SPOKANE — The countdown has begun for Bloomsday’s milestone 50th anniversary, and the MAC is marking the occasion with a special exhibit showcasing the iconic race’s rich history.
The “14 Million Miles: 50 Years of Bloomsday” exhibit at the Helen South Alexander Gallery features decades of memorabilia from Spokane’s beloved race, including 49 Bloomsday t-shirts representing each year of the event.
“Bloomsday impacts so many people; it elevates the community,” said Wes Jessup, director of the MAC.
The museum partnered with the Lilac Bloomsday Association to display rarely seen items to the public, creating what organizers describe as a trip down memory lane for the community to enjoy.
“It is really important for us to have the opportunity to show off some not usually seen items for the public to enjoy,” said Bethany Lueck of the Lilac Bloomsday Association.
Among the unique pieces on display are the original letter that brought the race to Spokane, special trophies for perennial runners, and archival video footage from the race’s early days. The collection tells the story of how Bloomsday became woven into Spokane’s identity over five decades.
“I think when you’re walking through here, you really get a sense of what this race has meant to the community. It’s more than just race, you know, I mean, it’s part of the identity of this town, which is really exciting,” Jessup said.
The exhibit goes beyond displaying historical artifacts. Visitors are invited to participate by sharing their own Bloomsday memories and stories, adding their personal connection to the race’s legacy.
The exhibit runs through May 3 and is included with regular museum admission tickets. The MAC is located at 2316 West First Avenue in Spokane.
You can find more information about the exhibit here.
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