SPOKANE, Wash. — The annual Bloomsday Trade Show opened Friday at 11:30 a.m. marking the official start of festivities for the iconic race’s milestone 50th anniversary celebration.
The trade show provides runners and spectators with race-day essentials including bib pickup and course information, alongside entertainment and vendor booths. Attendees can find longtime favorites such as Franz grilled cheese and top-tier running gear at the Fleet Feet area.
This year’s event carries special significance as Bloomsday celebrates five decades since its inception. Catherine Kardong, with the Bloomsday organization, reflected on the race’s remarkable growth from humble beginnings.
“It is just hard to believe. A little idea discussed informally in an elevator 50 years ago, and here we are today. It is just emotional on the day of,” Kardong said.
According to the Bloomsday organization, the race maintains its status as one of the 10 biggest timed races in the United States. Organizers expect approximately 40,000 runners to participate in Sunday’s anniversary race.
The trade show continues Friday until 7 p.m. and resumes Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission remains free for all attendees.
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