‘We’re thrilled to be back and hosting this event,’ says Meyer
SPOKANE – As spring blooms across the Inland Northwest, garden enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the annual gardening expo hosted by Inland Empire Gardeners. Scheduled for May 11, and located at Spokane Community College, this year’s event promises to be a celebration of all things green under the theme “Happy Everything!”
Founded in 1994, Inland Empire Gardeners has become a large part of the local gardening community, offering a platform for garden nurseries, specialty products, local craftspeople, and horticulture services to showcase their offerings. This year, the expo boasts an impressive lineup of vendors, including garden artists and local organizations, all offering live plants locally grown and ready for spring planting.
Renowned gardening expert Ciscoe Morris is slated to speak at SCC Lair’s 350-seat auditorium, sharing insights and tips to inspire gardeners of all levels.
ViAnn Meyer, President of Inland Empire Gardeners, emphasized the community-focused nature of the event.
“We see the Garden Expo as a public service for the gardeners of Spokane,” Meyer stated. “It’s a chance for enthusiasts to come together, learn, and celebrate their shared passion for gardening.”
While the expo serves as a platform for gardening enthusiasts to come together, it also holds a charitable component.
“In the past, we’ve donated proceeds to various causes, including support for foster kids, victims of domestic violence, and initiatives to combat hunger,” Meyer explained. “After the challenges of the pandemic, we’re thrilled to be back and hosting this event, providing a great community gathering where people can come together and support each other.”
Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of volunteers works to ensure the smooth running of the expo.
“We rely on the support of our volunteers, from vendors assisting with paperwork to set-up crews preparing the venue,” Meyer shared. “Safety is paramount, and we have measures in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees.”
Estimating attendance for such a large-scale event can be challenging, but Meyer anticipates around 20,000 visitors from across the Inland Pacific Northwest.
“We don’t have a formal admission process, but we gauge attendance based on parking usage,” Meyer explained. “This year, with a record-breaking 300 vendors, we’re expecting a fantastic turnout.”
Clare is an Eastern Washington University graduate and a reporter at Free Press Publishing.
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