For the Reporter

Auburn’s Fourth of July Festival, an old-fashioned, hometown celebration, returns to Les Gove Park on Wednesday.

The free festival unfolds from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the park, 910 Ninth St. SE, and includes a Kids’ Bike Parade at noon. Children of all ages may line up on their decorated bicycles, tricycles, strollers, wagons or unicycles for the parade beginning at 11:30 a.m. on the east side of the bocce courts.

More than 50 craft vendors will offer an array of hand-crafted items.

The White River Valley Museum will offer free admission during the festival. Friends of the Auburn Library will host a book sale. There will be bocce and bingo, a food court and face painting.

There also will be a large car show.

An event wristband may be purchased for $5 and is good for unlimited activities, which include 17 inflatable rides, tubs o’ fun, bungy trampolines, rock wall, train rides, mini golf, two pony carousels, R.C. Truck Racing and balloon art.

The Aerial Assault Extreme Entertainment (AAEE) team, which will provide five, 30-minute, gravity-defying shows at the festival. AAEE is a touring group of world-class entertainers and acrobats providing heart-pounding trampoline shows.

The Main Stage boasts the energetic ’50s and ’60s rock and roll band, Wally & The Beavs, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The Chris Anderson Band performs classic songs – Motown, pop, country and more – from 1 to 2:30 p.m., and Rain City Time Machine plays hit songs from 3 to 4 p.m.

Leashed, licensed and well-behaved pets are welcome.

The City of Auburn and the Auburn Parks, Arts and Recreation Department – with support from sponsors – present the festival.

For more information, visit auburnwa.gov.