SPOKANE, Wash. – In October 1925, Bing Crosby and his bandmate Al Rinker packed up their car and left Spokane to pursue success in Hollywood. After a decades-long career including the release of the largest selling single in history with “White Christmas,” Spokane is honoring the legacy of one of its favorite sons.
“It all started, with rather humble beginnings, in a working-class family here in Spokane,” board president of nonprofit Bing Crosby Advocates Dave Reynolds said. “Spokane shaped Bing Crosby, his talents, his personality, and his principles. And he never forgot.”
Here are a handful of events happening in Spokane this fall honoring Crosby and his contributions to music and the city:
October 10
Mayor Lisa Brown will officially designate October 10 as “Bing’s Day” at 10:30 a.m. on 926 West Sprague Avenue.
Crosby’s daughter, Mary Crosby, will be in attendance to mark the occasion.
Signage will be unveiled designating two blocks of West Sprague as “Honorary Bing Crosby Way.” The event is free for the public to attend.
October 11
Several events will be hosted at Gonzaga University and the Bing Crosby House Museum on October 11.
Local author Lauren R. Harris will read sections from her new children’s book about Crosby at the Bing Crosby House Museum at 10:00 a.m.
A special multi-media variety show at the Magnusen Theater will also on Gonzaga’s campus at 1:00 p.m.
Both events are free for all ages.
October 25
Crosby’s grandson, Phil Crosby Jr., will perform with Spokane’s Zonky Jazz Band at the Bing Crosby Theater at 6:00 p.m.
Tickets are $25 to attend, and free for those under 17.
For more information about Bing Crosby and all upcoming events, visit the Bing Crosby Advocates website.
