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Camp Sparkle and Sparkle Saturdays bring support and community to Spokane families By Taylor Shillam For children and teens affected by cancer, finding support and genuine connection is an essential component of their care. In Spokane, Cancer Pathways is making that possible through its year-round creative arts therapy programs, including Camp Sparkle and Sparkle Saturdays. Founded in 1996, Cancer Pathways has remained committed to its mission of “facing cancer together,” providing free programs and support groups designed to empower and educate families touched by cancer. While the nonprofit is based in Seattle, its Spokane programs offer local families opportunities to connect, learn, and heal through creativity and community. Camp Sparkle: A Summer of Healing and Friendship Camp Sparkle is Cancer Pathways’ free summer day camp for children and teens ages 5-17 who have been impacted by cancer. According to the organization, Camp Sparkle is designed for kids “who have been impacted by cancer – either from a personal diagnosis or that of a loved one.” This includes children whose parents, siblings, or friends are affected, as well as those who have experienced a loss due to cancer. Through the duration of the camp, participants engage in therapeutic activities, learn about cancer in an age-appropriate way, go on field trips, and, perhaps most importantly, form lasting connections with peers who truly understand their experiences. Campers are divided by age: campers aged 5-12, Junior Counselors aged 13-15, and Counselors aged 16-17, ensuring everyone has access to both support and leadership opportunities.  Camp Sparkle is offered in Spokane along with five other locations in Washington, making it accessible to families across the state. Sparkle Saturdays: Extending the Magic Year-Round To bring the supportive camp experience beyond the summer, Cancer Pathways hosts Sparkle Saturdays. These events allow children and teens to participate in therapeutic arts activities while parents engage in dedicated support groups, all facilitated by licensed clinical social workers. Sparkle Saturdays aim to bring the “magic of camp to families throughout the year,” giving Spokane families ongoing opportunities for creative expression, emotional support, and community connection. These events follow the same thoughtful approach as Camp Sparkle, offering age-appropriate programming for children in Kindergarten and older. Exact Spokane dates are announced through the organization’s Camp & Family Program email list – be sure to stay connected with them on social media and at CancerPathways.org .    Building Resilience Through Community Programs like Camp Sparkle and Sparkle Saturdays highlight the vital role of emotional support in the cancer journey. By fostering creativity, connection, and understanding, Cancer Pathways helps young patients and their families navigate challenges with hope and resilience. As the organization puts it, its programs create “a space to empower and educate our community,” giving kids and teens the tools to face cancer together, not alone. For Spokane families looking to get involved or learn more, registration and program updates are available through Cancer Pathways’ website and email list, ensuring that local children and teens continue to have access to life-changing experiences that brighten their journey with cancer. To learn more about Cancer Pathways’ efforts in Spokane and beyond, visit CancerPathways.org .

From mountain runs to city lights, explore the best ways to enjoy the season By the Like Media Team Snowy Adventures in Spokane • Mount Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park • Riverfront Park Ice Ribbon • Underhill Park Sledding Hill • Ski Lookout Pass • 49° North Mountain Resort Hit the SlopesMt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park delivers classic winter adventure just a short drive from Spokane. Spread across expansive terrain on the southwest slopes of the mountain, it offers a mix of beginner-friendly groomers, wide intermediate cruisers, and steeper upper-mountain lines that keep experienced skiers and riders engaged. With its blend of open runs and wooded areas, the mountain offers plenty of variety for every level. Night skiing is a signature experience here. On select evenings, the hill glows under the lights, giving guests a chance to carve turns after sunset with views of the city in the distance. The Nordic area adds even more ways to explore, featuring miles of cross-country and snowshoe trails that wind through quiet forest. A vertical drop of roughly 2,000 feet, multiple lifts, and well-maintained terrain make it easy to spend the whole day lapping your favorite runs. Afterward, the lodge provides a welcoming place to warm up, refuel, and relax with a laid-back mountain atmosphere. Whether you’re planning a family outing, seeking a full day of riding, or hoping for a peaceful escape in the winter woods, Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park offers a true Inland Northwest winter experience. Glide and Slide Riverfront Park Ice Ribbon Experience Spokane's winter magic at the Riverfront Park Ice Ribbon, a 650-foot winding path perfect for skaters of all ages and skill levels. Unlike a traditional rink, this unique design adds an adventurous twist to the skating experience. It offers beautiful views of the park and its iconic landmarks, such as the Spokane River and Clocktower. Twinkling lights create a festive ambiance, making it ideal for families, couples, and friends. The Sky Ribbon Café nearby provides a cozy retreat where you can warm up with hot cocoa or cider after a fun-filled skate. Skate rentals and heated areas are available to keep you comfortable throughout your visit. Whether you're enjoying themed skate nights or just looking for a fun winter activity, the Ice Ribbon is a must-do for a perfect day of outdoor fun in Spokane. Indoor Fun When It’s Cold • Mobius Discovery Center ( MobiusSpokane.org ) • Wonderland Family Fun Center ( WonderlandSpokane.com ) • Northtown Mall – Shopping, Dining, & More ( NorthtownMall.com ) • Spokane Children’s Theatre ( SpokaneChildrensTheatre.org ) Spokane Iconic Sledding Hills FAMILY FRIENDLY – Manito Park    Manito Park’s gentle sledding hill near the duck pond is perfect for families and younger kids looking for safe, snow-filled fun in Spokane.   IDEAL FOR ALL AGES – Valley Mission Park Valley Mission Park offers a balanced sledding hill with moderate slopes, making it an excellent spot for kids and adults to enjoy winter adventures together.   ADVENTURE SEEKER – Underhill Park   Underhill Park delivers steep, thrilling runs for those seeking an adrenaline rush. It’s the ultimate sledding destination for adventurous sledders in Spokane.   Stay Warm with Indoor Entertainment Concerts, Comedy, Theater, and More! First Interstate Center for the Arts - FirstInterstateCenter.org Fox Theater - FoxTheaterSpokane.org Spokane Arena - SpokaneArena.com The Art Spirit Gallery - TheArtSpiritGallery.com Spokane Civic Theatre - SpokaneCivicTheatre.com

January 17-18 Masterworks 4: Symphonic Dances arrives at the Fox Theater January 17–18, led by conductor James Lowe and featuring Spokane Symphony trombonist John Church. The program includes Bernstein’s Symphonic Dances from West Side Story, Creston’s Fantasy for Trombone, and Rachmaninoff’s Symphonic Dances. Saturday’s performance begins at 7:30 pm (doors open at 6 pm, preconcert lecture at 6:30 pm). Sunday offers a 3 pm show (doors open at 1:30 pm, lecture at 2 pm)—details at FoxTheaterSpokane.org .

Access all recent 509 Digital Lifestyle Magazines online and free, reading about downtown Spokane, news, events, and activities in Spokane from our stories. Check out our LATEST DIGITAL ISSUES January 2026 Winter Play in the Inland Northwest VIEW CURRENT EDITION Local Stories At Anytime ANYWHERE Subscribe to our e-newsletter to get our digital magazine editions sent directly to your inbox SUBSCRIBE Previous Issues Digital Edition Winter Play in the Inland Northwest January 2026 From mountain runs to city lights, explore the best ways to enjoy the season! Button Digital Edition Winter in Spokane December 2025 Winter lights, swirling skates, and downtown holiday magic Button Digital Edition Spokane in November November 2025 November in Spokane brings crisp air, golden leaves, and a strong sense of community. Discover cozy hideaways, talented local makers, and seasonal happenings inside this issue of 509 Lifestyle. Button Digital Edition Autumn in Spokane October 2025 Spokane in October shines with crisp air, golden leaves, and community spirit. Your guide to cozy spots, local makers, and autumn events awaits inside 509 Lifestyle. Button Digital Edition Designology Luxury Interiors September 2025 The September 2025 edition of 509 Digital Lifestyle Magazine highlights Designology Luxury Interiors, led by nationally certified designer Deanna Goguen. With nearly three decades of experience, Deanna guides clients through the thousands of choices that shape a custom home. Button Digital Edition Moon Time in Coeur d’Alene to The Elk, Two Seven, and El Que August 2025 The August 2025 edition of 509 Digital Lifestyle Magazine pays tribute to a culinary duo whose restaurants have become neighborhood institutions across the Inland Northwest. Button Digital Edition The Festival at Sandpoint July 2025 July in Spokane brings sunshine, celebration, and a sense of movement—whether you're watching fireworks light up Riverfront Park, road-tripping through the Inland Northwest, or discovering fresh ways to thrive. Button Digital Edition Spokane Hoopfest 2025 June 2025 Our cover story celebrates Spokane Hoopfest 2025, the world’s largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament Button Digital Edition Jeffrey Dunn Weaves Life Into Story May 2025 An exploration of freedom and place in his newest novel, Whiskey Rebel Button Digital Edition Spokane Riverkeeper April 2024 Transform Your Home, Spokane Riverkeeper, Love the Skin You're In Button Digital Edition Scale House Market March 2025 Scale House Market, the 509 Home: Nature Meets Innovation Button Digital Edition Adventure Awaits in Spokane and North Idaho February 2025 This issue features the Mobius Discovery Center and its STEAM-inspired activities, along with top entertainment spots for unforgettable adventures Button Want to Get Featured? Explore advertising opportunities by clicking the link or send a message in our form below. GET FEATURED

Dive into Spokane life, hearing trending stories from downtown Spokane, Local Spokane news and local businesses, through our monthly 509n Digital Lifestyle Magazine. Spokane Lifestyle Celebrate vibrant culture and excitement at the heart of the city Check out our Latest Digital Issues January 2026 Winter Play in the Inland Northwest VIEW CURRENT EDITION VIEW PREVIOUS EDITIONS Latest Stories Cancer Pathways: Hope, Creativity, and Connection Winter Play in the Inland Northwest Masterworks 4: Symphonic Dances PBR Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour 1 2 3 4 5 Featured The Year of Living Lighter Feature Story Wrapped in Thanks: Spokane’s Cozy Side Feature Story Protecting Spokane from Fire Risks Feature Story Districts of Spokane, Part 3: Sprague Union & Kendall Yards Feature Story The Small Big City SUBSCRIBE CONTACT US 509 Digital Lifestyle Magazine, formerly 509 Lifestyle Magazine, is a monthly magazine that focuses on Spokane, the small big city in the Inland Northwest, with a twist on what's new and local. Stories shared reflect the local vibe and trends with an emphasis on the people who live here, work here, and play here in downtown Spokane and the surrounding areas. As you read through our stories and flip through our monthly digital magazines, you will see all that makes us unique right here in the Inland Northwest, what makes us get up in the morning and what makes our hearts beat—why we are truly blessed to live here. This is not your traditional vanity magazine but rather a publication that dives deep into the local scene in a way no one has done before. From our community and culture, area cuisine and fashion to great local stories, you’ll find all of these and more in the pages of 509. Our lifestyle, our hopes, our dreams are reflected and steeped deep in our history; the roots of what make us us. Experience Spokane ENTERTAINMENT Enjoy live entertainment at comedy clubs, downtown theaters, Broadway plays, and museums. DISCOVER MORE DOWNTOWN See what's buzzing in the downtown area for culture, popular destinations, and local activities DISCOVER MORE DINING Explore the variety of culinary delights the blend local and national dining experiences. DISCOVER MORE Local Businesses Read about successful businesses, recommended services, and entrepreneur stories that turned their aspirations into a thriving business model. BUSINESS STORIES Q&A WITH BUSINESS OWNERS Cancer Pathways: Hope, Creativity, and Connection Business Spotlights Designology Luxury Interiors: Redefining Inland Northwest Living Business Spotlights A Neighborhood Legacy: Moon Time, The Porch Public House, The Elk Public House, Two Seven Public House, and El Que Business Spotlights Q&A with The Festival at Sandpoint Business Spotlights Discover Spokane’s Best at River Park Square Business Spotlights Ramey Construction: A family legacy continues Business Spotlights Alder + Stone Interiors Business Spotlights AAging Better In-Home Care Business Spotlights Spokane Events Experienced Spokane life by celebrating Spokane culture through events from our favorite destinations and local businesses. SEE EVENTS PBR Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour Things to Do in Winter Skate with the Squad Things to Do in Winter 50th Anniversary of The Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival Things to Do in Winter Spokane Symphony’s Christmas Tree Elegance Downtown Spokane Seasonal Activities Everywhere you go, there are activities like outdoor recreation, monthly events, and unique places to explore a short distance from the downtown area. Check out our local guide to find our top recommendations of things to do for each season. SPRING SUMMER FALL WINTER Trending in Spokane READ MORE The Year of Living Lighter A fresh start built on calm, ease, and intention By the Like Media Team A new year always brings the urge to reset, but 2026 is bringing a different kind of energy. Instead of chasing bigger goals or busier schedules, many people are leaning into a quieter rhythm. They’re clearing out what weighs them down, choosing habits that offer clarity, and reshaping their homes and routines to support a calmer way of living. It starts with the everyday patterns that accumulate unnotice Feature Story Shop, Stay & Play: January in Spokane A calm-season guide to browsing, relaxing, and winter fun By the Like Media Team January in Spokane brings a distinct winter calm. After the holidays, the city settles into crisp mornings, quieter streets, and a slower pace that feels intentional. Snowy landscapes and downtown lights create a reflective backdrop, inviting both residents and visitors to reset routines and enjoy the season. It’s a time to slow down, focus on comfort, and rediscover familiar places with fresh ey Things to Do in Winter Publisher’s Note 509 Digital Lifestyle: February 2025 Connection & Wellness February is a time for connecting, caring for yourself, and celebrating in Spokane. As the new year begins, it’s never too early to soak... Trending Spokane Hoopfest June 29 - 30 The largest three-on-three outdoor basketball tournament in the world, Spokane’s annual Hoopfest features more than 6,000... Things To Do In Summer

Explore thriving Spokane small businesses and inspiring stories from successful entreprenuers, discovering new places and new experiences to try. Business Spotlights Nestled in the Heart of Downtown Spokane Your one-stop shopping, dining and entertainment destination By Jillian Chandler Spokane, Washington, is a city immersed in natural... Business Spotlights Serving Up Excellence Since 2004 Celebrate the every day at MAX By Jillian Chandler | Photo by Victoria Belle Photography Serving the community for nearly two decades,... Business Spotlights A Meal Among Friends A passion for food and community By Jillian Chandler | Photo by Annie Zasadny Photography Laura and Seth Carey have much to be thankful... Business Spotlights The Kitchen, The Wine, The Classes, The Deli, The Café … The Experience It’s time to discover all things culinary By Jillian Chandler Whether you’re looking to stop in for a quick lunch, do a little shopping,... Business Spotlights Withstanding the Challenges of the Restaurant Industry Viljo and Autumn Basso continue to impress diners at Syringa and Bluebird By Jillian Chandler | Photo by Brady Campbell Syringa Japanese... Dining and Recipes An Appreciation for Employees The backbone of any successful, long-standing restaurant By Jillian Chandler | Photo by Annie Zasadny John Grollmus and longtime friend... Business Spotlights FINANCIAL FOCUS Should You Consolidate Retirement Accounts? This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor... Business Spotlights 39th Anniversary! Celebrating the award-winning wines of Spokane’s long-standing winery By Jillian Chandler Established in 1982 by husband and wife Mike... Business Spotlights The WOW Factor Dry Fly ups production, adds restaurant in new location By Colin Anderson Being the first post-prohibition craft distillery in Washington... Business Spotlights 1 2 3 4 5 Recent Stories VIEW ALL STORIES Check out all our most recent stories and publications RECENT MAGAZINE PUBLICATON