hear

Cretins wanna hop some more

A long-defunct North Spokane tavern finds new life tonight as Spokane’s newest all-ages venue.

The Cretin Hop, 1317 N. Howard, hosts its grand opening at 6:30 p.m. with performances by Moral Crux, Deadones USA and Reason For Existence. Suggested donation is $6.

Owner Thomas Chavez and his crew have been busy converting the former Larry’s Bar and Grill into a music-centered punk club, even turning the bar’s kitchen into a green room for the bands. The venue is alcohol-free for now, but beer and wine will be served once the permits are approved.

For updates and information on upcoming shows, go to myspace.com/thecretinhop.

Getting spicy in the forest

The hills of Riverside State Park will be echoing with the sweet sounds of Salsa on Saturday.

The Hispanic Heritage Festival, a free event that runs from 11 a.m.-7 p.m., will feature food, children’s activities, and a sampling of some of the region’s top Latin acts.

The entertainment lineup includes Los Sabrositos de la Raza at noon, Simply Dance Studio at 12:45 p.m., Son Dulce at 1:30, Los Bailadores del Sol at 2:45, Silvia Lazo & Ian Sinclair at 3:45, Mariachi Estrella de Mexico at 4:45, and Milonga at 6.

The festival will be held in the Bowl and Pitcher area at 4427 North Aubrey L. White Parkway. Call (509) 244-9737 for more information.

– Ken Paulman