Where a student can go to for fun and amusement when they’re on a budget.

Thin wallets and empty pockets rejoice, the need to spend hard earned cash in an effort to unwind is no more. Spokane is loaded with free or relatively cheap options for activities.

Spokane has seven public library branches. Events can often be found hanging up on bulletin boards in library entrances.

Spokane Public Library offers numerous free events from classes to art exhibits.

“We always have art on display here,” said Marsha Johnson, a circulation desk employee. “Currently we have two exhibits including our permanent display.”

The exhibits are located on the second floor of Spokane Public Library’s Downtown branch in the Northwest Room. According to SPL’s website, the Northwest Room houses five temporary display cases which feature art displays from local artists on a rotating schedule.

Spokane’s libraries also participate in a monthly event downtown called First Friday. The event is a collaboration between the local arts and retail scenes, featuring wine tasting, live music and a social environment.

According to the Downtown Spokane Partnership’s website, February’s First Friday will feature art from Kaiti Staib on display at the Maryhill Winery. Visit Pottery Place Plus to find custom bow ties created by Cassandra Quintero and artwork created by Daniel Kytonen at Spokane Public Library. All events are free to attend.

Sporting goods stores are another great resource for local fun and adventure.

“First Friday makes for some great urban hiking,” Aimee, an REI sporting goods employee said. “If you’re looking to hit the trails though, check out Slavin Ranch Conservation area.”

According to maps found on Spokane County’s official website, Slavin Ranch contains 628 acres with trails for both hiker and equestrian use. Dogs are also allowed, provided they remain on a leash at all times as Slavin Ranch is a protected wildlife habitat.

REI also hosts public events such as classes and group hikes.

“It’s all free actually, except for things that require a pass by state law,” said Liz, an REI customer service associate. “We even host open climb events on our rock wall a few times a month with gear provided.”

A full list of events can be found on REI’s website. Some highlights from the list include a map and compass navigation class, a night run and an avalanche awareness seminar with the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center.

The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, also known as the MAC, houses its own collection of courses, speeches and events although, there is an entry fee to attend exhibits and most events.

“We always offer student discounts with valid ID,” said Jayme Benjamin, lead visitor services associate.

College students receive a five dollar discount on exhibit entry fees, bringing the total to $13. Classes such as Qi Gong and Clay Hand Building typically cost $15 to $30 dollars. More information including a calendar with event schedules and pricing can be found on the MAC’s website.

For more information, please visit:

Spokane Public Library events calendar:
http://www.spokanelibrary.org/calendar/

First Friday events:

http://downtownspokane.org/first-friday/

REI events list:
https://www.rei.com/stores/spokane. html

Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture events page:
https://www.northwestmuseum.org/calendar/all-events.cfm