Spring into some fun
LISA JAMES/Press Game booth foreman Keith McEntire of Davis Amusements checks the time while hanging stuffed animals Friday at Spring Fest at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds. Spring Fest runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. today, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.
COEUR d’ALENE — Archery, herding dogs, monster trucks, carnival rides.
Northwest Spring Fest has returned, and the gates open at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds today at 10 a.m.
“We want to provide more opportunities for our community to come out and play," fairgrounds general manager Alexcia Jordan said Friday afternoon. "Why wait 'til August to have the fair? We can have a smaller version in the spring when everybody is dying to get outside."
Northwest Spring Fest, formerly the Sportsman's Expo, features a smorgasbord of activities and exhibits for the whole family. More than 150 vendors will have sales and deals, the familiar aroma of fair food will fill the air and the kids will have plenty of options to keep them entertained.
“There are more bounce houses out there than I could ever dream of,” said Teresa Balderrama, head of the Northwest Spring Fest livestock committee. "It’s kind of like a mini-fair."
The festival still maintains a sportsman's feel; the casting pond, fly-tying demonstrations, fishing presentations, hunting exhibits and camping displays will get outdoor enthusiasts even more excited about their next excursion.
For the 4-H and animal fans, more than 250 cattle, sheep, goats ands more will be on the grounds for livestock clinics and jackpot shows. Camel and pony rides will be available, and spectators will have opportunities to see canine companions work their magic during the herding dog exhibits.
New this year is the midway carnival, with about 10 rides and several games. Individual ride tickets are available as well as $25 wristbands for unlimited rides.
"I can’t wait to go on the Ring of Fire,” Jordan said with a smile.
And don't forget the Monster Truck Insanity shows in the arena at 6 p.m. today and 1 p.m. Sunday. Bleacher seating is free and grandstand seating is $8.
“There should be something for everyone here," Balderrama said. "Something for Mom, something for Dad, something for kids."
Northwest Spring Fest will be open until 6 p.m. today and will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $10 for adults and free for kids 12 and younger. Event parking is free.