On May 30, 2025, the Downtown Spokane Partnership (DSP) will host the fourth annual State of Downtown and Downtown Awards, a signature event celebrating progress, partnerships, and the people shaping the heart of the city.
This ticketed program brings together civic leaders, business owners, and community members to highlight downtown trends, showcase key projects, and hear from Spokane’s mayor and a nationally recognized keynote speaker. As part of the program, DSP will also present the Downtown Awards, honoring exceptional contributions to Spokane’s urban core. Since 2016, the Legacy Award has recognized long-standing dedication to downtown, while the Impact Award celebrates recent, transformative projects.
The 2025 theme, “Downtown Love Story,” honors the people, places, and passion that make downtown Spokane special. It reflects the deep connection the community shares with its urban core. From iconic local businesses and vibrant public spaces to world-class culture, dining, and sports, downtown Spokane is where our collective story unfolds. This year’s theme underscores the shared commitment of DSP, the City of Spokane, and community partners to continue nurturing downtown’s growth, vitality, and appeal.
2025 Legacy Award Winner: Hoopfest Spokane
Since its inception in 1990, Spokane Hoopfest has profoundly impacted downtown Spokane, transforming it into a vibrant hub of athleticism and community spirit. As the world’s largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament, Hoopfest annually attracts over 6,000 teams and 225,000 fans, converting 45 city blocks into a dynamic sports arena. The event infuses approximately $39 million into the local economy each year, benefiting hotels, restaurants, and retailers. Beyond the weekend festivities, the Spokane Hoopfest Association has invested over $1.6 million into community initiatives, including the construction and renovation of more than 27 outdoor basketball courts, fostering year-round recreational opportunities. This enduring legacy has solidified Spokane’s identity as “Hooptown USA,” celebrating a culture of inclusivity, athletic excellence, and civic pride.
2025 Impact Award Winner: ONE Spokane Stadium
ONE Spokane Stadium, a 5,000-seat, state-of-the-art venue built through a partnership between Spokane Public Schools and the Spokane Public Facilities District, has quickly become a catalyst for downtown revitalization. Located in the heart of Spokane’s North Bank, the stadium hosts high school athletics, community events, and professional soccer through Spokane Velocity and Zephyr. Its central location has increased accessibility for students and families, boosted foot traffic for local businesses, and enhanced the city’s reputation as a regional hub for sports and entertainment. The project is a model of public partnership, delivering long-term value and pride to the Spokane community.
2025 Keynote: Peter Kageyama, Author/Urbanist
Peter Kageyama is an author and international speaker known for his work on community development and civic engagement. He is the author of For the Love of Cities and Love Where You Live, books that explore the emotional connections people have with their communities and how these relationships drive urban revitalization. A recognized expert in grassroots city-building, Kageyama works with leaders, policymakers, and citizens to inspire creative investments in public spaces, fostering more vibrant and lovable communities. His engaging talks highlight the role of small-scale, passionate initiatives in making cities more dynamic and connected.
New: Emerging Leaders Breakout
As part of this year’s program, partners will have the opportunity to nominate emerging leaders from their organizations to participate in an exclusive, future-focused workshop on downtown Spokane. This interactive session facilitated by Peter Kageyama will explore successful downtown revitalization efforts from across the country, introduce innovative development strategies, and foster creative collaboration aimed at enhancing Spokane’s urban core. Through dynamic discussions, hands-on brainstorming, and meaningful networking, participants will leave inspired and equipped with actionable ideas. This unique experience offers sponsors a chance to invest in the next generation of civic leaders while helping shape the future of downtown Spokane.
WHEN: Friday, May 30, 2025
- 8:15 AM – Doors open for networking
- 9:00 AM – Program begins
- 9:15 AM – State of Downtown: Emilie Cameron, DSP CEO
- 9:25 AM – Legacy Award, Spokane Hoopfest
- 9:35 AM – Message: Mayor Lisa Brown
- 9:45 AM – Impact Award: ONE Spokane Stadium
- 9:55 AM – Downtown Love Story
- 10:00 AM – Keynote: Peter Kageyama
- 10:30 AM – Program concludes
- 11:00 AM – Emerging Leaders Breakout
WHERE: Spokane Convention Center, Centennial Ballroom, 334 W Spokane Falls Blvd. Spokane, WA 99201
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit downtownspokane.org. Find images here.