Auburn will see a new and improved Relay For Life in 2017, jammed-packed with events, excitement and inspirational moments, while honoring those fighting cancer, survivors and those we’ve lost from around the region.

The relay, with the theme Carnival for a Cure, begins at noon on Saturday, May 6, at Auburn Memorial Stadium and Trojan Field, 601 Fourth St. NE.

Unlike previous years, the event will not extend overnight but run until midnight after the luminaria, awards ceremony and the Fight Back Lap.

“We made the changed based on what our top supporters wanted,” said Natasha Daily, American Cancer Society’s community manager for the relay. “People stayed for the luminaria ceremony and then left, so most people didn’t stay overnight. We want to do what will engage the community in the best and most effective way.”

The American Cancer Society relies on volunteers and community-minded businesses and organizations to help operate community events such as the relay. Community participation and help are needed at the following events:

• Friday, Jan. 27, from noon to 1 p.m., at Bogey’s Public House at the Auburn Golf Course, 29630 Green River Road SE. A community business kickoff luncheon with Mayor Nancy Backus and the Relay Event Committee. It’s an opportunity to learn how businesses can support the relay. Cost is $5 per person and entry into drawings for prizes. RSVP to natasha.daily@cancer.org.

• Friday, March 24, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Bogey’s Public House. All activities surround the Carnival for a Cure fundraiser. Tickets are $25 per person, which includes dinner and two pints of a craft brew from a local brewery. The event features a silent auction and exciting carnival games. All proceeds benefit the Relay of Auburn. For tickets: tinkmom67@gmail.com

Teams can sign up for the May 6 relay at relayforlife.org/AuburnWa. Sponsors are needed to help with all three events and with that sponsorship comes high visibility.

For more information, please contact Daily at 253-221-0632 or natasha.daily@cancer.org.