December 9, 2024

Community Gathers at Town Square Park for Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony

A festive crowd gathered at Town Square Park on Dec. 7 to join Mayor Jim Ferrell in the City’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. It was an evening of family-friendly fun that included live music, a visit from Santa, and free cocoa and cookies for all attendees.

Thank you to our sponsors, Federal Way Arts Commission, Sylvan Learning, and MultiCare, and our talented Parks and Recreation team for helping put on such a magical event.

The Federal Way Police Department (FWPD) released preliminary data this week showing that crime rates in the City of Federal Way have decreased more than 11% compared to this time last year.

Year to date, most categories of crime are down in Federal Way, including, most notably: 

Drug arrests, meanwhile, are up more than 402%.

“Public safety is our chief concern in Federal Way, and I applaud our dedicated police officers and leadership for continually improving our efforts to keep our residents, businesses, and visitors safe,” said Mayor Jim Ferrell. “These figures also reflect important steps the Washington State Legislature took earlier this year to allow us to pursue criminals at higher rates than we had been able to since 2021.”

FWPD anticipates an overall crime reduction between 10% and 12% in 2024 once the year-end numbers are calculated in January.

Additionally, the overall crime rate for November 2024 is down 17% compared to rates in November 2023.

Compared to last year, crime rates in November were reduced for Robbery (down 72%), Commercial and Residential Burglary (down 41% and 63%, respectively), and Motor Vehicle Theft (down 44%) among other categories.

Watch Mayor Ferrell's appearance on KOMO TV over the weekend for more details.

Jingle Bell Brunch Welcomes Families to Community Center

The Federal Way Community Center hosted its annual Jingle Bell Brunch on Dec. 7. Attendees dined on a hearty breakfast, hot cocoa, and holiday spirit while engaging in fun and festive art projects. Families created memories to remember, and some even participated in the cutest family pajama contest.

Thank you to We <3 Our City for providing the cocoa and coffee station.

King County Aquatic Center's Mike Dunwiddie Receives Key to the City

During the City Council regular meeting held on Dec. 3, Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell gave his Mayor’s Key to The City to Mike Dunwiddie, retired manager of the King County Aquatic Center.

Dunwiddie was the first and only coordinator in the history of the Aquatic Center, which opened its doors in 1990. He transformed the center into an exemplary facility for general swimming, synchronized swimming, water polo, and swimming and diving competitions.

Stand Up Federal Way Community Recognized for Volunteer Efforts

At its Dec. 3 regular meeting, the Federal Way City Council recognized Stand Up Federal Way Community for its community cleanup efforts. Council President Linda Kochmar presented the group with a certificate of recognition signed by all seven councilmembers and Mayor Jim Ferrell.

State of Education in Federal Way Featured at Chamber Luncheon

Mayor Jim Ferrell and members of the City Council attended the Greater Federal Way Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon to learn about the State of Education at Federal Way Public Schools from Superintendent Dr. Dani Pfeiffer.



Great things are happening at Federal Way schools for all students. Dr. Pfeiffer’s leadership and the efforts of school staff and community partners are all critical to elevating the sixth most diverse school district in the nation. We truly are better together.

Featured Upcoming Event

Free Mattress Recycling and Document Shredding Event Dec. 14

Join us for our free Drive-Thru Mattress Recycling and Document Shredding event at the South King Tool Library (1700 S. 340th St.) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14.

Mattress Recycling

• Residents can drop off up to three mattresses or box springs for recycling.
• All sizes and conditions allowed.

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.

Holiday Season Safety Tips from Mall Officers

The Commons at Federal Way is staffed with police officers seven days a week. Our mall officers are Officers Pau (left above) and Jimenez (right above), who have been with the Federal Way Police Department for 15 and 19 years, respectively.

Here are some holiday shopping safety tips from Officer Pau:

It’s that beautiful time of year, again. As the holiday season is upon us, the Federal Way Police Department mall officers want to ensure that your shopping experience at the Commons is both enjoyable and secure. Unfortunately, the increase in shopping activity can attract opportunistic thieves.

Here are some tips to help you safeguard your belongings while you visit the Commons:

• Stay Alert: Always be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your bags, wallets, and phones, especially in crowded areas.
• Keep Valuables Close: Consider using a crossbody bag or keep your wallet in an inside pocket. Avoid leaving items unattended in shopping carts or store counters.
• Lock Your Vehicle: When leaving your vehicle parked in the parking lot, lock your vehicle and ensure that packages and valuables are hidden from view, preferably secured in the trunk.
• Shop in Pairs or Groups: If possible, bring a shopping buddy or family member, especially during peak hours. This can reduce the likelihood of theft.
• Report Suspicious Activity: If you notice anything unusual or see suspicious behavior, immediately inform mall security or a store employee.
• Be Careful in the Parking Lot: With the sun setting earlier during the winter months, please stay alert while walking to and from your parked vehicle or through the parking lot areas. Low lighting and busier mall conditions can require extra attention while driving through the parking lot as well.

Hopefully these tips help you enjoy a safe and festive holiday shopping experience.

Where to Recycle Batteries Safely

Did you know batteries can spark or explode? They do not belong in your trash or recycling. The City of Federal Way has set up several free drop off sites where residents can properly dispose of batteries and prevent fires.

Watch the Dec. 3 City Council Meeting

What’s Next: The Federal Way City Council meets Tuesday, Jan. 7, 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

Cookies with Mrs. Claus Dec. 19

Make special memories with special little ones in your life decorating cookies and leave the mess to us! Attend our Cookies with Mrs. Claus event from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 19, at the Federal Way Community Center.

Entry is $5 per person (including both kids and adults). We supply you with everything you need to make some masterpiece cookies PLUS you get to have a special visit with Mrs. Claus.

Each kid in attendance will receive a plate with five sugar cookies to decorate.

State of the City Scheduled for Feb. 13

SAVE THE DATE. Mayor Jim Ferrell's annual State of the City Address will be held at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 13, at the Performing Arts & Event Center. The event is free and open to the public.

Hear an inspiring address from Mayor Ferrell as we celebrate our community’s accomplishments and share an exciting vision for the future.

This special evening is your chance to be part of the conversation shaping Federal Way’s journey forward. Let’s come together to honor our city and explore what’s ahead.

View Our Parks & Recreation Winter and Spring Program Guide

The Federal Way Parks & Recreation Department offers a wide variety of fun recreational activities for residents of all ages.

Take a moment and check out our Winter and Spring Program Guide to find an activity, new or old, that will get you up, moving and out of the house!



Scouting for Trees on Jan. 4

The Boy Scouts of America and the City of Federal Way welcome you to our annual Holiday Tree and Light Recycling Event on Saturday, Jan. 4 and 5.

We will be offering pickup services on Jan. 4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. or you can drop off your trees and lights at Celebration Park on Jan. 4 and 5 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Registration closes Dec. 29. Three trees per person accepted at the drop-off location. Trees with any ornaments, lights, flocking, tinsel, stands, debris, etc., will not be accepted.

PAEC Upcoming Events

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

• Dec. 13 and 14: The Federal Way Chorale: Yuletide: A Celebration of the Season in Song 2024
• Dec. 15: 2024 FWYSO Christmas Concert
• Dec. 19: ABBA Holly Jolly Christmas
• Dec. 22: The Nutcracker

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

Federal Way Symphony Season

Established in 1983, the Federal Way Symphony has provided our community with high-quality, professional music for more than 40 years.

Performances are held at the Performing Arts & Event Center. The Federal Way Symphony is currently inviting those interested to buy a ticket to attend performances for their current season, titled "Cosmic Melodies."

Visit the Federal Way Symphony website to view their full calendar listing and to purchase tickets.

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. 9
• Dec. 10
• Dec. 17

Volunteers Needed for Federal Way Cares for Kids Holiday Event Dec. 21

Mark your calendars for Saturday, Dec. 21, and be part of the annual FW Cares for Kids Holiday Event.

Federal Way Cares for Kids is a nonprofit which coordinates the talents, resources, and skills of local organizations and individuals to maximize support received by kids and families served by Federal Way schools.

Visit the FW Cares for Kids website for more information about the organization.

Beauty and the Beast at Centerstage Theatre

Centerstage Theatre is putting on "Beauty and the Beast: a Holiday Panto" through Dec. 22 at the Knutzen Family Theater located at 3200 SW Dash Point Rd.

The Panto brings a classic fairy tale together with the wonderfully over-the-top characters you love, giving you plenty of those punchy pop culture moments with music, movement, and magic!

Admission Tickets are $42 in advance (online or over the phone) and $45 at the door. Student, Military and Senior Ticket discounts are available. More details available online at or by phone at 253-661-1444. 

Winter Bonsai Solstice Event at Pacific Bonsai Museum on Dec. 14

On Saturday, Dec. 14, join the Pacific Bonsai Museum for a dreamy evening to remember as it illuminates its world-renowned collection with soft holiday lights for its annual Winter Bonsai Solstice event.

Come for an evening stroll to take in beautiful bonsai twinkling in an array of lights, and then stay to shop for the perfect gift from our new, multi-vendor, holiday market. Free hot chocolate will be provided.

This is a family-friendly, community-favorite tradition that warmly embraces the generous spirit of the holidays. Suggested donation: $12 for adults. No reservations or advance tickets are needed.