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- June 2025 | Highlights
June 2025 | Highlights
More Than Headlines – It’s Zeit for Thought.
Bend Zeit
June 16, 2025
🌀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.
Mid-June in Bend means sun-soaked trails, packed patios, and that irresistible urge to be outside. Music drifts from parks and breweries, the river’s calling, and the summer buzz is officially on. This edition brings you the best of what’s happening — from can’t-miss events to fresh local flavor — all curated to keep you in the loop and on the move.
🌀 This Week’s Zeitgeist
“Solstice Vibes & Social Overdrive”
As the summer solstice nears, Bend shifts into full send. Trails are dustier, sunsets stretch forever, and suddenly your weeknight plans look like a weekend lineup. It’s the time of year when spontaneous becomes standard — bike rides turn into brewery hangs, and that “quick river float” becomes an all-day affair (with bonus sunburn). Forget moderation. Bend in late June is about leaning all the way in — to music under the stars, friends who text “you in?” without context, and the kind of warm chaos that only this season delivers.
Keep your water bottle full and your plans flexible. Summer’s clock is ticking, and the good stuff doesn’t RSVP.
Moving at solstice speed, saying yes to last-minute invites, and turning river floats into sunset hangs — it’s clear: Bend is officially in summer mode and fully embracing the chaos. We’re breaking down the Top 3 Signals that show just how alive the season is.
And because this town never stops serving up fresh reasons to explore, we’re rotating through our Top 3 Categories — a curated trio of what’s trending, tasty, scenic, or just plain awesome right now: 🍽️ Restaurants • 🏡 Homes • 🚶 Walking Trails • 💼 Local Businesses • 📸 Photo Moments • 🌲 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:
🏔️ Bend Butte Properties / Stellar Realty NW
Where lifestyle meets location. Whether you're new to Bend, looking for your next adventure base, or ready to sell with strategy — they’re your go-to team for real estate done right.
Meet the guy who knows Bend from the ground up — and the mountain tops down.
Tom Graup, your local expert with the view (and the moves) to match. 🏔️🙌
Bend Butte Properties / Stellar Northwest
📱 (541) 640-0229
📧 [email protected]
🌐 Bend Butte Properties
I bring an eye for precision, a deep respect for trust, and a tech-savvy edge to every transaction. My clients don’t just get a Realtor — they get a reliable partner who values clear communication, careful planning, and results that feel personal.”
🏡 Residential Snapshot (June 2025 – Bend, OR)
Compared to May’s, Bend’s housing market in June shows a cooling trend for sellers and fresh opportunity for buyers:
📉 Median sales price dropped from $844,000 to $720,747 (⬇ 14.6%)
⏱️ Median days on market increased from 18 to 21 days (⬆ 16.7%)
📦 Active inventory rose from 920 to 941 homes (⬆ 2.3%)
📊 New listings entered the market in early June 66
📉 Total sales dollar volume ~$30.5M
💼 Closed sales 35
👉 What this means: Buyers are gaining leverage. With more homes on the market, slower sales pace, and price adjustments, there’s room to negotiate — but demand is still active.
🎯 Tip of the Week – June 2025: Time to Strike Smartly
🔍 Pro Tip: If you’re a buyer right now, use the market cooling to your advantage — homes are staying on the market longer and there's slightly more inventory, which gives you added leverage. Get fully pre-approved, set clear criteria, and then make clean, timely offers to stand out in a softer market.
Pro-Tip given by BendButteProperty/StellarNW 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.
🔥Top 3 Signals
🌞 1️⃣Solstice Watch: Longest Day, Best Vibes
The summer solstice lands on Thursday, June 20, bringing the longest day of the year — and peak Bend energy. Expect early morning hikes, patio hangs that go well past golden hour, and spontaneous riverside meetups.
📎 Solstice Info – Time & Date
🎶2️⃣4 Peaks Music Festival Returns to the Tower Theatre
From June 20–22, catch a mix of funk, jam, and roots music at this beloved local festival featuring Toubab Krewe, The Nth Power, Leftover Salmon, and more.
📍Tower Theatre, Downtown Bend
🎟️ 4peaksmusic.com
🎤 3️⃣Hayden Homes Amphitheater – Big Week Ahead
End-of-June is loaded with live music under the stars:
• Jon Pardi – June 21
• Earth, Wind & Fire – June 22
• Barenaked Ladies (w/ Five for Fighting & Del Amitri) – June 28
• Pink Martini (30th Anniversary Tour) – June 29
🎟️ bendconcerts.com
🏨 Top 3 Wine Tastings in Bend, Oregon
🍷 Elixir Wine GroupType: Global Wine Tasting Lounge & Retail Boutique |  |
Located in downtown Bend, Elixir Wine Group offers a curated selection of wines from around the world, including Argentina, France, Italy, and Oregon. Their tasting room provides a cozy atmosphere to enjoy wine flights and small plates. They also host regular events and live music, making it a vibrant spot for wine lovers.
🍷 Flights Wine Bar  Type: Upscale Wine Bar with Creative Flights & Seasonal Pairings | 🍷 Bledsoe Family Winery – Bend  Type: Modern Tasting Lounge Showcasing Walla Walla Wines |
🪑Red Chair Gallery – Bend’s Award-Winning Artist Collective
A gallery for everyone.
Nestled in the heart of Bend’s Old Town Historic District, Red Chair Gallery is more than just a space — it’s a creative hub owned and operated by Central Oregon artists. Located at the corner of Oregon Ave & Bond Street in the iconic O’Kane Building, the gallery showcases the finest in art and contemporary craft.
Red Chair Gallery - 103 NW Oregon Ave, Bend, OR 97703
Voted “Best Gallery in Bend” and honored with the Best of Bend – Community Choice Award 2024, Red Chair is where local creativity meets community appreciation.
🕒 Open 7 Days a Week | On each first Friday of every month Red Chair Gallery has its “First Friday Art Walk” and is open for extended hours (5:30 PM – 8:30 PM) |
📞 (541) 306-3176 Call or email for purchase info or to grab a gift certificate — and support local talent year-round.
👉 Visit Red Chair Gallery or stop by and see why it's a true Bend favorite.
Matt Costa – Ochoco Knives
📍 Making knives is all about putting a beautiful tool into your hands.
Keeping my knives practical and usable is a large part of my goal as a knife maker. Go out into the field and gut an elk, wear your knife on your side daily or just keep it around to slice some cheese. Everybody has a different reason to own a handmade tool.
Matt Costa is an Oregon based knife maker who has been making knives for five years. He bought a 1997 Blue Bird school bus and converted it into his knife shop. The front half of the bus is the storefront for Ochoco Knives and the back half of the bus is where all the knife making happens. Wood burning stove in the winter and windows open in the summer.  Matt in his elements… 📞 Contact Matt Directly: 🔗 Check out Knives and Local Sellers @ Ochocoknives |   Knives for almost any purpose. |
🧭 Around the Bend - What’s Happening This WEEK
🌽 Downtown Bend Farmers Market
📅 Wednesday, June 18, 2025 | 🕚 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 Brooks Alley – Downtown Bend
Shop for fresh, local produce, meats, and food products from Central Oregon. The market is dedicated to supporting the viability of local farmers, ranchers, and food producers.
🔗 MARKET Info
🍷🍔 Helping Resilient Students Thrive – Rotary Club Speaker Luncheon
📅 Thursday, June 18, 2025 | 🕔 12:00–1:00 p.m.
📍 Riverhouse Lodge - Deschutes N
Bruce Abernathy, founder of the Axel F. Hoch Legacy Scholarship, shares the inspiring story behind the foundation’s mission to support underserved students in Central Oregon in pursuing their college dreams.
🔗 RSVP Here
🎷 4 Peaks Music Festival
📅 June 20–23, 2025
📍 Stevenson Ranch, Bend, OR
Experience a family-friendly, multi-day music festival featuring a diverse lineup of artists, camping, and community vibes. Set against the backdrop of Central Oregon's high desert, 4 Peaks offers an intimate festival experience with big-name acts and local talent alike.
🔗 Buy Tickets Here
🎶 Jon Pardi – Honkytonk Hollywood Tour
📅 Saturday, June 21, 2025
📍 Hayden Homes Amphitheater
Country music fans will enjoy Jon Pardi's blend of traditional and contemporary country sounds. Special guest Kassi Ashton joins the lineup for an unforgettable night.
🔗 EVENT Info
🎷 Earth, Wind & Fire
📅 Sunday, June 22, 2025
📍 Hayden Homes Amphitheater
The legendary band brings their timeless funk and R&B hits to the stage, ensuring a night of dancing and celebration.
🔗 EVENT Info
🎨 Sisters Art Walk
📅 Friday, June 27, 2025 | 🕔 4:00–7:00 p.m.
📍 Downtown Sisters, OR
Stroll through the charming town of Sisters and explore local art galleries, meet artists, and enjoy live music during this monthly art walk. It's a perfect evening to appreciate the vibrant arts scene and support local creatives.
🔗 EVENT Info
 |  |  |
 | 🔴 ADVANCED E-BIKE RIDE: ➡️ Sister Village Green Park ➡️ McKenzie Path-Observatory Loop ➡️ Sister, Sat, Jun 21, 2025, 10:00 AM | Meetup  |  |
📅 Also Happening this MONTH
🦆 QUACK ALERT Duck Race Kickoff Coming June 26th! 📅 June 26, 2025📍 Deschutes Children's Foundation – Rosie Bareis CampusIt’s officially Duck Season in Bend! 🐥 The annual Great Rotary Duck Race kicks off with a splash. 🎙️ Meet this year’s beneficiaries, grab your posters and tickets, and watch the “elite athletes” (a.k.a. rubber ducks) start their training regimen in a splash pool built just for the cameras. 🎟️ Tickets go on sale July 1, but the buzz starts here. Let the countdown to quack-off begin! 🦆🔥 | 🎭 Theater & DramaCat on a Hot Tin Roof 📅 June 13-29, 2025📍 Cascades Theatrical CompanyExperience Tennessee Williams' Pulitzer Prize-winning classic as it unfolds the complexities of family, truth, and desire in the sweltering Mississippi heat. Which version of the truth is real – and which will win out? There will be 11 performances running from June 13th-29th. |
🐴 Crooked River Roundup Rodeo – Prineville
📅 June 19–22, 2025 | 📍 Crook County Fairgrounds
A full weekend of classic rodeo competition and community events.
🔗 Crooked River Roundup Details🎈 Balloon Blast – Redmond
📅 June 21–23, 2025 | 📍 Redmond’s Sam Johnson Park
Hot air balloons, family activities, and sunrise launches over the high desert.
🔗 Balloon Blast Event Info🥾 Explore Sisters Hike Series
📅 June 26, 2025 | 📍 Meet at Sisters Visitor Center
Guided hikes through scenic local trails. Great for families, beginners, and visitors alike.
🔗 Explore Sisters Hike Info🎨 Sisters Art in the Park
📅 June 22–23, 2025 | 📍 Creekside Park, Sisters
Juried art festival featuring fine art, crafts, live music, and local food vendors.
🔗 Sisters Art in the Park Info🧵 Sunriver Quilt Show
📅 June 29, 2025 | 📍 The Village at Sunriver
A colorful celebration of textile art with dozens of locally crafted quilts on display and for sale.
🔗 Sunriver Quilt Show Details
🏡 The Market Minute: Bend, OR
Single Family Residential Snapshot (1st week of June): Compared to May, Bend's housing market in the 1st week of June reflects a cooling trend for sellers and fresh opportunities for buyers. Until the full June data is in, you can’t do a month-to-month comparison - but early June numbers show:
📉 Median Sales Price: $720,747 — down from $844,000 in May, a 14.6% drop, signaling a shift into more budget-friendly transactions this week.
⏱ Median Days on Market: climbed from 18 days (end of May) to 21 days — up 16.7%, showing homes are taking slightly longer to sell.
📦 Active Inventory: rose from 920 to 941 homes — a 2.3% increase, providing modestly more options for buyers.
🏷 New Listings: 66 homes were added in the first June week, keeping fresh options flowing.
💰 Total Sales Dollar Volume: $30,569,924, , down from about $182.7 million in May's monthly measure—reflecting seasonal market cooldown.
🤝 Closed Sales: 35, down from 181 in May (weekly snapshot vs. monthly total - for context).
🔍 What This Tells Us
Buyers: The sharp price drop and rising inventory paired with slower sales pace hint at a good negotiating window. Get mortgage pre‑approval ready, set clear search criteria, and move swiftly.
Sellers: With increased time on market and softer pricing, staging and pricing accurately are crucial. Quality listings still shine in this environment.
🎯 Tip for the Moment
Buyers: This may be a golden opportunity - price decline, more listings, and calmer pace. Be ready: define your criteria, get financing lined up, and move decisively.
Sellers: Focus on smart pricing and standout lineup—curb appeal and marketing finesse matter more now than ever.
🔍 Pro Tip: With the recent drop in median price, alongside increasing inventory and slightly slower sales, now’s a polished moment for negotiation — especially if you’re a buyer seeking good value. For sellers, smart pricing and standout presentation are key to staying competitive this week.
Pro-Tip given by BendButteProperty/StellarNW 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 🏞️
🟢3 (of 20) Cost of Living in BEND in 2025🟢
Bend continues to attract new residents with its mix of mountain-town charm and urban convenience. But as demand has grown, so has the cost of living. This guide breaks down the key expenses buyers should expect in 2025…
💰 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 |  |
With 20 years in the mortgage industry and over 100 million in fundings in the last 5 years, Aaron holds himself to the highest standard and offers transparency in all operations and in each transaction. He values the confidence of his clients, lending partners and community and continually works to maintain it long-term.
Home buying doesn’t have to be stressful. Let us simplify the process and walk you through it.
🛠️ 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.
🏡 Broker Spotlight: Tom Graup – BBP / StellarNW
When it comes to navigating real estate in Bend and beyond, Tom Graup with BendButte Properties / StellarNW brings more than just market knowledge — he brings a multicultural perspective, decades of experience, and a deeply local touch.
A former tech entrepreneur turned licensed Oregon Realtor®, Tom has lived in the U.S. for over 25 years and is originally from Germany. Fluent in both English and German, he offers his clients a bilingual edge and cross-cultural understanding that’s hard to find. His passion? Helping people relocate, connect, and thrive in the heart of Central Oregon.
📜 Licensed Oregon Broker | 🌎 Global Perspective | 🫱🏼🫲🏽 Relationship-Focused | 🚲 Community Connector
Whether you're a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or moving across borders, Tom’s approach is rooted in care, clarity, and commitment.
🎯 More than just a Realtor — Tom is your local resource, trusted guide, and go-to for all things Bend.
📞 Ready to make your next move? |  Tom Graup - Realtor |
💬 Testimonials – Happy Customers
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thomas Voigt
May 2025
“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.
April 2025
“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!”
AJ Franzke & the Unsung Voices of Deschutes County 9-1-1
When life hangs in the balance, it’s not always sirens or flashing lights that make the difference—it’s the calm, steady voice on the other end of the line. That’s where AJ Franzke and the dedicated team at Deschutes County 9-1-1 step in.
As Operations Supervisor, AJ leads a group of highly trained emergency dispatchers—often the first first-responders—who guide callers through their most critical moments with both precision and compassion.
Each year, this team handles over 100,000 emergency and non-emergency calls—from wildfires and car accidents to medical crises and public safety incidents. It’s a role that demands sharp technical skill, emotional resilience, and split-second decision-making.
🏔️ Parks and Recreation 🚴♂️
🎲Take a Break – "ZeitSpiel" 🎲
Last week’s photo? Still a mystery. 😅
Either it was too tricky, or y’all were too busy sipping IPAs and floating the river. No judgment — it's Bend.
So let’s try again...
👖 PHOTO CLUE – June Edition
We’ve officially planted a new mystery. Can you tell us exactly where in Bend this unusual yard art lives? 💡 Think you’ve got it? 📍 Zoom. Guess. Win. |  🌱 Hint: It's a backyard masterpiece, accessible via trail, that's all about that "grass-root" fashion. |
What’s just around the corner in Bend & beyond
July in Bend is buzzing – and we’re giving you the early scoop!
Here’s what’s on the horizon in the BendZeit issue dropping for July…
🎇 4th of July Celebrations | 🎶 Big Shows in Town |
🥩 Top 3 Steak Restaurants in Bend – Local picks to elevate your summer evenings with top-tier cuts, refined vibes, and locally inspired dining.
🎨 Bend Summer Festival Preview – July 11–13: food, music, art, and street vibes
🌄 Outdoor Adventure Guide – Best trails, paddles, floats, and wildflower views
🧑💼 Entrepreneurs of Bend – Spotlighting a rising local innovator
🌟 Hometown Hero – One inspiring story that will stick with you
📤 Love BendZeit? Share the Vibes!
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🌀 Curated. Local. 100% Bend.
A Final Note
📝 Final Thought: June Journey Ahead...
“Feels like June? We suggest…” hitting pause and turning up the volume on life. With long days unfolding, Bend is ready for your boldest plans—whether it’s scouting that dream home, sipping your favorite patio pour, or glamping under the stars.
This month is less about hustle, more about harmony—with sunlit moments, spontaneous weekends, and whole-hearted adventure. Live June out loud. ☀️
P.S. There’s a hidden backyard masterpiece above.
Reply with your answer for a chance to be featured in next edition’s Winner’s Circle — and win a gift card to one of your favorite local restaurants! 🍽️✨
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.