Vibefest, coming Saturday to Spokane Valley, evokes the spirit of Elkfest

Bradley Rust fondly remembers Elkfest as being a highlight of summer growing up in the Spokane area. After it was announced that the local music festival would not return for summer 2018, Rust decided that this unfortunate turn of events was no reason for Spokane audiences to forgo live music this summer.

Rust came up with the idea for Vibefest and his friend Quincy Robertson hopped on board to help him with promotion for the event. The new music festival will be held on Saturday at Mirabeau Park Meadows in Spokane Valley.

The festival is not only inspired by Elkfest; it takes cues from the “happenings” of the 1960’s. “It’s going to be an old-school shindig type of thing,” said Rust. “There’s going to be music and everyone just comes and contributes what they can.”

Due to venue regulations, Vibefest will not have food or drink vendors at the event; it is encouraged for audience members to pack a picnic lunch.

“It’s really going to be a product of how involved the community wants to get,” Rust said.

The festival lineup includes many of Spokane’s local talents, including reggae artist Jus Wright and soul/R&B singer Blake Braley. Two bands, Pants and Waxer, will make the trek from Seattle to perform at the inaugural Vibefest.

Additional local artists include Brotha Nature and Tyler Alai featuring Willis, among others. Side stages will house EDM and hip-hop music.

Rust adds that there will truly be music for everyone at the festival, which he hopes will become an annual event. “Everyone from my grandma to my little cousins will be there,” he said. “Anyone who just wants to dance or have a good time is more than welcome.”