Bloomsday app

Festivities for Bloomsday officially began Thursday when race founder Don Kardong, members of its board of directors and even the 11-foot vulture that looms over racers at the top of Doomsday Hill met for the 2024 Bloomsday kickoff event.

Event organizers announced at No-Li Brewhouse in Spokane what’s new and what will stay the same for this year’s race.

The 48th annual Bloomsday will take place May 5.

Like last year, the cost for entry is $28 until April 1, when it will increase to $35. The cost will increase again on May 2, to $50.

Organizers also revealed this year’s theme, “In Full Bloom,” and poster – a map of Spokane and the race’s route, layered over a prominent and colorful “2024.” Created by artist Art Mercz, the poster is inspired by connectedness and change.

This year’s volunteer T-shirts feature blue and yellow interlocking triangles, a nod to the logo for Expo ’74.

Kardong spoke at the event and gave a shoutout to Bloomsday’s “perennials,” racers who have participated in every race since it bega