Dec. 15, 2025

City Hosts Annual Legislative Breakfast

The City of Federal Way welcomed 30th District Representatives Kristine Reeves and Jamila Taylor to its annual Legislative Breakfast held last week at the Federal Way Community Center. Mayor Jim Ferrell joined members of the City Council as department leaders provided updates on ongoing initiatives and outlined the City’s legislative priorities for the upcoming 2026 session.

Although Senator Claire Wilson was unable to attend, the City will continue coordinating with her office to ensure that all district partners remain informed and engaged in the work ahead.

The Legislative Breakfast continues to serve as an important opportunity for collaboration between the City and state leaders, helping to align efforts that support services, infrastructure, and overall quality of life for the Federal Way community.

Mayor Ferrell Visits Lakeland Elementary

Mayor Jim Ferrell visited the third-grade students at Lakeland Elementary last week, where he spoke about his role as Mayor of Federal Way, the structure of local government, and the importance of being an engaged voter.

"Meeting with kids is truly my favorite part of this job," Mayor Ferrell said. "They ask the best questions, and their curiosity and excitement for learning is always inspiring!"

City Recognizes Departments for Food Drive Participation

In November, City of Federal Way employees came together for a Holiday Food Drive to support the Multi-Service Center and the Federal Way Senior Center. Staff collected a total of 2,875.86 pounds of food!

Community outreach and word of mouth helped generate additional support, contributing another 448 pounds from the Federal Way community.

While the food drive was a collective effort, departments also took part in a friendly competition. The Community Development and Economic Development teams led the way, collecting more than 700 pounds between them.

Thank you to everyone who donated, and to DJ Trophy for designing and donating the trophy for the winning team.

Judge Larson Retirement Celebrated

Local and state officials along with Federal Way staff and community members gathered at the Federal Way Community Center last week to celebrate Municipal Court Judge David Larson. Larson is retiring at the end of his current term on Dec. 31.

The event, which was emceed by Mayor Jim Ferrell, included in-person and video remarks from Larson's fellow judges and other officials such as Congressmen Adam Smith and Mike Baumgardner.

Larson, who has lived in Federal Way since 1967, has served the Federal Way Municipal Court since 2008. He has been consistently involved in the Federal Way community throughout his life, including serving on the Federal Way School board, the City’s Human Services Commission, and the City’s Board of Ethics 

A Historic Week in Federal Way: Relive the Light Rail Opening & Tree Lighting Magic

Last week was a landmark moment for Federal Way, and we’re excited to share video highlights from two unforgettable community events: The Grand Opening of the Federal Way Downtown Light Rail Station and our annual Tree Lighting Celebration at Town Square Park.

Federal Way officially entered a new era of regional mobility as the Downtown Federal Way Light Rail Station opened its doors for the first time. Community members, regional leaders, and Sound Transit officials gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and celebration marking this major milestone for our city.

Watch the Light Rail Opening video.

Our community came together once again to welcome the holiday season during the beloved Tree Lighting Ceremony. Families enjoyed music, treats, festive activities, and, of course, seeing the Town Square Park tree light up the night.

Watch the Tree Lighting video.

Please Take Our Traffic Safety Plan Survey By End of 2025

Whether you walk, bike, drive, or ride the bus, every trip in Federal Way should feel safe. For the first time, the City is asking for your input to help build a new Traffic Safety Action Plan!

This plan uses the Safe System Approach, which recognizes that while crashes can happen, serious injuries and deaths can be prevented.

Now’s your chance to make a difference.

• Tell us which intersections or streets feel unsafe
• Suggest where sidewalks or bike lanes are needed
• Add comments directly to our interactive map

We’re accepting feedback through the end of 2025. Visit our project website to take the survey and learn more.

Let’s work together to make Federal Way safer for all.

Featured Upcoming Event

Cookies with Mrs. Claus at FWCC on Dec. 18

Join us at the Federal Way Community Center on Thursday, Dec. 18, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. for a magical evening with Mrs. Claus. This event is perfect for children ages 2-10 and includes cookie decorating, photo opportunities, cocoa, and music!

Admission is just $5 per person.

PLEASE NOTE: This is one of our most popular events and always sells out fast! Pre-registration is strongly recommended, as day-of tickets may not be available!

Preventing Holiday Food Waste

Every holiday season, millions of pounds of food are wasted in Washington. When you use what you have, get creative with leftovers, and plan meals mindfully, you can save food and money.

The holidays are a time to celebrate. Together, we can get more out of what we buy. Share the gift of using food well by shopping smart and planning ahead!

Check out www.UseFoodWell.org for meal planning, food storage tips, and leftover recipes to help do your part to reduce food waste!

Community Center Hosts Wishing Tree for Local Residents

The Wishing Tree is now up in the Federal Way Community Center lobby. Each tag represents a real request from someone in our community.

This initiative from Federal Way’s Inclusive Recreation Program connects community donors with individuals and families experiencing financial hardship, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a meaningful and inclusive holiday season.

We are looking to provide gifts and essential items during the holiday season to individuals with disabilities and low-income families, fostering joy, connection, and dignity.

• Choose a tag from the Wishing Tree in the FWCC lobby.
• Shop for 1-3 items listed on the tag (total value up to $75).
• Gift cards are also accepted.
• Drop off items unwrapped at the FWCC Front Desk by December 16. Please keep the tag with your gifts.
• If you’re unable to complete your tag, please return it to the Wishing Tree so every wish can be fulfilled.

Contact: Sabrina.Bates@FederalWayWA.gov

Turn Around, Don’t Drown

Heavy winter rains create dangerous driving conditions in Western Washington. Last week, all the rivers in our area reached major flood stage, with many setting record levels. Our closest rivers, the Puyallup, White, and Green Rivers overtopped their banks in places, flooding several arterial roads often used by residents of Federal Way.

Although you might be tempted to save a few minutes and risk it, never go around barricades or other road closed signs. Even a few inches of moving water can sweep a vehicle downstream, creating a possibly fatal situation. And water over the roadway may hide submerged hazards or washed out roads. 

Travelers can check the Washington State Department of Transportation real-time map for the most up to date road closures and conditions at wsdot.com/travel/real-time/map. WASDOT attempts to keep Google Maps up to date with road conditions, so don’t be afraid to use it even on routine and familiar trips.  

Remember, “Turn around, don’t drown.” You may arrive a little late, but you’ll arrive safe! 

Jan. 6 City Council Meeting

What’s Next: The Federal Way City Council meets Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2025, 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

MLK Day Celebration

Join the City of Federal Way and the Federal Way Diversity Commission as we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy at the Annual MLK Celebration on Saturday, Jan. 17, from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. This year's theme is "Turning Pain Into Peace - Living Out the Dream."

Together, we’ll reflect on his enduring message, hear from inspiring speakers, enjoy meaningful performances, and come together as a community committed to carrying his vision of peace, justice, and unity forward.

Cocoa & Candy Canes on Dec. 17

Calling all seniors!

The Senior Advisory Commission’s quarterly Senior Commission Connection luncheon welcomes Council President Linda Kochmar for cocoa, candy canes, cookie decorating, and conversation!

This event is open to all seniors in Federal Way.

Please find some time to join us on Wednesday, Dec. 17, at 11:30 a.m. at the Federal Way Community Center.

Save the Date: 2026 Senior Health & Resource Fair on May 12

The Senior Advisory Commission is hosting a free Senior Health and Resource Fair on Tuesday, May 12, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Performing Arts and Event Center.

The event will feature more than 50 vendors from local organizations with special ties to the senior community. All ages – especially seniors – are welcome.

This Senior Resource Fair is intended to create a welcoming space where attendees can explore available services at their own pace. 

Further information will be provided as planning continues, ensuring the event remains organized and accessible.

City Accepting Applications for Boards and Commissions

The City of Federal Way is accepting applications for those interested in serving on city boards and commissions.

The City is planning to conduct interviews at upcoming council meetings with a focus on filling open positions on:

• Steel Lake Management District Advisory
• Parks & Recreation Commission
• Diversity Commission
• Historic Landmark Commission
• Independent Salary Commission

Questions? Email CK@FederalWayWA.gov or call 253-835-2540.

Nutcracker at the PAEC on Dec. 21

Join the Grand Kyiv Ballet on an unforgettable journey into a world of dreams, magic, and triumph over evil with the Nutcracker on Dec. 21 at the Performing Arts & Event Center.

The Grand Kyiv Ballet includes the most prestigious Ballet dancers from Ukraine and many other countries.

In this enchanting tale, a young girl befriends a nutcracker that comes to life on Christmas Eve.

Good Samaritan Discount at the PAEC

Save up to 10% on tickets to select shows when you participate in the Performing Arts & Event Center food drive, now through Dec. 21!

Bring non-perishable food items to the PAEC box office to receive a special 10% discount on select shows for supporting our community.

Contact our team for availability at (253) 835-7010, or stop by during our business hours (10 a.m. through 2 p.m., Monday through Friday).

Thank you for supporting Federal Way’s Multi-Service Center Food Bank!

PAEC Upcoming Events

The Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center (PAEC) puts on a wide variety of events year-round. Upcoming events include:

• Dec. 18: Sisters Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi's Gold
• Dec. 21: Grand Kyiv Ballet's The Nutcracker
• Jan. 28: PAEC Presents: The Peking Acrobats
• Jan. 30: Epic Queen
• Feb. 14: Songs of Black Folk

Visit the PAEC event calendar page for a full list of upcoming events.

South King Fire Santa Parades and Canned Food Drive

South King Fire began Santa Parades in 2020 as a way to support and connect with our community throughout a difficult time.

The Santa Parades and Canned Food Drive will be in Federal Way on the following dates from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.:

• Dec. 1 at North Hill/Zenith
• Dec. 2 at Woodmont/Laurelwood
• Dec. 8 at Marine Hills/Alderbrook
• Dec. 9 at Twin Lakes/Campus Highlands
• Dec. 15 at Lakeland North/Camelot
• Dec. 16 at Lakeland South/Wild Waves

Red Riding Hood at Centerstage Theater Nov. 29 to Dec. 21

"Red Riding Hood: A Holiday Panto" comes to Centerstage Theater each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, Nov. 29 to Dec. 21

Directed by Helen Marion-Rowe, this topsy-turvy twist on the classic tale brings new songs, old jokes, and plenty of festive cheer to the stage.

General Admission Tickets are $44 in advance (online or over the phone) and $47 at the door. Student, Military, and Senior Ticket discounts are available.