Southeast Spokane Fair this weekend in Rockford

If it’s time for Valleyfest, it is also time for the Southeast Spokane County Fair in Rockford. The two events have been held mostly on the same weekend for 20 years, but with proper planning it’s possible to visit both events.

The fair opens at 9 a.m. Friday and the carnival opens at 3 p.m. All the livestock judging happens before the exhibit buildings close at 8 p.m. Most of the events, however, are scheduled for Saturday. The Lions Club will host its breakfast at the fire station from 7 to 10 a.m. and if you want to participate in the Harvest Hustle Fun Run, check in at 7:45 a.m. at Dave’s Auto Body. The cost of the breakfast is $6 for adults and $3 for ages 6 to 12.

Kids can bring their bikes and little red wagons for the children’s parade down Emma and First streets at 10:15 a.m., followed by the grand parade at 10:30 a.m. Games and races for kids will follow the parade. The afternoon includes a 3-on-3 basketball tournament from noon to 6 p.m., live entertainment, a pie-eating contest at 2:30 p.m. and a variety show at 3:30 p.m. New this year is Cow Chip Bingo beginning at 2 p.m. in the ballpark. There will be cash prizes.

The exhibit buildings are open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Sunday’s events include a continuation of the 3-on-3 basketball tournament, a horse show in the ballpark that starts at 9 a.m., a community worship service at 10 a.m. and more live entertainment.

To reach the fairgrounds, head south from Spokane Valley on state Highway 27 to Rockford. Turn left on Emma, then right on First. Admission to the fair is free. For a complete schedule, visit www.sespokanecountyfair.org.