Festivals Archives - Out There Venture https://outthereventure.com/festivals/ Mon, 09 Jun 2025 18:10:04 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://outthereoutdoors.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/cropped-OTO_new-favicon-32x32.jpg Festivals Archives - Out There Venture https://outthereventure.com/festivals/ 32 32 NW Music Festivals You Can Bikepack To (Or Day Ride From) https://outthereventure.com/nw-music-festivals-you-can-bikepack-to-or-day-ride-from/ https://outthereventure.com/nw-music-festivals-you-can-bikepack-to-or-day-ride-from/#respond Wed, 11 Jun 2025 06:00:00 +0000 https://outthereventure.com/?p=57870 Cover photo courtesy of Carol Corbin Explore these summer outdoor music festivals in the Pacific Northwest that you can bikepack to and camp at—or drive and bring your bike for day rides between music sets. For gear and route planning tips, visit Bikepacking.com, a top resource for adventure cyclists. Kettle River Music Festival – Curlew, […]

The post NW Music Festivals You Can Bikepack To (Or Day Ride From) appeared first on Out There Venture.

]]>
Cover photo courtesy of Carol Corbin

Explore these summer outdoor music festivals in the Pacific Northwest that you can bikepack to and camp at—or drive and bring your bike for day rides between music sets. For gear and route planning tips, visit Bikepacking.com, a top resource for adventure cyclists.

Kettle River Music Festival – Curlew, Washington (August 1–3, 2025)
BIKE IT: Bikepack from Republic via the Golden Tiger Pathway and Ferry County Rail Trail, or ride sections of the trail system from the festival grounds. More ambitious riders can head up to the Kettle Crest for epic singletrack.
kettlerivermusicfestival.org

Yellow Pine Harmonica Festival – Yellow Pine, Idaho (July 31–August 2, 2025)
BIKE IT: Bikepack from McCall, Idaho, over a steep mountain pass and along the South Fork Salmon River to reach this remote Idaho mountain music festival. For an incredibly scenic day ride or overnighter from the festival, pedal 33 rugged miles to the community of Big Creek for an excellent meal at the Big Creek Lodge near the airstrip. Then ride back or stay at one of the nearby campsites.
yellowpinefestival.org

National Oldtime Fiddlers’ Contest & Festival – Weiser, Idaho (June 17–21, 2025)
BIKE IT: Bikepack from New Meadows or McCall, Idaho, incorporating the 84-mile-long Weiser River Trail, one of Idaho’s top rail trails. Or, day-ride this scenic route directly from the festival.
fiddlecontest.org

Juniper Jam – Enterprise, Oregon (August 30, 2025)
BIKE IT: Bikepackers looking for an epic challenge can start from Asotin, Washington, or farther south at Heller Bar on the Snake River and ride gravel and two-track trails climbing through the Chief Joseph Wildlife Area to the rim above Hells Canyon—a 100+ mile journey with incredible camping along the way. Less zealous riders can enjoy scenic day rides from the festival on gravel roads into the Zumwalt Prairie and surrounding Wallowa Mountains.
juniperjam.com

Festival at Sandpoint – Sandpoint, Idaho (July 24–27 and July 31–August 3, 2025)
BIKE IT: Create your own custom bikepacking route to Sandpoint, Idaho, mixing trails, gravel, and pavement from your home base. The nearby trails at Pine Street Woods are an easy ride from the festival for day trippers.
festivalatsandpoint.com

Photo Courtesy of Carol Corbin

The Gorge Amphitheatre – George, Washington (Multiple 2025 Festivals)
Beyond Wonderland (June 20–22)
Watershed Festival (August 1–3)
Bass Canyon Festival (August 15–17)
BIKE IT: Bikepack from Spokane on the Palouse to Cascades Trail to the Gorge Amphitheatre, one of the most iconic outdoor music venues in Washington. Or use the trail for a day ride during your festival weekend.
gorgeamphitheatre.com

Blue Waters Bluegrass Festival – Medical Lake, Washington (August 8–10, 2025)
BIKE IT: Bikepack from Spokane via the Fish Lake Trail and scenic back roads to this lakeside bluegrass festival near Spokane. Explore miles of quiet roads and countryside around Medical Lake between music sets.
bluewatersbluegrass.org

Shambhala Music Festival – Salmo, British Columbia (July 25–28, 2025)
BIKE IT: Bikepack from Spokane and connect with the International Selkirk Loop bike route, then continue on to Salmo for this legendary BC electronic music festival in the Kootenays. Or ride from Nelson, BC, on the Nelson-Salmo Great Northern Trail for outstanding day rides from the festival. Don’t forget your passport!
shambhalamusicfestival.com

The post NW Music Festivals You Can Bikepack To (Or Day Ride From) appeared first on Out There Venture.

]]>
https://outthereventure.com/nw-music-festivals-you-can-bikepack-to-or-day-ride-from/feed/ 0
Bikepacking from Spokane to the Blue Waters Bluegrass Festival in Medical Lake https://outthereventure.com/bikepacking-from-spokane-to-the-blue-waters-bluegrass-festival-in-medical-lake/ https://outthereventure.com/bikepacking-from-spokane-to-the-blue-waters-bluegrass-festival-in-medical-lake/#respond Tue, 10 Jun 2025 06:00:00 +0000 https://outthereventure.com/?p=57865 By Carol Corbin Cover photo courtesy of Derrick Knowles Honestly, the musical genre barely registered when Out There Venture publisher Derrick Knowles invited me and several other riders to bikepack from Spokane to Medical Lake, Washington, for the 2024 Blue Waters Bluegrass Festival in August. It takes very little for me to say “yes” to […]

The post Bikepacking from Spokane to the Blue Waters Bluegrass Festival in Medical Lake appeared first on Out There Venture.

]]>
By Carol Corbin

Cover photo courtesy of Derrick Knowles

Honestly, the musical genre barely registered when Out There Venture publisher Derrick Knowles invited me and several other riders to bikepack from Spokane to Medical Lake, Washington, for the 2024 Blue Waters Bluegrass Festival in August. It takes very little for me to say “yes” to bikepacking, and since my weekend was free, it was a no-brainer. But the promise of a homegrown, small-town feel with some of the best bluegrass bands around added to the appeal. And I discovered that a music festival has some great perks as a bikepacking destination.

The Blue Waters Bluegrass Festival in Medical Lake, WA, has welcomed musicians and fans from across the U.S. since 2022. World-class bluegrass music is offered at this modest but memorable festival, with camping fees that spoke to my dirtbag heart. The festival’s proximity to Spokane’s urban core promised a pleasant, scenic pedal to buzzing Medical Lake Waterfront Park.

While it would be easy enough to load up the bikes with gear and pedal straight to Medical Lake, there are enough scenic options between downtown Spokane and the lakefront to encourage gravel-centric bikepacking routes through the West Plains and around nearby lakes. Our bikepacking route from Spokane took us south on the Fish Lake Trail, then west through Cheney and Four Lakes, popular areas for gravel biking in Eastern Washington. While spending hours on Ride with GPS finding the best routes isn’t my cup of tea, I’m grateful to have lots of adventure buddies who love this aspect of trip planning and always find interesting, challenging, beautiful routes to take.

Photo Courtesy of Derrick Knowles

Approaching Silver Lake from the east was sobering, as evidence of the 2023 catastrophic wildfires greeted us. Though many homes are being rebuilt, the blackened trees and scorched earth were a stark contrast to the sparkling lake. It’s easy to pedal along, spinning out about the increasing impact that wildfires are having on our beautiful, pedalable home.

With four riders, lots of gear, and plenty of time, we took snack and drink breaks and paused to enjoy wildflowers. I’m assuming the others waited patiently for me to catch up. While much of the weight on my bike was vital camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, festival chair), I needn’t have packed so much food. The best part of bikepacking to a music festival was discovering the diverse food trucks at the venue—an unexpected culinary bonus after a long ride. From Feast World Kitchen’s tofu pad thai to a truck selling hot coffee in the morning, my freeze-dried meals just couldn’t stack up, so they stayed packed away. Since Medical Lake is a delightfully small town with wide streets, it wouldn’t have been hard to pedal into town for a bite or beverage if needed.

Live bluegrass music filled the air all day, from regional acts and local players in the afternoon to national headliners in the evening. The Saturday night headliners, New Dangerfield, were introduced by the festival organizer who calmly assured the audience that in 22 years, they’d never been rained out … even as the inevitable thunderclouds that follow me everywhere gathered on the horizon and rumbled over the rolling hills. My travel companions glared at me as they pulled out their rain jackets. But, I did warn them.

Photo Courtesy of Derrick Knowles

Knowing at least some rain was on the way, our cozy campsite right on the water’s edge was secured with rain flies zipped and bags packed away. We kicked back, enjoyed the music, and watched festival staff and volunteers scramble to right the canopy sheltering the sound system as gusts of wind brought the storm ever closer. The musicians, professional performers, carried on with their set, bringing the audience to their feet with toe-tapping tunes and classic sounds of Appalachia.

Most people camping for the weekend were using trailers and RVs, but those of us sleeping in tents were relieved when Mother Nature left just a few drops and carried the thunder and lightning north instead of raining on our parade. The next morning, as we packed to leave, I was pleased to see musicians young and old gathering at picnic tables and under trees for a series of music workshops—generations sharing their art and carrying on the language of string-based bluegrass for new audiences to discover.

Pedaling away from the bustle of the campground reminded me that bikepacking truly is my favorite way to adventure. The freedom of circumventing crowded parking lots and lines of vehicles, carrying everything I need on my bike, pedaling until I’m tired, then sleeping, then pedaling again, is my perfect adventure. Sharing conversation, suffering, and camaraderie with others turning pedals with (or usually far ahead of) me—there’s just nothing like it.

The 2024 Blue Waters Bluegrass Festival (August 8–10 in Medical Lake, WA) is just one of many bikeable music festivals in the Inland Northwest. The region boasts a lineup of events for various genres, schedules, camping experiences, and price points. These festivals are well-supported, with camping, restrooms, concessions, and other comfort amenities. They offer community and something to look forward to during your miles of pedaling—and they’re typically close enough to “somewhere” that you can access an easy exit strategy if things go sideways.

If bikepacking has been on your “want to try” list, find a fun, local festival, pull whatever bike you have out of the garage for a quick tune-up (at least lube the chain and pump up the tires), throw a tent and a sleeping bag in a backpack or some panniers, and get out there—bikepacking to festivals is the perfect blend of adventure, music, and outdoor culture.

Carol Corbin is looking for ways to monetize the rain that follows her on all her outdoor adventures, having recently achieved international notoriety by breaking an unseasonable dry spell with four days of biking in England.

The post Bikepacking from Spokane to the Blue Waters Bluegrass Festival in Medical Lake appeared first on Out There Venture.

]]>
https://outthereventure.com/bikepacking-from-spokane-to-the-blue-waters-bluegrass-festival-in-medical-lake/feed/ 0
Just Over the Border: Fall Music Fest and Free Skiing This Winter! https://outthereventure.com/just-over-the-border-fall-music-fest-and-free-skiing-this-winter/ https://outthereventure.com/just-over-the-border-fall-music-fest-and-free-skiing-this-winter/#respond Wed, 04 Sep 2024 18:34:19 +0000 https://outthereventure.com/?p=55663 Photos by Ashley Voykin courtesy of RED Mountain Just 8 miles across the US/Canada border is an exciting weekend fast approaching. The “Between The Peaks” Music Festival at RED Mountain Resort in Rossland, British Columbia, is set to deliver an unforgettable weekend of music and outdoor adventure. Taking place Sept. 13 and 14, this festival […]

The post Just Over the Border: Fall Music Fest and Free Skiing This Winter! appeared first on Out There Venture.

]]>
Photos by Ashley Voykin courtesy of RED Mountain

Just 8 miles across the US/Canada border is an exciting weekend fast approaching. The “Between The Peaks” Music Festival at RED Mountain Resort in Rossland, British Columbia, is set to deliver an unforgettable weekend of music and outdoor adventure. Taking place Sept. 13 and 14, this festival offers a perfect mix of world-class performances, exhilarating outdoor activities, and some serious perks for attendees reading this right now!

This year’s lineup features an eclectic mix of artists, ranging from indie rock to folk and country. Acts like The New Pornographers, WiL & Co, Leather Apron Revival, Big Fuzz, and Lake of the Axe are just some of the performers ready to take the stage. Whether you’re into danceable rock anthems, heartfelt acoustic melodies, or gritty country rhythms, there’s something for everyone at this festival packing in two days of music across two stages.


Beyond the music, the adventure opportunities are just as thrilling. Rossland is renowned as Canada’s mountain biking mecca, offering trails for all skill levels, including the new Millennial Trail Expansion and the famous EPIC-rated Seven Summits. Hikers and trail runners can explore stunning, world-class routes surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re biking through forested paths or trekking along mountain ridges, the landscape is nothing short of spectacular.

The festival is more than just tunes and trails—it’s also a fantastic deal, especially for those coming from the U.S. The strong exchange rate offers substantial savings, with festival passes priced in Canadian dollars. This makes the experience even more budget-friendly, with savings of around 25% on all purchases. Plus, for a limited time, get an additional 20% off any adult festival ticket with code OUTTHERERED24 and you’ll also get a free adult lift ticket for the 24/25 winter season, giving you a chance to return to RED Mountain’s legendary slopes at no extra cost.


Adding to the atmosphere, food trucks, craft beer, and family-friendly vibes make Between The Peaks a complete experience. From local street food to cold brews, you’ll have plenty to enjoy between sets. Whether you’re a hardcore festival-goer, an outdoor enthusiast, or both, this event combines the best of both worlds in an unforgettable weekend.

If you’re looking for a festival that’s more than just music, Between The Peaks at RED Mountain Resort delivers the perfect combination of adventure, relaxation, and fantastic entertainment. Check out the lineup and grab tickets at Redresort.com/betweenthepeaks.


(Sponsored Article)

The post Just Over the Border: Fall Music Fest and Free Skiing This Winter! appeared first on Out There Venture.

]]>
https://outthereventure.com/just-over-the-border-fall-music-fest-and-free-skiing-this-winter/feed/ 0
2024 Wallace Huckleberry Festival and 5k Fun Run Aug 17-18 https://outthereventure.com/2024-wallace-huckleberry-festival/ https://outthereventure.com/2024-wallace-huckleberry-festival/#respond Thu, 25 Jul 2024 00:09:34 +0000 https://outthereventure.com/?p=55574 One of the coolest, family-friendly mountain town festivals in the Northwest, the Wallace Huckleberry Festival offers a wide range of activities in celebration of the venerable huckleberry! The festival includes something for just about everyone, with live music, food and other vendors, kids huckleberry contests, a magic show, a 5k fun run, a huckleberry pancake […]

The post 2024 Wallace Huckleberry Festival and 5k Fun Run Aug 17-18 appeared first on Out There Venture.

]]>
One of the coolest, family-friendly mountain town festivals in the Northwest, the Wallace Huckleberry Festival offers a wide range of activities in celebration of the venerable huckleberry! The festival includes something for just about everyone, with live music, food and other vendors, kids huckleberry contests, a magic show, a 5k fun run, a huckleberry pancake breakfast and more all happening in historic downtown Wallace, Idaho with its many unique restaurants, bars, and breweries!


Wallace Huckleberry Festival 5K Family Fun Run

The race starts in the center of the universe in historic downtown Wallace at 9 AM Sunday morning Aug. 18 (the entire town is on the National Historic Register). The fully-paved race course heads up Placer Creek gaining some 200 feet of elevation before turning back to the starting/ending point at the Wallace Elks Club. All types and ages of walkers, joggers, and hardcore runners are welcome, including kids in strollers, and dogs on leashes! Awards are given for the top finishers as well as for the best human and dog costumes. Sign up online here.

Huckleberry Festival Vendors

This year’s Wallace Huckleberry Festival includes arts, crafts, and food vendors range from woodwork to textiles, preserves to baked goods, BBQ to ice cream and more. Check out all of the vendors or reach out to become a vendor yourself!


Wallace Huckleberry Festival Music

Musicians are lined up for the entire two-day festival, featuring a wide range of sounds and styles. Check out the full schedule here:

Saturday, August 17th 

10:00 – 11:30: Johnnie McGee

12:30 – 3:30: Tim Snodgrass

4:00 – 6:30: Cosmic Wagon

7:00 – 10:00: SVERWOOD

Sunday, August 18th

12:00 – 3:00: Kyle Swafford and Band

Wallace Huckleberry Kids’ Activities

There are plenty of activities to keeps kids busy all weekend, including taking a swim in the historic Wallace pool, a magic show, huckleberry whipped cream eating contests, a bouncy house, and more. Plan your weekend around the kids’ activity schedule below:

JUMP, JUMP, JUMP! Northwest Inflatables will be open all weekend on the Depot Lawn! 10:00 – 6:00 Saturday and 9:00 – 3:00 Sunday. $10 for an all-day wristband

Saturday @ Center Stage

11:30 – 12:15: Magic Show with Opal Kate the Clown 

12:15: Announcement of Huckleberry Hound and Smokey the Bear’s Birthday Celebration

12:30 – 1:00: Huckleberry Whipped Cream Eating & Huckleberry Bubblegum Blowing Contests

1:30 – 3:30: Opal Kate the Clown Twisting Balloon Animals

Sunday @ Elks Lodge

7:30 – 11:00: Huckleberry Pancake Breakfast  (price TBD)

9:00: 5k Fun Run  *register here!*

11:00 – 2:00: Vastra the Clown Twisting Balloon Animals

Don’t miss the Wallace Huckleberry Festival Saturday and Sunday August 17-18, 2024! Check out this Out There article full of other Wallace-area adventure ideas to combine with the 5k and other festivities!

(Sponsored Story)

The post 2024 Wallace Huckleberry Festival and 5k Fun Run Aug 17-18 appeared first on Out There Venture.

]]>
https://outthereventure.com/2024-wallace-huckleberry-festival/feed/ 0
2023 Wallace Huckleberry Festival & 5k Run Aug 19-20 https://outthereventure.com/2023-wallace-huckleberry-festival/ https://outthereventure.com/2023-wallace-huckleberry-festival/#respond Fri, 14 Jul 2023 19:28:03 +0000 https://outthereventure.com/?p=53153 The Wallace Huckleberry Festival is an annual tradition in Idaho’s Silver Valley that combines a 5k race, food and craft vendors, live music, kids’ activities and huckleberries all in one of the coolest historic towns in the Northwest! The festival makes a great adventure/culture combo day trip or weekend getaway from Spokane or just about […]

The post 2023 Wallace Huckleberry Festival & 5k Run Aug 19-20 appeared first on Out There Venture.

]]>
The Wallace Huckleberry Festival is an annual tradition in Idaho’s Silver Valley that combines a 5k race, food and craft vendors, live music, kids’ activities and huckleberries all in one of the coolest historic towns in the Northwest! The festival makes a great adventure/culture combo day trip or weekend getaway from Spokane or just about anywhere in the Inland NW!

Wallace Huckleberry Festival 5K Fun Run 2023

Race, jog, or walk this scenic and historic 5k course ( you can even do it with your leashed dog or kids) that starts in the center of the universe in downtown Wallace at 9 AM Sunday morning Aug. 20. From the historic city streets of Wallace (the entire town is on the National Historic Register) the fully-paved race course heads up Placer Creek gaining some 200 feet of elevation before turning back to the starting/ending point at the Wallace Elks Club. All types and ages of walkers, joggers, and hardcore runners are welcome, including kids in strollers, and dogs on leashes! Awards are given for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place for overall male and female finishers as well as for each sex/age group. Sign up online here for 5k registration, t-shirts, a huckleberry pancake breakfast (sold separately), and swag bags or at the race before 8:15 AM with a price increase (cash or check only for day-of registration).

Street Vendors

Nothing beats cruising the vendors for unique gifts, deals, and tasty snacks at a small-town community festival! Each year the Wallace Huckleberry Festival hosts a variety of street vendors selling crafts, clothes, food, art, and more. There still may be space if you’re looking to join the fun with your own vendor booth (more info here). Wallace also features dozens of excellent restaurants, breweries, bars, and even a wine bar!

Live Music

Musicians are lined up for the entire two-day festival, featuring a wide range of sounds and styles. Check out the full schedule here:

Saturday, August 19

10:00 to 11:30: Local Favorite- Johnnie McGee!

12:00 to 3:00 pm: T & Company 

3:30 to 6:30 pm: Kyle Swafford

7:00 to 10:00 pm: SVERWOOD

Sunday, August 20

9:30 – 11:30: Tim Snodgrass

11:30 to 12 pm: Race winners announced

12 to 3 pm: Cosmic Wagon

Yes, the Wallace Huckleberry Festival Has Huckleberries Too!

In addition to the huckleberries cooked up in the pancakes featured at the Rotary Huckleberry Pancake Breakfast from 7 AM – 11 AM Sunday morning at the Wallace Elks, Johnson’s Gems on Bank St. downtown will be well stocked with fresh and frozen huckleberries, huckleberry jam, and more purple gold goodies for sale! 

See you at the Wallace Huckleberry Festival Saturday and Sunday August 19-20, 2023! Answer all of your festival questions by clicking here. And check out this Out There article full of other Wallace-area adventure ideas to combine with the 5k and other festivities!

(Sponsored Article)

The post 2023 Wallace Huckleberry Festival & 5k Run Aug 19-20 appeared first on Out There Venture.

]]>
https://outthereventure.com/2023-wallace-huckleberry-festival/feed/ 0
Events & Festivals in the Koots https://outthereventure.com/events-festivals-in-the-koots/ https://outthereventure.com/events-festivals-in-the-koots/#respond Wed, 24 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000 https://outthereventure.com/?p=52862 Gatherings are back in southeastern British Columbia this summer and fall. Find a music festival or fun community event to plan your next north-of-the-border adventure around! June 2-4: Sunfest in Castlegar. This annual community celebration typically includes live music, food and merchandise vendors, a parade and other entertainment. July 21-24: Shambhala Music Festival, Salmo. A […]

The post Events & Festivals in the Koots appeared first on Out There Venture.

]]>
Gatherings are back in southeastern British Columbia this summer and fall. Find a music festival or fun community event to plan your next north-of-the-border adventure around!

June 2-4: Sunfest in Castlegar. This annual community celebration typically includes live music, food and merchandise vendors, a parade and other entertainment.

July 21-24: Shambhala Music Festival, Salmo. A long-running celebration of electronic music and culture. The popular event reportedly transforms into the largest city in the region for five days each July.

August 4-6: Kaslo Jazz Fest, Kaslo. This laid-back world-class music festival featuring jazz, blues, folk, and world music has attracted big names and talented emerging artists since 1992. The floating stage and astounding acoustics turns Kaslo Bay Park into a natural amphitheater. Join other festival goers dancing in the sand, swimming or paddling around the stage, or relaxing in the grass.

August 11-12: Wapiti Music Festival, Fernie. An annual indie music festival amidst Fernie’s stunning mountain scenery. Stay for a while and ride and hike the amazing local trails.

August 26-September 4: FishOut Derby, Castlegar. Come fish for invasive walleye and northern pike for a chance to win prizes, including a $1,000 grand prize.

September 9-16: Kootenay Beer Week. Events in celebration of regional craft beer will take place in various communities across the West Kootenay.

September 15-16: Between the Peaks Music Festival at RED Mountain Resort in Rossland. A new festival at the base of RED hosting a variety of Canadian, international, and local acts on multiple outdoor stages, plus food, beer and cider, and easy access to Rossland’s killer bike trails.

September 16: Kootenay Beer Festival, Nelson. A capstone event to Kootenay Beer Week, which runs from Sept 9-16.

September 23: Great Canadian Beer Festival on Tour in Cranbrook. Canada’s oldest beer festival lands in Cranbrook. Presented by BC Ale Trail, craft beer lovers can enjoy delicious brews sourced from coast to coast at Belmont Park from 12-5 p.m. (OTO) //

The post Events & Festivals in the Koots appeared first on Out There Venture.

]]>
https://outthereventure.com/events-festivals-in-the-koots/feed/ 0
Winter Road Trip: Backcountry Adventures and Winterfest 2023 in Republic, Washington https://outthereventure.com/republic-washington-winterfest-2023/ https://outthereventure.com/republic-washington-winterfest-2023/#respond Tue, 03 Jan 2023 21:41:11 +0000 https://outthereventure.com/?p=52064 Looking for a small-town winter road trip with tons of outdoor recreation potential? Republic, Wash., just three hours north of Spokane is celebrating Winterfest on Saturday, January 14, 2023, and this friendly community has plenty of fun, creative activities and spectacles planned. Spend the weekend snowshoeing, backcountry or Nordic skiing, snowmobiling, or exploring the Ferry […]

The post <strong>Winter Road Trip: Backcountry Adventures and Winterfest 2023 in Republic, Washington</strong> appeared first on Out There Venture.

]]>
Looking for a small-town winter road trip with tons of outdoor recreation potential? Republic, Wash., just three hours north of Spokane is celebrating Winterfest on Saturday, January 14, 2023, and this friendly community has plenty of fun, creative activities and spectacles planned. Spend the weekend snowshoeing, backcountry or Nordic skiing, snowmobiling, or exploring the Ferry County Rail Trail, then hit up Republic’s annual Winterfest for snow sculpting, sasquatch calling, a parade, tug of war, kid’s zone, and the regionally-famous outhouse races! Then grab something to eat and drink at one of the local restaurants, bars, or at Republic Brewing Company. Check out the Winterfest Facebook page for all of the latest details.

Winterfest in Republic, Wash. Photo courtesy of the RRVCB.

Republic is a real outdoor adventure wonderland nestled in the heart of the Kettle Range Mountains in Northeast Washington’s Ferry County. No matter what your winter passion is, Republic makes a great basecamp for exploring the surrounding wild, wintery country.

Winter Activities around Republic, Washington

Exploring the winter backcountry is easy on a trip to Republic since the town is surrounded by thousands of acres of public land. The Kettle Range to the east of Republic offers plenty of beautiful terrain to explore from either Sherman or Boulder pass on snowshoes, backcountry skis, or snowmobile. Check out our complete backcountry winter guide to the Republic area for specific trail and terrain suggestions. Because the high peaks of the Kettle Crest include some avalanche terrain, be aware of avalanche risks in the area and go prepared when exploring backcountry terrain on skis, splitboard, or snowshoes.

Backcountry skiing in the Kettle Range. Photo: Nils Larsen

For a closer-to-town adventure, try hiking, biking, fat biking, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing the 25-mile-long Ferry County Rail Trail a few miles out of town. If the snow gods are willing, join other cross-country skiers and Nordic newbies for the annual Ferry County Rail Trail Ski Day that goes down in Curlew, Wash., on Saturday, January 22, 2023. This awesome community event includes free Nordic ski instruction and use of gear if you don’t have your own.

Fun for all at the Ferry County Rail Trail Ski Day

Learn more about winter adventures in Republic and find lodging and other amenity info at the Republic Regional Visitors and Convention Bureau’s website.

(Sponsored Content)

The post <strong>Winter Road Trip: Backcountry Adventures and Winterfest 2023 in Republic, Washington</strong> appeared first on Out There Venture.

]]>
https://outthereventure.com/republic-washington-winterfest-2023/feed/ 0
Holiday Events Around the Inland NW, Dec. 2022 https://outthereventure.com/holiday-events-around-the-inland-nw-dec-2022/ https://outthereventure.com/holiday-events-around-the-inland-nw-dec-2022/#respond Mon, 05 Dec 2022 22:35:43 +0000 https://outthereventure.com/?p=51941 Festive activities in the Inland Northwest during December 2022 to help you and your family get into the holiday spirit.

The post Holiday Events Around the Inland NW, Dec. 2022 appeared first on Out There Venture.

]]>
The holidays are just around the corner, and plenty of magic is in the works at events around the Inland Northwest. Here are a few festive activities to help you and your family get into the holiday spirit.

Christmas light display in front of a home including lit-up Santas and bears.
Christmas lights in Wallace, Idaho. // Photo courtesy of Wallace Chamber.

Spokane Area

  • Northwest Winterfest (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, December 2 through January 1) is the brightest, shining holiday lantern display and cultural celebration in the Inland Northwest. This year, the displays, entertainment, and activities are moving indoors at the Spokane Valley Spokane Fair and Expo Center where your self-guided walking tour takes you through crafted lighted lanterns celebrating winter, whimsy, holidays, and traditions from here and throughout the world. Tickets: $9.90-$12.90. Northwestwinterfest.com
  • The Bing Crosby Holiday Film Festival (December 10-11) returns to the Bing Crosby Theater for two days of favorites, including “White Christmas” and live entertainment from Bing’s nephew, Howard Crosby, the Zonky Jazz Band, and the Irish trio Affiniti. Bingcrosbytheater.com
  • The 8th annual Winter Glow Spectacular (November 19-January 1) is a self-guided tour through a stunning community light display that aims to bring back the spirit of the holidays. The tours through Orchard Park in Liberty Lake are free for everyone, but donations are accepted. Winterglowspectacular.com
Holiday lights at the Coeur d'Alene Resort reflecting on the water of Lake Coeur d'Alene.
Holiday lights at The Coeur d’Alene Resort, including a fire-breathing dragon display, are a beautiful sight. // Photo: Holly Weiler.

North Idaho

  • Holiday Lighting Ceremony Parade & Holiday Light Show (November 25-January 2) in Coeur d’Alene is a favorite tradition in North Idaho. The 30th annual parade and fireworks show on November 25 launches the lighting of over one million lights throughout downtown and on the lake. View them throughout the month. Cdaresort.com/holiday-light-show
  • Hometown Holidays Festival (December 2-3 and 9-11) in Wallace is the perfect getaway to experience the holidays in Silver Valley’s most scenic and historic mountain town. Get your picture taken with Santa and then join him for breakfast. Enjoy pet and lighted parades, craft shopping, live theater, hay rides, and more all in the storybook setting of this 1890s mining town. Wallaceid.fun
  • The Post Fallidays Tiny Tree Festival (December 3 from 10 a.m.–12 p.m.) is a fun and festive brunch (with a mimosa bar!) hosted by local community organizations at the Red Lion Templins. Bid on a lineup of creative tiny trees to benefit the community and non-profits. Postfallschamber.com/events
  • This premier Festival of Trees & Holiday Gala (December 10) kicks off at 10 a.m. at the Priest River Event Center with Santa photos and crafts for kids.  Newporthospitalandhealth.org/event/festival-of-trees
  • The Festival at Sandpoint is putting on the Orchestra Winter Concert featuring an afternoon of classical music, pop tunes, and holiday caroling favorites (Monday, Dec. 12 at 4:30 p.m.) at the East Bonner County Library. Festivalatsandpoint.com
  • The Kootenai County Farmers’ Markets Winter Market (December 17 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.) will be held at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds with the best locally crafted, grown, and produced products for all your gifting and holiday needs. Kootenaifarmersmarkets.org
  • Ski with Santa at Schweitzer (December 23-24). Glide down the slopes with Santa, then meet up with him in the village before he launches his trip around the world! Schweitzer.com/event/ski-with-santa
Ski with Santa at Schweitzer on Dec. 23-24. // Photo courtesy Schweitzer.

Oregon

  • Enterprise Winterfest Celebration (December 10) in the Wallowa Mountains of northeast Oregon will include kids’ activities, Santaland, a light parade, and other activities in celebration of winter and the holiday season. Enterpriseoregon.org

Montana

  • The Christmas Stroll in historic downtown Whitefish (December 9) is a long-standing community tradition filled with holiday music, photos with Santa, caroling, tree lighting, street artisans, and food vendors. Whitefishchamber.org/christmas-stroll.

Originally published as “Home in the NW For the Holidays” in the Nov.-Dec. 2022 print issue.

Storefront and downtown street in Whitefish, Montana, adorned with festive Christmas lights and decor.
Downtown Whitefish, Montana, with views of Whitefish Mountain Resort in the distance. // Photo courtesy of ChuckHaney.com.

Learn about more upcoming events and Inland NW news.

The post Holiday Events Around the Inland NW, Dec. 2022 appeared first on Out There Venture.

]]>
https://outthereventure.com/holiday-events-around-the-inland-nw-dec-2022/feed/ 0
2022 Wallace Huckleberry Festival & 5k Run Aug 19-20 https://outthereventure.com/wallace-huckleberry-festival-2022/ https://outthereventure.com/wallace-huckleberry-festival-2022/#respond Wed, 20 Jul 2022 00:01:00 +0000 https://outthereventure.com/?p=51245 The Wallace Huckleberry Festival brings together so many things we love: a 5k race, food and craft vendors, live music, kids’ activities and huckleberries all in one of the coolest historic towns in the Northwest! Wallace Huckleberry Festival 5K Fun Run 2022 The race starts in the center of the universe in downtown Wallace at […]

The post 2022 Wallace Huckleberry Festival & 5k Run Aug 19-20 appeared first on Out There Venture.

]]>
The Wallace Huckleberry Festival brings together so many things we love: a 5k race, food and craft vendors, live music, kids’ activities and huckleberries all in one of the coolest historic towns in the Northwest!

Wallace Huckleberry Festival 5K Fun Run 2022

The race starts in the center of the universe in downtown Wallace at 9 AM Saturday morning Aug. 20. From the historic city streets of Wallace (the entire town is on the National Historic Register) the fully-paved race course heads up Placer Creek gaining some 200 feet of elevation before turning back to the starting/ending point at the Wallace Elks Club. All types and ages of walkers, joggers, and hardcore runners are welcome, including kids in strollers, and dogs on leashes! Awards are given for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place for overall male and female finishers as well as for each sex/age group. Sign up online here for discounted 5k registration, t-shirts, a huckleberry pancake breakfast, and swag bags or at the race before 8:15 AM with a price increase (cash or check only for day-of registration).

Street Vendors

Nothing beats cruising the vendors for unique gifts, deals, and tasty snacks at a small-town community festival! Each year the Wallace Huckleberry Festival hosts a variety of street vendors selling crafts, clothes, food, art, and more. There still may be space if you’re looking to join the fun with your own vendor booth (more info here). Wallace also features dozens of excellent restaurants, breweries, bars, and even a wine bar!

Live Music

Musicians are lined up for the entire two-day festival, featuring a wide range of sounds and styles. Check out the full schedule here:

Friday, August 19

11:30 to 2:30 pm: Tim Snodgrass

3:00 to 6:00 pm: Jason Perry

6:30 to 9:30 pm: SVERWOOD

Saturday, August 20

10:00 – 11:15: Local Favorite! Johnny McGee

12 to 2:30 pm: Sara and Jessie Brown (aka Rusty&Ginger)

3 to 6 pm: LoGee

Yes, the Wallace Huckleberry Festival Has Huckleberries Too!

In addition to the huckleberries cooked up in the pancakes featured at the Rotary Huckleberry Pancake Breakfast from 7 AM – 11 AM Saturday morning at the Wallace High School, Johnson’s Gems on Bank St. downtown will be well stocked with fresh and frozen huckleberries, huckleberry jam, and more purple gold goodies for sale! 

See you at the Wallace Huckleberry Festival Friday and Saturday August 19-20, 2022! Answer all of your festival questions by clicking here. And check out this Out There article full of other Wallace-area adventure ideas to combine with the 5k and other festivities!

(Sponsored Article)

The post 2022 Wallace Huckleberry Festival & 5k Run Aug 19-20 appeared first on Out There Venture.

]]>
https://outthereventure.com/wallace-huckleberry-festival-2022/feed/ 0