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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 .

January 9-10 PBR Spokane brings the high-adrenaline Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour to the Spokane Arena January 9–10, 2026, with bull riding action Friday at 8 pm and Saturday at 7 pm. Top Professional Bull Riders will face off against some of the sport’s fiercest bulls in this must-see competition that tests strength, skill, and grit for Velocity points and standings. Tickets and event details are available through the Spokane Arena box office, TicketsWest, and PBR.com .

January 8 Skate with the Squad brings a special community skate night to the Numerica Skate Ribbon on Thursday, January 8, 2026, from 6–8 p.m., featuring Spokane Firefighters. Meet the crew, skate alongside these everyday heroes, and learn more about the work they do to keep Spokane safe in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. Admission is $10.95 for adults, $7.95 for youth, and free for ages two and under; skate rentals are $7.95. More at My.SpokaneCity.org .

January 9-11 Spokane Symphony’s Christmas Tree Elegance returns December 2–14, offering one of Spokane’s most anticipated holiday traditions. Presented by Spokane Symphony Associates, this 13-day fundraiser fills the Historic Davenport Hotel and River Park Square with stunning themed Christmas trees valued up to $4,999 in decorations and prizes. More than 100,000 people attend each year, enjoying the festive displays and participating in the raffle that supports the Symphony. Now in its 43rd year, Christmas Tree Elegance reflects months of volunteer planning and the generous contributions of donors who make the event possible. Visitors can purchase $1 raffle tickets at both locations, and winners do not need to be present. Free and open to the public, this annual celebration continues to bring the community together through creativity and holiday spirit. Visit SpokaneSymphonyAssoc.org  for more info.

A clear approach to hydration, light, and skin health all season long By Like Media Team Winter in the Inland Northwest arrives with crisp mornings, muted light, and long stretches of indoor living. It’s a season that asks the skin to work harder and the body to adapt to dry air, shifting temperatures, and limited sun exposure. Yet with a few intentional habits, radiance is far from seasonal—it’s something you can maintain and even strengthen. Cold weather affects the skin’s barrier more than most people realize. Heating systems pull moisture from the air, and icy winds draw it from the skin's surface. The combination leaves many dealing with tightness, dullness, or irritation by mid-January. A simple routine makes the most significant difference. Switching to a gentle, low-foam cleanser prevents stripping natural oils. Adding a richer moisturizer—such as one with ceramides or fatty acids—helps rebuild the skin’s barrier. And incorporating a hydrating serum layered underneath gives an immediate boost. None of these steps needs to be complicated; consistency is what restores balance. Exfoliation is another tool best used lightly in winter. Rather than strong acids or frequent scrubs, a mild weekly exfoliant keeps texture smooth without stressing the skin. The goal is to support, not overwhelm. When the barrier is calm, everything else—from hydration to glow—improves naturally. Hydration is equally foundational, and not just through topical products. The body’s need for water increases when indoor air is dry, yet people often drink less because they don’t feel as thirsty. Small shifts help a surprising amount. Keeping water visible throughout the day, sipping warm herbal tea, or adding electrolytes once in a while can help maintain steady hydration. Humidifiers also play a quiet but influential role. By adding moisture back into the home environment, they reduce overnight water loss from the skin and help maintain a comfortable sleep space. Light exposure shapes winter well-being in ways both seen and unseen. Limited daylight affects circadian rhythm, which in turn influences energy, sleep, and mood. It also matters for skin health. Morning light—natural or simulated—signals the body to wake up, regulate hormones, and stabilize the internal clock. A few minutes near a window shortly after waking can reset the day’s rhythm. For deeper support, many turn to light therapy during the darkest months. Full-spectrum light boxes provide bright, UV-free illumination that mimics morning sunlight and helps counter seasonal sluggishness. Research shows they can improve alertness, stabilize mood, and support better sleep when used early in the day. Red light therapy, a different modality often offered in wellness centers, focuses on cellular repair. It’s known for helping soothe inflammation, support circulation, and enhance overall skin vitality. Both approaches work in different ways, and neither requires an intensive time commitment. Local wellness offerings tend to follow a similar philosophy of restoration over complication. Float therapy invites deep relaxation and gives the nervous system a reprieve from sensory overload. Infrared saunas support circulation and warmth at a gentler intensity than traditional steam. Massage and bodywork help release winter tension and improve overall flow. Even short visits to indoor green spaces or quiet public areas can add a sense of lightness when the season feels heavy. What matters most is choosing practices that feel sustainable. Winter routines often fail when they’re too elaborate. A hydrating skincare exchange, a humidifier on the nightstand, a few minutes of purposeful light exposure, or an occasional local treatment can shift the way the entire season feels. These habits stack quietly, building resilience from the inside out. January is a good time to reset what supports you. A few thoughtful changes, like improved moisture, intentional light, and better rest, help restore balance in noticeable ways. The more consistent your habits are, the more resilient you feel through winter.

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 unnoticed. Morning routines are getting streamlined with fewer decisions to manage before the day even begins. A simplified rotation of clothing, a tidy drop zone near the door, and less digital noise help set a grounded tone. These small shifts make room for what matters, proving that structure can feel freeing when it’s purposeful. Homes are getting this treatment too. There’s a growing interest in interiors that feel open and restorative. Fresh paint, soft neutrals, intentional storage, and the removal of unused décor are giving rooms a lighter profile. It’s not about strict minimalism. It’s about creating spaces that support the pace people want to live at now. Even a single refreshed corner—a reading chair by a window or a decluttered kitchen counter—can reset the mood of an entire household. That desire for more breathing room is showing up mentally as well. After years of rapid change, many are paying closer attention to their capacity. They’re spacing out commitments, protecting downtime, and carving out short, repeatable practices that restore focus. A ten-minute walk, a quiet cup of coffee before opening email, or a weekly reset session brings structure without pressure. Local access to winter skies, river paths, and nearby trails continues to offer a built-in invitation to pause and recalibrate. Shops and community resources are supporting this shift with tools that make lighter living more accessible. Clean design, calming aesthetics, and multifunctional pieces are easier to find. Curated collections emphasize quality over quantity, and local services are offering practical guidance for organizing, refreshing interiors, or creating environments that encourage reflection. It’s a movement shaped by small, sustainable choices rather than dramatic reinvention. What makes this fresh start meaningful is its grounded nature. People are discovering that clearing physical clutter often mirrors clearing mental clutter. Choosing clarity becomes easier when your surroundings support it. The mindset shows up in conversations, in refreshed interiors, and in the way the region is stepping into the new year with intention. Living lighter is becoming less of an aspiration and more of a shared value. As 2026 unfolds, the shift is proving that meaningful change doesn’t need sweeping gestures. It grows from small, steady choices made day after day—choices that make life feel easier, calmer, and more aligned with what truly matters.

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 eyes. One of the season’s highlights is the Numerica Skate Ribbon  at Riverfront Park, where skaters can loop on ice and warm up by cozy fire pits—a draw through the colder months. Spokane also hosts free winter-themed family days such as Winterfest  at Riverfront Park in late January, featuring ice skating, carousel rides, and community activities. Winter weather also offers a chance to savor slow mornings, explore local stores at your own pace, and plan restorative stays in downtown hotels that feel especially cozy this time of year. Here’s how to make the most of Spokane in January. SHOP Spokane’s winter shopping scene is perfect for browsing indoors and discovering both familiar favorites and unique finds. • River Park Square (808 W. Main Ave.)  — A premier downtown shopping destination with popular national retailers and unique local vendors. It’s easy to spend an afternoon here out of the cold. RiverParkSquare.com • Northtown Mall (4750 N. Division St.)  — A classic mall with a variety of shops, eateries, and indoor comfort during winter days. NorthtownMall.com • The Flour Mill (621 W. Mallon Ave.)  — A mixed-use shopping area with boutiques, galleries, and cafés in a historic setting that feels especially inviting during winter. VisitSpokane.com • Wonders Of The World (621 W. Mallon Ave.)  — An eclectic boutique with jewelry, art, and gifts for those looking for something distinctive. WondersOfTheWorldInc.com • Boo Radley’s (232 N. Howard St.)  — A beloved toy store downtown that delights with nostalgic and creative playthings. ShopBooRadleys.com • Chosen Vintage (7 W. Main Ave.)  and Teleport Vintage (917 W. Broadway Ave.)  — Vintage clothing and thrift finds for winter style and seasonal layering. VisitSpokane.com   TeleportVintage.com STAY Spokane’s boutique and well-located hotels make winter stays comfortable and walkable. Many are steps from restaurants, parks, and downtown attractions. • MAX at Mirabeau  (1100 N. Sullivan Rd., Spokane Valley)  — A well-known Spokane Valley hotel and dining destination offering comfortable guest rooms, on-site amenities, and one of the region’s most established restaurants. It provides easy access to the Spokane Valley Mall, the Centennial Trail, and nearby winter recreation options. • Montvale Hotel  (1005 W. 1st Ave.)  — A boutique historic hotel in the heart of the arts district. Its restored details and cozy interiors make it a relaxing winter home base near theaters and dining. • Ruby River Hotel  (700 N. Division St.)  — Located along the Spokane River, this property offers a peaceful winter setting with easy access to downtown, Gonzaga, and the Centennial Trail. • Holiday Inn Express Spokane-Downtown  (801 N. Division St.)  — A popular, reliable stay with river views and quick access to the University District and downtown. • DoubleTree by Hilton Spokane City Center  (322 N. Spokane Falls Ct.)  — Directly connected to the Spokane Convention Center and steps from Riverfront Park, making it convenient for winter events, skating, and downtown exploring. PLAY Spokane’s winter play mixes outdoor tradition with warm indoor fun. • Numerica Skate Ribbon at Riverfront Park   — Skate a 650-foot ice path with breaks by fire pits and seasonal lights. It’s open through the colder months and highlights winter activity downtown. • Winterfest at Riverfront Park (Jan. 30, 2026)  — A free community day with ice skating, carousel rides, youth activities, and more. • Spokane River Centennial Trail  — A scenic paved path for winter walks, bike rides, or brisk strolls beside the river.  • Mobius Discovery Center  — A hands-on children’s museum ideal for families on cold days. • LaserMaxx Spokane  and Get Air Trampoline Park  — Active indoor play options that are great for days when outdoor temps dip. • Wonderland Family Fun Center  and Flight 509  — Arcade and entertainment centers for family fun. January in Spokane isn’t a pause—it’s a chance to experience the city with calm mornings, thoughtful explorations, and cozy winter rituals. From skating to strolls, indoor play to boutique hotels and thoughtful shopping stops, the season invites you to embrace simplicity without losing adventure. Bundle up and wander through downtown shops; lace up your skates beneath soft winter lights; warm up in a lobby or lounge with a hot drink. Spokane’s winter charm is quiet but unforgettable, offering space to reset routines, make new memories, and start the year with intention.

Servings:  4–6 Prep Time:  15 minutes Cook Time:  25-30 minutes Rest Time:  None Total Time:  40-45 minutes Ingredients • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 1 medium onion, diced • 3 carrots, sliced • 2 celery stalks, sliced • 4 garlic cloves, minced • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric • 1 teaspoon ground cumin • 6 cups chicken broth • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken • 1 cup diced potatoes or cauliflower (optional) • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper • Juice of 1/2 lemon • 1/4 cup chopped parsley or cilantro • Optional: 1/2 cup coconut milk for creaminess Instructions Cook until softened, about 6 minutes. Stir in the garlic, ginger, turmeric, and cumin. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the broth. Add the chicken, optional potatoes or cauliflower, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 15–20 minutes. Stir in the lemon juice and coconut milk if using. Taste and adjust seasoning. Ladle into bowls and finish with chopped parsley or cilantro. Notes • Add cooked rice or quinoa to make it heartier. • For extra zing, grate a little more fresh ginger just before serving.

Local strategies to strengthen body and mind during winter By Like Media Team Winter brings snow-dusted mornings, cozy evenings, and a pace of life that feels both calm and demanding. While the season has its beauty, it also challenges the body with shorter days, colder temperatures, and a greater risk of colds and flu. Staying well through these months takes more than luck—it takes intention. Across the Inland Northwest, health-minded residents are turning to natural boosters, balanced nutrition, and community resources to support energy and resilience. From immunity-boosting foods to fitness routines and holistic remedies, there are plenty of ways to thrive even as the temperatures drop. Fueling Immunity with Food Nutrition is one of the strongest defenses during winter. Local health food shops and co-ops make it easy to stock up on seasonal staples like citrus, dark leafy greens, garlic, and root vegetables—each packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Adding fermented foods, such as sauerkraut or kombucha, supports gut health, which plays a critical role in immunity. Small shifts at the table go a long way. Swapping heavy comfort foods with lighter versions, incorporating colorful produce into soups and stews, and drinking enough water all help keep the body strong. Juice bars and cafes also offer cold-pressed blends rich in vitamin C and zinc, perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up that doubles as a wellness boost. The Role of Supplements and Vitamins With fewer daylight hours, vitamin D becomes especially important. Many local wellness clinics recommend supplementation to support mood and bone health during darker months. Paired with zinc, vitamin C, and elderberry, these nutrients provide a natural defense against seasonal illness. Pharmacies and holistic shops carry curated selections of high-quality supplements. Experts suggest consulting with a healthcare provider before starting a new regimen to ensure it fits personal health needs. Fitness for Energy and Resilience Movement is another key factor in winter wellness. Staying active improves circulation, boosts immunity, and helps regulate mood. Local gyms, yoga studios, and boutique fitness centers offer classes that keep energy levels high even when motivation dips. Winter sports like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing provide both exercise and fresh air, while indoor classes—from heated yoga to small-group strength training—help maintain consistency when outdoor conditions are less inviting. Trainers emphasize that even short daily workouts can reduce stress and improve sleep, two factors closely tied to overall health. Holistic Remedies and Restorative Care For many, winter is also a time to explore holistic therapies. Herbal teas, acupuncture, massage, and sauna sessions are increasingly popular for reducing stress and supporting the immune system. Wellness centers throughout the city offer treatments designed to restore balance and help the body adapt to seasonal changes. Equally important is prioritizing rest. Adequate sleep allows the immune system to recharge, making it easier to fight off seasonal illnesses. Pairing restorative practices with mindful sleep habits creates a foundation for long-term health. A Season of Proactive Care Winter wellness isn’t about perfection—it’s about consistency and proactive care. With access to fresh foods, health experts, and community-based fitness opportunities, residents have what they need to stay strong through the coldest months. By combining nutrient-rich meals, targeted supplements, regular movement, and restorative therapies, you can strengthen your defenses and enjoy the season with greater vitality. This year, consider winter an invitation to invest in your well-being. With the right boosters and resources, it’s possible not just to endure the colder months—but to move through them stronger.

Winter Fun Returns to Downtown Spokane By Taylor Shillam Winter has settled into downtown Spokane, bringing with it the return of a cherished community tradition: ice skating at the Numerica Skate Ribbon. Nestled in the heart of Riverfront Park, the ribbon winds through sparkling lights and snowy trees, inviting families, couples, and friends to share in the joy of the season.  “For many families, a visit to the Numerica Skate Ribbon has become a holiday tradition,” says Amanda Swan, VP of Community Impact & Communications at Numerica Credit Union. “It’s a way to celebrate the season, enjoy downtown Spokane, and make lasting memories together. Every year, we hear heartwarming stories about children learning to skate, holiday celebrations at the Skate Ribbon, and even on-ice marriage proposals!” Skate Ribbon guests glide along a winding 650-foot pathway that gently rises and falls. The ribbon connects to a spacious ice pond, providing plenty of room to skate and socialize.  Warm fire pits line the area, inviting visitors to pause, sip hot cocoa, and watch the action unfold. Nearby, the shared ticketing area with the Numerica SkyRide also houses the Riverfront Park Café, where guests can enjoy snacks or a warm meal while taking in views of the ice through wide, windowed seating areas. The Skate Ribbon offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and cozy charm, creating a winter experience that captures the spirit of Spokane. Following the glow of November’s traditional Numerica Tree Lighting Celebration, the festivities continue all winter long with a packed lineup of community events designed to keep Spokane skating well into the new year. The Numerica Skate Ribbon’s winter calendar is packed with ways to keep spirits high well into the new year. From DJ Nights on the Ice every Friday to Cheap Skate Tuesdays offering free rentals, there’s something for everyone. The New Year’s Eve Fireworks Celebration returns on December 31 at 9 pm, lighting up the sky for an early, family-friendly countdown to 2026. In January, Numerica will also host a fan-favorite event: the Numerica Skate with the Chiefs Night on Wednesday, January 14, from 6–8 pm. The first 300 attendees will enjoy free admission and skate rentals, plus the chance to meet and skate alongside the Spokane Chiefs hockey team and mascot, Boomer. Other highlights this winter season include the Skate with the Squad Series, which pairs local families with community heroes like police officers, firefighters, and rangers; Learn to Skate lessons with the Lake City Figure Skating Club; and a Valentine’s Day Ice Skating Special perfect for couples looking to share a romantic spin on the ice. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or stepping onto the ice for the first time, the Numerica Skate Ribbon offers a place to slow down, connect, and create new memories. For Spokane locals and visitors alike, the Skate Ribbon is a community hub for celebrating togetherness, joy, and the beauty of winter in the Inland Northwest. So grab your mittens, lace up your skates, and head downtown this December – the magic of winter and the holidays are waiting for you at the Numerica Skate Ribbon.

December 4–7 The Nutcracker Ballet returns to the Fox Theater December 4–7, featuring State Street Ballet and more than 90 local dancers performing alongside the Spokane Symphony under conductor James Lowe. Families can enjoy this cherished holiday production with evening shows at 7:30 pm (doors open at 6:30 pm) and matinees at 3 pm (doors open at 2 pm). A Sensory Friendly performance is also available. Only the Thursday night performance may be added to a season subscription—more details at FoxTheaterSpokane.org .

December 13 Terrain’s BrrrZAAR returns to River Park Square on December 13, transforming all three floors into a winter market packed with thousands of gift-worthy finds from 70+ local vendors. Browse jewelry, leather goods, home décor, artwork, skincare, candles, and more, with most items priced under $100. Enjoy live music, kids’ activities, and plenty of holiday cheer. Launched in 2018, BrrrZAAR strengthens Spokane’s creative economy and supports local artists. Learn more at RiverParkSquare.com/events/terrains-brrrzaar .

Discover Spokane’s festive charm through cozy corners and community gatherings By Like Media Team December in Spokane is all about contrast—the shimmer of lights against snowy streets, the hush of winter mornings followed by the laughter of holiday crowds. It’s the time of year when the city transforms into a glowing landscape of tradition, community, and wonder. From the heart of Riverfront Park to hillside orchards and neighborhood trails, Spokane shines in its own winter way. Downtown Sparkle Riverfront Park  is the centerpiece of Spokane’s holiday season. The Pavilion lights up nightly with choreographed LED shows, its glowing canopy reflecting off the Spokane River. The Numerica Skate Ribbon  becomes a swirl of color and motion as skaters glide under strings of twinkling lights, with hot cocoa stands nearby keeping hands warm. Just steps away, the Looff Carrousel continues its timeless spin—children bundled in scarves, parents snapping photos, and the sound of holiday music weaving through the park. Downtown streets mirror the glow. Storefronts along Main and Riverside dress up for the season, with boutiques and cafés offering festive window displays that invite shoppers inside. Whether you’re browsing for local gifts or simply strolling under the lights, the energy feels equal parts cozy and electric. Traditions at Green Bluff North of Spokane, Green Bluff  offers its own brand of December magic. While summer and fall draw crowds for berries and pumpkins, winter belongs to evergreens. Local farms welcome families in search of the perfect Christmas tree, fresh-cut and fragrant in the crisp air. Many add their own festive touches—bonfires, cider stands, and holiday markets selling handmade goods. It’s a tradition that ties Spokane’s urban heart to its agricultural roots, reminding locals that the season’s spirit is as much about connection as it is celebration. Kendall Yards in the Snow Perched above the Spokane River, Kendall Yards takes on a quieter glow in December. The Centennial Trail  offers serene winter walks, where frosted branches and city lights beyond frame views of the river gorge. Along Summit Parkway, restaurants and wine bars keep the neighborhood buzzing, their windows fogged from warmth inside. Heaters line outdoor patios, extending the season for those who prefer fresh air with their mulled wine or winter stout. It’s the kind of neighborhood where local cheer feels effortless—a mix of modern energy and small-town holiday charm. Seasonal Gatherings December in Spokane also brings a lineup of festive events. From concerts at the Bing Crosby Theater  to holiday markets hosted by local makers, opportunities to gather are everywhere. Churches and community centers host carol sings, holiday dinners, and toy drives, while nonprofits step up to ensure Spokane’s most vulnerable neighbors feel the warmth of the season. A City That Glows Spokane in December doesn’t rely on big spectacles alone. Its magic is layered: lights shimmering off the falls, kids circling the skate ribbon, couples walking hand in hand through snowy streets. It’s in the first sip of a peppermint mocha from a local café, or the sight of trees glowing from Green Bluff to Garland. This winter, Spokane is more than cold—it’s bright, it’s warm, and it’s alive with cheer.