Valleyfest

Perpetually stuck in the shadow of its big brother to the west, the city of Spokane Valley isn’t about to let its biggest community festival be overlooked. Valleyfest boasts locally made hot-air balloons, the Hearts of Gold community parade and even bed races. Cross your fingers that the skies are calm and clear, so spectators all over can watch the colorful orbs floating high above the city at various times through the weekend. Now in its 26th year, one of Valleyfest’s newer events is the Lions Club Bed Races (Friday at 6:30 pm), a fundraiser that’s just what its name implies. Decorated twin beds on wheels will speed down East Sprague as costumed teams of five, including a pajama-wearing member in the bed, race to the finish line.

Fri-Sun, Sept. 25-27, event times vary • Entry to most festival events is free • Mirabeau Point Park and CenterPlace Event Center, Spokane Valley • valleyfest.org • 922-3299