Gov. Chris Gregoire is coming home to join the parade and celebration of Auburn’s Little League World Series All-Stars on Thursday.

“I couldn’t be more proud of the Little League team from Auburn who represented my hometown, and the entire state of Washington, with pride and accomplishment,” Gregoire said in a statement this week.

The parade will begin at 6 p.m. The parade route will begin at Washington Elementary School, located at 20 E St. NE, and end at City Hall, 25 West Main St.

The event is free to the public and many side streets will be closed. Heavy traffic is anticipated around the area.

The team will parade down Main Street to the City Hall Plaza where fans can meet the team and congratulate them on their inspired performance in Williamsport, Pa.

Auburn, state and Northwest Regional champion, went 3-2 in its first appearance at the LLWS.

Joining Gregoire will be Auburn Mayor Pete Lewis, Sen. Claudia Kauffman, Auburn School District Superintendent Dr. Kip Herren, coaches, players and board members of the Auburn Little League organization.