The University of Idaho (Moscow) and Washington State University (Pullman) aren't just the economic engines of the Palouse — they're the cultural engines too. Between the two campuses, there's an enormous calendar of events that's open to the public, much of it free. Here's how to take advantage of it.
Athletics
Football
The Palouse is football country. UI Vandals play at the Kibbie Dome (the only covered stadium in Idaho), and WSU Cougars play at Martin Stadium. Cougar game days in Pullman are a massive production — tailgating starts early, the town fills up, and the atmosphere is electric. Vandal games are more intimate but enthusiastic.
Basketball
The ICCU Arena (UI) and Beasley Coliseum (WSU) host basketball through the winter. WSU Cougar basketball has had some strong seasons recently, and the arena atmosphere is excellent.
Other Sports
Both schools field teams in track and field, swimming, volleyball, tennis, golf, cross-country, and more. Many of these events are free to attend and sparsely attended — which means you can get close to high-level college athletics without fighting for seats.
Performing Arts
Theater
The UI Department of Theatre Arts puts on several productions each year at the Hartung Theatre, ranging from classics to contemporary work. WSU's similar program performs at Daggy Hall and Jones Theatre. Student theater is consistently impressive — and tickets are cheap ($10–15, often less for students).
Music
Both universities have concert series, recitals, and ensemble performances. The Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival at UI (held every spring) is internationally recognized and brings world-class jazz musicians to Moscow for a week of performances and workshops. The WSU School of Music hosts regular recitals and concerts at Bryan Hall, many of them free.
Film
The UI and WSU film programs and student organizations screen films throughout the year. The Kenworthy also partners with UI for special screenings. WSU's CUB Auditorium hosts student-selected film series.
Lectures & Talks
Both universities bring in speakers covering every topic imaginable — science, politics, literature, technology, social justice. Many of these talks are free and open to the public. The Borah Symposium at UI is a particularly notable annual lecture series that brings prominent thinkers to campus.
Student Events
Student organizations at both schools put on concerts, cultural celebrations, art shows, film screenings, and more. WSU's Presence platform and UI's VandalSync list upcoming events. Or just check The Palouse Calendar — we pull events from both systems.
Tips
- Most campus events are open to the public. Don't assume you need a student ID. Lectures, galleries, and many performances welcome community members.
- Parking on campus can be tricky. Both universities have pay-by-hour lots and garages. On football game days, plan to arrive early or park off-campus and walk.
- The academic calendar matters. Things slow down significantly during summer break (mid-May through late August) and winter break (mid-December through mid-January).
- The Battle of the Palouse is the annual UI vs. WSU football game. It's the biggest event of the fall — whichever town hosts it, the other one empties out.