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 “Some people are born for Halloween, and some are just counting the days until Christmas.”
-- Stephen Graham Jones --
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 Below is a press release we distributed on Monday, ahead of a University of Washington report that alleges federal agents are using Flock Safety cameras for immigration enforcement. I'm going to let the statement speak for itself.
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The City of Auburn and the Auburn Police Department are aware that the U.S. Border Patrol gained direct access to Auburn’s Flock camera system. We want to state clearly: this access occurred unknowingly to us. The City of Auburn has not knowingly allowed, nor will we allow, direct access to our Flock system by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), U.S. Border Patrol, or any other federal immigration enforcement agency.
Auburn’s Flock cameras are used strictly for legitimate criminal law enforcement and public safety purposes. While Flock’s national network allows agencies across the country to share information, Auburn has not intentionally or knowingly granted access to any agency directly affiliated with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or engaged in immigration enforcement activities.
After learning via the report that Flock’s “National Lookup” feature may have allowed unintended access through a shared national network, Auburn Police leadership immediately acted and has since turned off that feature, effectively closing any potential backdoor that could have connected federal agencies to Auburn’s cameras.
Additionally, the Auburn Police Department has implemented enhanced monitoring protocols. Every month, the department now conducts comprehensive reviews of usage data exported directly from the Flock system. If any agency is found to be using Auburn’s Flock data for immigration enforcement purposes, its access is immediately and permanently revoked.
The department has proactively contacted University of Washington researchers to seek clarification on their findings and to ensure accuracy moving forward.
“The integrity of our public safety systems, and the trust our community places in them, is non-negotiable,” said Auburn Mayor Nancy Backus. “We will continue to take every measure necessary to safeguard our data, uphold state law, and ensure our technology is used only for lawful and ethical policing purposes.”
The City of Auburn remains committed to transparency, accountability, and protecting the privacy and civil rights of every member of our community. Regular monitoring of Auburn’s Flock network will continue to ensure the system aligns with the City’s and state’s values, and the expectations of those we serve.
 As many of you know, last week I shared my deep frustration over how the release and relocation of Kevin Coe -- known as the “South Hill Rapist” -- was handled. Auburn was not notified in advance that Mr. Coe would be moved into our community, and like many of you, we learned of it through the media.
I want to update you with some news: Mr. Coe is no longer residing in Auburn. Through the quick, coordinated work of the Auburn Police Department, the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, and engaged members of our community, Mr. Coe has since been removed from his Auburn residence and is no longer living in our city. Their diligence and rapid action ensured that Auburn did not bear the burden of a decision on which we were never consulted. I am deeply grateful for their partnership and professionalism during what has been an unsettling and sensitive situation.
This outcome isn’t about “kicking the can down the road,” nor should it be. Mr. Coe, like any individual released under state supervision, must reside somewhere -- and that reality underscores why communication, coordination, and thoughtful planning are so important. Every community deserves transparency and a voice when matters of public safety are at stake.
My commitment remains unchanged: Auburn will continue to demand accountability and coordination from state and county partners. Alongside our law enforcement agencies, regional partners, and residents, we’ll continue working to ensure Auburn remains a safe and informed community for everyone.
 Tomorrow, families from across our community will gather for an afternoon filled with games, crafts, food vendors, a “BOO-seum,” and of course, our crowd-favorite Trunk-or-Treat. It’s a wonderful time to see little ghosts and goblins -- ages 2 to 10 -- light up with excitement as they make their way around the park in their costumes.
This event truly captures the spirit of Auburn, and I'm so excited. We’ll be collecting donations for the Auburn Food Bank and accepting gently used costumes for next year’s free Costume Swap, so if you’re able, please bring something to share.
It looks like the weather won't be on our side, so pack an umbrella just in case, but most of our fun will be moved indoors!
📅 Saturday, Oct. 25
⏰ 1 - 5 p.m.
📍 Les Gove Park | 910 Ninth Street SE
💲 Free
 On Saturday evening, I had the great honor of joining Consul General Prakash Gupta and members of the Indian-American community at India House in Bellevue to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights. This beautiful tradition symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and hope over despair -- values that resonate deeply with our Auburn community.
 It was inspiring to stand alongside leaders from across our region -- including fellow mayors, state legislators, and community members -- as we came together to celebrate the rich culture, music, and unity that Diwali represents. My heartfelt thanks to the Consulate General of India in Seattle for the warm invitation and for continuing to build bridges that connect our communities.
 To everyone who celebrated and those still celebrating, I wish you a joyous and prosperous Diwali filled with light, laughter, and love!
 Our Community Conversations Town Halls conclude this week at Auburn Riverside High School! Please stop by anytime between 6-8:30 p.m. to hear updates directly from myself and City of Auburn staff!
If you have any questions, we're happy to answer them! Light refreshments will be provided.
📅 Wednesday, Oct. 22
⏰ 6 - 8:30 p.m.
📍 Auburn Riverside High School | 501 Oravetz Rd SE
💲 Free
 What an incredible year for our Auburn Farmers Market! With more than 32,000 shoppers throughout the season, our community once again showed up to support local farmers, makers, and small businesses. On average, each visitor spent about $14 per trip, keeping dollars right here in our local economy and helping our market continue to thrive.
This season, we welcomed 40+ vendors each week, donated over 2,300 pounds of food to the Auburn Food Bank, and saw nearly $14,000 in EBT sales. Our volunteers gave 243 hours of service to make every Sunday special, and our new layout at Splash Pad Plaza brought even more energy and connection to the market.
Thank you to everyone who made this season so special, from our farmers, vendors, shoppers, volunteers, sponsors, and the Parks, Arts & Recreation team. You helped make 2025 one of our best years yet!
 Fall is officially here, and with it comes our next opportunity to make a real difference. Bloodworks Northwest will be on-site at Auburn City Hall on Wednesday, Nov. 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Bloodmobile parked outside City Hall).
Every donation helps save lives right here in our community, and for your hard work this winter, you could win a trip to Rome!
Here’s how:
- Donate blood between November 1 and December 31 and you’ll be entered to win an Italian getaway for two, including direct Delta flights from Seattle or Portland, a 3-night stay at the 5-star Hassler Roma hotel, and concert tickets.
- Double entry dates: Nov. 22 – 30 and Dec. 15 – 31.
- Learn more or complete your entry at bloodworksnw.org/win.
Together, we can make sure hospitals stay ready for any emergency. Schedule your appointment today and help our community stay strong through the season.
📅 Wednesday, Nov. 12
⏰ 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
📍 Auburn City Hall | 25 W. Main St.
🩸 Book your appointment
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Larry Murante Duo
Join us for an evening featuring singer-songwriter Larry Murante and violinist Natasha (Nati) Popova. Individually, these two have performed all over the US and the world. Each of them is an award-winning musician. Larry’s music is reminiscent of Jackson Brown, Lyle Lovett, and Marc Cohn. His extensive repertoire of originals and classic covers can be tailored to audiences of all kinds. Natasha studied classical violin at Gnesin’s Music academy in Moscow Russia and organ at Hochshule Luzern in Switzerland and knows the violin like no other. You are in for a treat when these two get together!
📅 Friday, Oct. 24
⏰ 7:30 p.m.
📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.
💲 Tickets ($22 regular, $19 student/senior)
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Halloween Harvest Festival & Trunk-or-Treat
Join us at our Halloween Harvest Festival and Trunk-or-Treat for kids ages 2-10 and their families.
This fun-filled fall afternoon will include games, crafts, BOO-seum, food vendors, and a fun Trunk-or-Treat experience around Les Gove Park. Your little goblin will not want to miss this event!
Donations accepted inside the Community & Event Center:
- Support the Auburn Food Bank and bring a non-perishable food item
- Donate your old costumes to the City of Auburn Solid Waste & Recycling. Costumes will be given away at the 2026 FREE Costume Swap.
Learn more.
📅 Saturday, Oct. 25
⏰ 1 - 5 p.m.
📍 Les Gove Park | 910 Ninth Street SE
💲 Free
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80's Ladies & Arena Halloween Dance Party
In honor of the Halloween season come dressed in you’re your best 80’s outfit or Arena Rocker getup and get ready for a night of Bold Beats and New Wave with 80’s Ladies! Prepare to be transported to the heyday of big hair, leg warmers and neon colors!! And if that wasn’t enough, Arena will expertly capture the essence of legendary bands such as Journey, Aerosmith, KISS, AC/DC, Whitesnake, and Bon Jovi to name a few! Get ready for this high energy and charismatic performance. Prizes will be awarded for the best and most creative outfits/getups!
📅 Saturday, Oct. 25
⏰ 7:30 p.m.
📍 Green River College Student Affairs Building | 12401 SE 320th Street
💲Tickets ($25 regular, $22 student/senior)
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Make and Mingle @ Postmark
Stop by the Postmark for our Make & Mingle session! Join us for a cup of coffee with whatever art project you might be working on. A free, no-pressure environment for artists and creatives to gather... you can talk with other artists, ask for feedback or critique from on-site staff if available, bring your sketchbook to work out ideas, or just quietly draw in the gallery or work on your art! Intended for ages 18+.
📅 Wednesdays
⏰ 10 a.m. - Noon
📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.
💲 Free
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Community Conversations with Mayor Nancy Backus
It’s time for another round of Community Conversations – and this time, we’re going big with a town hall series hosted by Mayor Nancy Backus!
We’ve listened to your ideas and concerns, and now we’re ready to talk, share solutions, and work together for Auburn’s future. Join us at one of several sessions across the city this fall – from schools to City Hall – to connect, ask questions, and make your voice heard. Light refreshments will be provided, and everyone is welcome.
Let's keep the conversation going!
- October 29 • 6-8:30 PM Auburn Riverside High School
📅 Wednesday, Oct. 29
⏰ 6 - 8:30 p.m.
📍 Auburn Riverside High School | 501 Oravetz Rd. SE
💲 Free
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Drop-In Drawing @ Postmark
Come stop by for our new Drop-In Drawing sessions at the Postmark! A free, no-pressure environment for artists and creatives to drop-in to draw from a still life or the gallery. Stay for whole two hours or only 10 minutes. Bring tools to either shade or color with, and your own sketchbook or drawing pad. There will be on-site help for critique/questions/advice. All are welcome.
Ages: 15+
Registration: $0
Instructor: Postmark Staff
📅 Fridays
⏰ 10 a.m. - Noon
📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.
💲 Free
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Drop-In Painting With Amy Sie @ Postmark
Amy Sie is offering Drop-In Gongbi Painting sessions at the Postmark! A free, no-pressure environment for you to start a new painting, or work on an old one. Please bring your own tools and materials for watercolor painting. On-site help for critique/questions/advice. All are welcome.
Ages: 18+
Fee: $0
Instructor: Amy Sie
📅 Fridays
⏰ 10 a.m. - Noon
📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.
💲 Free
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Brian James Was Here
Born and raised on a farm in the small logging community of Montesano, WA, Brian is at home on the stage where his larger than life personality comes out with witty commentary and raw energy. From a young age Brian knew that he wanted to pursue music, and in 2005 he moved to Nashville Tennessee where he wrote songs for the Surefire Music Company. In 2013 Brian formed the TSDC Music Group a publishing company where his songs were featured in car commercials for Cadillac and Dodge as well various tv and film placements. Today Brian lives in the Pacific Northwest where he performs regularly both covers and originals, solo as well as with his band. His showmanship and modern sound has drawn a diverse audience of all ages with tastes in music from multiple genres and era’s.
📅 Saturday, Nov. 1
⏰ 7:30 p.m.
📍 Green River College Student Affairs Building | 12401 SE 320th Street
💲Tickets ($25 regular, $22 student/senior)
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Seattle International Comedy Competition
The Seattle International Comedy Competition is an annual event that welcomes comedians from around the world to the Pacific Northwest for an entire month of extraordinary comedy shows...and a winner is crowned at the end of it all. 2025 is the 45th Annual Seattle International Comedy Competition. The City of Auburn will host preliminary rounds, with 1 show from each preliminary week as a horde of comedians compete to become Seattle’s newest champion!
📅 Friday, Nov. 7
⏰ 7:30 p.m.
📍 Green River College Student Affairs Building | 12401 SE 320th Street
💲Tickets ($25 regular, $22 student/senior)
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Auburn's 60th Annual Veterans Parade & Observance
The 60th annual Veterans Parade will be held in Auburn on Saturday, November 8, 2025 starting at 11:00 AM. The parade typically boasts over 150 units and nearly 4,000 parade participants, including more than 10 marching bands, numerous military vehicles, veterans' units, honor guards and more.
The parade route travels along Main Street from E Street to A Street NW/SW. The day-long activities run from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Other related activities include:
Saturday, November 8
Community Breakfast
7:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Auburn Senior Activity Center, 808 Ninth Street SE
The breakfast is co-sponsored by the American Legion Auburn Post #78 and the City of Auburn. Join us for the annual Veteran's Parade Community Breakfast, held on Saturday, November 8, from 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM at the Auburn Senior Activity Center. The breakfast is $12/person and includes pancakes, eggs, ham, juice or coffee.
American Legion Breakfast Flyer(PDF)
Saturday, November 8
Remembrance Ceremony and Lighting of the Flame
9:45 AM - 10:15 AM
Veterans Memorial Park, 411 E Street NE
The flame is lit and guarded through the night at the memorial at Veterans Memorial Park. Wreath placement, rifle salute, prayers and taps encompass this ceremony held prior to the parade.
Saturday, November 8
Auburn VFW Post 1741 Open House
12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Auburn VFW, 130 W Main Street
This VFW Open House is exclusively for Veterans and Active-Duty Personnel. Come mix, meet and mingle with fellow Veterans! Food and refreshments will be served.
Saturday, November 8
Auburn Veterans Day Marching Band Competition
1:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Auburn Memorial Stadium, 801 Fourth Street NE
One of the most prestigious band competitions in the State! Watch the 20-25+ bands in the parade, then look on as they compete in the Field Competition later in the afternoon at Auburn Memorial Stadium. Admission charged for Field Competition.
Saturday, November 8
Auburn Noon Lions Veterans Luncheon
1:30 PM (doors open at 1:00 PM)
Merrill Gardens of Auburn, 18 First Street SE
The lunch program honors our Veterans, with special recognition given to our Dignitaries in attendance. The Governor's Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee's Outstanding Service to Veterans Award Recipients will be honored at the lunch, along with other special presentations. The luncheon is co-sponsored by the Auburn Noon Lions and the City of Auburn. This event has limited seating; we suggest making reservations early.
Luncheon Reservation Form (PDF)
"Our Heroes | Our Parade" Banner Tribute Program
This program was created to recognize and pay tribute to the brave men and women in Auburn who are serving, have served, or have given their life to our country in the United States Armed Forces. It also provides an opportunity for individuals, businesses and Veteran Service Organizations to support those who served by sponsoring a banner in downtown Auburn. Banner Tribute Program Application Forms will be available in until August 22, 2025.
More information on auburnwa.gov.
📅 Saturday, Nov. 8
⏰ 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
📍 Main Street, Downtown Auburn
💲 Free
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Seattle International Comedy Competition
The Seattle International Comedy Competition is an annual event that welcomes comedians from around the world to the Pacific Northwest for an entire month of extraordinary comedy shows...and a winner is crowned at the end of it all. 2025 is the 45th Annual Seattle International Comedy Competition. The City of Auburn will host preliminary rounds, with 1 show from each preliminary week as a horde of comedians compete to become Seattle’s newest champion!
📅 Friday, Nov. 14
⏰ 7:30 p.m.
📍 Green River College Student Affairs Building | 12401 SE 320th Street
💲Tickets ($25 regular, $22 student/senior)
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Taylor Hardin Blues Band
The Taylor Hardin Blues Band delivers a powerful blend of gritty blues, driving rock, and soulful grooves, bringing fresh energy to classic tunes and unexpected twists to modern hits. Fronted by guitarist and vocalist Taylor John Hardin, the band is known for its dynamic performances, tight musicianship, and a signature style that "bluesifies" everything from funk to grunge. With searing solos, and a rhythm section that keeps the crowd moving, the Taylor Hardin Blues Band transforms every show into a high-voltage, feel-it-in-your-bones experience.
📅 Saturday, Nov. 15
⏰ 7:30 p.m.
📍 Green River College Student Affairs Building | 12401 SE 320th Street
💲Tickets ($25 regular, $22 student/senior)
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Jeffrey Scott @ Postmark
Jeffery Scott is a high-energy country music artist with an infusion of pop and rock, combining classic country hits with heartfelt original songs. Known for his electrifying live performances, he keeps audiences of all ages on their feet from start to finish. With experience performing at casinos, festivals, and wineries, Jeffery delivers an unforgettable show every time.
📅 Friday, Nov. 21
⏰ 7:30 p.m.
📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.
💲 Tickets ($22 regular, $19 student/senior)
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Gingerbread Contest
FREE - This fun event celebrates the holidays and brings the community together to see what Auburn can build! Gingerbread structures will be on display at the Auburn Community & Events Center.
Gingerbread Contest Application
Gingerbread Contest Rules (PDF)
Please note, this event is free and materials for displays are NOT provided.
VOTING
- Voting will be open December 3 - 17, 2025
- Vote during Auburn Community & Events Center's normal business hours,
- Monday through Thursday, 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Fridays, 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Saturdays, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- There are two categories to vote in, youth and adult.
Based on votes from the public, a winner will be announced on Thursday, December 18, 2025.
Questions? Contact Amanda Valdez or call 253-931-3043.
📅 Dec. 3 - 17
⏰ Normal business hours
📍 Auburn Community & Events Center | 910 Ninth St.
💲 Free
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Lighted Santa Parade & Tree Lighting
- 3:30 PM.........Parade line up begins at Auburn High School
- 4:00 PM........Live music at City Hall, FREE
- 4:30 PM.........Parade begins, FREE
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After the parade ends
- Tree Lighting & Visit from Santa, FREE
- Live music at City Hall, FREE
City of Auburn's Lighted Santa Parade!
From Auburn High School to City Hall, lighted entries will fill Main Street with holiday joy!
Beginning at 4:30 PM the parade will feature lighted vehicles, floats, cars, and walking entries. All community, families, non-profits, and businesses are welcome to participate.
All entries wishing to participate in the parade must register in advance by 5 PM on Friday, November 21, 2025.
All entries must have a lighted element and adhere to parade rules.
Join us for live music before and after the City of Auburn parade at City Hall. Then watch as the community brings out their lighted holiday parade entries! We'll wrap up the event with the annual tree lighting at City hall plus a visit from Santa.
Tree Lighting
Santa is looking for a special helper to light the tree in front of City Hall. A well-deserving child, that lives within the Auburn City limits, and is between the ages of 5 and 9, will be randomly selected to be Santa's Helper on December 6, 2025.
Nominations will be accepted through 5 PM on Thursday, November 6, 2025.
Only one nomination per child will be accepted. Multiple nominations for the same child will not be included in the selection process.
Tree Lighter Nomination Form
For questions contact Auburn Parks, Arts and Recreation
253-931-3043
Email Us
📅 Saturday, Dec. 6
⏰ 4:30 p.m.
📍 Downtown Auburn along Main Street
💲 Free
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Red, White & Blue Holiday Concert
Ring in the holidays with this annual FREE community concert performed by America's First Corps Army Band. Hear this festive and rousing concert presented by the Army’s best, together with all of your favorite holiday music and carols. Tickets are free, but required for admission and will be available on-line or pick-up beginning November 1 at the Auburn Community & Event Center. Limit 6 per family.
Get Tickets Online - Limit 6
Regular: $0; Student/Senior: $0
📅 Sunday, Dec. 7
⏰ 2 p.m.
📍 Auburn Performing Arts Center | 702 4th St. NE
💲 Tickets (Free but please register)
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You better hurry! The Fall colors are peaking.
 Auburn is rich with history — from historical Main Street to the artifacts preserved throughout White River Valley Museum — I am excited to share these stories with all of you each week.
(Image courtesy of White River Valley Museum)
Green River Community College Forestry Program students, c. 1978. Students from Green River College’s vocational programs have been staffing our industrial trades for decades. The Forestry program (today called Natural Resources) was especially connected to Weyerhaeuser’s White River Mill in Enumclaw, and students learned the ins and outs of managing commercial forests by doing natural resource management work on the forest surrounding the Green River campus.
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