10 Best Performing Arts in Spokane and Eastern Washington, Washington

The last weekend in June, basketball mania descends on downtown Spokane as Hoopfest comes to town, a mega-tournament with more than 6,000 teams and 24,000 players playing 3-on-3 basketball on more than 400 courts on 45 city blocks. It's the world's largest event of its type, with 225,000 fans in attendance.

Farms and processing plants in Quincy throw an open house on a Saturday every September so consumers can get a closer look at where their food comes from. There are exhibits, food booths, and a farmers' market.

The association of small farms and food stands in Green Bluff (about 20 miles northeast of downtown Spokane) presents several festivals as orchard fruits come into season. Strawberries are celebrated in late June and early July, cherries in July, peaches mid-August through Labor Day, and apples late September through late October. There are also holiday festivities in November and December.

Locals and tourists flock to Riverfront Park over Labor Day for a six-day food fest featuring local fare and nonstop free live music.

Parades and other events honor the flower that gives Spokane the moniker "Lilac City."

Classical and pops concerts are presented from September through May in the historic Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox, plus special events such as the Nutcracker Ballet and free outdoor concerts at city parks in summer.

National acts, ranging from rap to heavy metal to country rock, are hosted in this 1,500-seat venue.

The Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance coordinates Spring Kick-Off Weekend in April, Spring Release Weekend in May, Celebrate Merlot in July, Fall Release Weekend in November; and Holiday Barrel Tasting in December.