Moving to Spokane Guide and Tips • August 4, 2026

Great Christian Concerts Coming to Spokane This Fall

by Ronda Swanson

Great Christian Concerts Coming to Spokane This Fall

If you enjoy uplifting music and live worship, you’ll be excited to know that this fall is shaping up to be an incredible season for Christian music in Spokane. Several nationally known artists are making stops right here in our community. It’s exciting to see Spokane continue to attract these outstanding performers, giving us the opportunity to experience inspiring concerts without leaving town.

Here are some of the biggest Christian concerts coming to Spokane this fall, listed in order by date.

Anne Wilson – The STARS Tour

Friday, September 11, 2026
Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox

Anne Wilson quickly became one of Christian music’s biggest new artists with her breakout hit My Jesus. Her music combines powerful vocals with messages of faith, hope, and perseverance, making this an inspiring evening for fans of contemporary Christian music.

Learn more and purchase tickets:
https://www.annewilsonofficial.com/tour/

Lauren Daigle

Saturday, September 19, 2026
Stateline Speedway

Known for songs like You Say, Rescue, and Look Up Child, Lauren Daigle has become one of the most recognized voices in Christian music today. Her soulful performances and heartfelt message make every concert a memorable experience.

Learn more and purchase tickets:
https://www.laurendaigle.com/tour/

for KING + COUNTRY – The Most Beautiful Colours Tour

Thursday, September 24, 2026
First Interstate Center for the Arts

Brothers Joel and Luke Smallbone are known for delivering one of the most dynamic live shows in Christian music. With inspiring storytelling, powerful worship, and unforgettable performances, for KING + COUNTRY consistently leaves audiences encouraged and energized.

Learn more and purchase tickets:
https://www.forkingandcountry.com/pages/fall-2026-tour

Steven Curtis Chapman – Speechless 25th Anniversary Tour

Monday, October 26, 2026
Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox

A true legend in Christian music, Steven Curtis Chapman has spent decades writing songs that have impacted millions of people around the world. His anniversary tour celebrates the music and ministry that have inspired generations of listeners.

Learn more and purchase tickets:
https://www.stevencurtischapman.com/tour

Air1 Worship Now Tour featuring Tauren Wells

Wednesday, November 4, 2026
First Interstate Center for the Arts

If you’re looking for more than a concert, this is one you won’t want to miss. Headlined by Tauren Wells and featuring Seph Schlueter, Gateway Worship, Roosevelt Stewart, and Sarai Rivera, the Air1 Worship Now Tour is designed as a powerful night of worship, encouragement, and community. It’s a wonderful opportunity to gather with believers from across the Inland Northwest for an unforgettable evening of praise.

Learn more and purchase tickets:
https://www.air1.com/worship-now-tour

It’s Great to See Spokane on the Tour Map

It’s encouraging to see so many nationally recognized Christian artists choosing Spokane as a stop on their tours. Events like these bring our community together, strengthen local churches, and provide opportunities to worship alongside friends, family, and neighbors without having to travel far from home.

Whether you’re planning a date night, attending with your church, or simply looking for an uplifting evening, these concerts are sure to be highlights of the fall season.

As always, thank you for reading Homegrown Spokane. I love sharing local events, businesses, and opportunities that help make Spokane such a wonderful place to live. If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in the Spokane area, I’d be honored to help you navigate your next move. Feel free to reach out anytime—I’m always happy to be a resource for our community.

Moving to Spokane Guide and Tips • August 2, 2026

Resources for Spokane Residents Displaced by the Wildfires

by Ronda Swanson

Resources for Spokane Residents Displaced by the Wildfires

Like so many of you, I’ve spent the past several days watching the wildfires with a heavy heart. Spokane isn’t just where I work—it’s my home. Seeing families evacuate with little notice and face so much uncertainty has been heartbreaking.

As I’ve been gathering resources to share, I also wanted to highlight a local organization that’s stepping up in a big way to help our neighbors.

Partners INW Is Here to Help

If you’ve been impacted by the Spokane-area fires, Partners INW is providing free essential items to families in need.

They are currently offering:

Grocery-style food and pantry essentials
Clothing
Diapers

Unlike a traditional meal service, Partners INW provides groceries and pantry items that families can take home, helping them meet immediate needs while they get back on their feet.

Location

Partners INW
10814 E. Broadway Ave.
Spokane Valley, WA 99206

Hours

Monday–Friday
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

How You Can Help

Partners INW is also accepting donations to continue serving families affected by the fires and others in need throughout our community.

They welcome:

Food donations
Clothing
Diapers
Hygiene items
Financial contributions

Every donation helps provide essential supplies to families during this difficult time.

To learn more or make a donation, visit:

https://partnersinw.org

Additional Emergency Resources

If you or someone you know needs emergency shelter or other assistance, these resources are also available:

Spokane Convention Center

334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd., Spokane

The American Red Cross has opened an emergency shelter for residents displaced by the Spokane-area wildfires. The shelter is available to anyone who has been forced to evacuate. Small pets are welcome.

Spokane County Fair & Expo Center

404 N. Havana St., Spokane Valley

The fairgrounds are accepting evacuated animals and livestock. RV parking is also available for evacuees traveling with animals. Enter through the Red Gate off Broadway Avenue.

Please Check Official Sources Before You Go

Wildfire conditions are changing rapidly, and available shelters, evacuation levels, and community resources may change throughout the day. Before traveling, please verify the latest information through Spokane County Emergency Management.

Official Spokane County Emergency Management
https://www.spokanecounty.gov/5498/Emergency-Management

Official Spokane Region Evacuation Map
https://srec911.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/lookup/index.html?appid=337af083184c474d9d9181bb44f957b0

As a fellow Spokane resident, I know how much this community means to all of us. One of the things I love most about living here is how quickly neighbors come together to help one another in difficult times. To everyone who has been affected by these fires, please know you’re not alone. And to the firefighters, first responders and volunteers, thank you for taking such incredible care of our community.

Listing Your Home • August 2, 2026

The Big Picture: By the Numbers

by Ronda Swanson

Wooden house model with an upward growth chart representing rising home values and a strong Spokane real estate market.

Strong home values and a healthy housing market continue to create opportunities for Spokane homeowners and buyers.

The Big Picture: By the Numbers

We are seeing a fascinating balance play out in our local MLS:

More Options for Buyers: Inventory is up over 24% year-over-year. Homebuyers finally have some breathing room and actual choices instead of fighting over a single listing.
Stable Pricing: The median sold price in the Spokane area is hovering around $350,000 to $430,000 (depending on the property type and exact neighborhood), representing a steady leveling off rather than a dramatic spike or drop.
Realistic Timelines: On average, homes are transitioning to pending in about 21 to 35 days. If a home is priced right and looks great, it moves in a month. If it’s overpriced, it sits.

Strategy for Spokane Buyers: You Have Leverage (Use It!)

For the past few years, buyers in Spokane had to move at lightning speed, often waiving inspections and bidding way over asking price just to get a foot in the door. The narrative has officially changed. With inventory rising, you finally have the upper hand to be selective.

Your Playbook:

Keep Your Contingencies: In a balanced market, you don’t need to skip the home inspection. Take the time to ensure the home’s roof, foundation, and HVAC system are solid.
Look for Negotiating Room: About 30% of listings in Spokane are seeing price drops before going under contract. If a home has been sitting past the 30-day mark, there may be room to negotiate on the final purchase price or ask for seller concessions to help cover closing costs.
Get Fully Approved Early: While you have more time to breathe, the best homes still sell within a few weeks. Having a rock-solid, local pre-approval letter ready to attach to your offer is what makes you stand out.

Strategy for Spokane Sellers: Presentation is Everything

If you are thinking about listing your home this season, don’t panic about the rising inventory. Spokane is still technically leaning toward a seller’s market because we only have about 2.8 months of supply (a completely neutral market is closer to 4–6 months). Demand is absolutely there—but buyers are being much more disciplined.

Your Playbook:

Price Proactively, Not Nostalgically: The days of pricing a home 10% higher than the last neighborhood comp just to “see what happens” are over. To get maximum foot traffic in the first two weeks, you need to price accurately based on hyper-local, recent data.
Double Down on Curb Appeal: With more homes on the market, your property has competition. Professional staging, fresh paint, and flawless landscaping are no longer optional if you want top dollar.
Be Open to Compromise: Be prepared for buyers to ask for standard inspection repairs or appraisal protections. Flexibility is what seals the deal in today’s environment.

The Bottom Line

The Spokane market isn’t crashing, and it isn’t exploding—it’s stabilizing into a much healthier environment for everyone involved. For buyers, it’s a chance to find a home you actually love without the immense pressure. For sellers, it’s an opportunity to cash in on years of incredible equity, provided you partner with a Realtor who knows how to market a home strategically.

See what your home is worth Here: https://hmbt.co/UNm7N3

Moving to Spokane Guide and Tips • August 1, 2026

Spotted Acres Farm: More Than ‘Just’ Bread

by Ronda Swanson

Fresh artisan sourdough loaf from Spotted Acres Farm displayed on a white background, highlighting the farm's handcrafted organic bread available for pre-order pickup in Colbert and Deer Park.

Spotted Acres Farm: More Than ‘Just’ Bread

If you’ve ever wished you could skip the grocery store and fill your kitchen with handcrafted food made by local farmers, Spotted Acres Farm deserves a place on your radar.

Known for their incredible organic sourdough breads and baked goods, Spotted Acres Farm has built a loyal following by focusing on quality ingredients, traditional baking methods, and a passion for feeding their community.

More Than Just Bread

Every loaf is made with 100% organic Washington-grown flour and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. The result is flavorful, naturally fermented sourdough that’s as delicious as it is wholesome.

Their menu also includes a variety of handcrafted sourdough favorites, including:

Fresh artisan sourdough loaves
Savory crackers
Scones and pastries
Cookies
Pizza crusts and dough
Other handcrafted baked specialties

Pickup Locations

Spotted Acres offers pre-order pickup locations in Colbert and Deer Park for customers who order online. Pickups are available on Thursday afternoons, so simply place your order online and pick it up at your selected location.

Support Local

Every purchase supports a local family farm dedicated to traditional baking and quality ingredients. Whether you’re picking up fresh bread for sandwiches, planning a charcuterie board, or treating yourself to a weekend pastry, Spotted Acres Farm offers a delicious way to bring handcrafted, locally made food to your table.

Learn more, browse their products, and place your order at https://www.spottedacresfarmwa.com/.

Moving to Spokane Guide and Tips • August 1, 2026

Feast World Kitchen: One of Spokane’s Most Meaningful Dining Experiences

by Ronda Swanson

A freshly prepared authentic global dish served at Feast World Kitchen, a rotating chef nonprofit restaurant in Spokane, WA.

Feast World Kitchen: One of Spokane’s Most Meaningful Dining Experiences

Some restaurants are worth visiting for the food alone. Others leave a lasting impression because of the people behind every meal. Feast World Kitchen is one of the rare places that offers both.

Located just west of downtown Spokane, Feast World Kitchen is a nonprofit restaurant where every visit is a chance to experience authentic cuisine from around the world while supporting immigrant and former refugee chefs as they build businesses, careers, and new lives in our community.

A Different Country Every Time You Visit

What makes Feast World Kitchen so unique is its rotating lineup of chefs. Rather than one permanent menu, different chefs share recipes from their home countries throughout the week. One day you might enjoy handmade dumplings from China, another day authentic Taiwanese comfort food, and the next week dishes from Syria, Ethiopia, Afghanistan, Ukraine, or dozens of other cultures.

It’s the kind of place where every visit feels like a new culinary adventure.

More Than a Restaurant

Feast World Kitchen was founded on a simple but powerful idea: food brings people together.

The organization helps immigrant and former refugee chefs earn income, develop business skills, and launch their own food businesses while creating meaningful connections throughout Spokane. In fact, more than 90% of every dining dollar goes directly to the chef preparing your meal. Since opening in 2019, Feast has supported nearly 180 families, with chefs collectively earning more than $2.2 million through the program.

Beyond the restaurant, Feast also offers catering, career development, small business support, and its “Table Time” program, which helps individuals navigate everything from employment and education to housing and healthcare.

A Spokane Experience Worth Sharing

Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable date night, want to introduce visiting friends to something uniquely Spokane, or simply love trying new foods, Feast World Kitchen deserves a spot on your list.

Every meal tells a story, every chef brings a new perspective, and every visit helps strengthen our community in a meaningful way.

It’s one of those places that reminds you why local restaurants matter.

Plan Your Visit

Feast World Kitchen

1321 W. 3rd Avenue

Spokane, WA 99201

Hours

Wednesday–Sunday

Lunch: 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

Dinner: 4:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.

Menus change regularly based on the featured chefs, so there’s always something new to discover. Learn more, view this week’s chefs, or place an order at the Feast Website.

Ready to make your next move in Spokane?

Whether you’re looking to buy a home near Spokane’s vibrant downtown spots or sell your property for top dollar in today’s market, you need a local expert in your corner. Contact me to get a free market analysis or start your home search!

Moving to Spokane Guide and Tips • August 1, 2026

Spokane Hot Box, Spokane’s Coolest New Way to Hang Out

by Ronda Swanson

Spokane’s Coolest New Way to Hang Out

Looking for something different to do with friends? Spokane Hot Box is putting a fun twist on a day out by combining a traditional wood-fired sauna with an invigorating cold plunge in private sessions you can enjoy together.

Instead of grabbing coffee, why not challenge your friends to a little heat, a little cold, and a lot of laughs?

The experience is called contrast therapy—you relax in a wood-fired sauna, cool off in a cold plunge, then warm back up again. Some people do it for recovery after a workout, while others simply love how refreshed and energized they feel afterward.

It’s a fun option for:

Girls’ day out
Birthday celebrations
Team outings
Post-workout recovery
Or just trying something completely new

Whether you’re a cold-plunge enthusiast or just curious to see what all the buzz is about, Spokane Hot Box offers a unique experience that’s a little adventurous, and a little relaxing.

Learn more or book your experience here:

https://www.spokanehotbox.com/

One of my favorite parts of Homegrown Spokane is discovering local businesses that make our community unique. If you’re buying or selling a home—or just looking for more great places to explore around Spokane—I’d love to help you make the most of living here. Contact me any time.

Moving to Spokane Guide and Tips • August 1, 2026

Zap Lab Fun is Bringing Hands-On Engineering to Spokane’s NorthTown Mall

by Ronda Swanson

Zap Labs Spokane northtown mall opening soon

Get Ready to Build! Zap Lab Fun is Bringing Hands-On Engineering to Spokane’s NorthTown Mall

There is a fresh reason for Spokane parents and young builders to get excited: Zap Lab Fun (also known simply as Zap Lab) is officially getting ready to open its doors!

If you’ve been walking through the second floor of the NorthTown Mall recently, you might have noticed active renovations underway. Dust is settling, walls are coming down, and a vibrant new interactive space is quickly taking shape right in the heart of the mall.

Whether you have a budding engineer at home or you are just looking for a unique weekend family activity, here is everything you need to know about Spokane’s newest family venue.

What is Zap Lab Fun?

Zap Lab Fun is designed as an interactive, hands-on engineering and hobby shop created specifically for kids and families.

Unlike traditional toy stores where you buy something off the shelf, Zap Lab focuses on the creation process. Visitors will get to build cool engineering and tech-focused projects on-site—giving kids the satisfaction of rolling up their sleeves, learning how things work, and taking home a working project they built with their own hands.

Where to Find It

Zap Lab is setting up shop in a prime, high-energy spot inside NorthTown Mall:

Floor: 2nd Level
Landmarks: Right between Half Baked and the central family areas, situated across from GameStop (and right next to the pretzel shop—perfect for a post-building snack!).
Address: NorthTown Mall, 4750 N Division St, Spokane, WA 99207
Phone: (509) 482-0209

Opening Status

The storefront is currently undergoing final renovations as the team puts the finishing touches on the workshop counters and interactive setups. While an official ribbon-cutting date hasn’t been announced just yet, construction is moving fast, and an opening is right around the corner.

Why It’s a Great Addition to Spokane

Spokane families are always on the lookout for engaging indoor activities—especially as the seasons change. Zap Lab Fun hits the sweet spot by blending screen-free learning, hands-on play, and family bonding. It’s set to become a go-to spot for birthday events, weekend outings, and rainy-day fun.

Keep an eye on the second floor next time you’re at NorthTown Mall!

Moving to Spokane Guide and Tips • July 30, 2026

This Week’s Meal Plan: Five Easy Dinners to Simplify Your Week

by Ronda Swanson

One of the hardest parts of the day is figuring out what’s for dinner. That’s why every Monday I’ll share five easy meals to help make your week a little simpler. Just click the recipe title to jump straight to the full recipe.

Monday: Instant Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Creamy, comforting, and ready in a fraction of the time thanks to the Instant Pot. This one-pot dinner is perfect for kicking off a busy week with minimal cleanup.

Tuesday: Easy Crock Pot Ranch Chicken & Potatoes

Let your slow cooker do the work while you’re out enjoying your day. Tender chicken, baby potatoes, and ranch seasoning make this an easy family favorite.

Wednesday: Easy Cedar Plank Salmon on the Grill

Bring a taste of the Pacific Northwest to your backyard with cedar plank salmon. It’s incredibly flavorful, surprisingly easy, and perfect for a summer evening.

Thursday: Leftover Night

Take a break from cooking and enjoy leftovers from earlier in the week. It’s an easy way to save time, reduce food waste, and stretch your grocery budget.

Friday: Pizza Night

Whether you’re making homemade pizza or supporting one of Spokane’s fantastic local pizzerias, Friday is the perfect night to relax and enjoy a simple meal.

Grocery List

Produce

Garlic
Yellow onion
Baby potatoes
Lemons
Fresh dill
Fresh parsley
Broccoli
Mixed salad greens

Meat & Seafood

2–3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1½–2 lb salmon fillet

Dairy

Butter
Heavy cream
Cream cheese
Parmesan cheese
Shredded mozzarella (if making homemade pizza)

Pantry

Olive oil
Dijon mustard
Honey or maple syrup
Chicken broth
Ranch seasoning
Italian seasoning
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt
Black pepper
Penne or rotini pasta
Pizza sauce
Pizza dough or crust (if making homemade)

I hope this week’s meal plan helps make dinner one less thing to think about. Check back next Monday for another collection of easy recipes and a fresh grocery list to keep your week running smoothly.

Whether you need advice on current real estate market trends, home valuation, or navigating the buying or selling process, I’m always here to help. Reach out on my Contact Page anytime or call me directly at 509.979.5894

Moving to Spokane Guide and Tips • July 30, 2026

Easy Cedar Plank Salmon on the Grill: The Ultimate Pacific Northwest Summer Dinner

by Ronda Swanson

Easy Cedar Plank Salmon on the Grill: The Ultimate Pacific Northwest Summer Dinner

When warm summer evenings roll into the Inland Northwest, firing up the patio grill is the best way to cook dinner.

This Grilled Lemon Herb Cedar Plank Salmon is one of my absolute favorite summer meals. Cooking salmon on a soaked cedar plank imparts a gentle, rich wood-smoke flavor while keeping the fish incredibly tender and juicy. Plus, it looks like a restaurant-quality meal with practically zero cleanup!

Why You’ll Love Cedar Plank Grilling

No Sticking: Forget peeling delicate fish skin off hot metal grill grates—the plank holds everything together seamlessly.
Incredible Flavor: As the cedar heats up, it gently steams and smokes the salmon simultaneously.
Minimal Clean-Up: Serve it right off the plank (on a heat-safe trivet) or toss the plank once it cools!

Ingredients

1 untreated cedar plank (available at most local Spokane grocery stores or hardware centers)
1.5 to 2 lbs fresh salmon fillet (skin-on works best)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1 lemon (half juiced, half thinly sliced)
Salt and fresh cracked black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1.Soak the Cedar Plank:Critical safety step to prevent wood from catching fire.

Submerge your cedar plank in water for at least 1 to 2 hours before grilling. Weigh it down with a heavy bowl or bottle so it stays fully under water.

2.Preheat Grill & Prep Glaze:

Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F–400°F). In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, fresh dill, and lemon juice.

3.Season the Salmon:

Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then brush the Dijon-herb glaze evenly across the top. Lay fresh lemon slices along the length of the fish.

4.Grill on the Plank:

Place the soaked plank directly on the grill grates for 3 minutes until it starts to crackle slightly. Flip the plank over, place the salmon skin-side down on the hot wood, close the grill lid, and cook for 12 to 15 minutes (until the internal temp reaches 135°F–140°F).

💡 Local Tip for Spokane & Liberty Lake Summer Nights

Pair this grilled salmon with fresh local sweet corn and a simple green salad for a quick outdoor patio dinner. If you have extra planks, soak two or three at once—you can freeze the wet extra planks in a baggie so they are ready for your next spur-of-the-moment barbecue!

Enjoying summer outdoor living in the Inland Northwest?

If you’re looking for a home with a great back patio, outdoor kitchen, or lake view around Spokane, Liberty Lake, or Spokane Valley, I’d love to show you what’s on the market. Connect with me on my Contact Page anytime!

Moving to Spokane Guide and Tips • July 30, 2026

BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders

by Ronda Swanson

Summer Crock Pot BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders: Keep the Kitchen Cool This Summer

When summer temperatures rise across Spokane, Liberty Lake, and the Valley, turning on a hot oven is the last thing you want to do. Cracking open the oven door can quickly warm up the whole main level of your home, forcing your AC to work overtime!

These Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders are my favorite trick for serving a warm, hearty meal without heating up the house. You get tender, smoky barbecue pork cooked effortlessly right on your counter, served warm on sweet Hawaiian rolls.

Why It’s the Ultimate Summer Crock Pot Meal

Keeps Your Home Cool: Skip the 400°F oven completely—let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting while keeping your kitchen temperature comfortable.
Prep in the Morning: Takes less than 10 minutes to set up before you head out for work, errands, or a day at the park.
Feed the Whole Family: Perfect for busy weeknights, summer dinner parties, or outdoor patio meals.

Ingredients

3.5 to 4 lbs pork shoulder (pork butt)
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp salt & black pepper
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar (or apple juice)
1.5 cups your favorite BBQ sauce
1 to 2 packs sweet Hawaiian slider rolls
Optional toppings: Dill pickle slices or sliced red onion

Step-by-Step Instructions

1.Season the Pork:

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the spice mixture evenly over all sides of the pork shoulder.

2.Load the Crock Pot:

Place the seasoned pork into your slow cooker and pour the apple cider vinegar around the base (avoid pouring directly over the top so you don’t wash away the rub).

3.Slow Cook Until Tender:

Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 8 to 9 hours (or HIGH for 5 to 6 hours) until the pork is tender and pulls apart easily with a fork.

4.Shred, Sauce, & Serve:

Transfer the pork to a cutting board, discard any excess fat, and shred the meat using two forks. Drain most of the liquid from the slow cooker, return the shredded pork to the pot, and stir in your favorite BBQ sauce. Pile warm pork onto sliced Hawaiian rolls and top with pickles if desired!

💡 Local Tip for Summer Game Days & Gatherings

If you’re hosting friends or heading down to the lake for the afternoon, leave the slow cooker on the “Keep Warm” setting. The pork stays warm, juicy, and ready to serve whenever everyone gets hungry—no reheating required!

Thinking about buying or selling a home in the Inland Northwest this summer?

Whether you need advice on preparing your home for the market or local neighborhood recommendations, I’m always here to help. Reach out on my Contact Page anytime!