Spring is in full bloom in Spokane and it is easy to see why our Renaissance continues—community celebrations begin in earnest and our sense of family builds with each event. One of the signature gatherings starting next month is the weekly downtown Spokane Farmers’ Market. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, this robust collection of local growers brings fresh vegetables and fruits as well as baked goods, meat, eggs and other products to the market for sale. Health and fitness offerings germinate in the spring punctuated by our capstone race, May’s Bloomsday run and walk drawing entrants from around the globe. Race organizers announced a surge of more than 8,000 runners and walkers jumped on board since online registration opened on January 1, suggesting the final tally could reach 50,000 by race day for the 41st annual pilgrimage through community neighborhoods. Prior to the arrival of the Bloomies, bike enthusiasts have a chance to visit the Spokane Bike Expo and Swap on April 14, at the Spokane Fairgrounds hosted by the venerable nonprofit Big Brothers and Sisters.

Our Renaissance’s momentum is unabated because, like the original Italian Renaissance, the creativity of our artists gives energy to the soul of the city. The vibrant Downtown Spokane Partnership understands this all too well, showcasing our sizzling art and retail scene every month during its First Friday series at a plethora of downtown locations, seemingly growing with the longer daylight hours.

Our spring will peak this year with the 80th Lilac Festival, “Swing Into Spokane,” occurring the third weekend in May, when 150,000 citizens descend on the downtown iconic torchlight parade to honor our military, empower our youth and showcase our region. Collectively, we know community grows when our citizens feel they belong. Like the famous 1970’s song “We Are Family” suggests: “Have faith in you and the things you do, you won’t go wrong, this is our family jewel.” Spokane shines because we come together as a family this spring. Our Renaissance continues.

Col. Brian Newberry, USAF (Retired) is the current executive director of Leadership Spokane, and the former Commander, 92 ARW, Fairchild AFB.