Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a web page.

April 17, 2026

“Someone’s sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.”

-- Warren Buffett --

Brining new ideas home from Main Street Now Conference

This week, I had the opportunity to attend the Main Street Now Conference in Tulsa, joining community leaders from across the country who are all focused on one thing: building stronger, more vibrant neighborhoods.

Over the course of a few days, I heard from experts and local leaders about how downtowns and neighborhood business districts are evolving. One conversation that really stood out focused on how we balance growth with preserving the unique character and culture that make places feel like home. It’s a challenge many cities are facing, and one that feels especially relevant here in Auburn as we continue to grow.

There was also a strong emphasis on supporting local businesses, creating opportunities for community-driven development, and finding ways to ensure that investment benefits the people who already live and work in these areas. From financing tools to creative placemaking, the takeaway was clear: the most successful communities are the ones that stay rooted in their identity while planning thoughtfully for the future.

Conferences like this are a chance to step back, learn from others, and bring back ideas that can make a real difference. Auburn has its own unique story, but we share many of the same goals: thriving small businesses, welcoming public spaces, and neighborhoods where people feel connected.

I’m excited to take what I’ve learned and continue building on the great work already happening here at home!

First episode of season 4 of That's So Auburn! is live!

(Click photo to watch podcast)

And it's all about a City of Auburn great -- our long-time Senior Center Manager, Radine Lozier, who is retiring in just a few months. If you know Radine, you'll know how sad that is to type -- Radine is a dear friend and one of the most talented and dedicated public servants I've ever known. She is a breath of fresh air – always with a smile on her face and love in her heart.

Radine Lozier began her career with the City of Auburn in June of 1986, right after graduating from Central Washington University with a degree in Gerontology. What started as her first “grown-up” job became a life’s calling. Over the past 40 years, Radine has helped create programs, community, connection, and care for generations of Auburn seniors and their families.

But if you ask Radine, she’ll be the first to tell you that while she spent her career serving older adults, they were the ones who taught her how to live. Through life’s biggest moments -- joy, grief, celebration, change -- the people of the Senior Center have been part of her story, just as she has been part of theirs.

I hope you can tune into the full episode, available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

The future is bright at Mt. Baker Middle School

On Wednesday, I had the sincere pleasure of being invited to Mt. Baker Middle School to listen to a panel of amazing students who are part of the AVID Program for the Auburn School District. To say I was “blown away” by their presence, enthusiasm and intelligence would not be doing them justice. TJ, Wraylyn, Avery, Greyson, Anthony (all 6^th graders), Mariana, Levi, Chloe, Johan (7^th graders), Lawea, Moses, Molly, Alyssa, Alina, Cinthya, Joseph, and Gimena (8^th graders) were so poised, confident, and proud of their accomplishments.

Their teachers, Mr. Carter, Mr. Decker, Mr. Browne, Mrs. Digg, Mrs. Carnahan, and Mr. Lubash, fully believe in the AVID program and even more in the kids that they teach! I saw the pride in Principal Brown’s eyes as I sat in the audience with parents of some of the students as they answered questions like “How has AVID changed your confidence as a student?” and heard answers that portrayed confidence where shyness, and lack of engagement may have once lingered.

They are enthusiastic about their futures – and so am I! Too often, we hear about a small group of young people who cause chaos and commit crimes, and think that all kids are that way. I can assure you that our future is in great hands with students like the ones at Mt. Baker MS. Thank you to Adam Ladage, Director of Student Learning, for inviting me to hear the kids – it truly brought so much joy to my day! Go Bulldogs!

In loving memory of Carrie Everett and Amy Hatcher

It is with the greatest of sorrow that I share the passing of two beautiful souls who are being celebrated this weekend.

Carrie Everett was Miss Auburn 2022 and a graduate of Auburn Mountainview High School. I first met Carrie as she was a founding member of Black Youth Leadership Coalition of Auburn where she led initiatives such as food and clothing drives, advocated for BIPOC education, participated in peaceful protests, and built meaningful connections with fellow organizers. It was during COVID, and I met with a group of students from AMHS outside at Les Gove. I was drawn to her passion, confidence, and sense of right and wrong. Her passion and faith were strong. I also was fortunate to work with Carrie while she competed for and was crowned Miss Auburn. Her joy for life was infectious, and her year representing Auburn was filled with action and her gift of song. Carrie’s favorite quote is by Maya Angelou – “Prejudice is a burden that confuses the past, threatens the future, and renders the present inaccessible.”

Amy Hatcher was everywhere in the Auburn community! She was a tireless volunteer and along with her husband John, made sure that people were fed a delicious meal from Café Pacific. Amy was a board member for the "See Ya Later" Foundation, and a SYL WA Impact Award winner in 2023. Amy was also a recipient of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Medal of Distinguished Service for King County Council District 7. She would bring people together for fun and to have diaper drives to ensure precious babies were well taken care of as they continued to grow into beautiful blessings. Once a need was identified, Amy was there to jump in to help. It’s difficult to use past tense verbs to talk about Amy because there is still such a sense of her presence in our community. Her beautiful smile would light up a room, and she would greet you with open arms and a true desire to help in any way that she could. Amy, my friend, I know you fought a brave battle for the past three years, I pray that you may now rest, knowing your life continues to matter. Rest in Peace.

A Celebration of Life will be held this weekend at Foss Waterway Seaport.

Manic Meatballs is headed to Auburn for a pop-up shop!

(Click photo to watch video)

Lakewood's Manic Meatballs, famous for their Swedish meatballs and mashed potatoes (among so many other things) is headed to Auburn for a pop-up drive-through Viking Feast later this month!

On Friday, April 25, from 5:30 to 6 p.m., they'll be stationed at the Auburn Safeway, 101 Auburn Way S., to test demand and scout the area. A limited number of Viking Feasts will be sold, so come early!

All Viking Feasts at this stop will have Manic Meatballs, Mashed Potatoes, Shells & Cheese, Baked Beans and Cucumber Salad (no substitutions). I bought my ticket – have you?

This is their first-ever pop-up, so let's show them some love next Friday!

More info about the pop-up on Manic Meatball's website and Facebook page.

It's Clean Sweep this weekend!

Clean Sweep is almost here and I hope you’ll join us this weekend as we come together to care for the places we all love!

If you’ve already registered, thank you! If not, there’s still time to be part of it. You can show up the day of and we’ll get you connected with a team and a project that needs an extra set of hands.

Clean Sweep is one of my favorite Auburn traditions. It’s more than just a day of service -- it’s neighbors meeting neighbors, families working side-by-side, and a shared commitment to keeping our city beautiful, welcoming, and cared for. That’s the perfect definition of community where everyone plays a role in the success and sustainability!

Whether you can give an hour or the whole morning, it all makes a difference. I’m looking forward to seeing so many of you out there -- gloves on, ready to make an impact!

I'll see you at the Community and Events Center at 9 a.m. for the breakfast and group photo! Let's make it even bigger than last year's!

📅 Saturday, April 18
⏰ 9 a.m. - Noon
📍 Auburn Community and Events Center | 910 9th St. SE

Join us for an Arbor Day tree planting at Les Gove Park!

I invite you to join us for Auburn’s Arbor Day celebration on Tuesday, April 21 at 11 a.m. at Les Gove Park (910 9th St SE)!

Together with our partners from the Auburn Garden Club, Auburn Tree Board, Auburn Park Board, and the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, we’ll plant a Western Hemlock tree as part of this special tradition. It’s a simple act, but one that I think represents growth -- kind of like that State of the City I gave back in February? Now we are LITERALLY planting Auburn's future. 

I'm also proud to officially proclaim April 21, 2026 as Arbor Day in Auburn and recognize our continued designation as a Tree City USA. This honor reflects our community’s commitment to caring for our urban forest and investing in a greener, healthier Auburn for generations to come.

Trees do so much for us -- cleaning our air, reducing energy costs, supporting wildlife, providing much-needed shade, and adding beauty to our neighborhoods. More than that, they remind us to slow down, take root, and invest in the long-term well-being of our city.

📅 Tuesday, April 21
⏰ 11 a.m.
📍 Les Gove Park | 910 9th St. SE

April 30 is National Therapy Animal Day

Do you have an adorable pup at home? How about a cat that sits on your chest and purrs away all your stress? Or even a hamster who puts a smile on your face? Well then April 30 is for you -- it's National Therapy Animal Day!

Scientific research shows that interacting with therapy animals can reduce stress, relieve depression, slow heart rate, lower blood pressure and strengthen the immune system -- and anyone who's ever owned a pet knows that to be true!

Animal therapy teams play an essential role in improving human health and well-being, and the City of Auburn is grateful for the presence, contributions, and positive impact of our local Pet Partners therapy animal teams. 

Happy National Therapy Animal Day later this month!

Speaking of therapy animals -- Petpalooza is right around the corner!

Pet lovers, mark your calendars because Petpalooza is right around the corner, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most joyful days of the year in Auburn! 

Each year before the event begins, we start the morning with the always-popular Dog Trot 3K/5K Fun Run, a fun, family-friendly event where you and your four-legged companion can hit the trail together. Whether you’re walking, jogging, or just enjoying the fresh air, the course is flat, welcoming for all ability levels, and designed for both people and pups to have a great time. Water stations will be available along the way, and the race is professionally chip-timed for those who want to track their pace.

Participants receive a commemorative T-shirt, race bib, and medal -- and if you’re among the first 100 to register, you’ll also take home a Petpalooza coffee mug. It’s a great way to start the day and be part of the energy leading into the main event.

After the Dog Trot, Petpalooza continues as a free community festival celebrating our furry (and not-so-furry!) friends. From agility and fly dog demonstrations to the crowd-favorite “Unleashed” Pet Contest, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find vendor booths, pet adoptions, free and low-cost pet services, and plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained!

📅 Saturday, May 16
⏰ Dog Trot: 9:30 – 11 a.m.
📍 Game Farm Park | 3030 R Street SE

Juneteenth vendor applications are open!

I'm excited to share that planning is officially underway for Auburn’s 2026 Juneteenth Celebration – and we would love to have you join us!

We’re currently accepting vendors for this year’s event. Apply using the following link: ManageMyMarket. Note: we're using the Manage My Market software to track Vendor Applications. Create and account and you'll be directed to the application for Juneteenth @ the Market. There is a $15 non-refundable application fee for Food, Craft and Commercial Vendors. Service Vendors and Non-Profit organizations may apply at no charge. Please note, payment of the application fee and/or submission of the application does not guarantee vendors a place at the Juneteenth @ the Market event. 

Interested in performance opportunities? Submit your information using the following online application: Juneteenth Performer Inquiry. 

Email us: juneteenth@auburnwa.gov if you have any questions or need additional information. 

📅 Sunday, June 21
⏰ 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
📍 Les Gove Park | 910 Ninth St. SE

A closer look at public safety in Auburn

Public safety is always at the forefront of the work we do, and this week’s City Council Study Session offered an important opportunity to take a deeper look at how things are trending in Auburn.

On Monday, our Auburn Police Department presented its 2025 Annual Report, sharing data on everything from use of force to overall crime trends and officer activity. What stood out most is that, while our officers continue to respond to tens of thousands of calls each year, many key indicators are moving in the right direction. Calls for service have declined in recent years, and both person crimes and property crimes are down significantly compared to prior years.

Equally important is how our officers are doing the work. Use of force incidents remain a very small percentage of total interactions -- just a fraction of one percent -- and most cases involve minor or no injuries. This reflects a continued emphasis on de-escalation, training, and professionalism in the field.

The report also highlighted accountability and transparency. Complaints and misconduct findings remain extremely low when compared to the total number of contacts officers have with the public, reinforcing the department’s commitment to high standards and continuous improvement.

These conversations matter. They help ensure we’re not only keeping Auburn safe, but doing so in a way that builds trust and reflects our community’s values. I encourage you to take a few minutes to watch the full study session presentation and see the data for yourself!

AT Large Join us for a night of wonderful music with these two award winning musicians from Sequim, WA. This duo combines Amanda Bacon’s amazing vocals with Todd Ortloff’s musical talents on the piano. Amanda & Todd will dazzle you with their flawless harmonies and fabulous stage presence. Come spend and evening with AT Large! 📅 Friday, April 17 ⏰ 7:30 p.m. 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave. 💲 Tickets ($22 regular, $19 student)

Clean Sweep Auburn’s 2026 Clean Sweep will be held Saturday, April 18. This event is held in honor of Earth Day. Projects will focus on clean-up, environmental restoration, and beautification efforts in and around Auburn. Volunteer groups will work on light clean-up and maintenance; landscaping, painting, weeding, and planting in and around downtown and at various park sites; and a handful of other projects as needed Volunteers can either choose to participate in a specific project or can ask to be assigned to any project, in which case your group will be assigned where the most volunteer support is needed. Service clubs, social service agencies, faith-based groups, scouting troops, businesses, families, and individuals are being asked to come together and work on these projects.  Please plan accordingly to bring your own source of water for the 3-hour event.  The morning agenda for Saturday, April 18 is as follows:  7:30 - 8:30 AM …… Optional Check in - Auburn Community & Events Center 7:30 - 8:30 AM ……Optional Welcome Breakfast - Auburn Community & Events Center 8:45 - 9:00 AM ......Check in at project location - emailed in advance ***Be sure to bring your own water to your project*** 9:00 - 12:00 PM ......Volunteers commence project tasks  Online Registration closes Wednesday, April 15 at 5:00 PM.  Registrations will not be accepted April 16 or 17. Volunteers interested in participating but have not registered, can register on-site at park locations TBA. Important Links: Online Registration Form Registration Form (PDF) Group Waiver (PDF) 2026 Fact Sheet (PDF)      📅 Saturday, April 18 ⏰ 9 a.m. - Noon 📍 Auburn Community & Events Center | 910 Ninth St. SE 🎟️ Register

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.

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.

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.

Comedy at the Course Comedy at the Course will keep you laughing all night long as three comedians work to twist your funny bone. Ages 18 and over only. 📅 Saturday, April 18 ⏰ 7:30 p.m. 📍 Auburn Golf Course - Bogey's Public House | 29630 Green River Road SE 💲 Tickets ($22 regular, $19 student/senior)

Winning Her Wings: Living Voices Free Program | Appropriate for ages 12 & Up Who were the first women to fly for the United States military?   How did sexism, racism and antisemitism shape the wartime experiences of minority women? Developed in partnership with the Museum of Flight, Museum of History & Industry, Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park and Boeing. RSVP to attend - Register Online 📅 Saturday, Apirl 25 ⏰ 2 p.m. 📍 White River Valley Museum | 918 H St. SE 🎟️ Register

Auburn Symphony Orchestra - Old and New Step into a world where baroque elegance meets contemporary color. Old and New blends the timeless charm of trio sonatas by Bach and Quantz with the rhythmic sparkle of Ilja Hurnik and the meditative beauty of Hilary Tann’s Shoji, inspired by Japanese paper screens. Auburn Symphony musicians Wendy Wilhelmi (flute), Shannon Spicciati (oboe), Olga Ruvinov (cello), and Lorenzo Marasso (harpsichord) bring this luminous evening to life. 📅 Saturday, April 25 ⏰ 7 - 8:30 p.m. 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave. 💲 Tickets ($36 regular, $12 student)

Chicago Tribute Authority Chicago Tribute Authority - brings the legendary sound of Chicago to life with an ensemble of 11 of the Northwest’s most skilled and versatile musicians. With a powerful horn section, dynamic percussion, and outstanding vocal talent, this tribute band delivers a high-energy, authentic performance that captures the spirit and precision of the iconic rock band. Experience the music of Chicago like never before, right here in the Pacific Northwest!! 📅 Saturday, April 25 ⏰ 7:30 p.m. 📍 Green River College Student Affairs Building | 12401 SE 320th St. 💲 Tickets ($25 regular, $22 student/senior)

Our Faces, Our Futures: Auburn Headshots Project (1 of 2) The Auburn Headshots Project provides free, professional-quality headshots to Auburn residents, photographed by Andy Perkovich. This project supports job seekers, students, and small business owners with a vital career resource while fostering community connection. This event is free for Auburn residents. Funded by the Postmark Programming Grant and 4 Culture King County.  Check in with staff upon arrival. Please note that the photographer will be taking individual portraits only, no group photos.  FREE | ALL AGES 📅 Thursday, April 30 ⏰ 4 - 7 p.m. 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.

Bell Bottom Blues - Tribute to Eric Clapton Founded in 2019, Bell Bottom Blues quickly became a name in the Tribute scene of the Pacific Northwest. Honoring the extensive catalog of the great Eric Clapton - including Cream & Derek and The Dominos - Bell Bottom Blues' lineup has evolved over the years and continues to thrill crowds from theaters and casinos to wineries and private events. Front man JUSTIN KAUSAL-HAYES (lead vocals and guitar) brings years of experience as a performer and bandleader, striving to recreate Clapton’s sound and feel with every note. Paired with the unmatched guitar skills of co-founding band member SCOTT DONALDSON with his own decades of expertise, they are dedicated to the timeless melodies, driving rhythms, and masterful guitar licks of the iconic artist. Rounding out the band are some of Seattle's most accomplished pro musicians. Their combined talent and passion for this classic music is evident every time they take the stage. 📅 Saturday, May 2 ⏰ 7:30 p.m. 📍 Green River College Student Affairs Building | 12401 SE 320th St. 💲 Tickets ($25 regular, $22 student/senior)

Ranger & the "Re-Arrangers" Seattle "Gypsy Jazz" band Ranger and the “Re-Arrangers” evoke the spirit of a Paris cafe and the raucous energy of a Romani campsite with their version of Hot Club Swing. At the heart of their sound is tight interplay between two great soloists. Their repertoire includes vocal swing standards, traditional European melodies, the music of Django Reinhardt, and unique originals. 📅 Friday, May 8 ⏰ 7:30 p.m. 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave. 💲 Tickets ($22 regular, $19 student)

Free Paint Recycling Event Please register ahead for your preferred drop off time. Register Online! All paint recycling is FREE and UNLIMITED! 5-gallon or smaller containers. No need to dry out your paint before you drop it off. Spread the word and invite your friends and neighbors to join in. Together, letʼs make a positive impact on our community and the planet. Donʼt forget to mark your calendars for this exciting event! PaintCare: What We Can & Can't Take Before you load the car, check this list! We only accept products designed for "architectural" use—essentially, things you’d use to paint or seal a house. ✅ YES: We Accept These (House & Home) Products must be in their original containers (5 gallons or smaller) with a readable label. House Paint: Interior and exterior (Latex, Oil-based, Enamel). Deck & Floor: Deck stains, floor paints, and slip-resistant coatings. Preparation: Primers, sealers, and undercoaters. Wood Finishes: Stains, varnishes, shellacs, and lacquers (single-part only). Waterproofing: Clear sealers for wood, concrete, or masonry (like Thompson's). Metal: Rust-preventative paints and metal coatings. Sports Fields: Paint used for grass/lawns or sports fields. ❌ NO: We Cannot Accept These If it’s for a car, a boat, a craft project, or a roof, we likely can’t take it. Construction Materials: Stucco, grout, plaster, joint compound, and cement-based products. Aerosols: Anything in a spray can. Chemicals: Paint thinners, mineral spirits, solvents, and deck cleaners. Adhesives: Glues, caulking, epoxies, and 2-part resins. Vehicles: Auto paint and marine (boat) paint. Roofing: Tar, asphalt, bitumen-based sealers, or roof patch/repair. Industrial: Road-marking paint or heavy industrial coatings. Small Projects: Tiny bottles of craft or art paint. For all events, we ask that attendees stay in their cars. Event staff will direct you to drop-off lanes where we will unload everything for you. This ensures a safe and efficient process. For questions, please email events@greensheenpaint.com 📅 Saturday, May 9 ⏰ 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 📍 Pioneer Elementary School | 2301 M St. SE 🎟️ Register

Rhythm and Rhymes: Story Hour with Auburn Symphony Orchestra Join us at the Postmark Center for the Arts from 10am - 11am for Rhythm and Rhymes, a unique collaboration between Auburn Symphony Orchestra and the Auburn Library. Taking inspiration from a children’s book, an ASO musician will teach an age-appropriate, interactive music program, and an Auburn librarian will then read the story aloud. Afterwards, families will be invited to explore instruments, and receive a craft to take home. Rhythm and Rhymes combines music and literature for children and families to enjoy over the course of 45 minutes. This event is free and family friendly. Funded by the Postmark Programming Grant and 4 Culture King County. FREE | ALL AGES 📅 Saturday, May 9 ⏰ 10 - 11 a.m. 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.

Second Saturdays - Calico Dress #9 Workshop (1 of 2) Visit Postmark Center for the Arts, open to the public each Second Saturday from 12-4PM! Each month features FREE, all ages performances, crafts, and events! 1PM - 4PM Calico Dress #9 Workshop with Jen Treese (1 of 2) Kirstie Macleod's Red Dress Project started an international movement of community-created garments, and in 2025 Seattle started it's own dress! Join facilitator Jen Treese and participate in a community embroidery event held over two sessions, on May 9th and May 30th.  Participants are invited to add their own piece of hand embroidery to a shared dress. Through embroidery, the stories and cultures of Auburn will be captured on fabric to be shared and celebrated for years to come. No prior skill is needed and all materials will be provided! Jen is happy to provide instruction to those interested in learning more about embroidery.  This event is family friendly, and no previous art experience is required. Funded by the Postmark Programming Grant and 4 Culture King County. FREE | ALL AGES 📅 Saturday, May 9 ⏰ 1 - 4 p.m. 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.

Blood Drive at Auburn City Hall  Be someone's hero today and donate blood. The Bloodworks Bloodmobile will be located outside City Hall.  Appointments are required for the best possible donation experience. Same-day appointments available at most locations. Photo ID required. For safety, we kindly request no visitors under 16 at our donation sites. Eat a hearty meal and drink plenty of fluids prior to donation. Book your one hour appointment at bloodworksnw.org/giveblood 📅 Tuesday, May 12 ⏰ 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 📍 Auburn City Hall | 25 W. Main Street 🎟️ Register

Dog Trot 3k/5k Fun Run A family-oriented fun run event that takes place prior to Auburn's Petpalooza festival. Participants will follow a 3K or 5K route. The course is flat, easy and enjoyable for all ages and ability levels. Water will be available on the course for both dogs and human participants. The race is 'chip-timed' by Bell Lap Productions.  REGISTRATION DETAILS AND FEE: Early Registration (on or before March 30) - $25/person Late Registration (March 31 - May 12) - $30/person Sorry, no registrations May 13 - May 15 On-Site Registration on May 16 - $35/person ONLINE REGISTRATION ***First 100 to register receive a 19-ounce coffee mug with full-color Petpalooza logo. Registration includes a limited-edition T-Shirt, full-color race bib and a participation medal. T-shirt sizes not guaranteed for late registrations and available while supplies last for on-site registrations.  DOG TROT RULES OF PARTICIPATION: NEW!  Packets that are not picked up by 11:00 AM will not be available after the event unless we have written notification (to events@auburnwa.gov) by 9:30 AM on race day All participants must have their race bib on the FRONT of their person Dogs must be current on vaccinations No aggressive dogs No female dogs in heat No more than two dogs per human Keep your dog on a 7-foot leash or shorter at all times.  No dogs under the age of six months Bring your dog only if he/she is well socialized Please, clean up after your dog Run or walk the course only if you and your pet are in adequate physical condition Strollers are welcome on the course Participants may not switch race distances after May 13 Participants must run/walk the course in its entirety with a dog to be eligible for awards Route will close after 90-minutes   For a list of Auburn hotels, visit www.exploreauburn.com.  HELPFUL INFORMATION: Online Dog Trot Registration Public Driving Directions & Parking Information (PDF) 2026 T-Shirt & Medal Design (PDF) Rules of Participation (PDF) Petpalooza & Dog Trot Sponsor Packages available, email events@auburnwa.gov for information  📅 Saturday, May 16 ⏰ 9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m. 📍 Game Farm Park | 3030 R Street SE 💲 Register

Petpalooza Petpalooza is a FREE event for pet lovers and a special day for your four-legged family member or other furry friend. Petpalooza is kicked off with a Dog Trot 3K/5K Fun Run. The event features an animal-related entertainment stage, flydog and agility demos, the popular 'Unleashed' Pet Contest, a free agility area, a large variety of vendor booths, adoptions, free and low-cost pet services, give-a-ways and lots of activities to keep both humans and pets entertained. Leashed, licensed and well-behaved pets welcome.  Please note, no ATM available on-site. Please plan ahead. Majority of vendors accept credit/debit cards.    Best Western Mountain View - 401 8th ST SW Comfort Inn Auburn-Seattle - One 16th ST NE Economy Inn of Auburn - 102 15th ST NE Garner Hotel - 9 14th ST NW Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Auburn Downtown - 507 C ST SW La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Auburn - 225 6th ST SE Muckleshoot Casino Resort - 2402 Auburn Way South For a more hotel information visit www.exploreauburn.com. HELPFUL INFORMATION: Check back for updates 2026 Festival Map 2026 Entertainment Schedule(PDF) **subject to change** General Vendor Application Food Vendor Application - food vendor spaces full for 2026 event On-line Dog Trot Registration Emerald Downs' 'Unleashed' Pet Contest Rules & Regs (PDF) Public Driving Directions & Parking Information (PDF) Performance Inquiry Form check back - more to come! Interested in Vendor Opportunities? Subscribe to our email list to be notified when applications are available.  2026 Petpalooza Sponsor Packages available. Email events@auburnwa.gov for information. 📅 Saturday, May 16 ⏰ 9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m. 📍 Game Farm Park | 3030 R Street SE

Auburn Farmers Market The Auburn Farmers Market provides a convenient venue for local farmers and artisans to provide access to healthy, fresh, locally sourced food and products to area residents. The Market serves as a vibrant gathering place where visitors can learn about healthy food choices, and overall health and well-being. View more information on the Auburn Farmers Market Page.  Shop from 40+ farm, food, and craft vendors! Visit the information booth for a free Market tote.  Entertainment Schedule: OPENING DAY! Rec n Roll, 10AM-3PM Seattle Steel Pan Project, 11AM-12PM Rock Wall, 11AM-2PM Giveaway: Produce bags *Available while supplies last Many Market vendors accept EBT, SNAP Market Match, Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, and WIC dollars.  Email the Auburn Farmers Market 253-931-3043 📅 Sunday, June 7 ⏰ 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. 📍 Les Gove Park | 1140 Auburn Way S.

Blood Drive at Auburn City Hall  Be someone's hero today and donate blood. The Bloodworks Bloodmobile will be located outside City Hall.  Appointments are required for the best possible donation experience. Same-day appointments available at most locations. Photo ID required. For safety, we kindly request no visitors under 16 at our donation sites. Eat a hearty meal and drink plenty of fluids prior to donation. Book your one hour appointment at bloodworksnw.org/giveblood 📅 Tuesday, June 9 ⏰ 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 📍 Auburn City Hall | 25 W. Main Street 🎟️ Register

History Q&A Free Program You have questions? We have answers! Curator of Collections, Hilary Pittenger, answers all your local history curiosities. She’ll address questions posted by guests in our new exhibit. Haven’t visited the exhibit yet? Submit your questions here. 📅 Thursday, June 11 ⏰ 1 p.m. 📍 White River Valley Museum | 918 H St. Southeast

Rhythm and Rhymes: Story Hour with Auburn Symphony Orchestra Join us at the Postmark Center for the Arts from 10am - 11am for Rhythm and Rhymes, a unique collaboration between Auburn Symphony Orchestra and the Auburn Library. Taking inspiration from a children’s book, an ASO musician will teach an age-appropriate, interactive music program, and an Auburn librarian will then read the story aloud. Afterwards, families will be invited to explore instruments, and receive a craft to take home. Rhythm and Rhymes combines music and literature for children and families to enjoy over the course of 45 minutes. This event is free and family friendly. Funded by the Postmark Programming Grant and 4 Culture King County. FREE | ALL AGES 📅 Saturday, June 13 ⏰ 10 - 11 a.m. 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.

Auburn Farmers Market The Auburn Farmers Market provides a convenient venue for local farmers and artisans to provide access to healthy, fresh, locally sourced food and products to area residents. The Market serves as a vibrant gathering place where visitors can learn about healthy food choices, and overall health and well-being. View more information on the Auburn Farmers Market Page.  Shop from 40+ farm, food, and craft vendors! Visit the information booth for a free Market tote.  Entertainment Schedule: DADS & GRADS JERSEY DAY Rainier Riff, 1PM-2PM Giveaway: Multi-tool *Available while supplies last Many Market vendors accept EBT, SNAP Market Match, Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, and WIC dollars.  Email the Auburn Farmers Market 253-931-3043 📅 Sunday, June 15 ⏰ 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. 📍 Les Gove Park | 1140 Auburn Way S.

Spring is springing!

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. 

Like much of Washington, Auburn began as a timber town

(Image courtesy of White River Valley Museum)

The logging and timber industry was once a major employer in Auburn, and still is in Washington State more broadly. At the turn of the 20^th century, the timber industry included large players like the Weyerhaeuser Company and smaller businesses like Oren Menzo Robertson’s shingle mill located in Slaughter (now Auburn). This photograph shows a group of shingle weavers outside the mill in 1891, where they spent their work days producing cedar shingles for roofing and siding on buildings. Shingle weaver unions and many other timber labor unions prohibited women from working in the industry, contributing to a large gender imbalance in Auburn’s population in 1900 – 39% women to 61% men.