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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Avista arrives

Rick Bonino

All week long, we’ve been telling you about all the beers that will be pouring at this year’s Inland Northwest Craft Beer Festival. Today, it’s time to start drinking them.

A record 41 breweries from throughout Washington and North Idaho will be on hand for the seventh annual festival, in its third year at Avista Stadium, today from 4 to 9 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 8. By the time it’s over, close to 200 different beers will have been tapped.

Before you start diving into them, a few last-minute reminders:

– If you didn’t get tickets in advance, you’ll be paying $25 per day at the door ($15 for military with ID). That gets you a tasting glass and your first six 5-ounce pours (extra tokens are $2 each or three for $5).

– While today is 21-and-over only, for the first time, Saturday will be all-ages with minors admitted free when accompanied by a ticketed parent or guardian. Kids’ activities in short right field will include a slide, bouncy house, obstacle course and toddler zone.

– The live music stage at second base will play host to rootsy singer/songwriter Marshall McLean (solo) at 5:30 and Folkinception (a stripped-down “light” version) at 7 today, and classic rockers Rain City Time Machine at 3 and acousti-funk trio Dimestore Prophets at 5 on Saturday.

– Food will be provided by the Meltz Extreme Grilled Cheese, Veraci Pizza and 3 Ninjas trucks along the left field line.

– Parking is free, but remember, be responsible. Designated drivers are admitted for $5, which includes free soda and water.