The Friends of Manito

Come say hi to The Friends of Manito at Summer Parkways! 🌿☀️

We’ll be set up on the Manito Lawn, just west of Duncan Gardens along S. Park Drive, from 6–9 PM on June 16.

Stop by to spin the wheel for fun giveaways, pick up free coloring pages, and learn more about the work we do to support Manito Park. We’d love to see you there!

📍 Manito Lawn (west of Duncan Gardens)
📅 June 16
⏰ 6–9 PM

🎨 Join us at the Mantio Art Festival hosted by 33 Artists Market this Saturday, June 13th, for a day full of art, creativity, and community!

Explore incredible work from talented local artists, discover one-of-a-kind pieces, and experience the vibrant energy of Spokane’s creative scene. Whether you're an art collector, casual admirer, or just looking for a fun outing with the family, there’s something for everyone.

Stop by The Friends of Manito booth to say hello, learn more about how we support Spokane’s beautiful parks and green spaces, and spin the wheel for fun giveaways and kid activities! 🌿🎡

📍 Learn more about the event here: www.33artistsmarket.com

🎨✨ We’re excited to be supporting 33 Artists Market this year for the Manito Art Festival!

Come spend the day exploring incredible local artists, handmade goods, live creativity, and a vibrant community atmosphere — and be sure to stop by The Friends of Manito booth while you’re there! 🌿

We’ll be sharing information about upcoming events, ways to get involved, and all the exciting things happening in the gardens this season. We’d love to meet you!

Support local artists, shop unique work, and celebrate Spokane’s creative community with us. 💚

Learn more about the event here: https://www.33artistsmarket.com/

🔍🌼 Adventure awaits at Manito Park!

Join us for our Children's Scavenger Hunt in Joel E Ferris Perennial Garden on June 20 or July 18; choose the date that works best for your family!

Young explorers will search for treasures throughout the gardens, then enjoy planting seeds, a cool treat, and a special swag bag to take home. 🌱🍦🎁

✨ Recommended for ages 2–7 (all ages welcome!)
✨ Free to attend
✨ Registration required

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Come make memories, discover nature, and enjoy a fun morning in the park!

Register today: https://thefriendsofmanito.org/childrens-nature-series

Mark your calendars—our annual Manito Park Plant Sale is coming up this Saturday, June 6! 🌿

From 8 AM–3 PM, shop a thoughtfully curated selection of perennials, houseplants, and native plants, all well-suited for our region. It’s one of the best days of the year to stock up your garden while supporting Manito Park.

📍 Near the Gaiser Conservatory
✨ Member discount of 10% on all plant purchases

Not a member? Sign up at the sale or in advance here: https://thefriendsofmanito.org/membership

Pro tip: the early bird gets the best plants—see you there!

Learn more and volunteer here: https://thefriendsofmanito.org/plant-sales

Manito Monday Moments 🌸 Featured photo by Dee Finchamp

Summer is here! Share your favorite photos of Manito in the comments or send us a message to be featured in next weeks Monday Manito Moments.

By sharing your photo, you give us permission to feature it (with credit) in future The Friends of Manito publications and promotions.

Flashback Friday: Manito Memory

By Alex Jankovsky, Former Board Member of The Friends of Manito

"Our engagement at Manito Park in March 2021 sparked the beginning of my now-husband’s and my new life in Spokane. At the time, we were in town for a ski trip with friends. Before our trip, we had talked about moving to Spokane later that year and were still in the early stages of planning it all out. We had lived in Denver, Colorado, our entire lives and were ready for a change. Much of what we loved about Spokane was the access to nature and the beautiful greenery that shone through even in the colder months. Neighborhood blocks were dotted with impossibly tall pine trees. Magnificent outcroppings of basalt rock rose in front lawns, as if from out of nowhere. Moss and succulents clung to garden walls. And then there was Manito Park. It only takes a few moments to discover what a special place Manito Park is. We had seen Manito in all of its summertime glory on a July visit a couple of years prior, so we knew we’d be making another stop on this trip.

On our last day, we decided to have lunch in Manito Park. As it was March, it was still a little chilly, but we wanted to sit under the gazebo in Duncan Gardens anyway. We were spreading out our picnic when my husband dropped to one knee and asked for my hand in marriage. It was an easy “yes” and an experience that bonded us to each other and Manito Park. Now, we make frequent visits to the park to remember that special moment in our lives. I am also honored to serve on the board for The Friends of Manito that has done so much to support this beloved city treasure."

The Friends of Manito’s annual Plant Sale is coming up on June 6 (8 AM–3 PM) at Manito Park! Shop a wide variety of perennials, houseplants, and garden favorites—plus a great new selection of native plants this year.

It’s a perfect opportunity to find something special for your space while supporting the Park.

📍 Near the Gaiser Conservatory
🎟️ No sales tax
❤️ Members receive 10% off all plant purchases

👉 Sign up ahead of time: https://thefriendsofmanito.org/membership
👉 Or join at the sale!

Pro tip: come early for the best selection—and don’t forget a box!

More details + volunteer sign-up: https://thefriendsofmanito.org/plant-sales

🌱 Volunteers Needed for the Friends of Manito Plant Sale! 🌱

Our annual Plant Sale is coming up on June 6th, and we’re looking for more volunteers to help make this beloved community event a success!

Whether you can help with setup, assisting shoppers, organizing plants, or cleanup, we would love to have you join us. It’s a fun way to spend the day surrounded by fellow plant lovers while supporting the gardens and programs at Manito Park. 🌸

No plant expertise needed — just a willingness to help and be part of the community!

Interested in volunteering or learning more about the sale? Visit: https://thefriendsofmanito.org/plant-sales

Thank you for helping us keep Manito blooming! 💚

Flashback Friday: Manito Memory

By Rose Noble, CEO, Visit Spokane

"My first planned outing in Spokane led me to the Lilac Garden in Manito Park. As a recent transplant from the Midwest joining the Visit Spokane team, I had already done my homework. Our job is about celebrating and promoting destination experiences, and Manito Park was at the top of my list with its timely bloom. Arriving in Lilac City during lilac season, I planned a solo visit as my family was set to join me in Spokane late summer.

Originally, I set out to Manito for the flowers but quickly fell in love with the entire park. The stroll through the Lilac Garden on one of my first days in town is a cherished memory. Beyond well-kept paths and stunning landscapes, the liveliness stood out the most. The park was alive with activity - the laughter of kids, adorable dogs, photographers, romantic couples, family outings, and lone wanderers like myself. I quickly realized that Manito is the heartbeat of a community and echoes the stories of those who visit. I couldn’t help but feel sentimental. I soaked it in and thought of my family. I missed them and imagined the joy of reuniting, bringing them to the park.

I was feeling grateful for a new beginning in an area with untapped experiences. Visiting Manito provided an insider’s view of the park’s significance, making it a breeze to promote as a must-visit for all. I am fortunate to live in a city that nurtures spaces for its residents and to work for an organization who seeks to elevate the quality of place through tourism.

I’ve returned countless times with my family, discovering new corners holding untold stories and hidden wonders. From Rose Hill to the Japanese Garden, Manito continues to unfold its diverse charms. As seasons change, so does the allure of endless exploration."