It is with deep sadness that we announce the Spokane Lilac Festival for 2020, “Destination Spokane,” has been canceled.  This was not a decision taken lightly.  After many discussions and meetings with our local and state officials, it is clear that it is not feasible to hold the Festival in a safe manner, nor the type of Festival our wonderful community deserves and has come to expect.  This is only the second time in our 82-year Festival history that the Parade or any of our events have not been able to take place; the first 1943-1945 during WWII.  

Although we are very disappointed with the outcome of our 2020 Festival, we look forward with anticipation to the Spring of 2021 when we can resume our commitment to Honor our Military, Empower Our Youth and Showcase Our Region.  Thank you to all of those who have supported this mission, including the Volunteers, Sponsors, our Lilac Directors and most importantly, our amazing Lilac City.

Dan VerHeul
2020 ‘Destination Spokane’ Lilac Festival President

The Spokane Lilac Festival is the proud host of the largest Torchlight Military Parade in the nation. Featuring bands, floats, military and equestrian groups, drill teams and dancers, cars, and more, this event is fun for the entire community; no matter what your age, no matter how long you have lived in Spokane, you will enjoy it!  Although we will be unable to march down the streets of beautiful downtown Spokane for our 2020 year, we look forward to the third Saturday in May, 2021, when we will be back bigger and better than ever!

It takes a year to prepare for our parade, and we have many volunteers who work with us to plan it. If you want to join us, send me an email. If you would like to participate in the 2020 Armed Forces Torchlight Parade, please fill out and submit either the Parade Participant or Vendor application to the right.

Our parade is special for Spokane! We hope to see you on the sidelines or in it!