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

May 1, 2026

“Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible."

-- Dalai Lama --

Ecology’s Drought Declaration and Summer Water Use

Saying goodbye to a dear friend

This was on our visit to New York City for the Tunnel to Towers walk in 2014 supporting the families of those who lost their lives from 9/11.

I lost a very dear and treasured friend this past week. Eric Robertson was a gentle giant, and from the tributes still pouring in, it’s clear he touched countless lives in meaningful ways.

Eric lived a life of service. He began with the Washington State Patrol from 1983 to 2002. In 1995, he was elected to the Washington State Legislature, serving until mid-1998. From 2002 to 2007, he answered the call from President George W. Bush to serve as U.S. Marshal for Western Washington. He then became the first Administrator of the Valley Regional Fire Authority, guiding the organization until his retirement in 2018. Never one to slow down, Eric returned to the Legislature to represent the 31st District, where he served until 2024.

I first met Eric in 1995, when he wanted to honor Miss Auburn Amber Hamilton, who went on to become Miss Washington. I remember feeling a bit intimidated at first—he was tall and had a commanding presence—but that quickly faded. Eric’s kindness and sense of humor put me immediately at ease.

Over the years, I saw that kindness again and again. In 2003, when I attended the National League of Cities conference in Nashville, my mom came along. While I was busy in meetings, Eric made sure she was completely taken care of—taking her shopping, carrying her bags, making sure she had a great lunch, and safely returning her to the hotel. My mom never forgot that.

I also had the privilege of watching Eric’s leadership during his time with the Valley Regional Fire Authority. He stepped into a challenging role as its first administrator, without a firefighting background, and led with strength, humility, and care.

Some of my favorite memories are the simple ones—conversations in his office, lunches together, or sharing a glass (or two) of wine. We could talk for hours, solving the world’s problems and laughing along the way. Eric loved to travel and had a fascination with presidential libraries—he was always on the move, and I sometimes had trouble keeping up with where he was next.

Eric loved his family, his friends, and his life. Though that life was cut far too short, the impact he made and the lives he touched will carry on.

My heart is with his beautiful family as they grieve this tremendous loss.

Rest well, my friend.

Join us a Sound Transit town hall to talk the future of transit in South King County

n partnership with Tukwila Mayor McLeod, King County Councilmember Steffanie Fain is hosting a Sound Transit Town Hall on Wednesday, May 13, 6 – 7:30 PM at Highline College. The goal is to gather feedback and priorities from South King County residents and leaders as the Sound Transit Board faces a $35 billion affordability gap that could have significant implications for projects across our subarea.

This conversation comes at a critical time. The Sound Transit Board is currently working through a significant funding gap that could impact projects throughout our region, including those that serve South King County. Decisions made in the months ahead will help shape the future of light rail, bus connections, and overall mobility for years to come.

If you’re interested in transportation, growth, or how we stay connected as a region, I encourage you to attend -- I will be!. It’s a chance to hear directly from decision-makers, ask questions, and share what matters most to you. Community input will play an important role as priorities are evaluated and next steps are considered.

You can learn more and register online.

It's Food Truck Tuesday next week!

Food Truck Tuesdays are back in downtown Auburn, and it’s one of my favorite signs that spring has arrived! Beginning Tuesday, May 5, City Hall Plaza will once again host a rotating lineup of local food trucks each week from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. It’s a great opportunity to step outside, grab lunch, and enjoy some time in the heart of our community.

To start things off, we're welcoming Swagg-n-Wagon Wings and Things and Gonzo Panini. 

The event runs through August 25, with new vendors joining throughout the season. You can find the full schedule online and see which trucks are coming each week. I hope to see you downtown, whether at a food truck, great restaurant, coffee or chocolate shop, enjoying everything Auburn has to offer!

Observing the 51st anniversary of the fall of Saigon

On Thursday, I had the honor of joining the American-Vietnamese War Memorial Alliance at the Vietnam War Memorial in Les Gove Park to observe Black April and mark the 51st anniversary of the fall of Saigon. While this year’s gathering was more modest than last year’s milestone 50th anniversary, the meaning of the day remains just as powerful. It was sobering and moving to reflect on those who fought for freedom, those who were lost, and the many who endured hardship and displacement in the years that followed. 

Every year, we strive to recognize the resilience of Vietnamese Americans who rebuilt their lives in communities like Auburn, contributing so much to the fabric of our city. The memorial itself stands as a lasting tribute: to service and sacrifice, and to the enduring strength of a community that has turned loss into legacy.

I’m grateful to have stood alongside so many incredible veterans in remembrance and reflection, and on behalf of the City of Auburn, I want to express our deep respect for this important day!

Come join our Planning Commission!

If you’ve ever wanted to play a role in shaping Auburn’s future, this is a great opportunity to get involved. We currently have an opening on the City’s Planning Commission, a group of community members who help guide important decisions about growth and long-range planning.

The Planning Commission advises me and the City Council on Auburn’s Comprehensive Plan and development regulations, from zoning to how our city grows in the years ahead. It’s a meaningful way to have a voice in the future of our community, and no prior experience is required -- just an interest in Auburn and a willingness to serve!

The Commission meets twice a month in the evenings, and members are appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the City Council. If you’re interested in applying or learning more, visit the City of Auburn's website. I encourage anyone who is passionate about our community to consider applying!

Host a National Night Out event and we'll come to you!

Registration is open for National Night Out, and right now, you can sign up for a neighborhood event and invite one of our staff to attend. 

National Night Out is one of my favorite summer events. And that's because our city staff, police, and elected officials will come to your community and neighborhoods, ready to chat, mingle, and discuss the city we live in -- what we're doing to make it better and how we can all work together to achieve that goal. 

It's a fantastic opportunity not only to meet and talk with us, but also with your neighbors! How many of you know your neighbors on even a first-name basis? Well, now's your chance!

Register online on our city website -- our city staff will be in touch in the coming weeks and months on next steps! Including banners and materials for your neighborhood event and even your very own National Night Out shirt!

I St. NE neighbors -- come share your thoughts on neighborhood streets!

We’re continuing our work to improve safety on neighborhood streets, and I want to invite you to be part of the conversation! The City has launched an online open house for the 2026 Neighborhood Traffic Safety Project along the I Street NE corridor, and we’re looking for your feedback on proposed improvements.

This is a great opportunity to learn more about the project area and share your thoughts on how we can make this corridor safer for everyone who uses it. The online open house is available now through May 15. I encourage you to take a few minutes to participate because your input helps shape the projects that directly impact our neighborhoods!

Thank you for the vest (and stories!) Auburn Area Communication Team!

The Auburn Area Communication Team stopped by City Hall on Thursday afternoon to not only give me a fancy new yellow vest but also to tell me all about the amazing work they do for the city during emergencies! 

This dedicated group of volunteers is the backbone of our City's emergency response, providing essential and lifesaving support, particularly in the event that standard communications services are down, like phones and internet. Using their radios and the City of Auburn's equipment, these MacGyvers can reach folks half a world away (no, really, they showed me how).

I'm so grateful for this team and for our amazing Emergency Management division!

Several of them are graduates of our incredible FREE Community Emergency Response Team, which holds classes at least twice a year. We just filled up our spring/summer cohort but don't worry! We'll have more opportunities later this year.

May is Older Americans Month!

And what better way to celebrate than to highlight all of the amazing programming and contributions at the Auburn Senior Activity Center!

Just a few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of interviewing Senior Center Manager Radine Lozier, who is retiring in June after a long and storied career at the City. You can listen to the full episode on Spotify or YouTube.

The City of Auburn is lucky to have a thriving community of older Americans who all deserve recognition for their contributions and sacrifices in ensuring a better life for future generations.

I'm proud of the work the City does with our senior partners and I look forward to our coninued parternships for generations to come!

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)

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.

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

Battlefield Addictionʼs Walk/Run For Recovery Get ready to move for a mis s ion! Battlefield Addiction's 6th Annual Walk/Run for Recovery 5K is a powerful event that brings our community together to celebrate recovery, put hope in motion, and raise critical funds for our Treatment & Sober Living Scholarship Fund. Whether you’re a runner, walker, or supporter, this event is your chance to make a real impact in our community. Every step helps fund scholarships for treatment and sober living, directly supporting families in need. You can register for a single ticket to participate IN-PERSON or VIRTUALLY. Discount available for teams of 5+ registrations. Please contact Becky for group discount code: 253-318-0937 or becky@battlefieldaddiction.com. SPONSOR SOMEONE IN RECOVERY to join us on race day by selecting this option at registration. There are lots of young people in recovery who would love the opportunity to participate in our Walk/Run for Recovery 5K. Specify the recipient for your sponsorship by typing their name in the "Notes" section during registration or let us know that you prefer for us to choose the recipient. Either way, WE GOT YOU! Walk, run, or cheer us on—this event is for EVERYONE! 📅 Saturday, May 9 ⏰ 9 a.m. - Noon 📍 Roegner Park | 601 Oravetz Rd. SE 💲Register ($40)

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

Mountainview Cemetery Memorial Day Service The public is cordially invited to attend a special Memorial Day Service on Monday, May 25 at 10:00 AM. The Cemetery is also offering special office hours during the Memorial Day weekend to assist families. Saturday, May 23, 2026 from 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM Sunday, May 24, 2026 from 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM Monday, May 25, 2026 from 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM The Cemetery will display many American Flags on the grounds and each Veterans gravesite is decorated with a small flag. For more information about the special activities surrounding Memorial Day at Mountain View Cemetery, please call 253-931-3028 or visit mtviewcemeteryauburn.com. 📅 Monday, May 25 ⏰ 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. 📍 Mountainview Cemetery | 2020 Mountain View Drive

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.

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: CELEBRATE JUNETEENTH AT THE AUBURN FARMERS MARKET, in partnership with the City of Auburn Office of Equity, Engagement, and Outreach June Kid Kit: Soccer Cup-and-Ball Game 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 21 ⏰ 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. 📍 Les Gove Park | 1140 Auburn Way S.

Juneteenth at the Market Come celebrate Juneteenth at the Market with the City of Auburn, hosted by the Office of Equity, Engagement & Outreach and Auburn Farmers Market. This federal holiday commemorates the end of slavery and liberation of Black people in the United States. This is a perfect event for the whole family to enjoy. Participate in community fellowship, support local small businesses, and learn from community leaders. Enjoy amazing local artists, musicians, and vendors. Vendor applications: Juneteenth Performer Form This year we are using the Manage My Market software to track vendor applications. Once you create an account you’ll be directed to the application for Juneteenth at 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 at the Market event. General Vendor & Food Vendor Applications Contact Information: Office of Equity, Engagement & Outreach 253-294-3843 juneteenth@auburnwa.gov 📅 Sunday, June 21 ⏰ 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. 📍 Les Gove Park | 1140 Auburn Way S.

KidsDay Auburn's KidsDay is the perfect day for any child and the best way to kick-start your summer! Live entertainment, inflatable rides, a variety of activity/info booths, craft vendor sales, rock climbing wall, ArtRageous hands-on art experiences, large vehicle & equipment display, a variety of food concessions, and much more.     NOTE - Auburn's KidsDay is geared toward Auburn-area kids as a kickoff to summer and coincides with the end of school calendar for the Auburn School District and takes into account the built-in snow days.  Leashed, licensed and well-behaved pets welcome. No ATM available on festival grounds. Majority of vendors accept debit/credit. HELPFUL INFORMATION: General Vendor Application Food Vendor Application - food vendor spaces full for 2026 event 2026 KidsDay Sponsorship Packages available. Email events@auburnwa.gov for information. Public Driving Directions & Parking Information (PDF) KidsDay Coloring Page (PDF) - FREE download! Performance Inquiry Form Entertainment Schedule (PDF) - subject to change Vendor List and Booth Assignments (PDF) - Subject to change Festival Map Interested in Vendor Opportunities? Subscribe to our email list to be notified when applications are available.  Contact Information Auburn Parks, Arts and Recreation 253-931-3043 Email Auburn Events 📅 Tuesday, June 23 ⏰ 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. 📍 Les Gove Park | 910 9th St. SE

On Tuesdays, lunch is at us!

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. 

May Day has a long tradition in Auburn

(Image courtesy of White River Valley Museum)

Members of the Brotherhood of Railway Clerks Auburn Lodge #426, 1945. May Day, on May 1^st, has long been associated with advocacy for labor and unions around the world. It is celebrated in May to remember the 1886 Haymarket Affair in Chicago, a turning point in labor advocacy for the 8-hour workday.  In the United States and Canada, Labor Day (September 1^st) remembers the work of New York City’s Central Labor Union, who organized the first Labor Day parade in September 1882. The United States made the September date a federally recognized holiday in 1894, and Cold War-era politics during the 20^th century discouraged identification with worker’s movements in other countries, further cementing the September date as North America’s labor holiday.