June 1, 2026

Fourth Annual Arts Explosion Hosted at PAEC

The City of Federal Way Arts Commission hosted the fourth annual “Arts Explosion” juried art show festival at the Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center over the weekend.

The festival celebrated the diversity of Federal Way, showcasing the talents of both adult and youth artists, while promoting artistic growth and engagement. Mayor Jim Ferrell and members of the City Council met with organizers and were there to show their support throughout the weekend.

In total, the event featured 300 art pieces from 170 artists. There were also live musical performances on Friday and Saturday.

The Picklr Hosts Ribbon Cutting

The City of Federal Way is pleased to welcome The Picklr to Federal Way at the old LA Fitness location on Pacific Highway. In partnership with the Greater Federal Way Chamber of Commerce, the City celebrated the grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Saturday.

The Picklr provides a flourishing pickleball community and professional-caliber locations to play on. It houses 14 courts, including four championship-sized courts, a full pro shop, and private event space. 

Public Works Hosts Recycling Event at South King Tool Library

Our Public Works team partnered with South King Tool Library to host a mattresses and tire recycling and document shredding event over the weekend. It was an opportunity for community members to recycle cumbersome items without even having to get out of their cars!

In total, 338 tires and 92 mattresses and box springs were recycled at the event, and 6,000 pounds of documents were collected for shredding.

Public Works hosts a variety of free recycling and shredding events throughout the year in an attempt to reduce waste. Learn more and find out about upcoming events on our city website.

Public Comment Begins on the SEA Airport Proposed Expansion

The comment period has begun for the Port of Seattle’s proposed SEA Airport Draft Sustainable Airport Master Plan Projects. This is a requirement of the State Environmental Policy Act’s Environmental Impact Statement (SEPA EIS).

After this 60-day comment period, the timeline for a Port Commission deliberation on whether or not to go forward with these projects will be in late 2026 or early 2027. The draft documents are now available online.

The rationale of the SEA Airport Master Plan is to respond to the projected growth of the Puget Sound region by another one million people by 2035 and projects an increase in annual passengers handled from 46.9 million in 2017 to 56 million in 2027, and further increasing to 66 million by 2034.

The proposed plan includes 31 projects, estimated to cost $15 billion, consist of:

• 19 additional gates
• New passenger terminal (located on the existing main entrance road and a portion of the near-term parking garage)
• High-speed taxiway turnoffs
• Added cargo facilities
• 30 plus other projects to improve safety, provide support facilities, improve efficiency, and access to the airport

Of note for Federal Way is the raising of Runway 34 right’s descent angle to 3 degrees from 2.75 degrees, increasing the altitude of aircraft when landing.

The Federal Way public meeting and open house will take place on Thursday, June 25, at Wildwood Elementary School from 6-8 p.m. There will also be meetings in SeaTac on Monday, June 22, Des Moines on Tuesday, June 23, and in Burien on Saturday, June 27.

Comments may be submitted by mail, the website, email, at a virtual meeting, or in person at one of the four public meetings that will be hosted by the Port of Seattle. Please direct any questions to bill.vadino@federalwaywa.gov or 253-835-2420.

Mayor Ferrell Attends PSRC Annual General Assembly Meeting

Mayor Jim Ferrell attended the Puget Sound Regional Council’s (PSRC) Annual General Assembly last week. It featured a great conversation with former Governor Christine Gregoire, now CEO of Challenge Seattle, and a welcome from Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson.

Former Governor Gregoire discussed exciting economic opportunities across the Puget Sound region. The PSRC elected Dave Somers and Ryan Mello as President and Vice President of the organization and approved its annual budget and transportation plan.

The PSRC develops policies and coordinates decisions about regional growth, transportation and economic development planning within King, Kitsap, Pierce, and Snohomish counties. It is composed of nearly 100 members, including the four counties, cities and towns, ports, state, and local transportation agencies and Tribal governments within the region.

Mayor Ferrell Attends Good Eggs Breakfast

Mayor Jim Ferrell attended the Good Eggs breakfast, hosted by King County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer, last week. The speaker was Pierce County Executive Ryan Mello.

He discussed the importance of staying connected as we go forward and collaboration opportunities and challenges, which include Sound Transit, flooding and the upcoming World Cup events.

Featured Upcoming Event

Community Cleanup on June 6

Join us for a Community Clean Up on Saturday, June 6, on the BPA Trail from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Bring yourself, friends, and family for a day of community, fun, and stewardship! Snacks, supplies, training, and vests will be provided.

The event is open to the public and family-friendly.


Register online if you plan to attend.

Chief’s Commendation Awarded to Wellness Program Leaders

The Federal Way Police Department is proud to recognize Abigail Rupert, Patrol Administrative Assistant, and Sarah Butts, Quartermaster and Volunteer Coordinator, as recipients of the 2025 Police Chief’s Commendation for their exceptional dedication to the department’s Wellness Program.

Over the past two years, Abigail and Sarah have played a key role in building and sustaining a program focused on supporting the mental and physical well-being of department members. Through their volunteer efforts in addition to their regular duties, they have helped shape a culture that strengthens resilience, supports readiness, and ensures members are equipped to perform their daily responsibilities in a demanding environment.

Their contributions include the development of dedicated wellness spaces, support in expanding peer support and mental health resources, and the creation of ongoing initiatives, such as educational newsletters and access to restorative wellness options for staff.

What stands out most is their consistent commitment and the significant time they have invested to ensure the program continues to grow and serve members in meaningful and practical ways.

Their efforts have had a lasting impact across the department, supporting both individual well-being and the long-term strength and stability of the organization. They reflect a strong commitment to supporting their colleagues and strengthening overall wellness.

Please join us in congratulating Abigail and Sarah on this well-deserved recognition and thanking them for their outstanding service to the Federal Way Police Department!

Music Lineup for Kickin' It Federal Way Announced

Listen to music and watch the big matches at the Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center! Kickin' It Federal Way, a three-day celebration of soccer, culture, and community will take place June 19-21 at the PAEC.

Kickin' It Federal Way will include a full lineup of musical acts, including a headliner on the main stage for each day of the event:

• Friday, June 19: The National Parks
• Saturday, June 20: Leo Brooks
• Sunday, June 21: Jaime Wyatt

Learn more about the full weekend of events and see the full musical lineup on the Kickin' It Federal Way website.

June 2 City Council Meeting

What’s Next: The Federal Way City Council meets Tuesday, June 2, 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

Red, White & Blues Festival on July 4

Let’s celebrate America's 250th anniversary together! Join us at Celebration Park on Friday, July 4, for the Red, White & Blues Festival. Enjoy live music, food vendors, and family fun all day.

The main stage lights up at 4 p.m. with diverse performers. Don’t miss the fireworks at 10:15 p.m. Bring lawn chairs and blankets for comfort. Admission and parking are free for all. Let’s celebrate America together!

Miles for Meso on July 4

The Miles for Meso WA Memorial 5K Run/Walk will return for its 12th year on July 4.

This event is held in memory of Dick Dyhrman, a geologist with Weyerhaeuser Company; Bud Hatley, Federal Way School District Athletic Director; Bob Stewart, Federal Way High School teacher and coach; and other Washington residents who have lost their lives to mesothelioma.

Register online now!

Take the Diversity Commission's

Community Engagement Survey

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.

An Evening With Celtic Thunder: Celebrate Your Favorite Songs at the PAEC

The Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center (PAEC) is hosting An Evening with Celtic Thunder: Celebrate Your Favorite Songs on Oct. 20 and 21 at 7 p.m.

This unique production will bring audiences a heartfelt celebration of the group’s most beloved songs while reuniting past and present members for an unforgettable evening of music, memories, and camaraderie.

An Evening with Celtic Thunder is more than just a concert — it’s a journey through the group’s incredible legacy.

PAEC Upcoming Events

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

• June 5: Rthmz Presents: "Reflections" A Dance Showcase
• June 6: FWYSO 20th Anniversary Concert "To Celebrate USA's 250th Anniversary of Independence"
• June 14: Evergreen City Ballet's Season Finale Performance 2026
• June 28: The Washington K-Ensemble Presents: Begin Again, Dream Anew
• Aug. 23: Jane Lynch & Kate Flannery: The Trouble with Angels.

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

She Loves Me from Centerstage Theatre May 22 to June 14

"She Loves Me" will be performed by Centerstage Theater each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday May 22 to June 14 at Knutzen Family Theater.

Anonymous letters and mistaken identities entwine with a gorgeous score and wonderful characters in this delightfully elegant musical comedy.

This Tony Award-nominated show 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.

Flag Day Event Hosted by Soroptimists on June 13

The Soroptimist International of Federal Way invites the community to celebrate flag day at its Annual Flag Day Event on Saturday, June 13, at 10 a.m.

The event will take place in the Weyerhaeuser King County Aquatic Center banquet room.

The event is extra special this year because it will honor 50 years of the Soroptimist International of Federal Way.

Summer Solstice Event at Pacific Bonsai Museum June 21

The Pacific Bonsai Museum is hosting a Summer Solstice Wellness Open House on Sunday, June 21, from 4-8 p.m.

This is one of only two nights a year when the museum stays open past 4 p.m.

It's a peaceful celebration blending movement, mindfulness, nature, and art in the beautiful evening air. Come and experience Pacific Bonsai Museum in a whole new way!

Rhododendron Garden Hosts Art in the Garden and Plant Clearance Event June 27

The Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden is hosting an Art in the Garden & Plant Clearance Sale event on Saturday, June 27, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Discover local artists at an outdoor art market, enjoy delicious bites from food trucks, shop an annual plant clearance and rare plant sale, listen to live music, and spend a beautiful summer day surrounded by the garden in bloom.

Admission is free.

Juneteenth Celebration at the Federal Way Library on June 13

The Federal Way Library is hosting Juneteenth: A Freedom Celebration on Saturday, June 13, from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Juneteenth commemorates the effective end of slavery in the United States and is a federally recognized holiday.

This event is a celebration of the rich history of African Americans and the vibrant cultures of the African diaspora — a day to learn, reflect, and rejoice together.

This event is free and open to the community. Come as you are — all are welcome. Enjoy a full day of community for all ages.