This spring festival in Washington state is renowned as the season’s official start. And you’ll know when that time is near in 2024 as there’s nothing more quintessentially spring than the scent of fragrant lilacs in bloom. These vibrant lavender-hued beauties are a symbol of renewal and growth. For 86 years, the City of Spokane, Washington has beautifully celebrated their arrival. The annual Spokane Lilac Festival has been a popular tradition for decades and it’s the most colorful festival in Washington. This year’s event celebrates all who “Dare to Dream.”

Since 1938, the spring festival in Washington State has been a time-honored tradition for the Lilac City of Spokane.
spring festival in washington state
Spokane Lilac Festival/Facebook
Established by the Associated Garden Clubs and the Spokane Floral Society, Lilac Festival was founded to showcase spring in Washington state, Spokane's beautiful lilacs, and area youth.
Although the festival has grown to include many activities, in the early days of the event, the coronation of the Lilac Court and a parade commemorated the festival.
spring festival in washington state
Spokane Lilac Festival/Facebook
And the crowds are just as excited as they were years ago to watch them go by at the Lilac Festival in Washington.
spring festival in washington state
Spokane Lilac Festival/Facebook
This year, the annual festival's main events take place May 17-20 featuring a variety of fun family events with some others featured throughout the week.
One includes the showcasing of talented local artists at the Lilac Legacy Art Show & Competition in the hopes of being named Festival Artist of the Year.
spring festival in washington state
Fête - A Nectar Co, 120 N Stevens St, Spokane, WA 99201, USA
Spokane Lilac Festival/Facebook
This year the extravaganza takes place at 6:00 p.m. on May 14 at Fête – A Nectar Co.

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Enjoy music, food trucks, and an array of classic cars at the Cruzin' The Falls Car Show on May 18 at 9:00 a.m.
spring festival in washington state
Visit Spokane
Check out meticulously restored cars from every era downtown before the much-anticipated Torchlight Parade.
Brewfest is a popular festival event among the 21+ crowd.
Riverfront Park, 507 N Howard St, Spokane, WA 99201, USA
Lilac City Brew Fest/Facebook
The festival certainly offers plenty of activities for the whole family. However, if you're looking for some adult libations, stop by Brewfest in the Riverfront Park West Pavilion on May 18, beginning at 1:00 p.m. Brewfest features award-winning breweries from the region. Advance ticket purchase is recommended.
Surely the highlight of this spring festival in Washington State is the Armed Forces Torchlight Parade on May 18, downtown at 7:30 p.m.
Spokane Lilac Festival/Facebook
Without a doubt, the parade is not to be missed.
Downtown streets of Spokane are filled with marching bands, dance teams, equestrian groups, sparkling floats, and more.
Spokane Lilac Festival
Expect to arrive early for the best spot to view the festivities. After all, you won't want to miss a minute of one of the best things to do in Washington in spring.

This spring festival in Washington state brings people together and promotes a sense of community. Be there to see it all take place. For more information, visit the Spokane Lilac Festival website. Have you attended the Lilac Festival? Do you have a favorite event? Let us know in the comments below.
Shop for all things lilac on Etsy. And while you’re in Spokane, visit a cool train that was converted to a diner.

This Train Car In Washington Is Actually A Restaurant And You Need To Visit

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Restaurants In Spokane, Washington

Carolyn Harmon | March 01, 2024

What are some of the best restaurants in Spokane, Washington?

  • Steam Plant: Built in 1916, the Central Steam Heat Plant was critical to business district owners on which they relied for heat for 70 years. It was closed in 1986, and some dreamers and visionaries reopened it as an architectural wonder. Inside you can still find original pipes lining the walls and ceiling along with luscious steaks finished with Steam Plant's signature butter and served with garlic mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables, fresh seafood, salads, and pizza. And the kids even have their own menu in this fancy joint.
  • Veraci: Since 2009, the staff here has been hand-tossing homemade dough and baking it in wood-fired ovens. What started as a mobile company transformed into a brick-and-mortar eatery in Kendall Yards when the name was changed to Versalia Pizza in 2014. And while the pies are exceptional, the views overlooking the river and city skyline are dreamy. The imagination flows with the Brussels & Bacon pizza and even the brownies are wood-fired!
  • Clinkerdagger: This restaurant has become a long-standing tradition for folks celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, and graduations for more than 40 years. And, it overlooks the shimmering Spokane River and the city skyline. Get away from work and treat yourself to lunch or take your mother because you love her. At this classic American grill, you can count on quality cuisine from fresh Columbia River Steelhead to Oven-Roasted Crab and Artichoke Dip. Enjoy the live entertainment, craft cocktails, and excellent service.

 

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