Every fall, the Spokane County Interstate Fair brings together families and friends for a celebration of agriculture, entertainment, and fun. In 2024, the fair will run from September 6 to September 15, offering 10 days of exciting events, games, rides, and more. Held at the Spokane County Fair and Expo Center, this annual event is a cherished tradition that marks the start of the autumn season for many in the region. With an array of activities and attractions, this year’s fair is shaping up to be one of the best yet.
The Heart of Spokane’s Agricultural Tradition
The Spokane County Interstate Fair is more than just a fun event—it’s a celebration of the region’s rich agricultural heritage. The fair serves as a showcase for the local farming and livestock industries, highlighting the hard work and dedication of those who keep the area’s agricultural traditions alive. Visitors will have the chance to see a variety of farm animals, participate in agricultural exhibits, and learn about the importance of farming to the Spokane community. These educational exhibits offer an engaging experience for both children and adults.
Fair Hours and Schedule
The fair operates on a convenient schedule that caters to a wide range of visitors. Whether you’re an early bird or prefer to stay late, there are hours that work for everyone:
General Fair Hours:
- Fridays: 11:00 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.
- Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.
- Sundays: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Monday-Thursday: 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Please note that outdoor booths and barns will close at 10:00 p.m. daily, so plan accordingly if you want to see the animals.
Carnival Hours:
- Kiddie Land opens daily at Noon.
- The Main Carnival begins at 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and at Noon on Saturdays and Sundays.
Admission and Special Offers
Admission to the fair is priced on a daily basis, and once inside, visitors can enjoy a variety of free exhibits and stage performances. However, food, beverages, carnival rides, and most Grandstand Arena events will have additional costs.
Daily Admission Prices:
- Adults (ages 14-64): Monday-Thursday: $13; Friday-Sunday: $15
- Youth (ages 7-13): $10
- Seniors (ages 65+): $10
- Military (with ID): $10
It’s important to note that ticket sales will end 30 minutes before the fair closes each evening, so make sure to get there early!
What to Expect at the Fair
The Spokane County Interstate Fair offers something for everyone. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for thrilling carnival rides, a foodie eager to taste delicious fair food, or someone who loves to browse the exhibits, you’ll find plenty to do. The fair features a wide range of entertainment options, including live performances on the North Stage, where local artists and musicians take the spotlight.
For animal lovers, the full animal schedule provides a chance to see everything from livestock competitions to petting zoos. Additionally, fairgoers can download a PDF program to have all the details about events and food vendors at their fingertips.
FAQs: What You Need to Know
There are some key things to keep in mind before heading to the fair. One common question is about ticket purchases: currently, cash is the only accepted payment method at the gate. However, ATMs are conveniently located at the Main Gate and throughout the fairgrounds to ensure you can access cash when needed.
If you need to leave the fair but plan on coming back later the same day, re-entry is allowed with a hand stamp that you can obtain upon exiting.
Bringing Your Own Food
While the fair boasts over 35 food vendors, we understand that some guests may prefer to bring their own food. The good news is that outside food and beverages are permitted, making it easy for you to pack your own snacks or meals. However, with so many tempting treats available, you might find yourself wanting to sample the local specialties as well.
Accessibility and Mobility Support
For those who may require additional support getting around, the fair offers mobility equipment rentals, including scooters, wheelchairs, and rollators/walkers. These items can be rented for either three hours or a full day, with the following pricing:
- Scooters: $50/3 hours, $75/full day
- Wheelchairs: $20/3 hours, $35/full day
- Rollators/Walkers: $15/3 hours, $25/full day
This ensures that everyone, regardless of mobility needs, can fully enjoy all that the Spokane County Interstate Fair has to offer.
Plan Your Visit Today!
Whether you’re a Spokane local or visiting the area, the Spokane County Interstate Fair 2024 is an event you won’t want to miss. From agricultural exhibits and carnival rides to live performances and endless food options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Make sure to mark your calendar from September 6 to September 15 and get ready for 10 days of fun, excitement, and community celebration at one of Spokane’s most anticipated annual events.