Ringo Starr, Kelly Clarkson, and Sugarland among Acts at Northern Quest’s 2012 Outdoor Summer Concert Series

Written by Stephanie on June 23rd, 2012

Photo by Young Kwak from Inlander.com.

The weather is getting warm and sunny in Spokane (finally!), and it’s time for outdoor concert season. Last year, Northern Quest Casino and Resort in Airway Heights opened its wonderful new addition to the region’s summer concert venues, an outdoor pavilion with 11,000 square feet of space that holds over 5,000 people. Small enough to feel intimate, but big enough to attract big music acts. The sound quality is great, and there is room for dancing or sitting on the grass if you don’t want to stay in your assigned seat.

The Pepsi Outdoor Summer Concerts series at Northern Quest began on June 15 with John Fogerty (of Credence Clearwater Revival). Ringo Starr (former Beatle) plays on July 13, and Earth, Wind, and Fire play on July 19. Kelly Clarkson and the Fray take the stage on July 22, and Journey, along with Loverboy and Pat Benatar, will be entertaining ‘80s rock enthusiasts on July 29 (you’re out of luck if you don’t have a ticket because this one is sold out!). In August, you can see Darius Rucker (formerly of Hootie and the Blowfish) on the 4^th, country stars Sugarland on the 16^th, and bearded rockers ZZ top on the 25^th. Heart will wrap up the season on September 9.

Shows begin from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.; check the website for exact times. You may want to come early for dinner or drinks—the resort boasts 14 restaurants and lounges with a variety of cuisine. Food and drink vendors serve in the concert pavilion as well, including alcoholic beverages.

Tickets can be purchased by calling the Northern Quest Box Office at 1-877-777-5252 or online at northernquest.com. Prices range from $30 to $150. Hotel packages are available at the resort. All concerts require guests 16 years or younger to be accompanied by an adult.

If you don’t want to drive home after the concert, Stratford Suites is just a couple of minutes away from Northern Quest and offers luxurious one- and two-bedroom suites at an affordable price.