Summer Festival Season Begins with ArtFest and Elkfest, Two Back-to-Back Weekends of Food, Art, and Music

Written by Stephanie on June 1st, 2012

Kids can make their own art at ArtFest.

The next two weekends are perfect for spending in Spokane, with a lot of live music, art, and fun for the low admission price of $0.00. The 27^th annual ArtFest runs June 1–3, and the annual indie music celebration Elkfest will be held June 8–10. Both of these popular events are outdoors in Browne’s Addition, and both are free! In previous years, both festivals occurred on the same weekend, causing dilemmas of which shows to choose. This year, you don’t have to miss anything at Elkfest because your favorite band is playing at ArtFest.

The MAC Museum of Arts and Culture ArtFest consists of three days of fine music, good food, the fun children’s hands-on art making area, and over 160 fine artists and craftspeople. Come see and buy unique furniture, glass, ceramics, fiber art, drawings, paintings, jewelry, leather art, food, and more. The event is held in Coeur d’Alene Park, just west of downtown in Browne’s. Hours are Friday, noon–8 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m.–8 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. There will be live music and beer gardens until 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Click here for a list of participating artists. Some of Spokane’s best bands will be performing, including Six Foot Swing, Angela Marie Project, and Sammy Eubanks.

Elkfest indie music festival

The Elk restaurant in Browne’s Addition will serve up good food and drink along with an incredible three days of live music at the 8^th annual Elkfest on June 8–10. Over 10,000 people come every year to listen and dance to local and regional indie bands. The event is free and open to the public, and kids are welcome. The festival has the feel of a neighborhood block party, with the street blocked to traffic and the stage set up right next to the restaurant. The line up of bands includes My Goodness, Emily Wells, Whiskey Dick Mountain, the Camaros, and the Globes. Elkfest runs Friday, June 8, 5–10 p.m. and Saturday/Sunday 1–10 p.m.