Events
Auburn Tourism: For special events or to add a special event, go to auburntourism.com.
HOLIDAYS
For more information on Auburn’s holiday events, contact the Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation Department at 253-931-3043. The park’s office is at 910 Ninth St. SE.
Santa Parade and Tree Lighting: 4:30 p.m. Dec. 3, downtown Auburn. Festive and fun children’s parade, followed by community caroling, the lighting of the City Hall Christmas tree and synchronized light show. Parade lineup begins at 4 p.m. on E Street Northeast. Free entry open to all children’s groups. Holiday costumes encouraged. Registration required and participants are asked to review the parade rules and regulations. Both can be found at www.auburnwa.gov/events. Leashed, licensed and well-behaved pets welcome. Pre-parade entertainment from 4-4:30 p.m. in front of City Hall.
Other activities:
Holiday Snack and Craft: 2-4 p.m. Dec. 3, Washington Elementary, 20 E St. NE. Opportunity for families to create fun holiday gingerbread houses and ornaments. Pre-registration entry fee is $3 for residents, $4 for non-residents and $5 day of the event.
“Yule Be Rockin”: 6:30 p.m. Dec. 3, Auburn Avenue Theater, 10 Auburn Ave. Special holiday family concert, featuring Eric Herman and the Thunder Puppies. Advance tickets available at auburnwa.gov/arts.or by calling the parks office.
Red, White & Blue Holiday Concert: 2 p.m. Dec. 4, Performing Art Center, 702 Fourth St. NE. The 133D Washington Army National Guard performs holiday classics and favorites of the season. Tickets are free with food donation, but required and can be picked up in advance at the parks office.
Santa Breakfast: Seatings at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m., Dec. 10, Auburn Community and Events Center, 910 Ninth St. SE. Parks, Arts & Rec hosts a breakfast served by Santa’s elves, musical entertainment and a special visit from Santa. Cost: $5 for residents, $7 for those living outside the city ($6/$8 for adults). Pre-registration required.
Parents Night Out: 5-10 p.m. Dec. 10, Les Gove Gym, 910 Ninth St. SE, A. If parents are looking for some “kid-free” time for a night out, or to do some last-minute shopping, send them to the holiday-inspired event. Games, crafts, a bouncy house, a pizza dinner and more kid-approved fun.
Santa visits: 10-11 a.m. Dec. 7, 9, Indoor Playground at the gymnasium at Les Gove Park, 910 Ninth S. SE. Great photo op for children. Entrance into the indoor playground is $2 and photos with Santa are an additional $2.
Late Play Date: 6-8 p.m. Dec. 1, White River Valley Museum, 918 H St. SE. Free program for children ages 3-12 and features holiday-themed crafts and activities with an international flair. Snap a picture of your children with Santa Claus in the Town Square exhibit. Drop-in program. No registration required. For more information, call 253-288-7433 or www.wrvmuseum.org.
ELSEWHERE
Neely Mansion’s Farmhouse Christmas Celebration: 12:30-4:30 p.m. Dec. 3, 12303 SE Auburn-Black Diamond Road, Auburn. Tour the mansion decorated for the holidays. Visit the new Swedish and Japanese-American rooms. Enjoy light refreshments. Explore the gift shop and history room. Listen to traditional holiday music. Tour the newly restored bath house. Take your own holiday photo. Cost: $10-15. Info: 253-850-2777 or neelymansion.org.
Benefits
Sleep Train’s Toy Drive for Foster Kids & Photo Contest: Through Dec. 18. Donate new, unwrapped gifts at any Sleep Train. Visit sleeptrain.com to find your nearest store. Also enter Sleep Train’s annual photo contest. Snap a picture while donating and post it on Instagram with #SleepTrainSecretSanta in the caption or upload it to woobox.com. One grand prize winner will receive a holiday sleep essentials prize package, including an iPad mini.
Winter bazaar: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 3, Auburn Mountainview High School, 18900 124th SE. Featuring 100 vendors with a variety of gifts for your shopping needs. Info: amhsbooster.org.
Bus Barn Bonanza: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 3, first Saturday of the month, Auburn School District Transportation Department, 615 15th St. SW. Join as a vendor, a shopper or a looker at the bazaar, swap meet, flea market business and networking opportunity. Gifts, yard sale items and more. Proceeds from vendor fees at $10 a table space go to the Senior Scholarship Foundation. Bus Barn Bonanza is a nonprofit organization. Any business or individuals interested in matching its makings or would like to be a vendor, please call 253-227-7789 or visit busbarnbonanza.com.
Be Your Own Superhero 5K and Kids’ Fun Run: 9 a.m. Jan. 7, Roegner Park, 601 Oravetz Road SE. Superhero-themed event takes runners along the scenic White River Trail. Dress up as your favorite hero. Prizes given to the best adult, child and group costumes. Rain-or-shine event. Wellness fair and family fun events. Registration fee includes a t-shirt, race bib and after race snacks. Fees: $20 available through Dec. 23; $25 from Dec. 24-Jan. 4. No registrations accepted Jan. 5-6. Day-of registration $30 (on site-registration begins at 7:30 a.m.) T-shirts are not guaranteed for day-of registrants. Parents are welcome to accompany their child in the 1K event for no fee. Parents will not receive a T-shirt or race bib for the 1K race.
Health
Bloodworks Northwest drives: 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12:30-3:30 p.m. Dec. 3, Auburn Department of Transportation, 915 Fourth St. NE; 9 a.m.-11 a.m., noon-3 p.m. Dec. 7, Zones, Inc., 1102 15th St. SW; 8:30-10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Dec. 8, City Hall, 25 W. Main St.; 8:30 a.m.-11 a.m. Dec. 28, Fred Meyer, 801 Auburn Way N. Appointments can be made by calling 1-800-398-7888, or visit www.bloodworksnw.org.
American Red Cross: Urging eligible donors to give the perfect gift this holiday season – a lifesaving blood or platelet donation. By rolling up a sleeve, donors can help ensure patients continue to receive treatment throughout the holiday season. Blood donation opportunities: • 12 p.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 14, and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 15, Sea-Tac Airport Conference Center, 17801 International Blvd. Download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients.
Alzheimer’s Association Auburn Caregiver Support Group: Noon-1:30 p.m. first Tuesday of the month, Church of the Nazarene, 1225 29th St. SE, Room 15. Caring for someone with memory loss? Do you need information and support? Alzheimer’s Association family caregiver support groups provide a consistent and caring place for people to learn, share and gain emotional support from others who are also on a unique journey of providing care to a person with memory loss. For information, call Val Brustad, 253-854-7658.
Volunteers
Auburn Valley Humane Society: 6-8 p.m., third Wednesdays of the month; 10 a.m.-noon, third Saturdays of the month, AVHS shelter, 4910 A St. SE, Auburn. Volunteer orientation and trainings. Stop by the shelter or AVHS thrift store, 1123 E. Main St., to pick up a volunteer application or download one from auburnvalleyhs.org and bring it to the orientation. You may register to attend anyone of the sessions in the future by emailing slavigne@auburnvalleyhs.org. For more information, call 253-249-7849 or visit auburnvalleyhs.org.
Programs
Miss Auburn and Miss Auburn’s Outstanding Teen programs: Applications being accepted. The community-based competition awards more than $35,000 each year in scholarship funds to local young women. The program, set for Jan. 20-21, is an official preliminary to the Miss Washington, Miss Washington’s Outstanding Teen, Miss America and Miss America’s Outstanding Teen Scholarship Pageants. It also provides personal development assistance in poise and self-confidence, interview-and-public-speaking skills, leadership and community service training. The Miss Auburn Little Sister program has openings for girls in kindergarten through fourth grade. Opportunities also available for fifth-, sixth- and seventh-grade girls in the Miss Auburn Ambassador program. Apply at missauburn.org.
Clothing bank: 10-11 a.m. Wednesdays, Northwest Family Church, 3535 Auburn Way S. Serving the community. Clients may come once a month. ID is required for new clients and proof of children (insurance card) is needed. If you have just moved into the area, then a bill with your current address will be sufficient. Homeless community is welcome. ID is required and not an address. The clothing bank is free and supported through donations from the community and church. For more information, visit www.nwfamilychurch.com.
Clubs
Auburn Noon Lions: Meets Tuesdays, noon, Auburn Golf Course banquet room, 29630 Green River Road SE. $12 for lunch, $5 for dessert and beverage. For more information, contact Ed Butler at 253-929-9358 or edbutler0314@gmail.com.
Rotary Club of Auburn: Meets noon, Wednesdays, Auburn Golf Course, banquet room, 29630 Green River Road SE. Programs: For more information, visit www.auburnrotary.org.
Kiwanis Club of The Valley: Meets every Wednesday morning at 7 at Veterans Memorial Park, 411 St. NE, Auburn. For more information, visit www.kiwaniscluboftheauburnvalley.org
South King County Alliance for Retired Americans: Monthly meetings at 1 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month, Kent Senior Center, 600 E. Smith St. Meetings open and free to the public. For more information, contact Pat Paulsen at 206-400-7149.
Rainier Audubon Society: Groups meets regularly, Federal Way United Methodist Church, 29645 – 51st Ave. S. Public welcome.
Women’s Club of Federal Way: Meets at 11 a.m. on the third Wednesday of each month, Twin Lakes Golf and Country Club, 3583 SW 320th St.,Federal Way. Newcomers welcome. Cost $15. Call 253-927-2766 for reservations.
Interurban Runners Club: Join our weekly group run/walk on Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. in front of Billy McHale’s Restaurant, 1320 S. 324th St., in Federal Way. The group jogs about 3 miles on the BPA trail or local neighborhood, followed by food and socializing. All ages and abilities welcome. Can’t make it on Thursdays? We have monthly club runs at select running spots in the King/Pierce County area. Check out the club calendar at www.interurbanrunners.net or contact Larry Coyne membership director at coyneld@aol.com
Auburn Morning Toastmasters: Meets every Thursday morning, 6:30-7:30, Auburn Chamber of Commerce, 420 E. Main St., beginning Nov. 3. Learn the fine art of communication and public speaking in a friendly supportive atmosphere. Visitors are welcome.
Soroptimist International of Auburn: Meets Wednesdays at noon in the Rainier Room, Truitt Building, 102 W. Main St. Make reservations by emailing info@siauburn. For more information, visit www.siauburn.org.
South King County Genealogical Society: 9:30 a.m.-noon, third Saturday of every month (except July, August and December), Wesley Homes-Lea Hill, J.W. McKenna Assembly Hall, 32049 109th Place SE, Auburn. Welcome genealogists or anyone interested in learning about family history. www.skcgs.org
Save Our Fish, Auburn Chapter, Puget Sound Anglers: Meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month (except December), 6 p.m. Round Table Pizza, 4002 A St. SE. Learn fishing techniques and hot spots from guest speakers and chapter experts. For more information, visit www.saveourfish.org.
Green Valley/Lake Holm Association: 6:30 p.m. Black Diamond Library, 24707 Roberts Drive. Meetings are on the last Wednesday of every month, except holidays. The association is an unincorporated area community service group formed by local citizens for the purpose of addressing common issues, safety measures and ideas for improvement. Featuring Capt. Scott Somers of the King County Sheriff’s Department speaking on rural personal and property protection, increasing traffic concerns, adapting Block Watch in rural areas and ways residents can support the precinct’s deputies. Refreshments served. For more information, contact gvlhassn@gmail.com.
Libraries
Auburn Library, 1102 Auburn Way S. 253- 931-3018. Library events include:
CHILDREN & FAMILIES
Infant and Young Toddler Story Time: 10:15 a.m. Dec. 6, 13. Ages newborn to 24 months, siblings welcome. Stories, songs and fun.
Play & Learn: 10:30 a.m. Dec. 5, 12. Newborn to age 5 with caregiver. Have fun singing songs, telling stories, reading books, creating art and playing.
Family Pajama Story Times: 7 p.m. Dec. 6, 13. Ages 3 to 7 with adult, siblings welcome. Stories, songs and fun.
Toddler Story Times: 10:30 a.m. Dec. 1, 8, 15. Ages 2 to 3 with adult, siblings welcome. Stories, songs and fun.
Preschool Story Time: 11:15 a.m. Dec. 1, 8, 15. Ages 3 to 7 with adult, siblings welcome. Stories, songs and fun.
Stuffed Animal Sleepover & Teddy Bear Tea: 4 p.m. Dec. 9; 11 a.m. Dec. 10. Family program, all ages welcome with adult. Bring your favorite stuffed friend for a song and dance fest before the animals stay overnight at the library. Return on Saturday morning at 11 a.m.for snacks and photos of what your friend did without you. Come for a story time and tea party and see what your stuffed animal friends did in the library the night before. Please register.
Wee-Bots Science Workshop: 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. (two sessions) Dec. 29. Presented by The Museum of Flight. Ages 5 to 7 with adult. Ever have fun with a Bee-bot? These robots will show you how science can be all fun and games. Learn programming skills to teach these robots to race, maneuver an obstacle course and play board games. Space is limited to 15 children at each session (sessions are identical). Free tickets will be available at the Information Desk starting at 1pm on the day of the program.
TEENS
Study Zone: 3-5 p.m. Dec. 1, 6, 8, 13, 15. Grades K-12. Drop in for free homework help from trained volunteer tutors.
Teen Zone: 3:30-5 p.m. Dec. 7, 14. Middle and high school ages. Play video games, snack, get online, hang out, study, or pick-up a good book. All in the same place.
Financial Literacy Course for Teens & Young Adults-Banking: 6 p.m. Dec. 8. Presented by Financial Beginnings. In this workshop, we introduce financial institutions, how they work and how students can utilize them in managing their money. Register online at kcls.org or call the Auburn Library, 253-931-3018. Light refreshments will be provided.
ADULTS
Join KCLS in Supporting Toys for Tots: Through Dec. 5. Drop off your new and unwrapped Toys for Tots donations at all KCLS libraries. All donations will be delivered to KIRO 7 on Dec. 9.
English as a Second Language (ESL) Class: 6 p.m. Dec. 5, 7. Presented by Green River College. Learn English grammar, reading, writing, and conversations skills with an experienced instructor. Classes are free. Registration required.
ESL Class Winter Registration: 5 p.m. Dec. 12. Learn English grammar, reading, writing and conversation skills with an experienced instructor. Classes are free. To register for ESL classes: please arrive on time; registration will be first come, first serve; space is limited; allow 3 hours to complete registration; bring picture ID; please, no children.
Computer classes?: If you’re interested in attending a computer class, please call 253-931-3018. • One-On-One Computer Help, 1 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 2 p.m., 2:30 p.m. Dec. 3, 10 and 17; • Microsoft Excel 2013 Level 1, 1 p.m. Dec. 13; • Microsoft Excel 2013, Level 2, 1:30 p.m. Dec. 14; • Microsoft Excel 2013 Level 3, 3:30 p.m. Dec. 14. Please register.
Sign Up for ORCA Lift’s Reduced Fares: 3-5 p.m. Dec. 28. Presented by Multi-Service Center. Drop in to register for ORCA Lift, a new, reduced fare on Metro buses, Sound Transit Link light rail, and more. Income-qualified riders, ages 19 and older, can save 50 percent or more. To see if you qualify, check www.orcalift.com or call Multi-Service Center at 253-838-6810. Please bring ID and income verification documents.
Third Thursday Afternoon Book Club: 2 p.m. Dec. 15. “The Rosie Project” by Graeme Simsion. Come for a lively discussion on the third Thursday of the month as the Auburn Library begins a new afternoon book club for adults.
Genealogy Assistance: 1-3 p.m. Wednesdays. Volunteers from South King County Genealogical Society will be available to answer your questions.
One-on-One Job Assistance: 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Dec. 12. Do you need help starting the online job application process? Get a free email account, start a resume, start an online job search, or navigate the job application process during a 45-minute appointment. Register online or call the library, 253-931-3018.
Talk Time Classes: 6 p.m. Thursdays. Practice speaking English with other English language learners. Registration not required, open to everyone.
Friends of the Auburn Library Meeting: 7 p.m. Dec. 27. The Friends of the Auburn Library offer support by volunteering, hosting fundraising activities, sponsoring programs and services and increasing awareness of the library’s vital role in our community. New members are always welcome.
Tablets 101: 1 p.m., Nov. 29; noon, Dec. 30. Learn how to use your new tablet. This class teaches the basics, how to turn off your device completely, wifi connection, security and app installation. All operating systems covered. Need to bring your own device.
Everyone’s Talking About It
Changing the Way We See Native America, Dismantling Native American Stereotypes: 2 p.m. Dec. 4. For far too long, Native America has been misrepresented as a “vanishing race,” silenced in mass media. Vital change begins with identifying and promoting positive indigenous role models from the contemporary, living era. Matika Wilbur (Swinomish and Tulalip) is one of the Pacific Northwest’s leading photographers. Since 2012, Project 562 has collected portraits and oral narratives from more than 300 of the over 562 federally-recognized Tribal Nations in the U.S. Come discuss changing the way we see Native Americans. Call 253-931-3018 for details.
Algona-Pacific Library, 225 Ellingson Road, Pacific. 253-833-3554. Library events include:
CHILDREN & FAMILIES
Toddler Story Time: 10:15 a.m. Dec. 6, 13. Ages 1½ to 3 with adult. Stories, songs and fun.
Preschool Story Time: 11 a.m. Dec. 6, 13. Ages 3 to 5 with adult. Stories, songs and fun.
Family Story Time: 10 a.m. Dec. 2. At the Pacific Community Center, 305 Milwaukee Ave., Pacific. All ages welcome, ages 6 and younger with adult. Stories, songs and fun.
Fun by the Fireside Sing-Along Show: 11 a.m. Dec. 10. Presented by Elephant Umbrella (Mike Gervais and Lisa Taylor). Family program, all ages welcome with adult. It might be cold outside but here’s your chance to pretend you’re enjoying hot cocoa and cozying up to an imaginary fire while singing and dancing along to memorable tunes about fall and winter.
Reading with Rover: 6-7 p.m. Dec. 14. For school-age children accompanied by an adult. Build reading skills and confidence by reading aloud to a certified therapy dog in a welcoming environment. Reading with Rover is a community-based literacy program working with schools and libraries throughout the greater Seattle area.
Build It @ the Library: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 17. Family program, ages 6 and younger with adult. Have some fun building with plastic bricks, blocks and straws. Create around a theme or build what you like. You bring the ideas and we will supply the building materials.
Color Craze: Noon-1 p.m. Dec. 30. Family program, all ages welcome with adult. Take a break from all of the holiday craziness. Join us at the library for a relaxing hour of coloring and stress reduction. Materials provided or bring your own.
TWEENS & TEENS
Teen Zone: 3:30-5 p.m. Dec. 1, 8, 15. No program on Nov. 24. Grades 5-12. Play video games, snack, hang out, study, or pick up a good book. All in the same place.
Study Zone: 6-8 p.m. Dec. 5, 12; 4-6 p.m. Dec. 6, 13. Grades K-12. Drop in for free homework help from trained volunteer tutors.
Cartooning Basics: 4 p.m. Dec. 13. Ages 9 to 18. Learn the basics of drawing cartoons with artist Lou Medina. No experience necessary. Space is limited, please register.
Learn to Knit, Arm Knitting: 5:30 p.m. Dec. 20. Ages 9 to 18. Did you know you can knit with your arms? Learn how to arm knit a scarf in this fun workshop. You bring the arms, we will bring the rest. Space is limited, please register.
ADULTS
Citizenship Classes: 7 p.m. Thursdays. Learn how to become a United States Citizen. Study for the naturalization test, including civics and government questions, reading and writing English, and practicing your interview skills. Classes are free, join anytime.
Computer Classes: Computer Class: • Computer Basics, 1 p.m. Dec. 12; • One-on-One Job Assistance, 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. Dec. 14; • Internet Level 1, 7 p.m. Dec. 14. Please register.
Algona-Pacific Page Turners Book Club: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 21. “The Snow Child” by Eowen Ivey. Share your love of books and connect with fellow readers. Contact the library for book title. Copies of this title have been reserved for participants and are available for check out at the library. New members are always welcome.
Sign Up for ORCA Lifts’s Reduced Fares: 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Dec. 8. Presented by Multi-Service Center. Drop in to register for ORCA Lift, a new, reduced fare on Metro buses, Sound Transit Link light rail, and more. Income-qualified riders, ages 19 and older, can save 50 percent or more. To see if you qualify, check orcalift.com or call Multi-Service Center at 253-838-6810. Please bring ID and income verification documents.
Muckleshoot Library, 39917 Auburn-Enumclaw Road SE., Auburn. 253-931-6779. Library events include:
PROGRAMS
Boredom Busters: At the library and looking for something to do? Ask the staff at the front desk about Boredom Buster kits. Board games, crafts, coloring, etc. Kits available for all ages.
Everyone’s Talking About It
Changing the Way We See Native America, Dismantling Native American Stereotypes: 2 p.m. Dec. 4. At the Auburn Library, 1102 Auburn Way S. For far too long, Native America has been misrepresented as a “vanishing race,” silenced in mass media. Vital change begins with identifying and promoting positive indigenous role models from the contemporary, living era. Matika Wilbur (Swinomish and Tulalip) is one of the Pacific Northwest’s leading photographers. Since 2012, Project 562 has collected portraits and oral narratives from more than 300 of the over 562 federally-recognized Tribal Nations in the U.S. Come discuss changing the way we see Native Americans. Call 253-931-3018 for details.
Network
3No Networking: 5:30 p.m. Thursdays. 3No Networking is a casual weekly get-together set aside for members of the business community to drop in and get to know each other. The mixer rotates among Auburn venues. The series is made possible by a partnership between IPZ No. 15 Auburn, the City of Auburn Office of Economic Development, Auburn Area Chamber of Commerce and the Auburn Downtown Association. For more information, contact Doug Lein, IPZ administrator, at 253-804-3101. For a full schedule, visit www.3noNetworking.com.
Auburn Area Chamber of Commerce Business Insider Luncheon: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., the third Tuesday of every month, Emerald Downs, Emerald Room (fourth floor), 2300 Emerald Downs Drive. $25/members; $35/non-members (includes lunch). Register online through the chamber. For more information, contact Karen Wickstrom at 253-833-0700 or karen@auburnareawa.org.
Seniors
Auburn Senior Activity Center, 808 Ninth St. SE. 253-931-3016 or www.auburnwa.gov. Senior activities include:
• Senior Coffee Hours with the Mayor and Councilmembers: 10-11 a.m. the second Thursday of the month.
• Lunch: Monday-Friday, Salad bar begins at 11:30, Main meal is served at noon. Cost: $3 donation for ages 60 and over, $6 for those younger than 60.
• Movie Screenings: Wednesdays, 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. 50 cents suggested donation for refreshments.
• Monday Supper Club: 4:45-6 p.m. One Monday a month. Call 253-931-3016 for date and menu. Cost: $6 for all ages.
• Meals on Wheels: Senior services’ program offers home-delivered meals to home-bound seniors. For more information, call the center at 253-931-3016.
PROGRAMS
Volunteer opportunities: The center’s meals-on-wheels and respite programs need help to provide services to seniors. Please call 253-288-7441 or 253-931-3016, if interested.
Auburn Respite: Nonprofit adult day care program serving the community needs volunteers to help its senior participants. The group meets weekly at the center from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fridays. The program allows caregivers to enjoy a worry-free day off while the participant enjoys socialization, companionship and lunch. For more information, contact program director Sheila Pankratz at 253-229-7510.
Pacific Algona Senior Center, 100 Third Ave SE, Pacific, 253-929-1153.
Serving seniors: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. No annual fee. Monday free lunch, Tuesday-Friday lunch provided by Catholic Community Services. Senior bus trips to local stores and events. Crafts and card making.
Entertainment
AUBURN AVENUE THEATER
At 10 Auburn Ave. Call Auburn Parks, Arts & Rec at 253-931-3043, Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m.-noon, or online at www.brownpapertickets.com.
Close To You -– A Carpenter’s Christmas: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 13. Singer and playwright Lisa Rock and her 6-piece backing band keep The Carpenters’ holiday traditions alive and bring their Christmas songs to the stage. Tickets: $20 regular; $18 students, seniors.
“A Christmas Story, The Musical”: 7 p.m. Dec. 9, 10, 15, 16, 17; 2 p.m. Dec. 10, 11, 17, 18. The musical, which received rave reviews on its Broadway run, is based on the movie classic that runs round-the-clock on television every Christmas. Tickets: $15 regular; $13 students, seniors.
AUBURN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
At 702 Fourth St. NE. Call Auburn Parks, Arts & Rec at 253-931-3043, Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m.-noon, or online at www.brownpapertickets.com.
Red, White & Blue Holiday Concert: 2 p.m. Dec. 4. The 133D Washington Army National Guard performs holiday classics and favorites of the season. Tickets are free with food donation, but required and can be picked up in advance at the parks office.
The Joy of the Holidays: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 6. Celebrate the holidays with selections from Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker”, storybook favorites Prokofiev’s “Midnight Waltz” from “Cinderella”, Tchaikovsky’s “Red Riding Hood” from “The Sleeping Beauty”, Herbert’s “March of the Toys” from “Babes in Toyland” and more. Guest conductor Michael Miropolsky serves as music director of Cascade Symphony Orchestra and conductor of Lake Washington Symphony Orchestra. Tickets: $35 general, $28 seniors 55 and older, $10 students. Available in a four-concert season package for $130 general and $105 seniors. For tickets, call 253-887-7777 or order online at auburnsymphony.org.
ELSEWHERE
Zola’s Cafe: Live music every Friday, 7-9 p.m., 402 E. Main St., Suite 120. Live music and wine tasting on the first Saturday of each month, 7-9 p.m. For information, contact Sonia Kessler at the cafe at 253-333-9652.
“Fiddler on the Roof”: 7 p.m. Dec. 9, 10, 16, 17; 2 p.m. Dec. 10, 11, 17, Green River College, main campus, Performing Arts Building, 12401 SE 320th St., Auburn. Presented by Heavier Than Air Family Theatre Co. Rich in history and steeped in tradition, Fiddler on the Roof tells the story of a tight-knit community in Czarist Russia determined to protect its way of life from a changing world. All tickets $10 advance purchase, $12 at the door (if available). For more information, call 253-833-9111 or visit heavierthanair.com.
Poetry
Poetry at the Rainbow Café: 7-9 p.m. first Monday of the month, at the café, 112 E. Main St. Coffee and conversation follow readings. It is an open mic opportunity. The public is invited. Programs: Dec. 5, Michael Schien and Poets from the LitFuse @ 10 Anthology Poets Unite.
Music
Maple Valley Youth Symphony Orchestra: Taylor Creek Church, 21110 244th Ave. SE, Maple Valley. MVYSO boasts a playing group for every level, from beginning strings to string ensemble. For more information, call 425-358-1640 or visit www.mvyso.org.
Rainier Youth Choirs: RYC has four leveled groups based on age and ability (grades 2 through 14). Call 253-315-3125 to schedule an audition. For more information, visit www.rainieryouthchoirs.org.
Museums
White River Valley Museum
Hours: Noon-4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday and the first Thursday 6-8 p.m. Regular admission is $5 adults, $2 seniors and children. Children 2 years of age or younger are free. Free admission on the first Thursday and third Sunday of the month. For more information, visit www.wrvmuseum.org or call 253-288-7439.
EXHIBIT
8th annual Small Works Big Presents, the Gift of Art exhibit: Through Dec. 18. Juried show and sale highlights the Northwest’s active contemporary art scene, making small-scale, high-quality original works of arts and crafts available for holiday gift buying. $1,900 in prize money will be awarded to five artists, whose work was particularly popular with the jury. Guests can vote on the People’s Choice Award, the winner of which will receive $400 and have their artwork featured in next year’s publicity. Sponsored by the museum and the City of Auburn Arts Commission.
Galleries
Auburn City Hall: Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Admission is free. 253-931-3043 or www.auburnwa.gov.
