Spokane, Wash. – Kamiah Barbecue Days has been a time-honored tradition for nearly 90 years, where local artists, vendors and community members celebrate the end of summer. Beginning as a one-day event, the celebration has become a Labor Day weekend staple, and this year, Barbecue Days will expand into a week-long celebration, featuring 12 attractions, all free of charge.
This year, in recognition of its 50th Anniversary theme of “Celebrating Community,” Innovia Foundation is investing in free and low-cost events and opportunities that bring people together. As part of this investment, Innovia Foundation is proud to sponsor Kamiah Barbecue Days and provide free admission to the family-friendly attractions.
The celebration on August 29 to September 2 will feature games, rides and activities hosted by local youth organizations, and an afternoon rodeo on Saturday, August 31. As a result of Innovia’s sponsorship, the Adventure Zone at Wa-A’Yas Community Center will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day of Barbeque Days. For the full event line-up, visit goinnovia.org/kamiahbbqdays.
“Thanks to Innovia Foundation’s generous grant, the Kamiah Chamber of Commerce and the Upper Clearwater Community Foundation are pleased to announce an exciting free-admission event for youth during our 88th Annual Kamiah Barbecue Days,” says Taffee Schaak, Kamiah Chamber of Commerce Coordinator. “Together, we’re making a positive impact on young lives!”
Kamiah Barbecue Days began in 1936 when a group of community-minded merchants held a free barbecue to thank local residents for their patronage. For nearly a century, the Kamiah Chamber of Commerce has kept this beloved tradition alive. From watching the grand parade with floats featuring proud Kamiah High School alumni, to viewing artwork and quilts by local artists, to partaking in local street cuisine, Kamiah Barbecue Days are always centered around community, family and friends.
As the community foundation for Eastern Washington and North Idaho, Innovia actively seeks opportunities to enrich communities by promoting vibrant and accessible experiences in arts and culture.
“We are proud to provide free admission to such a beloved Kamiah tradition,” says Shelly O’Quinn, CEO of Innovia Foundation. “We look forward to joining the community for a Labor Day celebration that underscores the history and vibrancy of this region.”
Innovia Foundation’s investment in Kamiah Barbecue Days is part of a series of events and activities Innovia is gifting to communities across Eastern Washington and North Idaho in celebration of the Foundation’s 50th Anniversary in 2024. More information about these events can be found at innovia.org/fifty.
