For the Reporter

Auburn’s Fourth of July Festival – an old-fashioned, hometown celebration with a kids bike parade, art, music, food and live entertainment – returns to Les Gove Park next Friday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Highlights are:

• The eighth annual Apple Pie Eating Contest, which hits the entertainment stage at 2:30 p.m., followed by favorite local band, The Fabulous Murphtones.

• The Washington National Guard’s Brass Patriots, which perform from 11 a.m. to noon, followed by the opening ceremony. The entertainment lineup includes The Nines, the Radio Disney Rockin’ Road Show, the Po’okela Street Band, The Anthem Rock Allstars and The Diamond Experience.

• Children of all ages may lining up on their decorated bicycles, tricycles, strollers, wagons or unicycles beginning at 11:30 a.m. The parade begins at noon, led by festively-decorated golf carts carrying Mayor Nancy Backus, City Councilmembers and other dignitaries.

• Free activities including bocce ball, museum activities, face painting and other games. An event wristband may be purchased for $5 and is good for unlimited games.

• More than 50 craft vendors offering an array of hand-crafted items, from jewelry and kids’ items to fine art and candles. The Auburn Golf Course will offer mini golf, and festival-goers can admire unique cars in the car show.

The White River Valley Museum will offer free admission during the festival. The Auburn Library features a book sale in the Les Gove Building, hosted by the Friends of the Auburn Library.

For more information, call 253-931-3043 or visit www.auburnwa.gov/events.