Virtual Events to Keep You Busy During Quarantine
As the world settles into its new normal of social distancing, many people are finding lots of time on their hands. Although entirely necessary, staying home all day every day has caused some struggle in figuring out just how to keep busy outside of binging Netflix shows like 'Tiger King". Let’s get one thing straight; none of us are alone in this. Many events are now moving virtual, and we couldn’t be more grateful for technology than during COVID-19 subsequent stay at home orders. The Spokane community is booming with virtual events right now. Everything from live workouts to virtual art shows, Spokane’s got you covered. Here are some upcoming virtual events to keep you busy during quarantine.
First Friday
May 1, 5:00PM - 8:00PM
Join Spokane Arts and Downtown Spokane Partnership as they celebrate Virtual First Friday! Our community still has a wealth of artwork to share as we stay home and healthy. Artists can tag @SpokaneArts on social media to show their new work! Multiple events, live streams, and artwork will be shared on May 1st for you to enjoy from home.
Artfest
MAY 29 - 31
The annual outdoor event, Artfest, will be an online juried show and art sale on May 29-31. Artfest Online 2020, an Inland Northwest tradition, will feature an eclectic variety of art and fine craft from jury-selected artists with links to view more of their work, which is available for purchase. The artists will include local favorites and new entries as well. Artfest Online 2020 will also feature online programs and entertainment to complement the virtual gallery experience. All artist and program information will be posted soon here. This event is free to the public
MAC Virtual Resources
Although on-site exhibitions and facilities remain closed at the MAC due to COVID-19, there are a number of webinars and virtual tours you can access. From behind the scenes of Mt. St. Helens to a virtual tour of Pompeii, you can experience all of this from the comfort of your home.
Spokane Symphony Podcast
In the first Spokane Symphony podcast, Music Director James Lowe talks with Concertmaster Mateusz Wolski about the impact of the current crisis in our daily lives, the importance of live music, his background in Poland, and the relationship between conductors and the orchestra.
Listen on YouTube.
Virtual Rage Room
Mobile rage room, Smash, is a product of Spokane-based experience design company Blender. They are offering a unique stress-relief option via video. Event attendees can submit a list of their fears, anxieties, and other stressors, and their team writes the words down on a plate—and then videotapes themselves smashing it. Videos are then sent to the person who requested them.
Northwest Passages Virtual Meetings
“Storytime from the Tower“ is a Northwest Passage’s video series featuring notable folks from across our region reading books for the young kids in our community. Check out recent videos here or sign up for a live forum here.
COVID-19K Virtual Run
March 30 - May 15
Now is the time for running to go viral. This virtual run was set up to unite the running community while supporting small businesses in Spokane. Every registration helps buy gift cards from local businesses struggling in a time of crisis. Complete the full 19k (11.8 miles), half 19k (5.9 miles), or quarter 19k (2.95 miles) and post your results online. Participants will also receive a COVID 19K run shirt.
Virtual Wine Classes & Tastings
Ah yes, it’s five o’clock somewhere. While conducting in-person wine tastings is currently out of the question, Terra Blanca is continuing to connect with those who share similar passions for wine with a Virtual Tasting every Wednesday and Friday. They also have two different time slots at 2 pm and 5 pm so people can join at their convenience. And, the Rocket Market is hosting a wine class on Wednesday nights! Email andrew@rocketmartket.com by Wednesday to snag your spot!
For more virtual events happening in the Spokane community, refer to Downtown Spokane’s virtual events page.