ShineFest 2025 Gives God the Glory in Spokane

By Isaac Meythaler

Communications Coordinator, Upper Columbia Conference 

More than six thousand people gathered on the grass of Spokane’s Riverfront Park for a free Christian concert giving God the glory at this year’s ShineFest, held August 1. KEEH Shine 104.9 invited artists including Hope Darst, Ryan Stevenson, and Micah Tyler to perform along the scenic downtown river, along with local Christian musicians. 

“Our foremost goal with ShineFest, and in everything else we do, is to lift up and glorify the name of Jesus,” said Darin Patzer, KEEH Shine 104.9 manager. “As an outreach ministry, we try to reach across all denominations to bring together followers of Christ and encourage their faith journey.”

This August marked the third ShineFest, an event Shine 104.9 hopes to continue annually.

Stage set-up began that morning at 6 a.m. with volunteers arriving throughout the morning, artists arrived at mid-day for a sound-check, and attendees started to line up at 3 p.m. for the concert, which ended after 9 p.m.

“We’ve had nothing but positive experiences with the Christian artists we’ve partnered with over the years,” said Patzer. “We have found them to be humble, patient, gracious, and willing to serve and interact with their fans while understanding that Jesus is the real star of the show.” 

Preparations for ShineFest began early in 2025, contacting the venue, coordinating production and staging logistics, and finding artists that listeners were familiar with. The event cost more than $50,000, between artist fees, staging/sound production and other rentals and licenses. The event’s costs are partially covered by sponsorships and donations at the door, but as a non-profit event, it’s also presented as a gift to the community. 

“People seemed to really enjoy their time and have a positive worship experience, but that doesn’t happen without a team,” said Patzer. “I would like to extend our sincere gratitude to all our staff and volunteers that helped make ShineFest a smooth experience, and we are grateful that God blessed us with beautiful weather each year.”

For more than 30 years, KEEH/Shine104.9 has provided the greater Spokane region with a message of hope and encouragement. As of 2025, Shine 104.9 is ranked #1 overall in Spokane and North Idaho across all radio demographics (Copyright Nielsen Radio Ratings, Spring 2025).

“KEEH has built up tremendous awareness and bridges of friendship for the Seventh-day Adventist Church,” said Patzer. “We invite dozens of pastors and community leaders into our studio to share their hearts and become friends, and our chaplain, Tyler Kern, hosts weekly community service events — like park cleanups, food drives, and group worships.”

The KEEH radio ministry is 100% community-funded and is owned by Upper Columbia Media Association. 

“We are ever grateful for the vision and support of the leadership of UCMA and at Upper Columbia Conference, as well as the local Adventist members, who care about this outreach ministry aimed at the community!” said Patzer.

For updates on concerts and events, or to listen to the station online or through Shine 104.9’s free radio app, visit Shine1049.org.