Summer in Liberty Lake

By Ashley Humbird Splash contributor

Ah, summertime in Liberty Lake—the season of boundless freedom and unforgettable adventures. Nestled in the heart of this cozy small city, where everybody knows everybody, you will find a vibrant community that thrives on the spirit of experiences. While Liberty Lake may be small, it's big on adventure. The surrounding nature is a playground waiting to be explored this summer, offering an array of outdoor activities that cater to every taste. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie seeking heart-pounding thrills or a laid-back explorer craving serene hikes, this little slice of paradise has something for everyone.

Outdoor Activities and

Adventures

• Lace up your hiking boots and set off on the numerous trails that crisscross the surrounding area. Liberty Lake Loop Trail is a popular choice, offering a scenic 7.3-mile loop around the lake with breathtaking views along the way. The Iller Creek Conservation Area is another fantastic option, featuring diverse trails that wind through lush forests and lead to stunning viewpoints.

• As every resident of Liberty Lake knows, golf enthusiasts will find their haven in Liberty Lake. Tee off at MeadowWood Golf Course, a picturesque 18-hole championship course known for its rolling fairways, pristine greens, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It's the perfect place to perfect your swing while immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the area.

• With its namesake lake at the heart of the community, Liberty Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities. Grab your fishing gear, cast your line, and try your luck at catching trout, bass, or crappie. The serene setting and abundance of fish make it an angler's paradise. Embrace the thrill of water sports on Liberty Lake's shimmering waters. Rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard from one of the local outfitters and glide across the lake's calm surface. Feel the cool breeze on your face as you explore hidden coves, paddle along the shoreline, or even try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding yoga.

• Take advantage of the scenic parks and picnic areas scattered throughout the city. Pack a delicious spread of food, gather your friends and family, and enjoy a leisurely afternoon surrounded by nature. Liberty Lake Community Park and Pavilion Park are popular spots that offer picnic tables, grills, and ample green space.

• Every Friday night starting June 30th through the month of October, stop by the Town Square and enjoy a live band from 6 pm to 9 pm. There will be food trucks and vendors weekly, with the addition of a beer and wine garden coming towards the end of July.

• In addition to the weekly outdoor music get-together, Liberty Lake treats its residents and visitors to Movies in the Park. Settle into a cozy spot, with blankets and popcorn in hand, and enjoy familyfriendly films projected on a big screen under the open sky. It's an evening of relaxation and cinematic delight for all ages. Starting on July 3rd, the movie "Puss in Boots: The Last Wish" will be playing in Pavilion Park. Other hit titles include "Minions: The Rise of Gru," "Space Jam: A New Legacy," "Top Gun," "The Super Mario Bros. Movie," and more! Parks vary by the week; please visit the Liberty Lake City Hall's website for additional information.

• If a more laid-back outdoor experience is your jam, stop by the Open Car Show at Pavilion Park on August 5th from 11 am to 4 pm. Kiwanis is hosting this Barefoot in the Park event with the car entry fee of $10 going to the Liberty Lake Kiwanis and the events they organize and sponsor.

• Shakespeare in the Park is back again for an outstanding performance given by talented and professionally trained stage actors. This year, the exciting play "The Three Musketeers" will be held at Pavilion Park at 5 pm on August 20th. Bring a blanket and snacks to enjoy while you watch this fastpaced and lively theater production. Children's Activities and Events

• The Liberty Lake Municipal Library is hosting an array of social and educational events for children of all age ranges. They kick off the summer events on Friday, June 30th, with a Giant Bubble STEAM activity for children ages 6 to 12 from 4 pm to 5 pm. From summer camps and Cecil the Magician to Teen Summer reading and trivia night pizza night, there is something that will get your children excited to be going to the local library. Visit either the Liberty Lake Municipal Library's website or the City Hall's website for more information on the events that will be offered.

• The Saturday Market in Town Square will again have games for children to play with on the lawn, and the SNAP booth set up for kids to get a coupon to buy some fresh fruit and vegetables for themselves. Enjoy a morning out with the family at this kid-friendly, pet-friendly, and neighbor-friendly market where you can get everything from baked breads to homemade soap.

• If you need to beat the summer heat with the kiddos quickly, stop at the Liberty Lake Splash Pad, where kids can cool off and have a blast splashing through various water features and interactive play structures. It's a safe and fun environment for children to enjoy aquatic adventures.

Nightfall Live: A new weekly music event

As the sun sets on another picturesque Friday evening in Liberty Lake, the enchanting notes of live music will fill the air, signaling the beginning of a new tradition.

This Friday kicks off the first of months-long weekly events that will showcase the local musicians will take to the stage and fill the night with easy-listening music. Each week brings a new lineup of musicians showcasing the vibrant musical talent of the community and the surrounding area.

The event is not just about