Surprise, Surprise: And Ode to Walla Walla Springtime

By Staff Writer Michael Espinoza
Photo Credit Ryan Vandenburgh

Here it is, friends. Spring has finally sprung. This month, I will describe what you have to look forward to in the coming months: non-extra-hour alternative events, weather, people and places of spring.

First of all, has anyone noticed that it's been really rainy and really cloudy for about a month now? I did too. You've probably also had your co-workers explain to you that this is uncommon. Although we do get most of our precipitation in spring and fall, these solid blocks of stormy weather are indeed uncommon. According to the Chamber of Commerce, you can expect "spectacular springs," and this has always been my experience. You have probably already noticed daffodils blooming all over town, a sure sign that warm spring days are sure to follow. As the summer approaches, you can begin to expect long days, with last light dwindling after 9pm!

Arts

Symphony
Did you know that Walla Walla has the oldest symphony in the west? Closing its 104th season on April 19th, the Walla Walla Symphony performs "The Magic of Mozart" with guest vocalists at Cordiner Hall, located on the Whitman Campus. If you have never been to a symphony or you love a symphony or anywhere in between, tickets start at $47, fairly cheap for live orchestral music. A funny fact: The director, Yakof Bergman, used to direct the Colorado Springs Symphony when I had season tickets as a child. He seems to be following me, and I'm very happy for it.

Art Walk
The first Friday of every month starting in May is ArtWALK Walla Walla, a chance to tour 21 studios and galleries, located all in the downtown area (walking distance). Friday nights, from my experience, are a magical time to walk or bike around town in May and June. First Fridays give this a lot more truth. Experience the diverse range of local artistry already located around town and visit galleries you never knew were there (like the Museum of Unnatural History, located above Valley Vision on Main). All galleries are free and open to the public on First Fridays. Check out the info booth on Main for a walking map.

Taste Walla Walla
What happens when the local food scene takes over a whole block near First and Main for an eater's paradise? It's Taste Walla Walla, all day on April 9. Local restaurants and food vendors will all be there to offer samples of their faire. Some wine producers will also be there for attendees of age. If you haven't been able to visit some of the finer local restaurants, this is an opportunity to try a bite from all of them under one big tent for $45. Tickets are available at the Downtown Walla Walla Foundation or at their website.

Community Events

Farmer's Market
Yes, we have all been waiting for it, and it's back! Walla Walla Farmer's Market starts up the first weekend in May. Every Saturday and Sunday, visit the market between 9 and 1 for fresh, local produce, artisanal cheese, baked good, all types of foods, local crafts and more. This bounty proves that the Walla Walla Valley produces enough food in the summer to eat locally almost exclusively. My favorite stands include Stone's Throw Farms for fresh, raw organic juices, Cugini's for meatball sandwiches, the Soap Company and Alice Bagley's fresh flowers at West End Farms. (Special Hint: You can use EBT at the market for whole produce!).

Spring Release
The wineries open their doors the first full weekend in May. This is a great opportunity for everyone of age (out of service gear) to visit wineries. Local winemakers will be releasing new vintages in tasting rooms all over the valley. Though crowded, this is a fun time to check out famous Walla Walla wines for the first time. Expect to pay $5-10 for each tasting and take it easy! Spitting is an acceptable and condoned behavior in the wine tasting world. Helpful hint: if you want to go out for dinner this weekend, although I'd recommend eating at home instead, be prepared for long waits if you don't have a reservation; this is one of the two busiest weekends in the Valley.

Sweet Onion Festival
The Walla Walla Sweet Onion Festival takes place the weekend after AmeriGraduation, July 16 and 17, and is adjacent to the Farmer's Market on Main. It's possible that your family will be in town and this is a great event for families. Sweet onions abound, pickled, deep fried, candied, you name it! Last year I witnessed a man attempt and conquer a world record for peeling onions. The festival goes into the night, capped off with live music and a street dance.