Here’s how to make the most of summer’s last splash

Many Inland Northwest students return to school next week.

And thanks to the calendar this year, parents don’t get a final three-day weekend to live it up before their kids hit the books.

With that in mind, here are some ideas for summer fun that don’t require an overnight stay:

Gathering at the Falls Powwow: The annual cultural gathering is moving indoors this year because of smoky conditions. Youth powwow, Miss and Junior Miss “Gathering at the Falls” Royalty Competition and a variety of dances. All drums are welcome, and regalia is not required. There’s a Diabetes Poker Fun Run/Walk on Saturday at 9 a.m., with registration at 8 a.m.; and youth powwow and family fun day on Sunday, noon-5 p.m. Grand Entry today at 7 p.m.; Saturday at 1 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday at 1 p.m. For information on the youth powwow and family fun night, contact (509) 362-2178. For information on Miss and Junior Miss competition, contact (509) 638-8854. Spokane Convention Center, 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd.

Riverfront Park: Take a ride on the Looff Carrousel and SkyRide: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. today-Saturday and 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; Tour Train: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. today-Saturday and 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; Pavilion Rides: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and today-Saturday and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday-Thursday. The rides are open through Sept. 7. Riverfront Park, 507 N. Howard St. (509) 625-6600.

Silverwood Theme Park and Boulder Beach Water Park 2015: More than 70 rides, attractions and shows. Open 11 a.m.-10 p.m. today-Saturday and 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; water park open 11 a.m.-7 p.m. daily (closes for the season Sept. 7). Visit www.silverwoodthemepark.com for more information. Silverwood Theme Park, 27843 N. U.S. Highway 95, Athol. $46.99/ages 8-64, $23.99/seniors and children ages 3-7, free/age 2 and younger; $5/parking. (208) 683-3400.

Daily Lake History Cruise: This daily afternoon cruise from Sandpoint City Beach is a 10-mile loop near the shores of Lake Pend Oreille. From submarines to star gazers, catastrophic ice age floods to a world record fishery, you will learn about the history and geology of the lake. As a special treat, children can be “Captain of the Day” and take a turn at the wheel. Through Sept. 15, 1:30 p.m., 100 Bridge St., Sandpoint. $22/general, $20/seniors, $15/ages 3-12 $15, free/age 2 and younger. (208) 255-5253.

Find more online: Visit www.spokane7.com for more activities around the region.

Kimberly Lusk