BASIN EVENTS: May 22-29
COLUMBIA BASIN — It’s Memorial Day weekend and there will be celebrations and solemn remembrances all over the Basin. There’s also live music, art and community gatherings to enjoy. Here are a few ways to start the summer. May 22 Historic Marker Dedication A sign detailing the life of Nathaniel “Nat” Washington will be dedicated at the Nat Washington House. Sponsored by the Jonas Babcock Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution, the Washington State Society Daughters of the American Colonists and the Sons of the American Revolution, Spokane Chapter No. 1. 11 a.m. at 42 C St. NW, Ephrata. Info: www.jonasbabcockdar.org.
BASIN EVENTS: June 2026
COLUMBIA BASIN — As we swing out of spring into summer, there is a host of activities in the Basin, both indoors and out. Here are a few suggestions.
‘The Trip to Bountiful’
Masquers play explores what it means to go home
SOAP LAKE — Home, and what it means, is at the heart of the Masquers Theater’s production of “The Trip to Bountiful,” written by playwright Horton Foote, opening June 12. “The show is very nostalgic,” said director Jesse Huntwork. “It’s about going back to your hometown, your home roots, and remembering where you came from.” Carrie Watts (played by Rosalee Chamberlain) lives with her son Ludie (Jason Noble) and his wife Jessie May (Machelle Miller) in a small Houston, Texas, apartment in the post-World War II era, but none of them are really happy with the arrangement. Jessie May carps constantly at her mother-in-law, who responds passive-aggressively, while Ludie is forced to play the peacemaker.
Auditions open in July for Masquers’ ‘Anastasia the Musical’
SOAP LAKE — The Masquers Theater will hold auditions for “Anastasia: the Musical” next month. Auditions will take place at 6 p.m. July 17 and 2 p.m. July 18, according to an announcement from the Masquers Theater. Children 7 and older and adults of all experience levels are encouraged to audition. All roles are available, according to the announcement. Those auditioning should be prepared to sing songs listed in the audition material packet – ideally one associated with the role they are pursuing – and will also participate in a cold reading. Auditions will be recorded as part of the casting process.
BASIN EVENTS: June 19-27
COLUMBIA BASIN — School is out, and summer officially arrives this week. Here are some ways to make the most of the season. June 19 Soap Lake Food & Folk Festival Live music, local food, workshops, craft vendors, family activities, and community gathering. Hosted by Friends of the Lower Grand Coulee in partnership with Cloudview Farm and Soap Lake Creative District. Free and open to all ages. Soap Lake Creative District Friday, Cloudview Farms Saturday. Info: tinyurl.com/solawafff.
EVENTS: July 2026
COLUMBIA BASIN — July will be bright, hot and filled with fun. Once the Fourth of July hoopla is over, there are still plenty of things to do. Here are a few suggestions, starting with a couple of end-of-June events.
BASIN EVENTS: July 3-11
COLUMBIA BASIN – This weekend will be loaded with Fourth of July observances in most of our communities, and then there’s plenty more happening afterward. Here are some things to check out.
BASIN EVENTS: July 10-18
COLUMBIA BASIN — Whether you soak up the sun or the air conditioning, there’s something happening to suit you in the Basin this week. Check these out.
Improv camp coming to Moses Lake
MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake students can immerse themselves in the world of improvisational theater at a new camp coming in August. “It’s an entry point for 7- to 18-year-olds into theater and improv comedy,” said Columbia Basin Allied Arts Director Shawn Cardwell. “They’ll go through the games and the thought processes behind improv acting.” The week-long camp, called Yes, And Academy, will take students through four different classes with multiple instructors, where they’ll learn scene work, devising, improv fundamentals, and performance through fun, interactive improv games and exercises, according to an announcement from CBAA, which is collaborating with MG Teams of Spokane to produce the camp. Students will get to explore a variety of games and activities tailored to their age group, according to the announcement. Classes will be 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday, with a lunch break. Students should bring their own lunch, according to the announcement.
BASIN EVENTS: July 24-Aug. 1
COLUMBIA BASIN — It’s hot and smoky outside? This is the Columbia Basin. We’re used to this. Here are some chances to get out and have some fun no matter what the sky looks like. July 25 Christmas in July at the Market Who says you have to wait until December for holiday cheer? Stroll through decorated vendor booths, shop amazing local makers and growers, enjoy holiday-themed fun, festive music, sweet treats, and surprises for the whole family. Wear your favorite Christmas shirt, Santa hat, or holiday outfit. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. at Moses Lake Farmers Market, McCosh Park, 401 W. Fourth Avenue. Info: www.farmersmarketml.com.
