Community Members Swap Wares at Clothing Swap | | |
On Saturday, the South King Tool Library transformed into a hub for sustainable style and community connection. After weeks of gathering donated clothing, shoes, and accessories, the Tool Library opened its doors to the Federal Way community for a free clothing swap event.
Inside, racks were filled with carefully sorted, gently used pieces, each one ready to be rediscovered. The event highlighted how a wardrobe refresh can come from reimagining and rediscovering pieces that are already in circulation.
Remaining items were set aside for local nonprofits, extending the life of each piece and reinforcing a shared commitment to reducing waste.
| | Mayor Ferrell Attends Vaisakhi Sikh Community Celebration | | |
Mayor Jim Ferrell attended the Vaisakhi Sikh Community Celebration on Saturday. It included a religious parade that walked along the roads around the former Weyerhaeuser Campus. The parade began at and was hosted by the Khalsa Gurmat Center on 344th Street as part of the organization’s Sajana Diwas events.
Vaisakhi is about celebrating the harvest as well as the birth of Sikhism.
| | Join Us for Parks Appreciation Day April 18 | | |
Join us for the 20th Annual Parks Appreciation Day on Saturday, April 18, from 9 a.m. to noon! This community volunteer event is dedicated to keeping Federal Way’s parks beautiful. Grab your gloves and help with planting, weeding, and cleanup projects to make a lasting impact in our green spaces.
Rain or shine, we’ll be out there making a difference. Please wear sturdy shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Some tools will be available, but extra shovels, gloves, clippers, and wheelbarrows are appreciated.
Volunteer sites:
- Brooklake Blueberry Farm (726 S. 356th St.)
- Steel Lake Annex (2645 S. 312th St.)
- Celebration Park (1095 S. 324th St.)
Pre-register online if you plan to attend!
| | Join Us for Opening Day of the Federal Way Farmers Market May 9 | | |
Join us on Saturday, May 9, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for Opening Day of the 2026 Season of the Federal Way Farmers Market. We’re excited to move to our new location on South 316th Street between Town Square Park and the Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center.
During the Federal Way Farmers Market, the street will be closed with barricades in place for the market. Parking is available at Town Square Park and in and around downtown Federal Way, including nearby public lots within walking distance of the market.
Visit our website for season details, vendor information, and more.
| | Mayor Ferrell and Council Recognize Black Wellness Month | | |
At the April 7 City Council Meeting, Mayor Jim Ferrell and the City Council presented a proclamation recognizing April 13-17 as Black Wellness Week. Black Wellness Week is a statewide celebration of health, resilience, and community power, focused on health education, wellness resources, and creating spaces where Black communities are seen, heard, and cared for.
Councilmember Les Sessoms presented the proclamation to community member and volunteer Cynthia Ricks-Moccotan.
You can view the full proclamation on our website.
| | Drive Thru Shredding Event on April 16 | | | | |
Join us for our free Drive-Thru Document Shredding event at Red Canoe Credit Union (33616 Pacific Highway South) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, April 16.
Document Shredding
- Limit five file boxes or paper bags per event.
- No pre-shredded paper.
- Arrive with documents in the back of your vehicle. Stay in the vehicle while they are unloaded.
| | Federal Way Police Department Hosts 2025 Annual Awards Ceremony | | |
The Federal Way Police Department held its Annual Awards Ceremony recently, where Chief Andy Hwang recognized the accomplishments, dedication, and commitment to public safety shown by personnel throughout 2025.
The program began with Life Saving Awards, recognizing officers who demonstrated quick thinking and courageous action in critical incidents. Recipients included Officer Christian Buitron, Officer Darnell Hogan, Officer Bailey Lopp, and Officer Joshua Power.
Chief’s Commendations were then presented to Quartermaster/Volunteer Coordinator Sarah Butts and Patrol Administrative Assistant Abigail Rupert in recognition of their contributions to employee wellness and their positive impact on the department.
Volunteer Service Awards were presented based on hours served, with recipients recognized in order of total service: Tim Lehnherr, Frank Gabreluk, and Debbie Davis.
The Employee of the Year Awards followed. Community Engagement Coordinator Tiffany Clemmings was named Civilian Employee of the Year. Officer Keith Pon was recognized as Officer of the Year, Detective Shawn Warrick as Detective of the Year, Lieutenant Nic Peterson as Supervisor of the Year, and Corporal Brady Avestruz as Most Valuable Player.
Additional recognitions highlighted key areas of department performance. Officer Hailey Mersman completed the highest number of case reports. Records Specialist Summer Owen processed the highest number of case reports. Officer Kyle Butts completed the most field interview reports, while Officer Steven Ok led patrol in field interview reports. Officer Trent Wheeler led the department in DUI arrests with 51.
FWPD congratulates all award recipients and thanks them for their dedication and service to the community. Over the next few weeks, we’ll be featuring award recipients and sharing a closer look at the work and dedication behind their achievements.
| | Arts Explosion at the PAEC May 29-31 | | | | |
The Federal Way Arts Commission is excited to announce the fourth-annual “Arts Explosion” Juried Art Show Festival, taking place from May 29-30, at the Performing Arts & Events Center.
This vibrant festival will celebrate the diversity of Federal Way, showcasing the talents of both adult and youth artists, while promoting artistic growth and community engagement.
The fourth-annual Federal Way Arts Explosion Festival brings a juried art competition to both adult and youth artists from around the region.
| | Youth Commission Car Wash on April 18 | | | | |
The City of Federal Way Youth Commission is hosting a Car Wash Fundraiser on Saturday, April 18, at the Federal Way Community Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
All proceeds will support the FirStep Scholarship, established in 2019 to help youth access recreational activities they otherwise couldn't afford.
The scholarship funds one recreational program or a three-month FWCC membership for eligible students in grades 6-12.
Car washes are $10 for all vehicles.
Come get your vehicle sparkling clean while making a meaningful difference in a young person's life!
| | April 7 City Council Meeting | | |
Other Recent Meetings:
What’s Next: The Federal Way City Council meets Tuesday, April 21, 2026, for a regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.
How to Attend: Attend in person at Federal Way City Hall, 33325 8th Ave. S. or watch live on Zoom, the City's YouTube channel, or FW Channel 21.
| | Upcoming Events and Opportunities | | City of Federal Way Hosting Town Hall Meeting on April 30 | | | | |
The City of Federal Way is hosting a Town Hall Meeting on Thursday, April 30, at 6 p.m. at Olympic View K-8.
Join Mayor Jim Ferrell, City Councilmembers, and City staff for updates and conversation about the direction of our city.
Come share your thoughts, ask questions, and connect with the people working to serve our community.
All residents are welcome to attend and be part of the conversation.
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Sign Up for Our Free Financial
Literacy Program
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The Bob Towne Financial Literacy Program, presented by the City of Federal Way with help from community volunteers and Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University, is offering a free nine-week course focused on budgeting, getting out of debt, saving, and building financial confidence.
The upcoming session runs Thursdays from April 16 through June 11, 6:30–8:30 p.m., at Federal Way City Hall.
To register, email Bill Vadino at bill.vadino@federalwaywa.gov or call 253-835-2420.
| | Sign Up for Our Free CERT Basic Course | | | | |
Join our Spring 2026 CERT Basic Course to develop new skills to protect yourself, your family, and your neighbors in the event of a disaster.
This 10-week course teaches participants organizational structure and how to respond to immediate needs of the community and assist first responders.
Classes are each Wednesday, April 15 through June 10, from 6-8:30 p.m.
Email sharon.green@federalwaywa.gov or call 253-835-2712 to sign up.
| | Kickin' It Federal Way June 19-21 | | | | |
Join us June 19-21 for Kickin' It Federal Way, a three-day festival celebrating soccer, culture, and community at the Performing Arts & Event Center.
The festival will feature FIFA World Cup 26™ watch parties, live performances on the outdoor stage, food truck alley, and a wide range of family-friendly activities, turning the PAEC and the surrounding property into a hub of entertainment throughout the weekend.
| | I'm Hooked Kids Fishing Event on May 2 | | |
Join us for the 9th Annual Great Outdoor Experience hosted in partnership with I'm Hooked Inc. at Steel Lake Park! Spend a fun day outdoors learning about fishing, enjoying hands-on activities, and connecting with the community.
Date: Saturday, May 2
Time: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Location: Steel Lake Park
This free, family-friendly event is perfect for youth and families who want to learn the basics of fishing while enjoying a day by the lake. Community mentors will guide participants through angler education and help make it a memorable outdoor experience.
| | Senior Health & Resource Fair on May 12 | | | | |
The Senior Advisory Commission proudly invites you to join them at the 4th Annual Senior Health & Resource Fair at the Performing Arts & Event Center on Tuesday, May 12, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
This free event will bring together 85 local vendors with direct ties to the senior community.
Thank you to our sponsors: The City of Federal Way, Vickie Chynoweth, St. Francis Hospital, Home Instead, the Federal Way Mirror, Fedelta Home Care, FUSION, and Steel Lake Presbyterian Church. Without you, we would not be able to host this event!
All ages – especially seniors! – are welcome.
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Take the Diversity Commission's
Community Engagement Survey
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The City of Federal Way Diversity Commission wants to hear from you!
Please take just a few minutes to share your thoughts in this short Community Engagement Survey.
Your feedback will help us reach more in our community and help us to make our city even more welcoming and connected for everyone.
| | U.S. Small Business Association Hosting In-Person Office Hours at City Hall | | |
The U.S. Small Business Association (SBA) is hosting in-person office hours at Federal Way City Hall on Friday, April 17, at 8 a.m.
Are you a local entrepreneur seeking resources to start, manage, or grow your small business? Interested in meeting one-on-one with staff from the SBA Seattle District to discuss your small business needs?
SBA In-Person Office Hours are an opportunity to meet with local SBA staff to learn more about SBA programs, including resources for:
- Small business funding
- Federal contracting
- Disaster assistance
- Technical assistance, mentoring, and advising
This event is open to the general public. Interested attendees are encouraged to book an appointment on the registration page to ensure availability. RSVP online now.
| | Municipal Court Student Art Contest | | | | |
The City of Federal Way Arts Commission is
sponsoring an art contest as requested by Federal
Way Municipal Court Judge Danielle Havens
and Judge Brad Bales.
The contest is open to all students in first through eighth grade living within the boundaries of Federal Way.
Entries selected will be displayed in Federal Way Municipal Court. The hope is to give the municipal court a friendlier look for family members who are visiting the court rooms.
Entries must be received by May 1, and winners will be notified by May 8.
| | Provide Your Feedback on Opportunity Zones in Federal Way | | | | |
We are exploring the future of Opportunity Zones in Federal Way, and we want to hear from you!
Opportunity Zones are federally designated areas where new investment is encouraged through tax incentives, with the goal of supporting economic development, creating jobs, expanding housing options, and strengthening community-serving spaces.
Federal Way currently has one Opportunity Zone located in the downtown area with the possibility of a re-designation from the State of Washington.
| | Storm Large at the PAEC on May 1 | | | | |
Join us for Storm Large on Friday, May 1, at 7:30 p.m. at the Performing Arts & Event Center.
Storm Large is a musical force of nature — part rock goddess, part cabaret siren, and all powerhouse performer. Bursting into the national spotlight on Rock Star: Supernova and later wowing audiences on America’s Got Talent, Storm has built a devoted following with her raw vocals, magnetic stage presence, and fearless storytelling.
Brought to you by Fastsigns Federal Way and Showcase Magazine!
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The Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center (PAEC) puts on a wide variety of events year-round. Upcoming events include:
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April 17: Habib Qaderi Live - Afghanistan Music Night
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April 18: 60s Flashback Show
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April 28: Swan Lake by International Ballet Stars
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May 1: PAEC Presents: Storm Large
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May 6: PAEC Presents: Step Afrika!
Visit the PAEC event calendar page for a full list of upcoming events.
| | Friends of Federal Way Libraries Book Sale on May 9 | | | | |
The Federal Way Library is hosting a Friends of Federal Way Libraries Book Sale on May 9. Browse gently used books, DVDs, CDs, and more to help support library programming.
General Sale:
- Saturday, May 9, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Pre-Sale for Members Only:
- Saturday, May 9, 10:15 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Memberships are available at the door for $5. Cash or checks only. Please bring your own bags.
| | The 39 Steps March 27 to April 19 | | | | |
"The 39 Steps" comes to Centerstage each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday March 27 to April 19.
It's a mix of a Hitchcock movie with a juicy spy novel, add a dash of Monty Python, toss it all on stage right in front of you, and you have a fast-paced whodunit for anyone who loves the magic of theatre!
This two-time Tony and Drama Desk Award-winning masterpiece is packed with hilarity.
General Admission Tickets are $40 in advance (online or over the phone) and $43 at the door. Student, Military, and Senior Ticket discounts are available.
| | BonsaiFest! Returns May 9-10 | | | | |
The Pacific Bonsai Museum invites the public to BonsaiFEST!, its annual free outdoor festival, on Saturday, May 9, and Sunday, May 10. The event will be open to the public each day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This year's event marks the opening of Bonsai United, a groundbreaking new exhibition curated by Aarin Packard that brings together 36 bonsai practitioners from 15 traditions around the world, speaking in their own voices about what makes their regional approaches to bonsai distinctly their own.
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