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 “Clothes make a statement. Costumes tell a story.”
-- Mason Cooley --
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 My friends, if the federal government shutdown continues, food assistance benefits in Washington could be in jeapordy. Losing food assistance will have devastating impacts on the well-being of hundreds of thousands of Washington residents and will hurt local economies across the state, including in Auburn.
Auburn is blessed to have a food bank run and managed by the amazing Debbie Christian, but already this year, they've seen more people use the food bank than at any point in the food bank's history. If SNAP benefits are not fixed, the food bank will be stretched much thinner than it already is.
I'm hopeful that the federal government will adhere to a federal judge’s decision ordering the administration to continue to pay for food stamps during the shutdown and hopeful that Congress will approve a spending bill - soon. However, we cannot plan on hope — which is why our food bank needs help now more than ever!
Anyone can donate food or cash at any time by visiting the food bank's website, www.theauburnfoodbank.org.
 We celebrated Spirit Week this week at City of Auburn, a playful twist on a traditional spirit week featuring, you guessed it, Halloween-inspired celebrations each day of the week.
 Monday, we dressed in all black to destress, Tuesday was flannels, on Wednesdays we wear pink, Thursday was sport day and Friday, of course, was Halloween, so we had to show up in costumes!
 Thank you Team Auburn for all that you do to keep the spirit alive to serve our community!
 I’m excited to invite you to join us at 3:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 3, at 202 E. Main St. as we celebrate the grand opening of the new B Street Plaza and the (mostly) completed first phase of Auburn’s Downtown Infrastructure Improvements Project! This milestone marks the transformation of Main Street into a more vibrant, pedestrian-friendly space, with refreshed walkways, new plaza areas, and decorative string lights that now illuminate the heart of our downtown.
These improvements were designed by people, for people -- to create a downtown that feels welcoming, connected, and full of life. I hope you’ll join us to celebrate this exciting new chapter for Auburn and get a glimpse of what’s next, including construction of the future Auburn Avenue Theater beginning in early 2026!
📅 Monday, Nov. 3
⏰ 3:30 p.m.
📍 B Street Plaza | 202 E. Main St.
 Please join us and the Downtown Auburn Cooperative on Monday, Nov. 3 at 11 a.m. at the brand new Pie Style Bakery downtown, 20 W. Main Street, to officially cut the ribbon and welcome owner Oksana Lusnikova's new bakery to the Auburn community!
If you haven't tried their amazingly delicious baked goods yet, this is the perfect opportunity to do so. Oksana is already famous among locals for her incredible Russian- and Ukrainian-inspired creations (and world-renowned classics), blending decades of heritage and love into her savory and sweet piroshkis, delicious pies, mouthwatering cookies, and so much more! Now is your chance to see why they're so beloved!
You can read about Oksana's journey to downtown Auburn in our Summer 2025 Auburn Magazine, available online.
I'll see you there!
📅 Monday, Nov. 3
⏰ 11 a.m.
📍 Pie Style Bakery | 20 W. Main Street
 On Tuesday evening, I had the pleasure of celebrating the graduation of our 2025 Civics Academy class at Postmark Center for the Arts! This incredible group spent the past several weeks diving deep into how our City operates -- learning what it takes to keep Auburn running strong, from the streets we drive on to the services that touch our everyday lives.
 We wrapped up the evening with some friendly trivia, plenty of smiles, and lots of photos to mark the occasion.
To our graduates: thank you for your curiosity, your commitment, and your love for this community. You are the heartbeat of Auburn’s future, and I can’t wait to see how you’ll continue to shape it!
 We wrapped up our final Community Conversations on Wednesday at Auburn Riverside High School, marking the end of six town halls across the City of Auburn for over an entire month. It was our third community conversation of the year, following a similar series in the winter and a youth forum in the spring.
These types of face-to-face meetings and town halls are essential — not just for us to share information directly with you, the residents, but for you as well. In a democracy, constituents need to have in-person time with their representatives and city leaders. This year has taught me that this is more important now than ever.
I can't say for certain what or when these town halls next year will look like, but I can say with confidence we won't stop coming out to meet you in our community and share important updates together in the same room.
Thank you to everyone who made it out, and I hope that if you've read this and thought about attending, you give it a try this next year and beyond.
 A little rain never hurt anybody! In Saturday's case, it was more than a little rain and a whole lot more wind as well, but typical of Auburn, we braved the elements and had a great time anyway!
 Thank you everyone who came out to Les Gove Park, and especially to all of the amazing trunk creators who made the Trunk-or-Treat extra special!
And lucky for all of Auburn's little ones -- there's still tonight to get stocked up on loads of candy!
 On Thursday, I had the chance to visit downtown Federal Way for a sneak peek at the new art installations along Sound Transit’s Federal Way Link Extension-- and wow, what an experience! From the towering Leafy Wader lamp to the vibrant Prismatic glass panels and A Sound to Mountain mural, every piece reflects the incredible creativity and spirit of our South King County community.
 It’s amazing to see how far this project has come and to know how transformative it will be. Not just for Federal Way, but for Auburn and the entire region. The extension will connect more people to opportunity, education, and recreation across Puget Sound. The grand opening for the Federal Way Link Extension will be on Saturday, December 6th, and I can hardly wait! More details to come, in case you’d like to join us for that first light rail ride from Federal Way to any of the existing stops to the north.
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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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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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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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Breakfast with Santa
Celebrate the season with Santa! Join us for a festive morning the whole family will enjoy.
All Ages.
Pre-Registration required.
Space is limited.
You can expect a delicious breakfast served by Santa's elves, LIVE entertainment, and a visit from the big man himself! Vegan and GF breakfast option available by request.
Register Below:
First Seating (8:30-10:00AM)
Youth: 60173
Adult: 60174
Second Seating (11AM-12:30PM)
Youth: 61075
Adult: 61076
📅 Saturday, Dec. 13
⏰ 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (two seatings)
📍 Auburn Community & Events Center | 910 Ninth St.
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A Take3 Christmas
Come experience "A TAKE3 Christmas” featuring all of your favorite holiday tunes with the virtuosic ladies of TAKE3. Bring the whole family to sing, clap and dance along as the countdown to everyone’s favorite holiday begins.
📅 Saturday, Dec. 13
⏰ 7:30 p.m.
📍 Green River College Student Affairs Building | 12401 SE 320th Street
💲Tickets ($27 regular, $24 student/senior)
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Happy Halloween!
 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)
Photographs have been being manipulated for centuries in ways that might appear spooky to modern viewers. Long before photoshop, photographers would add or scrape away layers on the glass negative of an image to add blurring effects or add a painterly touch to the finish of a photograph – this can be seen in the extreme pale and dark patches in the background of this photograph taken at a local Auburn studio c. 1900. Additional decay and damage to the negative has left us today with an image worthy of a horror movie prop.
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