February is known as the month of love—and at the Spokane Lilac Festival, we like to think of it as the month of love, kindness, and maybe just a little glitter. It’s a time to pause (briefly—because we’re busy!) and remember why this festival matters so much: bringing people together, honoring service, empowering our youth, and celebrating Spokane in all its wonderful uniqueness.

This month is especially exciting as we move into one of my favorite moments of the year—the selection of our Lilac Royal Court. Watching these incredible young ambassadors step forward, share their stories, and grow through this process is both inspiring and humbling. They remind us that the future is bright… and very well spoken.

Behind the scenes, plans for the 2026 Spokane Lilac Festival are coming together beautifully. Spreadsheets are filling up, meetings are happening, ideas are flying—and yes, May is going to be here before we know it. Thanks to our dedicated volunteers and supporters, the magic is very much in the making.

As we move through this season, I invite us all to truly live our theme: EMBRACE. Embrace kindness. Embrace differences. Embrace one another. Our community shines brightest when everyone feels welcomed, valued, and included—and that spirit is what the Lilac Festival has always been about.

Thank you for being part of this journey, for sharing your love of Spokane, and for helping us continue a tradition that means so much to so many.

With gratitude, kindness, and just a bit of sparkle,
Monika Hawkinson
President, Lilac Festival Association