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July 2025 | Highlights
More Than Headlines – It’s Zeit for Thought.
Bend Zeit
July 15, 2025
In partnership with
🌀Bend Zeit
“The spirit, stories, and service of Central Oregon – every week.”
🧭 The Essentials
YOUR BI-WEEKLY BEND EDIT
Welcome to Bend Zeit – You’re Officially Informed.
July in Bend means we’ve hit full summer stride — trails buzzing, rivers packed, and sunsets that stretch forever. From balloon glows and backyard music sets to patio beers and early-morning trailhead scrambles, there’s no wrong way to Bend right now.
This edition has the goods: big events, local flavor, and the kind of insider picks that keep your summer dialed in. Whether you’re floating the Deschutes or dancing under the stars, let’s make July unforgettable.
🌀 This Week’s Zeitgeist
“Suns Out, Fun’s Unscheduled”
Welcome to peak July, where Bend becomes a choose-your-own-adventure novel — except every page ends with “...and then we hit the patio.” Your weather app says 88°, your friends say “let’s float,” and your to-do list says... “lol.”
Productivity’s taking a back seat to impromptu concerts, spontaneous BBQs, and the eternal hunt for the coldest IPA. Sunscreen’s uneven, flip-flops are dusty, and you’re definitely running into someone you know at the farmers market.
It’s summer in Bend — and chaos has never looked so fun.
We’re breaking down the Top 3 Signals that prove the warm-weather vibe is peaking. And because Bend keeps delivering, we’re rolling out a fresh trio of our Top 3 Categories — what’s trending, tasty, scenic, or just plain awesome right now: 🍽️ Restaurants • 🏡 Homes • 🚶 Walking Trails • 💼 Local Businesses • 🌲 Outdoor Picks • 🎟️ Upcoming Events - and whatever else is catching the local vibe.
Got a category you'd love to see featured? 👉Email us: [email protected] - we’d love to hear your suggestions!
Each week, we highlight one outstanding local business helping keep the BendZeit vibes flowing. This week’s featured sponsor:
Nestled on Bend’s West Side on Century Dr, Prost! is an inviting neighborhood pub for a gathering, a post adventure bier or a pre-adventure warm up.
40 SW Century Dr. #140, Bend, Oregon 97702
📱 541-241-8180
🌐 Prost! Bend
Each bier, imported from Germany, is poured properly into its appropriate glass, fulfilling German tradition and guaranteeing great taste. Each bite of food is made with the best local ingredients, in the traditional German way. Each table is an open spot for communal seating to share with friends and to make new ones.
Come join us at the Pub!
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The Prost! Story | 📍 Visit Prost Bend 🕒 Hours 🍺 Swing by for German beers, patio vibes, and good company! |
Tailored HR Software Recommendations for Your Organization
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Whether you're looking for an HRIS, ATS, or Payroll solution, we help you cut through the noise and make confident decisions—fast.
Why HR teams trust SSR HR Advisors:
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From MIT to the Indianapolis Colts, smart HR teams trust SSR to find the right software—without the stress.
🔥Top 3 Signals
🕺 1️⃣ Munch & Music Returns – Thursday Evenings in Drake Park
Bend’s favorite summer tradition is back! Live music, local food trucks, kids' activities, and sunset views by the river — all free.
🌅 Pro tip: Bring a blanket and show up early to snag a good spot.
📍Drake Park
📎 bendparksandrec.org
🎈 2️⃣ Balloons Over Bend – Get Ready for Lift-Off
Hot air balloons return July 25–27, but the buzz is already building. Sunrise launches, night glows, and the Children’s Festival make it a signature summer event.
📍Various locations in Bend & Redmond
📎 balloonsoverbend.com
🏄♀️ 3️⃣ River Float Season – Be Cool, Be Safe
The Deschutes is packed — and so are the river trails. Whether you're floating, paddling, or watching from the footbridge, remember to wear a life jacket and respect the flow.
📍McKay Park to Drake Park
📎 bendparksandrec.org/float
🍽️ Top 3 Favorite Food Truck Pods in Bend (So Far!)
We’re still collecting your votes — and we want to hear from you!
👉 Cast your vote now and tell us which Bend food truck or cart pod deserves the crown.
But while we wait for the final tally, we took a look at ratings across Google, Yelp, and local food guides. Based on those sources, here are the current frontrunners — Bend’s most loved food truck pods (so far):
🥇 On Tap Food Cart Pod – 4.8/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Type: Beer garden + live music hub with diverse eats |  Sources: Users rave about the “great beer selection,” “live music,” and “6 awesome food trucks” |
🥈 The Podski Food Cart Lot – 4.7/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐  Source: Described as “one of my favorite food truck areas,” with comfy indoor seating and “great food options” Type: Covered beer garden + international flavors | 🥉 The Lot – 4.6/5  Source: Known for “friendly staff,” “heating benches,” and “great variety”—with iced kombucha, sushi, and burgers Type: Original food-pod bar with heated patios |
Red Chair Gallery - 103 NW Oregon Ave, Bend, OR 97703
💡 Bend Business Spotlight - Entrepreneurs of Bend
🌿 Bend Business Spotlight: Ancient Hands Healing - Tension meets its match.
Tucked quietly into Bend’s westside wellness scene, Ancient Hands Healing offers something rare: a space to slow down, soften, and actually exhale.
Specializing in intuitive bodywork—especially for those carrying stress, jaw tension, migraines, or that constant “on” feeling—practitioner-led sessions are rooted in Craniosacral Therapy, assisted Stretch Therapy, and nervous system support. Sessions are fully clothed, intentionally unhurried, and tailored to your body’s pace—not pressure.
If you’ve been craving calm, clarity, and just a little more space to be—this may be your sign to land, breathe, and begin again.
Meet Isata – Ancient Hands Healing
With nearly a decade of experience, Isata brings a grounded, intuitive approach to bodywork—focused especially on the head, neck, and nervous system. Her sessions are slow, intentional, and rooted in deep listening—not force.
When she’s not helping others unwind, you’ll find her out in nature, cooking something nourishing, or spending time with her animals. Oregon, she says, taught her to move slower and live more gently—and it shows in every session.
📞 Contact Isata directly:
✉️ Email: [email protected]
📱 Phone: 541-279-8421
📣 Tap below to choose Your Service:
🧭 Around the Bend - What’s Happening This WEEK
Concert nights, local markets, and summer scenes — this is July in full swing.
🎵 Live Music on the Patio – Oregon Spirit Distillers
📅 Thursdays, July 17 & 24 | 🕕 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 740 NE 1st Street – Oregon Spirit Distillers, Bend
Sip handcrafted cocktails while enjoying live local music in a relaxed outdoor setting. Free & family-friendly.
🔗 oregonspiritdistillers.com
🎸 FairWell Festival
📅 Friday–Saturday, July 18–19 | 🕕 Times vary
📍 Les Schwab Amphitheater – Redmond
A powerhouse lineup featuring Tyler Childers, Dwight Yoakam, Tanya Tucker, Sturgill Simpson, Ludacris, Sierra Ferrell—and more. VIP options, diverse food, and festival energy.
🔗 visitbend.com/event-calendar 📝
🎶 MAOLI – Live at Hayden Homes Amphitheater
📅 Wednesday, July 24 | 🕖 7:00 PM (Doors at 6:00 PM)
📍 Hayden Homes Amphitheater – Old Mill District
Soak in the island vibes with reggae-pop favorite MAOLI, bringing mellow summer energy to the Deschutes.
🔗 bendconcerts.com
🎈 Balloons Over Bend
📅 Friday–Sunday, July 25–27 | 🕖 Morning launches + Night Glow
📍 COCC, Jewell Elementary & Deschutes Fairgrounds
Don’t miss the magical hot air balloon launches, evening glows, and family-friendly festival events throughout the weekend.
🔗 balloonsoverbend.com
🎸 Red Clay Strays – Hayden Homes Amphitheater
📅 Friday, July 26 | 🕖 7:00 PM (Doors at 6:00 PM)
📍 Hayden Homes Amphitheater – Old Mill District
Roots rock and Southern soul collide in this high-energy outdoor concert — great music, great views.
🔗 bendconcerts.com
🎡 Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo
📅 Wednesday–Sunday, July 31–Aug 4 | 🕓 Daily schedule varies
📍 Deschutes County Fairgrounds – Redmond
From rodeos and concerts to carnival rides and fair food — the Central Oregon summer tradition returns in full swing.
🔗 expo.deschutes.org
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📅 Also Happening this MONTH
🚗 CRUISE ALERT Old Mill Classic Cruz — Vintage Vibes on Wheels! 📅 Saturday, July 19, 2025 | 🕙 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM | 🏃 RACE ALERT High Cascades 100 Trail Run — Run the Range! 📅 Saturday, July 19, 2025 | 🕔 5:30 AM – onward |
🐎JUMP ALERT
Oregon High Desert Classics – Show Jumping Season
📅 July 16–20 & July 23–27, 2025
📍 J Bar J Boys Ranch – Bend, OR
Oregon High Desert Classics - Central Oregon’s Premier Hunter-Jumper event
Watch world-class equestrians and elegant horses take the ring in one of the Northwest’s premier hunter/jumper competitions. Food trucks, shopping, and family-friendly fun round out this two-week showcase.
The Oregon High Desert Classics is Central Oregon’s premier hunter-jumper event, attracting top riders from across the U.S. and Canada. A US Hunter Jumper Association-approved show and one of the few with Heritage Horse Show designation, it stands out as a world-class competition and a major fundraiser for J Bar J Youth Services. Each year, 600 horses and 3,000 participants compete for $150,000 in prizes on six of the last remaining grass footing rings in the country. Spectators can enjoy thrilling equestrian sport, vendor shopping, and local food in the show village green.
🎟️ Free admission for spectators
🧘 ZEN ALERT
Outdoor Yoga at Drake Park — Bend in Flow!
📅 Tuesday, July 22, 2025 | 🕔 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
📍 Drake Park, Downtown Bend
Join the summer serenity with a restorative all-levels yoga session under the pines. Bring a mat, breathe in the breeze, and flow into evening—donations welcome.
🎟️ Free (donations support BPRD + instructor)
🔗 doyogaoutside
🍷 Sunriver Food & Wine Festival
📅 July 20–21, 2025 | 📍 The Village at Sunriver
A premier culinary event featuring wine tastings, chef demos, artisan pairings, and outdoor bites. Great for foodies and wine lovers alike.
🔗 sunriverfoodandwinefestival.com
🎈 Balloons Over Bend Festival
📅 July 25–27, 2025 | 📍 Riverbend Park & Launch Sites Across Bend
Sunrise launches, the Night Glow spectacle, and the Children's Festival make this one of Central Oregon’s most iconic summer events.
🎟️ Don’t forget your camera (and coffee) for the early mornings!
🔗 balloonsoverbend.com
🧶 Quilt & Fiber Arts Festival – Sisters
📅 July 27–28, 2025 | 📍 Sisters School District Lawn
A creative showcase of handcrafted quilts, wool works, and fiber artistry in the heart of Sisters.
🔗 soqs.org
🏡 The Market Minute: Bend, OR
Single Family Residential Snapshot (as of 2nd week of July): Compared to June, Bend’s housing market is showing deeper signs of cooling, particularly on pricing and buyer activity. While summer typically brings more movement, this mid-July snapshot suggests buyers are pulling back—and sellers may need to adjust expectations.
🔽 Key Weekly Metrics vs. June 2025:
📉 Median Sales Price:
$608,500 — down from $734,950 in June → a 17.2% drop, indicating more budget-conscious deals or downward pricing pressure.⏱ Median Days on Market:
43 days — up from 24 days → a 79.2% increase, showing homes are sitting longer before selling.📦 Active Inventory:
987 homes — up from 965 → a 2.3% increase, giving buyers more choice.🏷 New Listings:
82 — down from 307 in June (monthly), but for just 1 week, this represents a solid pace. If it continues, we’re on track for 320+ listings in July.🛑 New Pendings:
48 — slightly below the June weekly average of ~53.5, suggesting a modest softening in buyer activity this week, not a sharp drop.💰 Total Sales Dollar Volume:
$40.6M — about 22% of June’s full month total ($183.5M). This is a reasonable pace for mid-month, though not robust.🤝 Closed Sales:
42 — on track to meet or slightly underperform June’s 204 total.🏘️ Months of Inventory:
23.5 — spiking from 4.7 in June, but this jump is likely skewed by a one-week dip in closed sales. It reflects a slower sales pace for the week, not a permanent supply surge.
🔍 What This Tells Us
📥 Buyers
You’re entering a stronger position—prices are falling, inventory is growing, and homes are lingering. It’s a smart time to shop, especially if you're ready to negotiate. Get pre-approved, stay informed, and act decisively on standout listings.
📤 Sellers
The landscape has shifted. The average home is sitting longer and attracting fewer offers. A proactive pricing strategy, compelling presentation, and flexible negotiation approach will keep you competitive.
🎯 Tip for the Moment
Buyers: This week offers clear leverage—more inventory, slower demand, and better prices. Get your ducks in a row and look for motivated sellers.
Sellers: Highlight value. Homes that are clean, staged, and well-priced will still stand out—but you must meet the moment with pricing precision and curb appeal.
💡 Pro Tip: With median prices tumbling 17%, days on market nearly doubling, and months of inventory up fivefold, Bend’s market is shifting. It’s a buyer’s moment, but the best homes still sell fast. For sellers, the key is adaptability—price smart, prep well, and stay realistic.
Pro-Tip given by BendButteProperty and 📊 Data provided by Domus Analytics — a trusted source for real estate market insights.*
* Disclaimer: Market data may vary. Always consult your local real estate professional or MLS for the most accurate and current information.
Also Interesting: 🏞️THE ULTIMATE RELOCATION GUIDE TO BEND 🏞️
🟢 #7 (of 20): Outdoor Recreation Guide 🟢
Local hiking trails, biking routes, ski resorts, kayaking spots, and parks. Bend is often referred to as an outdoor playground — and for good reason. Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to enjoy the region…
📚 Earlier in This Series:
🔵 1. The Ultimate Relocation Guide to Bend
🔵 2. Top 10 Neighborhoods for Newcomers
🔵 3. Cost of Living in Bend (2025 Edition)
🔵 4. Renting vs. Buying in Bend
🔵 5. Bend Homebuyer’s Checklist
🔵 6. Your First Year in Bend: What to Know & What to Do
To receive the full guide:
💰 Lender Spotlight: Aaron Callahan – Hilltop Home Loans
When it comes to navigating Bend’s fast-paced housing market, having a trusted local lender isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. That’s why we’re spotlighting one of the most respected names in the business: 💰 Lender: Aaron Callahan with Hilltop Home Loans
🧑💼 Aaron CallahanBroker/Owner – Hilltop Home Loans |  |
🛠️ Builder Spotlight: LUMA Vista Investment, Inc.
Looking for high-quality new construction from a builder you can trust?
🏡 LUMA Vista Investment, Inc. has earned a reputation as one of Central Oregon’s most respected homebuilders — with over 700 homes completed across communities in Central Oregon, including Tetherow, Sisters, Redmond, and beyond.
Led by owner Tony, LUMA Vista blends craftsmanship with integrity. Based on our own experience, LUMA Vista not only delivers exceptional work, but he’s also someone you can count on — reliable, transparent, and committed to doing things the right way.
🏡 Realtor Spotlight: Tom Graup – Bend Butte Properties
(BBP / Knipe Realty)
BBP / Knipe Realty ERA Powered – Local Roots, Trusted Results
Looking to buy or sell in Bend? 🌄 Trust local Realtor Thomas (Tom) Graup of Bend Butte Properties – backed by Knipe Realty ERA Powered. With a deep knowledge of Bend and a professional background in negotiation and client service, Tom brings more than real estate expertise — he brings care, strategy, and a passion for helping others thrive in Bend.
As a licensed Oregon Realtor, I bring strategic expertise from my background in technology, government, and commercial consulting to help buyers, sellers, and investors navigate real estate with confidence. My Big 5 consulting, program management, and negotiation experience enables me to manage complex transactions, market trends, and competitive strategies with precision. Fluent in English and German, I provide a multicultural, concierge-level real estate experience, ensuring that every client receives personalized service and solutions tailored to their goals.
📞 Ready to make your next move? Tom Graup – Bend Butte Properties / Knipe Realty Caring | Competent | Committed |  Licensed Realtor #201257984 |
💬 Testimonials – Happy Customers
Family Z., July 2025 - Bend, OR
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
S. & A. Zembles
“Tom is a fantastic real estate agent!
We met him at an open house back in February and chose to work with him during our relocation from Kansas City to Bend. Six months later, we’re now settled into our new home and couldn’t be more pleased with the purchase.
During this time, Tom was consistently professional, responsive, and patient. He helped us navigate the Bend market remotely, provided thoughtful guidance on local neighborhoods, and made sure we were informed at every step. His local knowledge and attention to detail made the process smooth and reassuring. We’re grateful for his support and would confidently recommend him to anyone moving to Central Oregon. Thanks, Tom!!”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thomas Voigt
“When I visited Bend to explore buying options, Tom went above and beyond to show me around and explain the pros and cons of each neighborhood. He was incredibly helpful and professional. Highly recommend!”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Hovik M.
“Working with Tom Graup was an absolute pleasure. He is not only incredibly polite but also a true gentleman. I was thoroughly impressed by his deep knowledge of the Bend market. Tom took the time to explain the unique characteristics of various neighborhoods, providing us with valuable insights. He also showed us several homes, all of which we really liked. If you're looking for an outstanding agent with a thorough understanding of the Bend market, we highly recommend Tom!”
Lourdes Reyes — Deschutes County Health Hero
🗓️ Recognized June 3, 2025
The Deschutes County Board of Commissioners, in partnership with the Public Health Advisory Board, honored the recipients of the 2025 Health Heroes Awards during a special ceremony held Tuesday at Ponderosa Park.
Each year, the County recognizes one individual and one organization for their outstanding contributions to the mental, physical, spiritual, and social well-being of the Deschutes County community.
This year’s Individual Health Hero award went to Lourdes Reyes, a community health worker and Healthy Families Coordinator with the Latino Community Association. Reyes was recognized for her impactful work in advancing health literacy and guiding families through complex care systems — all in both English and Spanish. Her efforts have been instrumental in breaking down healthcare barriers and ensuring Latine families across Central Oregon have access to the trusted support and resources they need.
At Ponderosa Park where the Deschutes County Board of Commissioners and the Public Health Advisory Board recognized the winners of the 2025 Health Heroes Awards at a special ceremony.
“I want every family to feel seen, supported, and empowered — in whatever language they speak, in whatever system they’re navigating.”
💛 From medical advocacy to trust-building workshops, Lourdes is a voice, a bridge, and a powerful force for equity in Bend. Thank you, Lourdes, for your unwavering dedication to making our community healthier for everyone.
🏔️ Parks and Recreation 🚴♂️
Learn how Old Coast Pickleball turned two courts into a thriving community and use their playbook to launch or grow your own club. Plus, get a free PDF download of 10 essential tips for opening your pickleball club.
🎲Take a Break – "ZeitSpiel" 🎲
🎉 We Have a Winner!
Last month’s “Pants on the Fence” photo riddle stumped a few—but not Lee H., who correctly identified the location as Larkspur Trail, one of her regular bike routes.
Lee is an avid BendZeit reader, and with this win, she’s scored a $50 gift certificate to a local restaurant of her choice.
Congrats, Lee - and keep those eyes peeled for the next community riddle! 👀📸
🦎 PHOTO CLUE – July
This one’s tricky… We’ve discovered a curious creature perched among the pines — complete with a painted backdrop and a flair for camouflage. Half art installation, half lizard hideout? You decide. Can you tell us exactly where in Bend this hidden box lives? 💡 Think you’ve got it? Reply with your answer for a chance to win a gift card to your favorite local restaurant and get featured in next edition’s Winner’s Circle! 🎉 📍 Zoom. Guess. Win. |  🌱 Hint: It’s another masterpiece—accessible by foot, forged from metal, and tucked just off the trail like it sprouted there on purpose. Keep your eyes open for a lizard that knows how to pose. |
What’s just around the corner in Bend & beyond
August in Central Oregon is when summer goes full throttle
Here’s and we’ve got the inside track on what’s heating up next:
🎡County Fair Vibes & End-of-Summer Festivals | 🎶 More Big Shows in Town |
🍽️ Top 3 Local Food Trucks – Because some of Bend’s best bites come with wheels
🧑⚕️ Entrepreneurs of Bend – Spotlight on somebody who is helping horses (and humans) feel their best 🐎✨
🌟 Hometown Hero – Featuring a local who’s quietly making a big difference in the lives of others
🌲 August Adventure Guide – The best hikes, floats, swims, and secret cool-down spots before summer slips away
🎥 Photo Riddle Returns – One strange detail. One secret location. One chance to win.
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🌀 Curated. Local. 100% Bend.
A Final Note
📝 Final Thought: June Journey Ahead...
July we suggest... leaning into spontaneity, letting plans unravel a little, and following the sunshine wherever it takes you.
With Bend in full summer mode, your schedule might be overflowing — but the real magic comes when you leave a little room for last-minute invites, extended happy hours, and unexpected detours.
Whether you're floating past the Old Mill, discovering a new trail, or chasing sunsets from your back deck — July isn’t asking you to do more. It’s asking you to enjoy it more. 🌅
And hey, if your adventures take you out toward Tetherow... keep your eyes open. You never know what kind of unexpected “trail art” might be waiting around the bend. 👀🦎
☀️ P.S. There’s a sneaky reference above — spot it?
Reply with your guess to earn a spot in our next Winner’s Circle and a chance to score a local restaurant gift card! 🍽️🎉
This Week’s Sponsor Corner
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Until next time, keep an eye on the Zeit.
Stay curious. Stay connected. Stay local.
Disclaimer:
All content featured in this publication is curated from publicly available sources, official announcements, and community resources. Bend Zeit does not claim ownership of any third-party material, and every effort has been made to ensure proper attribution where applicable. No copyright infringement is intended.