retreats for those seeking a bit of tranquility after a day of festivities. You’ll find options that fit every budget, ensuring that there’s a perfect place for you, no matter your preference and budget.

Plus, all Valley hotels offer complimentary parking, allowing you to come and go as you please without the hassle of finding a spot. And, with easy on and off-freeway access, you can easily navigate the area.

Don’t wait to secure your accommodations—hotel rooms in the Valley fill up quickly as the fair approaches. Reserve your stay today and ensure a seamless, stress-free visit to the Spokane County Interstate Fair while experiencing all the Valley has to offer!