The City of Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation department announces this year’s holiday lineup with a wide range of activities this season.
The Auburn festivities kick off with a parade down Main Street at 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Community caroling and the annual lighting of the City Hall Tree will follow at 5.
Those who want to join in the parade should report to the parade lineup area (E Street Northeast and Main Street) at 4 p.m. No registration is required. Participants are encouraged to review the parade rules and regulations, which can be found at www.auburnwa.gov.
The Auburn Elites from Pioneer Elementary will provide parade spectators with a pre-parade treat – filling Main Street in front of City Hall and the One Main Street Building with exciting entertainment.
‘Snack & Craft’
Prior to the parade, families can enjoy the returning “Holiday Snack & Craft” activity from 2-4 p.m. at Washington Elementary, 20 E St. NE. Participants can join the parks staff in creating holiday gingerbread houses and ornaments.
The pre-registration fee is $3 for residents, $4 for non-residents. Registration at the door is $5.
Tea and Festivity
New this year is the White River Valley Museum’s Holiday Tea and Festivity, also held on Saturday. Tea seatings will be at noon and 2 p.m.
Enjoy a special Victorian era holiday tea with all the trimmings. Served and hosted by our docents in circa 1900 fashions, fare includes savories, sweets and of course, tea.
Between seatings, enjoy various holiday crafts and activities throughout the Museum, including a model railroad, as well as artist-led projects in celebration of the Small Works Big Presents exhibit.
Participation is $5 for adults; $4 for children and seniors.
Santa House
The Auburn Optimist Club will once again open the Santa House in the B Street Plaza for photos with Santa. The Santa House will open directly after the parade and will have varying hours though Dec. 22.
For questions in regards to the Santa House, please call 253-315-3025.
Santa House
The Auburn Ave Theater, 10 Auburn Avenue, will be bustling after the parade with a screening of “A Christmas Story.”
Prizes for the best bunny pajamas, snow suit, or Ralphy look-alike, so come in costume. The movie begins at 6:30 p.m. Food concessions will be available.
Fee is $4. Advance tickets available at the parks office or get your tickets on the day of the event at the theater box office, starting at 5:30 p.m.
Breakfast with Santa
The following Saturday, on Dec. 11, Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation will host a Breakfast with Santa at the Auburn Senior Activity Center, 808 Ninth St. SE. There will be two seatings for breakfast at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.
Cost is $5 for residents of Auburn, $7 for those living outside the city ($6/$8 for adults).
The event features a special breakfast served by Santa’s elves, musical entertainment and a special visit from Santa. Pre-registration is required for the Breakfast with Santa event. Event fills up quickly so early reservations are recommended.
For more information on Auburn’s holiday events, contact the Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation Department at 253-931-3043. Parade rules and map are posted on the City of Auburn’s official website, www.auburnwa.gov.
