So, you're thinking about heading to the Spokane Interstate Fair this year? Good call. Let's dive right in and cover all the bases – from dates and tickets to the wild rides and tasty eats. I've been going for years, and trust me, it's a blast, but there are things I wish I'd known earlier. Like that time I showed up without cash and missed out on the best corn dogs. We'll get to all that.

What exactly is this fair? If you're new to Spokane, the Spokane Interstate Fair is this massive annual event held at the Spokane County Fairgrounds. It kicks off every September and runs for about 10 days, packing in everything from carnival games and live music to farm animal shows. Families love it, couples find it romantic, and honestly, it's a staple of fall in the Pacific Northwest. Personally, I find the agricultural exhibits fascinating – seeing those prize-winning pumpkins or sheep always reminds me of my childhood visits with my grandpa. But hey, let's not get too nostalgic.

What Is the Spokane Interstate Fair All About?

Simply put, the Spokane Interstate Fair is like a county fair on steroids. It started back in the late 1800s as a small gathering for local farmers and has exploded into a full-blown celebration of community, agriculture, and entertainment. Why should you care? Well, if you're searching for things to do in Spokane during September, this is it. The whole vibe is upbeat and family-focused, with something for every age group. I noticed last year that the crowds were huge on weekends, though – it gets packed. On the downside, some areas felt overcrowded, but that's a sign of its popularity.

Key Features That Make It Stand Out

Here's a quick rundown of what sets the Spokane Interstate Fair apart. You've got live concerts every night, often featuring local bands or even big-name acts (tickets sometimes sell out fast). Then there's the midway with all those thrilling rides – I remember screaming my head off on the Ferris wheel with my kids. The animal barns are a hit too; my daughter couldn't get enough of the baby goats. But the food? That's where it shines. Think classic fair fare like deep-fried everything, but with a Northwest twist. Oh, and they host competitions like pie-baking contests and craft displays. It's not just fun; it's educational if you're into learning about regional farming.

One thing I didn't expect was how tiring a full day at the fair can be. By evening, my feet were killing me – so wear comfy shoes, folks. And if you're wondering if it's worth the hype, I'd say yes overall, but skip the overpriced games unless you're feeling lucky.

Dates, Location, and Getting to the Fair

Alright, let's get practical. When is the Spokane Interstate Fair happening? It's always in September, usually starting around the second week and running through the third. For 2024, mark your calendars: it kicks off on September 6th and wraps up on September 15th. Gates open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, but rides and vendors start later, around noon. On weekends, expect longer hours – till 11 PM.

Where is it held? At the Spokane County Fair and Expo Center. Full address is 404 N Havana St, Spokane Valley, WA 99212. It's easy to find if you're driving; just plug that into your GPS. From downtown Spokane, it's about a 15-minute drive east. Parking? Yeah, it's available onsite for $10 per car. But let me warn you, parking fills up fast on Saturdays. Last time I went, I ended up circling for 20 minutes – not fun. There's also public transport: Spokane Transit buses run routes to the fairgrounds from key spots in the city. Check their website for schedules.

Fair Hours Breakdown by Day

To plan your visit, here's a handy table with opening times. Keep in mind, some attractions have limited hours, so arrive early for popular stuff like the rodeo.

If you're driving, aim to arrive before noon on weekdays to avoid traffic. Or take a bus – route 44 drops you right at the gate. Once inside, grab a map; the layout can be confusing at first. I got lost trying to find the beer garden once, and that was frustrating. But overall, accessibility is a plus – the venue is flat and stroller-friendly.

Tickets, Pricing, and How to Save Money

Let's talk money. How much does it cost to get into the Spokane Interstate Fair? Admission prices vary by age and day, but here's the scoop. General admission for adults is $15 on weekends and $12 on weekdays. Kids aged 6-12 pay $8, and little ones under 6 get in free. But that's just the gate price – if you buy online in advance, you can save a few bucks. I always do that; it cuts down on waiting in line too.

Rides and games cost extra. Most rides require tickets, sold at kiosks around the fair. A single ticket runs $1.25, but the big attractions might need 4-6 tickets. That adds up fast. My advice? Buy a wristband if you plan to ride a lot. Unlimited ride bands cost $35 per person and are worth it if you hit up 5-6 rides. On the downside, food isn't cheap – expect $8-12 for a meal like a burger or fried dough. Drinks are $3-5. Budget about $50-75 per person for a full day, including entry, rides, and food.

Ticket Options and Discounts

Here's a breakdown to help you save. They offer deals like family passes or senior discounts. Military members get reduced rates with ID. Check their website early for promotions.

Is it worth the cost? Honestly, if you budget right, yes. But skip the games – they're a money pit. Focus on free stuff like the animal shows or concerts. Bring snacks to cut food costs. I saw families doing that, and it's smart.

Top Attractions and Events You Can't Miss

Now, the fun part – what to actually do at the Spokane Interstate Fair. The attractions are endless, but I'll highlight the must-sees. First up, the midway rides. They've got classics like the Tilt-A-Whirl and newer scream machines. Kiddie rides are safe and fun for toddlers. Then there's the entertainment stage – last year's lineup included local bands and even a tribute to 80s rock. My favorite? The demolition derby; it's loud, messy, and totally exhilarating.

Animal lovers, you're in luck. The barns host daily livestock shows, plus a petting zoo with goats and rabbits. It's educational – kids learn about farming. But the lines can be long, especially after noon. Pro tip: hit the animals early. Food-wise, the fair is a paradise. Vendors sell everything from classic corn dogs to quirky Northwest treats like huckleberry ice cream. I tried the deep-fried pickles once – weird but addictive. Prices range from $5 for snacks to $15 for full meals.

Best Food and Drink Stands

Here's a quick list of the top eats based on my visits. Aim for stands near the center – they're less crowded.

• Grandma's Funnel Cakes – Right by the entrance; $8 for a huge serving. Messy but worth it.
• Northwest BBQ Pit – Pulled pork sandwiches for $12; smoky and tender.
• Spokane Sweets – Huckleberry ice cream; $6 a scoop. Unique local flavor.
• Carnival Corn Dogs – Classic and cheap at $5; perfect for kids.

Drinks? Beer gardens serve local brews for $7 a pint. Or grab lemonade for $4. I found the lines shorter near the animal exhibits.

Must-See Events Schedule

Planning your day? Refer to this table for key events. Times can shift, so check the fair app.

I missed the rodeo once because I lost track of time – set phone reminders. And if concerts are your thing, arrive early for good seats.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Okay, let's cover how to make your Spokane Interstate Fair trip smooth. First, what to wear? Comfy shoes are non-negotiable – you'll walk miles. Dress in layers; September weather in Spokane can swing from warm days to cool nights. I wore shorts last year and froze by evening. Pack sunscreen and hats; shade is sparse.

With kids? Bring a stroller or wagon – the place is huge. Stroller rentals are available but expensive at $15 a day. Diaper changing stations are in restrooms near the entrance. For safety, tag younger ones with your phone number. Lost kids get help fast at info booths.

Money matters: Bring cash. Some vendors don't take cards, and ATMs charge fees. I learned that the hard way. Budget for extras like souvenirs or games. Parking costs $10, paid on entry. Arrive early to snag a close spot.

Essential Packing Checklist

Here's what you absolutely need. Pack light but smart.

1. Cash – Aim for $50-100 per person for food and fun.
2. Comfortable walking shoes – Trust me, your feet will thank you.
3. Reusable water bottle – Fill-up stations are free; beats buying $4 waters.
4. Sunscreen and hat – Sunburn ruins a good day.
5. Portable phone charger – You'll snap tons of photos and drain your battery.

Accessibility is good – ramps and wide paths everywhere. But crowds can be overwhelming. Avoid peak times if you dislike noise.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Spokane Interstate Fair

Got burning questions? I'll tackle the top ones I've heard or searched online. This might save you some hassle.

If you're driving from out of town, hotels near the fairgrounds book up fast. I stayed at the nearby Red Lion last year – basic but convenient. Or camp at Riverside State Park if you're adventurous.

Overall, the Spokane Interstate Fair is a highlight of Spokane life. It's got its flaws – crowds and costs can bite – but the memories are priceless. Plan ahead, pack smart, and you'll have a blast. See you there!