SPOKANE, Wash. — More than 30,000 people have signed up for Bloomsday this year, with many participants making it a family tradition.
Barbara and Vick Andersen have traveled from Kalispell, Montana, to Spokane every May for the past 15 years to participate in Bloomsday.
“We started many years ago running with our grandkids and our son and his wife,” Barbara Andersen said.
The Andersens began walking Bloomsday when their grandchildren were young, enjoying conversations along the 7.5-mile route.
“We did a lot of talking as we would walk. It was just the talking and the camaraderie of something we could do together,” Andersen said.
As their grandchildren grew older, the family dynamic changed.
“They were pretty young then, and as they got older, they started running and leaving us behind, and now they’re in college,” she explained.
Despite these changes, the Andersens continue returning to Bloomsday each year.
“We keep coming back just because it’s good exercise. And it’s just a fun event with a lot of people,” Barbara said.
Patti Bailey, a volunteer for Bloomsday, emphasized the family-friendly nature of the event. “We’ve had families from beginning to lots of kids and whatever it is and total family run and everybody meets at the end,” she said.
The course presents consistent challenges, with Doomsday Hill being particularly difficult for many participants.
“I don’t like Doomsday Hill,” Andersen admitted.
Even as family dynamics change, the social aspect of Bloomsday remains a key attraction.
“People are so friendly and kind. And it’s just a great party for seven and a half miles,” Andersen said.
Bloomsday will take place this Sunday in Spokane.
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