What's New in Spokane • August 12, 2026

Spokane Blues Concerts Schedule: Fall 2026 Live Music Guide

by Ronda Swanson

Promotional graphic for Spokane blues concerts in fall 2026 featuring a sunburst electric guitar and a link to read the live music guide.

If you love great guitar playing, the Inland Northwest has a phenomenal season lined up this fall.

From multi-Grammy winner Gary Clark Jr. to blues-rock veteran Kenny Wayne Shepherd celebrating three decades of his breakthrough debut album, Spokane is welcoming some of the finest blues, Southern rock, and guitar-driven talent in the country.

Whether you are looking for an evening at a grand downtown theater or an up-close-and-personal club show, here is your complete guide to the blues and blues-rock concerts coming to Spokane and the surrounding area this fall—complete with direct ticket links for every show.

Note: Show schedules and opener announcements are subject to change. Always verify door times and ticket availability directly with venue box offices before heading out.

September 2026 Blues Concerts in Spokane

Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band at First Interstate Center for the Arts

When: Thursday, September 17, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: First Interstate Center for the Arts (Spokane, WA)
Tickets: Buy Kenny Wayne Shepherd Tickets via TicketsWest
Tour: Ledbetter Heights 30th Anniversary Tour
Genre: Electric Blues-Rock

Kick off the fall concert season with one of the most celebrated names in modern electric blues. Kenny Wayne Shepherd brings his Ledbetter Heights 30th Anniversary Tour to the seated comfort of First Interstate Center for the Arts.

Released in 1995 when Shepherd was just a teenager, Ledbetter Heights helped reignite mainstream interest in guitar blues. Thirty years later, he is celebrating the milestone by performing the seminal album in its entirety, followed by signature tracks from across his three-decade career. Secure your seats through the First Interstate Center Box Office.

October 2026 Blues & Roots Lineup

Gary Clark Jr. at Knitting Factory Spokane

When: Saturday, October 17, 2026 at 8:00 p.m.
Where: Knitting Factory Spokane
Tickets: Get Gary Clark Jr. Tickets via Ticketmaster
Genre: Modern Blues / Rock / Soul

Grammy-winning virtuoso Gary Clark Jr. brings his boundary-pushing blend of blues, hip-hop, soul, and hard rock to downtown Spokane. Getting to experience an artist of Clark’s caliber in an intimate venue like the Knitting Factory is set to be one of the musical highlights of the entire year. Grab tickets directly from the Knitting Factory Spokane Calendar.

November 2026 Blues & Rock Shows

Rival Sons at Knitting Factory Spokane

When: Monday, November 2, 2026 at 8:00 p.m.
Where: Knitting Factory Spokane
Tickets: Reserve Rival Sons Tickets on Ticketmaster
Supporting Acts: The Blue Stones and The Velveteers
Tour: Domestic Bliss Tour
Genre: Blues-Rock / Classic Rock

Taking the blues into high-octane rock territory, Rival Sons bring their Domestic Bliss Tour to the Knitting Factory main stage. Joined by Canadian blues-rock duo The Blue Stones and rock trio The Velveteers, this double-header promises a heavy, riff-filled night from start to finish. Check availability on Ticketmaster.

Joanne Shaw Taylor + Robert Jon & The Wreck at Knitting Factory Spokane

When: Thursday, November 12, 2026 at 8:00 p.m.
Where: Knitting Factory Spokane
Tickets: Buy Joanne Shaw Taylor Tickets via Ticketmaster
Genre: British Blues-Rock / Southern Rock

Acclaimed British blues-rock guitarist and vocalist Joanne Shaw Taylor teams up with Southern rock outfit Robert Jon & The Wreck for a co-headlining evening of soulful, roots-heavy music in downtown Spokane. You can find reserved and general admission tickets on the Knitting Factory Website.

Explore More Live Music in Spokane

Spokane’s live concert calendar is packed across every major genre this season:

Country Music Fans: Check out our complete guide to Spokane Country Concerts featuring Gary Allan, The Red Clay Strays, and Gretchen Wilson.
Faith & Gospel: Browse our updated calendar of Christian Concerts in Spokane featuring Lauren Daigle, for KING + COUNTRY, and Anne Wilson.

As always, thank you for reading Homegrown Spokane. I love sharing local events, businesses, and opportunities that help make Spokane such a wonderful place to live. If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in the Spokane area, I’d be honored to help you navigate your next move. Feel free to reach out anytime—I’m always happy to be a resource for our community.

What's New in Spokane • August 12, 2026

Country Concerts Coming to Spokane: Fall 2026

by Ronda Swanson

Country concerts coming to Spokane in fall 2026 featuring a cowboy hat and acoustic guitar

If you love country music, this fall is shaping up to be a good one in Spokane.

Between late August and November, we have everything from longtime country favorites like Gary Allan, Rodney Atkins and Gretchen Wilson to newer names like The Red Clay Strays, Nate Smith and Charles Wesley Godwin.

And if your taste stretches into Americana, folk and roots music, there are even more shows worth putting on your calendar.

So whether you’re looking for a big arena concert, a night at the fair or a smaller show at The District, here are some of the country, Americana and roots concerts coming to Spokane and the surrounding area this fall.

Concert dates and details can change, so be sure to check with the venue before making plans.

The Red Clay Strays — August 26

Numerica Veterans Arena, Spokane

We’re starting with one of the biggest shows on the list.

The Red Clay Strays bring their Grateful Tour to Spokane on Wednesday, August 26. The Alabama band has built a huge following with a sound that blends country, Southern rock, blues and soul.

They’re joined in Spokane by Wyatt Flores and Sweet Talk, making this a pretty impressive way to kick off the fall concert season.

When: Wednesday, August 26
Where: Numerica Veterans Arena, Spokane
With: Wyatt Flores and Sweet Talk

Get tickets and concert information from Numerica Veterans Arena

Willie Watson & Erin Rae — August 29

The District, Spokane

If your taste in country leans more toward Americana, folk and old-time roots music, this one deserves a spot on your calendar.

Willie Watson was a founding member of Old Crow Medicine Show and has continued making roots-driven music as a solo artist. He’ll be joined by singer-songwriter Erin Rae for an intimate night at The District.

This isn’t mainstream country radio — and that’s exactly why it belongs on this list. It’s a good one for listeners who appreciate acoustic music, storytelling and the folkier side of country.

When: Saturday, August 29 at 8 p.m.
Where: The District, Spokane

Get tickets from The District/Knitting Factory

Anne Wilson — September 11

Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox, Spokane

Anne Wilson has built a huge following by bringing country influences into contemporary Christian music.

Her STARS Tour comes to The Fox this September, giving Spokane fans a chance to hear newer music alongside songs that helped make her one of Christian music’s biggest rising artists.

When: Friday, September 11 at 7 p.m.
Where: Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox, Spokane

Get tickets from The Fox

And if Christian music is more your thing, I’ve put together a separate guide with Lauren Daigle, for KING + COUNTRY, Steven Curtis Chapman, Tauren Wells and more.

See my guide to Christian concerts coming to Spokane this fall

September 15 Is a BIG Night for Country Music in Spokane

Country fans are going to have some decisions to make on September 15.

There are several country shows happening around the Spokane area that night, including one particularly nostalgic lineup at the Interstate Fair.

Gretchen Wilson & The Band Perry — September 15

Spokane County Interstate Fair, Spokane Valley

This might be the nostalgia pick of the fall.

Gretchen Wilson and The Band Perry share the stage at the Spokane County Interstate Fair.

If songs like Redneck Woman take you right back — or you remember when If I Die Young seemed to be playing everywhere — this could be your show.

Even better, your concert ticket includes admission to the fair.

When: Tuesday, September 15 at 7 p.m.
Where: Spokane County Interstate Fair, Spokane Valley

See ticket options and concert information from Spokane County

Stephen Wilson Jr. — September 15

BECU Live at Northern Quest, Airway Heights

Stephen Wilson Jr. offers something quite different on the same night.

His music lands somewhere between country, Americana and rock, making this a good choice if you prefer the grittier, singer-songwriter side of modern country.

When: Tuesday, September 15
Where: BECU Live at Northern Quest, Airway Heights

Check tickets and event details at Northern Quest

Waylon Wyatt — September 15

Knitting Factory, Spokane

And yes, there’s another country option on September 15.

Waylon Wyatt is part of a younger generation of country and Americana singer-songwriters attracting attention with a more stripped-down sound.

If you like discovering artists before they’re playing the biggest venues, this might be the September 15 show for you.

When: Tuesday, September 15
Where: Knitting Factory, Spokane

Get tickets from Knitting Factory Spokane

Nate Smith — September 17

Spokane County Interstate Fair, Spokane Valley

The fair keeps the country music going with Nate Smith on September 17.

Smith has become one of the recognizable voices in newer mainstream country, making this another big addition to the Interstate Fair’s concert lineup.

When: Thursday, September 17 at 7 p.m.
Where: Spokane County Interstate Fair, Spokane Valley

See tickets and fair concert information

Joshua Ray Walker — September 17

The District, Spokane

If you’d rather trade the fair grandstand for a smaller venue, there’s another option that night.

Singer-songwriter Joshua Ray Walker comes to The District with Fabrizio. Walker’s music has deep traditional-country and Americana roots, making this a particularly good pick for listeners who appreciate storytelling.

When: Thursday, September 17 at 9 p.m.
Where: The District, Spokane

Get tickets from The District/Knitting Factory

Rodney Atkins — September 18

Spokane Live at Spokane Tribe Resort & Casino, Airway Heights

Here’s one for longtime country radio fans.

Rodney Atkins comes to Spokane Live on September 18 with a catalog that includes familiar country favorites like Watching You, These Are My People and Take a Back Road.

If 2000s country is your era, this is probably one you’ll want to circle.

When: Friday, September 18 at 8 p.m.
Where: Spokane Live at Spokane Tribe Resort & Casino, Airway Heights

Get Rodney Atkins tickets through AXS

Gary Allan — October 10

Spokane Live at Spokane Tribe Resort & Casino, Airway Heights

This is one I definitely wouldn’t overlook.

Gary Allan comes to Spokane Live in October, bringing more than three decades of country music with him.

Fans will recognize songs like Man to Man, Tough Little Boys, Nothing On but the Radio and Every Storm (Runs Out of Rain).

For longtime country listeners, Gary Allan is easily one of the biggest names on Spokane’s fall country calendar.

When: Saturday, October 10 at 8 p.m.
Where: Spokane Live at Spokane Tribe Resort & Casino, Airway Heights

Get Gary Allan tickets through AXS

Paul Cauthen — October 13

Knitting Factory, Spokane

Paul Cauthen isn’t your typical Nashville country artist.

His unmistakably deep voice and style mix outlaw country, rock and soul, and he’s developed a devoted following because of it.

If you like your country a little unconventional, this could be one of the more interesting shows of the fall.

When: Tuesday, October 13 at 8 p.m.
Where: Knitting Factory, Spokane

Get tickets from Knitting Factory Spokane

John Moreland — October 16

The District, Spokane

Singer-songwriter John Moreland comes to The District with Georgia Maq.

Moreland falls firmly on the Americana and folk-country side of this list and is especially worth checking out if great songwriting is what draws you to country music.

When: Friday, October 16 at 9 p.m.
Where: The District, Spokane

Get tickets from The District/Knitting Factory

Lakeview — October 18

The District, Spokane

Country meets hard rock when Lakeview brings the Wreck My Night Tour to Spokane.

If your playlists regularly bounce between country and rock, this might be one of the more interesting shows on the calendar.

When: Sunday, October 18 at 8 p.m.
Where: The District, Spokane

Get tickets from The District/Knitting Factory

Jay Webb — October 20

The District, Spokane

Jay Webb brings the HOMESICK Tour to Spokane on October 20.

He’s part of a newer wave of artists blending country influences with a modern sound, so this could be a good opportunity to discover someone you don’t already have on your playlist.

When: Tuesday, October 20 at 8 p.m.
Where: The District, Spokane

Get tickets from The District/Knitting Factory

Charles Wesley Godwin — October 21

Knitting Factory, Spokane

This may be one of the shows Americana and country fans are most excited about.

Charles Wesley Godwin has developed a passionate following with his storytelling, songwriting and roots-driven country sound.

He brings his Christian Name Tour to the Knitting Factory with Lily Fitts.

When: Wednesday, October 21 at 8 p.m.
Where: Knitting Factory, Spokane
With: Lily Fitts

Get tickets from Knitting Factory Spokane

Katie Pruitt — November 1

The District, Spokane

Singer-songwriter Katie Pruitt brings the Fools for the Fleeting Tour to Spokane.

Her music lands more on the Americana and singer-songwriter end of the spectrum, making this another good choice for listeners who appreciate intimate, lyric-driven music.

When: Sunday, November 1 at 9 p.m.
Where: The District, Spokane

Get tickets from The District/Knitting Factory

Evan Honer — November 9

Knitting Factory, Spokane

Evan Honer is another rising singer-songwriter finding an audience among folk, Americana and country listeners.

He brings his It’s An Even Longer Road Tour to Spokane in November.

When: Monday, November 9 at 8 p.m.
Where: Knitting Factory, Spokane

Get tickets from Knitting Factory Spokane

Graham Barham — November 17

The District, Spokane

Graham Barham rounds out our current fall list with his Club Country Tour.

Barham represents the newer side of country music, and seeing a rising artist at a smaller venue like The District can be a lot of fun.

When: Tuesday, November 17 at 8 p.m.
Where: The District, Spokane

Get tickets from The District/Knitting Factory

That’s a Lot of Country Music for One Fall

From Gary Allan, Rodney Atkins, Gretchen Wilson and The Band Perry to The Red Clay Strays, Nate Smith, Willie Watson and Charles Wesley Godwin, Spokane country fans have a lot to choose from over the next few months.

And that’s before any additional fall or winter shows are announced.

So now I want to know: Which one are you going to?

If you hear about another country, Americana or roots concert coming to the Spokane area that I missed, send it my way. I’ll keep updating this guide as new shows are announced.

Looking for More Live Music in Spokane?

Country isn’t the only genre bringing some great artists to town this fall.

I’ve also rounded up the Christian concerts coming to Spokane, including Lauren Daigle, for KING + COUNTRY, Steven Curtis Chapman, Anne Wilson and the Air1 Worship Now Tour.

See the Christian concerts coming to Spokane this fall →

Love Spokane? Let’s Talk Real Estate.

One of the reasons I love putting together Homegrown Spokane is that there’s always something new to discover about the place we call home.

And when you’re ready for a change in where you call home, I’m here for that too.

Whether you’re thinking about buying a home, selling your current home, downsizing, moving closer to family or simply wondering what your Spokane-area home is worth, I’d be happy to help you figure out your next step.

Recipes • August 12, 2026

Cheesy Beef & Rice Skillet

by Ronda Swanson

Cheesy Beef and Rice Skillet made with seasoned ground beef, rice, corn, and melted cheddar cheese.

Cheesy Beef & Rice Skillet

When you need a quick dinner that the whole family can enjoy, this Cheesy Beef & Rice Skillet is hard to beat. Ground beef, rice, corn, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese come together in one skillet for a hearty meal that’s ready in about 30 minutes.

This easy ground beef and rice recipe is especially handy for busy weeknights because it uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients and only dirties one pan. It’s also a great way to use leftover cooked rice!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Beef & Rice Skillet

This is one of those simple dinners worth keeping in your regular meal rotation.

Ready in about 30 minutes
Made in one skillet for easy cleanup
Uses simple, inexpensive ingredients
Great for using up leftover rice
Family-friendly and filling
Easy to customize with different vegetables or cheeses

Cheesy Beef & Rice Skillet Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
2 cups cooked rice
1 cup frozen corn
1 cup chicken or beef broth
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Add the ground beef to a large skillet and cook over medium heat until browned and completely cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
Add the cooked rice, frozen corn, broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Stir everything together and cook for about 5–7 minutes, or until everything is heated through and most of the broth has been absorbed.
Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese evenly over the top.
Cover the skillet for a few minutes, just until the cheese is melted.
Serve warm and enjoy!

What Kind of Rice Should I Use?

One of the best things about this ground beef and rice skillet is that you can use whatever cooked rice you already have. White rice, jasmine rice, basmati rice, or brown rice can all work.

Leftover rice is especially convenient because there’s no need to cook another pot of rice before starting dinner.

Easy Ways to Customize It

This cheesy beef skillet is easy to change depending on what you have in the refrigerator or freezer.

Try adding peas, diced bell peppers, broccoli, or mixed frozen vegetables. You can also swap the cheddar for Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a Mexican-style cheese blend.

For a little extra flavor, add a sprinkle of paprika, chili powder, or your favorite seasoning blend.

What to Serve With Cheesy Beef & Rice

Since this recipe already includes beef, rice, corn, and cheese, it can easily be served as a complete meal on its own.

If you’d like something on the side, pair it with green beans, steamed broccoli, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftover Cheesy Beef & Rice Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm them in a skillet over low heat. If the rice seems a little dry after refrigeration, add a small splash of broth before reheating.

A Quick Ground Beef Dinner for Busy Nights

This Cheesy Beef & Rice Skillet is a great recipe for nights when you need something quick, filling, and uncomplicated. With seasoned ground beef, tender rice, sweet corn, and lots of melted cheddar, you can have a comforting family dinner on the table in about 30 minutes.

And with everything made in one skillet, cleanup is just as easy as dinner!

Recipes • August 12, 2026

Crock Pot French Onion Chicken

by Ronda Swanson

Crock Pot French Onion Chicken

If you need a cozy dinner that takes almost no effort, this Crock Pot French Onion Chicken is a great recipe to add to your weeknight rotation. Tender chicken cooks slowly in a creamy, savory onion gravy and is finished with a layer of melted cheese.

With only 5 minutes of prep, this easy slow cooker chicken recipe is perfect for busy days. Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes with green beans on the side for a simple, filling family dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot French Onion Chicken

There’s a lot to love about this simple slow cooker meal:

Only 5 minutes of prep before the Crock Pot does the rest.
Simple ingredients you may already have in your pantry.
Plenty of gravy that’s perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes.
Family-friendly flavors with creamy chicken, savory onion, and melted cheese.
Easy weeknight dinner that makes six servings.

Crock Pot French Onion Chicken Recipe

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5–6 hours on LOW or 3–4 hours on HIGH
Servings: 6

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 packet onion soup mix
1 can cream of chicken soup
½ cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1½ cups shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese

Instructions

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the Crock Pot.
In a bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, onion soup mix, chicken broth, and garlic powder.
Pour the mixture evenly over the chicken.
Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
During the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese over the chicken.
Cover again and allow the cheese to melt.
Serve the chicken with plenty of the creamy onion gravy spooned over the top.

What to Serve With French Onion Chicken

Mashed potatoes are especially good with this recipe. The slow cooker creates plenty of creamy onion gravy, and the mashed potatoes soak up all that extra sauce.

Add a side of green beans for an easy, complete dinner. Broccoli, roasted carrots, asparagus, or a simple salad would also pair well with the rich chicken and gravy.

Mozzarella or Swiss Cheese?

Either works! Swiss cheese gives the dish more of the classic French onion flavor, while mozzarella is mild, creamy, and melts beautifully.

You can even use a combination of the two if you have both on hand.

Can I Use Chicken Tenderloins?

Yes. Chicken tenderloins can be used instead of chicken breasts, but because they’re smaller, they may cook more quickly. Check them earlier to avoid overcooking.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftover Crock Pot French Onion Chicken and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

When reheating, spoon some of the gravy over the chicken to help keep it moist. Leftovers are especially good served over fresh mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.

An Easy Crock Pot Dinner for Busy Days

This Crock Pot French Onion Chicken is a simple comfort-food dinner that’s perfect when you don’t have much time to cook. Add everything to the slow cooker, let it cook until tender, and finish it with plenty of melted cheese.

Serve it over mashed potatoes with green beans, spoon that creamy onion gravy over everything, and dinner is done.

Recipes • August 12, 2026

Sheet Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes

by Ronda Swanson

Sheet pan garlic Parmesan chicken and baby potatoes roasted with butter, garlic, Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.

Sheet Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes

If you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner that doesn’t leave you with a sink full of dishes, this Sheet Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes is a great one to add to your meal rotation. Tender chicken, buttery garlic Parmesan potatoes, and plenty of savory seasoning all cook together on one pan.

With just 10 minutes of prep time, this easy sheet pan chicken dinner is perfect for busy nights when you want something filling and homemade without spending hours in the kitchen. Everything goes into the oven together, making both cooking and cleanup simple.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

This recipe checks all the boxes for an easy family dinner:

One-pan meal: Chicken and potatoes cook together on a single sheet pan.
Quick prep: You only need about 10 minutes to get everything ready.
Family-friendly flavors: Garlic, butter, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning make a combination everyone can enjoy.
Simple ingredients: No complicated sauces or hard-to-find ingredients.
Feeds the family: This recipe makes about six servings.

Sheet Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken breasts or chicken tenderloins
1½ lbs baby potatoes, halved
3 tablespoons butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Lightly grease a large sheet pan.
Arrange the chicken and halved baby potatoes on the prepared pan in a single layer.
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Drizzle the garlic butter mixture evenly over the chicken and potatoes, tossing the potatoes as needed to coat them.
Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken and potatoes.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the potatoes are fork-tender.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Sheet Pan Chicken and Potatoes

Try to cut the potatoes into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly. Small baby potatoes work especially well because they become tender in about the same amount of time it takes the chicken to cook.

If you’re using large or especially thick chicken breasts, consider cutting them into smaller portions or using chicken tenderloins. This helps the chicken and potatoes finish cooking at approximately the same time.

For a little extra Parmesan flavor, sprinkle additional grated Parmesan over everything just before serving.

What to Serve With Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Since the chicken and potatoes are already cooked together, you don’t need much to turn this into a complete dinner. Try serving it with steamed broccoli, green beans, roasted carrots, asparagus, or a simple side salad.

You could also add vegetables directly to the sheet pan. Broccoli or green beans can be added during the last 15–20 minutes of cooking so they don’t become overcooked.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftover garlic Parmesan chicken and potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick lunch, or warm the leftovers in the oven or air fryer to help the potatoes crisp back up.

An Easy One-Pan Dinner for Busy Nights

This Sheet Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes is the kind of recipe that’s worth keeping on hand for busy weeknights. It uses simple ingredients, requires very little prep, and gives you tender chicken and flavorful Parmesan potatoes all from one pan.

Best of all, there are fewer dishes to wash when dinner is over!

Listing Your Home • August 11, 2026

What Is My Spokane Home Worth? A Guide to Your Home’s Value

by Ronda Swanson

If you’ve owned your Spokane home for several years, there’s a good chance you’ve wondered how much it’s worth today.

Maybe you’ve checked Zillow. Maybe you watched a similar home sell and were surprised by the price. Or maybe you received an online estimate that made you wonder whether your home could really be worth that much.

And if you’re beginning to think about selling—even if that move is still a year or two away—understanding your home’s current market value is an important place to start.

One of the most common questions I hear from homeowners is:

“What is my home actually worth?”

Online estimates can give you a general idea, but determining what a buyer may actually pay for your Spokane home requires looking at much more than an algorithm.

What Determines Your Home’s Market Value?

At its simplest, your home’s market value is what a qualified buyer is willing to pay for it in the current market.

Arriving at that number, however, isn’t always simple.

Two homes can have similar square footage and the same number of bedrooms and bathrooms and still sell for very different prices.

That’s because buyers aren’t purchasing square footage alone. They’re reacting to the entire property.

Your home’s value can be influenced by:

Square footage and floor plan
Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
Lot size and setting
Age and architectural style
Overall condition
Updates and renovations
Garage and parking
Views or special features
Recent comparable sales
Current competing homes for sale

The challenge isn’t simply gathering that information. It’s understanding how today’s buyers are likely to value it.

How Accurate Is Zillow for Spokane Home Values?

Zillow and other automated home-value tools can be useful starting points.

They can help you get a general sense of how your home’s estimated value may have changed over time.

But there’s something important to remember:

An algorithm hasn’t walked through your front door.

It may not know that you’ve remodeled your kitchen, replaced major systems, added an outdoor living space or meticulously maintained your property for 25 years.

It also may not fully understand things buyers notice immediately.

Maybe your home has a particularly functional floor plan.

Maybe you have a beautiful view or an exceptional outdoor living space.

Maybe a comparable home that recently sold needed extensive updating while yours is move-in ready.

Or perhaps you’ve made improvements that don’t show up accurately in public data.

Those details can matter.

That’s why I wouldn’t recommend making a major financial decision based solely on an automated home estimate.

Use it as one piece of information—not the final answer.

Every Home Has Its Own Story

One of the reasons automated valuations have limitations is that homes aren’t interchangeable.

Two properties that look similar on paper can feel very different when you walk through the front door.

Natural light, ceiling height, layout, storage, quality of improvements, maintenance, outdoor spaces and overall presentation can all affect the way buyers respond to a home.

And buyer response matters.

That’s why determining a home’s potential selling price requires looking beyond basic statistics and considering the property as a whole.

The numbers matter, but so does understanding what makes your particular home appealing to buyers.

Recent Spokane Home Sales Tell Us a Lot

One of the most important pieces of determining your home’s potential value is looking at what comparable homes have actually sold for.

Notice I said sold.

A homeowner can list a property for any price they choose. That doesn’t mean a buyer will pay it.

Recent closed sales tell us what buyers have actually been willing to pay for properties similar to yours.

But even comparable sales require interpretation.

Suppose three similar homes recently sold.

One was completely remodeled.

Another had a larger lot but an outdated interior.

The third was similar in size but had a very different floor plan.

Simply averaging those three sale prices isn’t necessarily going to tell us what your home is worth.

The real question is:

Why did each of those homes sell for what it did, and how does your property compare?

That’s where an experienced analysis becomes important.

Today’s Spokane Real Estate Market Matters Too

Your home’s value doesn’t exist in a vacuum.

Real estate markets change.

Buyer demand changes. Inventory changes. Interest rates change. And the number and quality of competing homes on the market change.

Even the time of year can influence what buyers are seeing when your home enters the market.

That’s why a home valuation from several years ago—or sometimes even several months ago—may not accurately reflect what is happening today.

If you’re seriously considering selling, you want to understand where your property fits within the current Spokane real estate market, not where it fit two years ago.

Do I Need to Remodel Before Selling My Home?

This is an especially important question for homeowners who have lived in the same home for many years.

You may look around and think:

Do I have to update all of this before I sell?

Not necessarily.

In fact, I would encourage you to talk with a real estate professional before spending a significant amount of money remodeling specifically for resale.

Some improvements may make sense.

Others may cost considerably more than you’ll recover when you sell.

Sometimes relatively simple changes—decluttering, completing deferred repairs, fresh paint, improving landscaping or strategically preparing rooms—can make a meaningful difference in how buyers perceive a property.

Every house is different.

Before you start tearing out countertops or replacing flooring, it’s worth having a conversation about which improvements are most likely to matter to buyers.

Pricing and Marketing Work Together

Determining your home’s value is only one part of a successful sale.

Once we understand where your property fits in the market, we also have to decide how we’re going to position it within that market.

That’s where pricing and marketing come together.

A beautifully marketed home that’s significantly overpriced can struggle to attract buyers.

At the same time, a well-priced home that’s poorly presented may fail to generate the attention it deserves.

My goal when selling a home is to bring those pieces together:

Smart positioning + strong presentation + strategic real estate marketing + maximum exposure.

Because we’re not simply trying to put a price on your house.

We’re trying to create the strongest possible opportunity for buyers to recognize its value.

Internal link: Link “strategic real estate marketing” to your How Strong Real Estate Marketing Can Help Sell Your Spokane Home article.

Is My Tax Assessed Value the Same as My Home’s Market Value?

Not necessarily.

Your property’s assessed value is used for property-tax purposes. Your market value is based on what buyers may be willing to pay for the property in the current real estate market.

Those numbers can be different because they’re measuring different things.

So if your tax assessment, online home estimate and a real estate professional’s market analysis don’t show exactly the same number, that doesn’t automatically mean one of them is wrong.

The more important question for someone considering selling is:

What does the current market tell us buyers are likely to pay for my home?

What If I’m Not Ready to Sell Yet?

This is actually one of my favorite times to talk with homeowners.

You don’t need to be putting a For Sale sign in your yard next month to find out what your home may be worth.

Maybe you’re thinking about downsizing sometime in the next year or two.

Maybe retirement is approaching.

Maybe you’ve lived in the same Spokane home for 20 or 30 years and you’re beginning to wonder whether staying or selling makes the most sense.

Or maybe you’re simply curious.

Knowing approximately what your home could sell for gives you information.

And information gives you options.

If a substantial amount of your equity is tied up in your home, understanding its potential value can be an important part of planning what comes next—even when you aren’t ready to make a move today.

So, What Is My Spokane Home Worth?

The best way to answer that question is to look at your actual home.

Not just an algorithm.

Not just an automated estimate.

Not just another house that recently sold.

I can look at your property, review relevant recent sales, evaluate the current competition and consider the characteristics that could affect how buyers respond to your home.

If you’re considering selling, we can also talk about what—if anything—I would recommend doing before putting your home on the market.

There’s no pressure to list your home.

Sometimes you simply need good information so you can make a confident decision about what comes next.

If you’re wondering what your Spokane-area home might be worth—even if selling is still a year or two away—I’d be happy to help you start that conversation.

Ronda Swanson, Realtor
Windermere Real Estate
509-979-5894
swansonrealtor.withwre.com

Listing Your Home • August 11, 2026

How Strong Real Estate Marketing Sells Spokane Homes Faster

by Ronda Swanson

Spokane home for sale with Ronda Swanson Realtor sign, illustrating how strong real estate marketing can help sell a home.

When homeowners start thinking about selling, much of the conversation naturally centers around one question:

What is my home worth?

That’s an important question. But there’s another question I think sellers should be asking:

How will my home actually be marketed once it goes on the market?

Because putting a home up for sale and marketing a home are not necessarily the same thing.

A home can be professionally photographed, entered into the MLS and appear on the major real estate websites. Those things are important, but in my opinion, they should be the beginning of a marketing strategy—not the entire strategy.

When I list a home, my goal is simple: get that property in front of as many of the right potential buyers as possible and give them a compelling reason to pay attention.

Your Home Is Competing for Attention

Think about how people shop for homes today.

A potential buyer may scroll past dozens of properties in a single evening. They’re looking at homes on real estate websites, watching videos, browsing social media and researching neighborhoods.

Your home isn’t just competing with the house down the street.

It’s competing for the buyer’s attention.

That means the way a property is presented matters.

The photography matters.

The video matters.

The description matters.

The positioning matters.

And perhaps most importantly, the plan for getting that marketing in front of potential buyers matters.

Great marketing should make someone stop scrolling and think:

“I want to see that house.”

That’s the first win.

More Exposure Can Create More Opportunity

There’s a misconception that once a home is listed online, everyone who might be interested will automatically find it.

I don’t believe sellers should rely on that.

Strong real estate marketing is about creating multiple opportunities for buyers to discover a property.

That can mean strategically using real estate platforms, digital advertising, social media, video and other marketing channels to extend a home’s reach beyond simply waiting for someone to stumble across the listing.

Not every person who sees the marketing will be the buyer.

That’s not the point.

The goal is to create enough qualified attention around the property that the right buyer has a better chance of discovering it.

Marketing Can Influence Perceived Value

There’s another reason I care so much about marketing.

Presentation influences perception.

Imagine seeing the same home marketed two different ways.

In one listing, the photos are dark, the description is generic and nothing about the property feels particularly memorable.

In the other, the home is beautifully presented. The photography draws you in. The marketing highlights what makes the property special. The video helps you imagine what it might feel like to live there.

It’s the same house.

But it doesn’t necessarily feel like the same house to the buyer.

Good marketing doesn’t change the actual value of a property, and it can’t overcome unrealistic pricing. But it can help buyers recognize the value that’s already there.

That’s an important distinction.

The Best Marketing Starts Before the Home Is Listed

Some of the most important marketing decisions happen before the listing ever goes live.

What should we highlight?

Who is the likely buyer?

What features make this home different from competing properties?

Is there something about the location or lifestyle that photographs alone won’t communicate?

How should the home be prepared and presented?

What story are we telling?

Those are marketing questions.

And because my background includes marketing and advertising, this is an area of real estate that I particularly enjoy.

I don’t look at a house simply as another listing that needs to go into the MLS.

I look at it as a property that needs its own marketing strategy.

Not Every Home Should Be Marketed Exactly the Same Way

This is important.

A luxury property on acreage shouldn’t necessarily be marketed exactly like a South Hill bungalow.

A home that’s perfect for entertaining may need a different emphasis than a low-maintenance property that’s ideal for someone who wants to downsize.

A property’s strongest selling points determine the story we tell.

That’s why I don’t believe effective real estate marketing should be completely cookie-cutter.

The strategy should begin with the home itself.

What makes someone want this particular home?

Once we know that, we can build the marketing around it.

Ask a Potential Listing Agent This Question

If you’re interviewing real estate agents to sell your Spokane-area home, there are plenty of good questions to ask about experience, pricing and the selling process.

But I’d add one more:

“What are you actually going to do to market my home?”

Listen carefully to the answer.

You should understand what will happen after the sign goes in the yard and the listing goes live.

Because there’s a big difference between an agent who can list your home and an agent who has a plan to market your home.

Thinking About Selling Your Spokane Home?

If you’re considering selling your home in Spokane, Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake or the surrounding area, I’d be happy to talk with you about more than just what your home might be worth.

I’ll also walk you through how I would position and market your particular property to help it stand out.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer, because your home isn’t one-size-fits-all.

And when the time comes to sell it, I believe its marketing should reflect that.

Ronda Swanson, Realtor
Windermere Real Estate
509-979-5894
swansonrealtor.withwre.com

Recipes • August 10, 2026

7-Day Easy Family Meal Plan & Grocery List (Quick Spokane Weeknight Dinners)

by Ronda Swanson

Weekly Homegrown Spokane meal plan featuring seven easy dinner recipes plus a special dessert for a simple week of family meals.

Weekly Family Meal Plan & Complete Grocery List

Does anyone else feel like deciding what to make for dinner is sometimes harder than actually making dinner?

You get to the end of a busy day, open the refrigerator, stare inside for a while…and somehow dinner still doesn’t magically appear.

That’s why I’m turning this into a weekly Homegrown Spokane tradition.

Every week, I’ll pull together seven dinner ideas from my recipe collection — one for every night of the week — plus something sweet for dessert.

Save the post, make your grocery list, and hopefully take one decision off your plate this week.

Click any underlined recipe title to go directly to the complete recipe.

Monday: Cheesy Baked Ravioli

We’re starting the week with comfort food.

This Cheesy Baked Ravioli uses frozen cheese ravioli, marinara, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella and Parmesan, and you don’t even have to boil the ravioli first.

It takes about 10 minutes to put together, then the oven does the rest.

Add garlic bread and a Caesar salad and Monday dinner is done.

Tuesday: Instant Pot Beef & Broccoli

Tuesday feels like a good night to skip the takeout.

Tender beef, fresh broccoli and a savory-sweet garlic soy sauce come together in the Instant Pot in about 35 minutes.

Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for an easy weeknight dinner that feels a little more exciting than the usual rotation.

Wednesday: Easy Crock Pot Honey Garlic Meatballs

This might be the easiest dinner of the week.

Frozen meatballs slow cook in a sweet and savory sauce made with honey, barbecue sauce, soy sauce and fresh garlic.

The best part?

It only takes about five minutes to get everything into the slow cooker.

Serve the meatballs over rice or mashed potatoes with a vegetable on the side.

Thursday: Easy Instant Pot Salsa Verde Chicken

Thursday night is taco night — or burrito night, or nacho night, or rice bowl night.

That’s what makes this Salsa Verde Chicken so good.

Chicken cooks with salsa verde, cumin, garlic and lime until it’s tender enough to shred. Then everyone can build their dinner however they like it.

Put out tortillas, cheese, avocado, lettuce, sour cream and your favorite taco toppings and let everyone help themselves.

Friday: Easy Instant Pot Taco Soup

By Friday, I’m looking for easy.

This hearty Instant Pot Taco Soup gives you all those familiar Tex-Mex flavors in one simple dinner.

It’s warm, filling and perfect with shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips or whatever taco toppings your family loves.

Put everything on the table and let everyone customize their own bowl.

Saturday: Easy Cedar Plank Salmon on the Grill

Saturday deserves something that feels a little special.

And since we’re right in the middle of a beautiful Inland Northwest summer, this is a perfect excuse to fire up the grill.

Fresh salmon cooks on a soaked cedar plank with Dijon, honey, garlic, dill and lemon. The cedar adds a subtle smoky flavor while helping keep the salmon tender and juicy.

Serve it with fresh corn on the cob and a big summer salad.

This one feels very Spokane.

Sunday: Easy Crock Pot Ranch Chicken & Potatoes

Sunday dinner without spending Sunday afternoon in the kitchen?

Yes, please.

Chicken, baby potatoes and carrots cook together in the slow cooker with ranch seasoning, chicken gravy, broth and butter.

It’s a complete comfort-food meal in one pot and only takes about 10 minutes to prepare.

Start it earlier in the day, go enjoy your Sunday and come home to dinner already waiting.

And Now for Something Sweet

No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Cups

Because every good weekly meal plan should include dessert.

These little peanut butter cheesecake cups are exactly the kind of summer dessert I love because there’s no oven required.

Creamy peanut butter cheesecake filling sits over a graham cracker crust for an easy make-ahead treat you can keep chilled in the refrigerator.

Make them over the weekend and you might even have dessert waiting for you throughout the week.

Assuming everyone doesn’t find them first.

Your Grocery List

Before heading to the store, check your refrigerator, freezer and pantry. You may already have quite a few of these ingredients.

Produce

Garlic
Broccoli
Baby potatoes
Baby carrots
Limes
Lemons
Fresh dill
Fresh parsley
Green onions
Salad greens
Avocados
Lettuce
Corn on the cob
Your favorite taco toppings

Meat & Seafood

Beef sirloin
Frozen fully cooked meatballs
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Fresh salmon fillet

Dairy & Refrigerated

Mozzarella cheese
Parmesan cheese
Sour cream
Shredded cheese
Butter
Cream cheese
Whipped topping

Frozen

Frozen cheese ravioli

Bread, Rice & Pasta

White or jasmine rice
Tortillas
Garlic bread
Tortilla chips
Graham cracker crumbs

Sauces & Canned Goods

Marinara sauce
Alfredo sauce
Salsa verde
Barbecue sauce
Soy sauce
Chicken broth
Beef broth
Ranch seasoning mix
Chicken gravy mix
Taco soup ingredients from the recipe

Pantry

Honey
Brown sugar
Cornstarch
Olive oil
Dijon mustard
Italian seasoning
Garlic powder
Cumin
Salt
Black pepper
Peanut butter
Powdered sugar
Vanilla

Dinner Is Planned

There you go.

Seven dinners. One dessert. One grocery trip. And seven fewer times you have to stand in front of the refrigerator wondering what everyone is going to eat.

Save this week’s meal plan before you head to the store, send it to a friend who could use a few new dinner ideas, and come back next week because I’ll be digging into my recipe collection again for another seven nights of easy meals.

And while I’m helping make dinner a little easier, I’m happy to help make Spokane real estate a little easier too.

If you’ve been wondering what your home might be worth, thinking about making a move, or simply curious about what’s happening in your Spokane neighborhood, reach out anytime.

I’m always happy to be a resource.

What's New in Spokane • August 10, 2026

7 Things Spokane Parents Should Check Before Posting That First-Day-of-School Photo

by Ronda Swanson

Smiling child holding a first-day-of-school chalkboard showing her school, teacher, and grade, highlighting information parents should check before posting back-to-school photos online.

The new backpack is ready.

The outfit was probably chosen the night before.

The lunch is packed, the hair is done, and somehow everyone actually made it out the door.

Now comes the first-day-of-school photo.

For a lot of Spokane families, that front-porch picture has become just as much a back-to-school tradition as buying new pencils and picking out a backpack. And I love seeing them.

But before you post that smiling face on Facebook or Instagram this year, take an extra 30 seconds and look at the photo one more time.

The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) recently shared some excellent advice about first-day-of-school photos. The point isn’t to scare parents or tell us to stop sharing family milestones.

It’s simply to make sure we’re not sharing more information than we intended.

Here are seven things worth checking before you hit “post.”

1. Take a Closer Look at That Cute First-Day Sign

You know the ones.

First Day of 3rd Grade!

Then underneath are spaces for a child’s name, age, teacher, school, favorite things and what they want to be when they grow up.

They’re adorable.

But NCMEC recommends taking a closer look at exactly how much information is on that sign before posting it publicly.

A child’s:

Full name
School
Teacher
Grade
Age
Classroom or homeroom
Favorite activities

may not seem particularly sensitive individually. Put several of those details together, however, and you’ve shared quite a bit about your child and their daily life.

You don’t necessarily need to stop using the signs.

Just consider keeping the more personal version for your family photo album and taking a simpler version if you’re planning to share the picture publicly.

2. Look Behind Your Child

This is such an easy one to miss.

You’re looking at your child’s smile.

Someone else looking at the photograph can see everything else.

Before posting, scan the entire background for things like:

Your house number
Street signs
Apartment numbers
License plates
A school name or logo
Recognizable neighborhood landmarks

NCMEC specifically recommends checking the background for details that could unintentionally reveal where your family lives or spends time.

Sometimes simply moving five feet, changing the camera angle or cropping the finished photo solves the problem.

3. Don’t Forget About Location Information

Here’s the information you can’t necessarily see in the picture.

Phones and apps can use location information, and some photos may contain geolocation metadata depending on your device and settings. The FBI has warned that location information associated with images can potentially reveal where a photo was taken and recommends checking the location settings on your phone and apps.

The FTC also recommends reviewing which apps actually need access to your location and turning off unnecessary location sharing.

So while you’re checking the front of the photo, it’s worth checking what’s happening behind the scenes on your phone too.

4. Think Twice About Posting Your Child’s Daily Routine

There’s another type of information that may not be obvious at first.

Routine.

A photo or caption might tell people:

“My child goes to this school.”

Another post says what time school starts.

Another shows the bus stop.

Another mentions soccer practice every Tuesday.

Individually, none of those posts may feel especially revealing. Together, they can create a surprisingly detailed picture of a child’s routine.

The FBI’s back-to-school online-safety guidance specifically advises families to talk with children about not sharing personal details such as their school, home address or class schedule online.

That’s good advice for grown-ups too.

5. Check Who Can Actually See Your Post

This might be the most important question of all:

Who am I sharing this with?

NCMEC recommends reviewing whether a post is visible to your friends, friends of friends or potentially anyone on the internet.

Take a minute to review your social media privacy settings.

And remember that privacy settings reduce your audience, but they don’t give you complete control once something has been shared. The FTC points out that someone who can see a post can potentially screenshot, save or share it elsewhere.

That doesn’t mean don’t post.

It means know your audience before you do.

6. Ask Your Child

This is one I think is worth adding to the conversation, especially as kids get older.

Before posting their picture, ask:

“Are you okay if I share this?”

It takes about three seconds.

For a preschooler, that conversation obviously looks different than it does with a 13-year-old. But as children grow, involving them in decisions about their own digital footprint is a good habit.

The FTC encourages people to get permission before posting photos or videos of others and reminds families that things shared online can be difficult to fully take back later.

It’s also an easy opportunity to model the same behavior we want our kids to practice with their friends.

7. Do the 30-Second Check

Before you post the picture, stop for half a minute.

Look at the sign.

Look at the background.

Check the caption.

Think about the location.

Check the audience.

And ask yourself:

Am I sharing anything here that I don’t actually need to share?

If something catches your attention, the solution can be incredibly simple.

Crop it.

Blur it.

Change the caption.

Adjust your privacy settings.

Or send the photo directly to Grandma instead of posting it publicly.

That’s essentially the message from NCMEC: celebrating these moments and protecting a child’s privacy don’t have to be opposites. A quick review before posting can make a difference.

Keep Taking the First-Day Pictures

I hope parents don’t read this and think they should stop taking first-day-of-school pictures.

Please don’t.

Take the picture.

Take too many pictures.

Get the one where everyone is smiling and the three before it where someone has their eyes closed.

Because someday that little kid holding the oversized backpack won’t be little anymore, and you’ll be very glad you captured the moment.

Just take a few seconds before sharing it with the rest of the world.

Smile. Snap. Check. Then share.

You can read NCMEC’s full Smile, Snap, Share: A Guide to Safer Back to School Photos for additional information about protecting children’s privacy when sharing back-to-school pictures. Read the NCMEC guide

Love Where You Live

Part of loving Spokane is looking out for the people who call it home — especially our kids.

And when life changes and you start thinking about a different kind of home, I’m here for that too.

If you’re considering selling your Spokane-area home, downsizing, moving closer to family or simply wondering what your home is worth, I’d be happy to help you understand your options.

No pressure. Just local real estate guidance and a conversation about what makes sense for you.

Thinking about your next move? Let’s talk.

Moving to Spokane Guide and Tips • August 10, 2026

It’s Almost Fair Time!

by Ronda Swanson

The Spokane County Interstate Fair Is Turning 75 — And It’s Almost Fair Time

There are certain things that just feel like Spokane.

Warm September afternoons that still feel a little like summer. Cooler evenings that remind you fall is right around the corner. The smell of fair food in the air. The lights of the midway after dark.

And, of course, elephant ears.

It’s almost fair time in Spokane.

The Spokane County Interstate Fair returns September 11–20, 2026, and this year there’s an extra reason to celebrate: the Interstate Fair is turning 75.

For generations of Spokane families, the fair has been one of those traditions that marks the changing of the seasons. And whether you go every single year or haven’t been in a while, there’s something about seeing those rides going up at the fairgrounds that makes you want to go again.

75 Years of Fair Memories

Think about how many Spokane memories have been made at the fair over 75 years.

Kids proudly showing the animals they spent months raising.

Parents taking their children on rides they remember riding themselves.

Teenagers wandering the midway with their friends.

Grandparents introducing another generation to their favorite fair traditions.

And families having the same annual debate about where to go first.

That’s part of what makes the fair special. Attractions come and go, but the tradition keeps getting passed along.

There’s More Than the Midway

The rides and carnival games may get a lot of attention, but there’s much more happening at the fair.

Several attractions have already been announced for 2026, including the Off Axis Stunt Show, Crazy Animal Races, Mutton Bustin’, Legendary Longhorns, Pirate Parrot Show, Butterfly Kingdom, Strolling Piano, Spokane Tribe Indian Village and the Wheatland Farm Animal Experience.

And then there are all the things that make a county fair feel like a county fair — livestock barns, agricultural exhibits, competitions, photography, flowers, crafts, food preservation and all those ribbons proudly hanging beside someone’s hard work.

I think that’s one of the best parts of wandering the fair without being in a hurry. You never quite know what you’re going to find.

Don’t Skip the Animal Barns

If your normal fair routine is to make a beeline for the rides and food, make a little time for the barns this year.

For many of the young people showing animals, fair week represents months of feeding, training, caring for and working with those animals.

There’s something very Spokane about walking from the noise and flashing lights of the midway into a barn filled with cattle, goats, sheep, rabbits and kids who are incredibly proud to tell you about them.

It’s a side of our community we don’t always get to see.

And Then There Are the Elephant Ears

We need to talk about the real fair tradition.

The elephant ear.

You can eat dessert any day of the year. But somehow a warm elephant ear covered in cinnamon and sugar just tastes better when you’re standing at the fair.

Maybe it’s the smell.

Maybe it’s the fact that you’re eating something roughly the size of your head.

Maybe it’s because so many of us remember eating them at the fair when we were kids.

Whatever the reason, elephant ears have become one of those foods people start thinking about before the fair even opens.

And I’m guessing everyone has an opinion about the proper way to eat one.

Do you tear pieces off and share?

Fold it?

Eat your way around the edges?

Or claim you’re going to share and then somehow eat most of it yourself?

No judgment here.

The Fair Is Better After Dark

There’s also something about the fair after the sun goes down.

The lights come on. The midway gets brighter. You can hear the rides and music from across the grounds. The September air starts to cool down, and suddenly it feels like fall really is on its way.

You might have walked those same paths dozens of times over the years, but somehow they still feel different under the carnival lights.

That’s the kind of Spokane tradition I never get tired of.

What’s Your Fair Tradition?

Maybe you head straight for the animal barns.

Maybe there’s a ride you have to go on every year.

Maybe you love seeing the exhibits.

Maybe you go for Mutton Bustin’.

Or maybe you’re already thinking about that first elephant ear.

Whatever it is, I think that’s what makes the Spokane County Interstate Fair worth celebrating after 75 years. We all experience the same fair, but each of us has our own little traditions attached to it.

So yes, September is still a little ways away.

But it’s officially close enough to start getting excited.

The Spokane County Interstate Fair returns September 11–20, 2026, for its 75th anniversary.

If you’re thinking about selling your Spokane-area home, downsizing, or simply wondering what your home might be worth, I’d be happy to be a resource. No pressure and no sales pitch — just helpful local real estate guidance when you need it.

Thinking about a move? Let’s talk about what your next chapter could look like.