One of my favorite Spokane weekends is upon us—Artfest and Farm Chicks have arrived.

ArtFest is located in Coeur d’Alene Park in Browne’s Addition; admission is free and the weather is looking pretty good for a stroll in the park looking at art and talking to vendors. The art ranges in type and style widely, nearly guaranteeing that everyone who walks the show will fall in love with something. I love looking around my home seeing pieces I’ve found at ArtFest over the years. While you’re there, talk to the artists—they tend to be a friendly bunch.

Friday: 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. 
Saturday: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Farm Chicks is at the Spokane County Fair and Expo Center at 404 North Havana in Spokane on Saturday and Sunday; admission is $7 per day, so plan accordingly! Farm Chicks is a rustic and repurposed dream come true. I’m hoping to find a few more things for the garden, and it always seems like I come home with several things I discover while browsing. 

Saturday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Sunday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

You can purchase tickets early from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Fair Grounds ticket booth.

Remembering a few key items will make your time at both of these shows easier:

• a tote bag or two to carry small purchases
• water—bring a container of water to keep you hydrated
• a snack to keep you going—I like tucking a granola bar into my tote bag. Often the food options are limited and pricey at shows.
• cash—I budget by bringing cash to shows. Vendors appreciate the courtesy and I know that when the bills run out, I’ve spent my limit.
• a camera (cell cameras are perfect)—I like to take pictures as I go of items I’m thinking about purchasing, otherwise I tend to forget what I’ve seen. If you’re going to take a picture of someone’s original art, just be sure to ask if it’s okay first.

 

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