WHAT'S UP: Pigging out, fire talk and a whole lotta Labor Day action

By Dan Nailen

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WHAT'S UP: Pigging out, fire talk and a whole lotta Labor Day action

Dave Matthews Band hits the Gorge over Labor Day weekend.

After a few weeks away, I'm back in the saddle to offer some educated advice on spending your entertainment dollar. I perused our event listings and staff picks and I recommend you do the same. Here are the highlights for the week ahead as we barrel into September:

Monday, Aug. 27

MUSIC | It's night two of Shakey Graves at the Knitting Factory, and the only one with any tickets left as of this writing. He's joined by Jose Gonzalez and Rayland Baxter for a night of rootsy, bluesy rock goodness.

Tuesday, Aug. 28

COMMUNITY | Talk about timely. Lindaman's is hosting a Science Cafe about the fire ecology of the Inland Northwest. Hopefully by Tuesday the smoke will clear enough for you to make it to the South Hill spot for what should be a great discussion.

MUSIC | Northwest of Nashville's monthly showcase at the Bartlett has a special guest tonight among its talented players, bluegrass badass John Cowan, best known for his singing and bass playing for New Grass Revival. Should be a hoot and a half.

Wednesday, Aug. 29

FOOD | It's kick-off night for Pig Out in the Park. Hard to believe, I know. Watch for the new issue of the Inlander for entertainment highlights.

MUSIC | This show was just announced, so jump on it — hip-hop legend E-40 hits the Knitting Factory with Nef the Pharaoh tonight.

Thursday, Aug. 30

COMEDY | TJ Miller is a star, but not an uncontroversial one thanks to doing things like allegedly calling in bomb threats on trains. He's been laying low for a while, but he's got five shows in Spokane starting tonight.

MUSIC | Missoula's Lil Smokies are a blast to see live, and Sandpoint is a blast to visit. Why not combine the two tonight? The band plays the Panida Theater.

Friday, Aug. 31

MUSIC | Dave Matthews Band kicks off its regular visit to the Gorge tonight.

FESTIVAL | Schweitzer Fall Fest is on, starting today.

Saturday, Sept. 1

CLASSICAL | The Spokane Symphony heads to Liberty Lake for a show at the Pavillion Park, part of their annual Labor Day shows. On Monday, Sept. 3, they'll perform at Comstock Park.