Avista arrives

All week long, we’ve been telling you about all the beers that will be pouring at this year’s Inland Northwest Craft Beer Festival . Today, it’s time to start drinking them.

A record 41 breweries from throughout Washington and North Idaho will be on hand for the seventh annual festival, in its third year at Avista Stadium, today from 4 to 9 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 8. By the time it’s over, close to 200 different beers will have been tapped.

Before you start diving into them, a few last-minute reminders:

– If you didn’t get tickets in advance, you’ll be paying $25 per day at the door ($15 for military with ID). That gets you a tasting glass and your first six 5-ounce pours (extra tokens are $2 each or three for $5).

– While today is 21-and-over only, for the first time, Saturday will be all-ages with minors admitted free when accompanied by a ticketed parent or guardian. Kids’ activities in short right field will include a slide, bouncy house, obstacle course and toddler zone.

– The live music stage at second base will play host to rootsy singer/songwriter Marshall McLean (solo) at 5:30 and Folkinception (a stripped-down “light” version) at 7 today, and classic rockers Rain City Time Machine at 3 and acousti-funk trio Dimestore Prophets at 5 on Saturday.

– Food will be provided by the Meltz Extreme Grilled Cheese , Veraci Pizza and 3 Ninjas trucks along the left field line.

– Parking is free, but remember, be responsible. Designated drivers are admitted for $5, which includes free soda and water.