One of Mill Creek’s top attraction is the popular Mill Creek Town Center! “The city now has a mixed-use, city-sponsored complex called the Mill Creek Town Center…,” shares resident Travis DeFries. “It is easy to spend several hours walking the sidewalks and checking out the small, local businesses, along with the numerous wonderful restaurants.”

Indeed, with everything at your fingertips, it’s hard not to feel like you’re in the big city: “I love the convenience and the downtown feel of the Mill Creek Town Center,” says Ginna Demme. “I can grab my coffee, get a manicure, grocery shop, and run other errands all in the same great spot!” Tonya Tye agrees, noting “the Town Center is a fun place to walk around, go for coffee, dessert or dinner.”

Here is your complete guide to dining and shopping in the Mill Creek Town Center (as recommended by locals!):

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Central Market Mill Creek

• Located at 15605 Main St. Mill Creek, WA 98012
• Hours: 7:00am-11:00pm

When it comes to grocery shopping in Mill Creek, no place beats the Town Center’s own Central Market. “Central Market is a destination grocery experience,” says Jen Bowman. “Best produce, delicious prepared foods for a quick and healthy meal, awesome sushi, and great floral selection for cut and potted plants and flowers.”

Heather Potts agrees, noting “Central Market Grocery Store has the best selection of fresh fruit, wine, seafood, meats, made-to-order sandwiches, fresh sliced deli meats and cheeses, a large selection of organic foods, sushi and more.” Follow Heather’s suggestions and “grab a bite to eat and enjoy the outdoor courtyard or stop to shop for a special dinner…” No matter what, you are sure to have a one-of-a-kind experience at this store that, as Heather simply puts, “has it all”!

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Outdoor Concerts

• Located at the Forum (15111 Main St. Mill Creek, WA 98012)
• Hours: 6:00pm-8:00pm Wednesdays

There is much more to Mill Creek’s Town Center than just shopping, as Travis can tell you: “In the summer they have free outdoor concerts every Wednesday night from 6-8 PM. Bands that have played this year include Fabulous Roof Shakers, The Infinity Project, Big Dog Revue, High Voltage, Highway 9, Cherry Cherry, Sly Mr Y, Creme Tangerine and Ventura Highway Revisited.”

They have expanded this year’s series into September, so check out the Town Center events calendar for more info (and get your dancing shoes ready!).

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Azul Restaurant & Lounge

• Located at 15118 Main St. #100 Mill Creek, WA 98012
• Hours: 11:00am-1:00am Monday-Friday (Dinner served until 10:00pm Sunday-Thursday, 11:00pm Friday-Saturday) ; 9:00am-1:00am (Brunch 9:00am-3:00pm)

Whether you’re looking to wind down after a long work week or want to take the family out to a nice dinner, Azul Restaurant & Lounge is an excellent choice: “Azul Restaurant & Lounge is located in the Town Center and is open for lunch and dinner each day,” shares Travis. “Its upscale, casual environment, paired with the Latin-inspired cuisine, makes Azul a perfect gathering spot in Mill Creek.”

Check out their popular Happy Hour menu, featuring $2.00 chips and salsa, drink specials, and some of the best Mexican and Caribbean dishes this side of the border.

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University Bookstore Mill Creek

• Located at 15311 Main St. Mill Creek, WA 98012
• Hours: 9:00am-8:00pm Monday-Thursday; 9:00am-9:00pm Friday-Saturday; 10:00am-6:00pm Sunday

Back-to-school time is here again, which means it’s time to stock up on everything you will need to start the year off right. Luckily, Mill Creek Town Center is home to one of 6 local University Bookstores.

“UW Bookstore has great selection of gifts, UW apparel, and specialty magazines and newspapers,” says Jen. Indeed, whether you’re looking for a new book to read, some reference guides, or something to show off your Husky pride, you will find it and so much more here.

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Elliott Bay Pizza & Pub

• Located at 800 164th St. S.E. L Mill Creek, WA 98012
• Hours: 11:00am-9:00pm

What could be better than pizza? How about pizza paired with 18 varieties of cold craft beer? Elliott Bay Pizza & Pub is a local favorite and go-to spot for Travis and his family. This family-friendly locale is open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner and features one of the best menus in the Town Center.

“They make their own special dough each morning to be used for their incredible pizzas and sandwiches,” says Travis. “They also serve a wide variety of great pasta dishes and salads.” While you’re here, be sure to take advantage of their beer selection, too: “They have also become very well known in the area for their extensive beer selection and ever-changing beers on tap,” Travis shares. “If you are looking for something not found everywhere else, you need to come here!” Indeed, Elliott Bay Pizza & Pub is one pizza place you will definitely not want to pass up.

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Pacific Fly Fishers

• Located at 1018 164th St. S.E. Ste. A-22 Mill Creek, WA 98012
• Hours: 10:00am-7:00pm Monday-Friday; 10:00am-6:00pm Saturday; 11:00am-5:00pm Sunday

“If you’re a serious outdoorsman,” Becky Larsen states, “check out Pacific Fly Fishers. Expert service in your own backyard.” Indeed, everything from boats, flies, lines, and other fishing tools, to classes and water quality resources provided by passionate local fishers, gives you all you need to hone your skills and become a true master fisherman.

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La Palmera Mill Creek

• Located at 15224 Main St. #202 Mill Creek, WA 98012
• Hours: 11:00am-11:00pm Sunday-Thursday; 11:00am-1:00am Friday-Saturday

Opened in 1991, La Palmera has been serving up delicious, authentic Mexican cuisine for 26 years. “La Palmera is a favorite Mexican restaurant,” Becky says. “Family owned and great food.” If you’re a fan of grande burritos, sizzling fajitas, and margaritas made with premium tequila, this restaurant is the place for you.

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Hot Yoga Inc. Mill Creek

• Located at 15217 Main St. Mill Creek, WA 98012
• Hours: 6:00am-9:30pm Monday-Thursday; 6:00am-7:00pm Friday; 8:00am-5:00pm Saturday; 8:00am-6:30pm Sunday

If you’re looking to put a little more zen in your life, check out Hot Yoga Inc. This low-impact exercise routine works with your body’s natural range of motion to help you lose weight, de-stress, and become your best self.

As an added bonus, Heather shares that “Hot Yoga Inc. has a $10 new student 10/10 deal and [is] one of the only studios with infrared heating.”

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Mill Creek Sports

• Located at 13616 Bothell Everett Hwy. Mill Creek, WA 98012
• Hours: 10:00am-6:00pm Monday-Saturday; closed Sunday

Local sports fans cannot seem to get enough of the new Mill Creek Sports, located just near the Town Center. “Just down the road is the location of the new Mill Creek Sports, which is known as one of the best sports memorabilia shops around,” shares Travis. “They outgrew their previous place in town and now have a huge 2-story facility to house their items.”

“Mill Creek Sports is known throughout the greater Seattle area as the place to go if you want sports memorabilia,” Brian Hayter notes. “They have an incredibly wide selection of authentic autographed Seattle and beyond sports items. A must see for a sports fan!” Travis agrees, adding that “several times per month they also bring in high profile current or retired sports stars to sign autographs. Anyone and everyone has been there to sign autographs!” Whether you’re looking for a gift or looking to meet your sports hero, you will love the offerings at Mill Creek Sports.

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There is no end to the fun your child can have with the awesome parks and programs offered in Mill Creek! From top-of-the-line sport complexes to unique class offerings, there is something for every age, interest, and skill level.

Here are 10 of the best things to do with kids in Mill Creek (as recommended by locals!):

Mill Creek Sports Park

• Located at 13903 North Creek Dr. Mill Creek, WA 98012
• Hours: 7:00am-9:00pm

If you’re looking for a spot for your kid’s next sports game, check out the Mill Creek Sports Park. “The Mill Creek Sports Park is located at the corner of Bothell-Everett Hwy. and Trillium Blvd. and is the location for a fantastic mixed-use sports field that is used by both soccer and baseball/softball,” shares Travis DeFries. “It is a turfed field, so a little bit of rain doesn’t cancel games, it has lights to be able to play up until 10 PM and it even has a snack shack and announcers booth!” With other amenities like a Tot Lot and picnic tables, the whole family can enjoy the great outdoors while cheering on the home team.

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Mill Creek Skate Park

• Located at Mill Creek Sports Park (13903 North Creek Dr. Mill Creek, WA 98012)

Another popular feature of the Mill Creek Sports Park comes recommended by both Travis and Tonya Tye. The Mill Creek Skate Park offers a wide range of bowls as well as an innovative street course that consists of several sections tied together, an 8-stair down rail, and much, much more. Whether your kid’s a beginner or a seasoned skating pro, he or she will find the perfect challenge at this local favorite spot.

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Mill Creek Little League

• Located at 14105 11th Dr. S.E. Mill Creek, WA 98012

“Mill Creek Little League has one of the largest and most successful Little League programs in the state,” shares Travis DeFries. “Every year they have over 800 boys and girls between the ages of 4-18 play baseball or softball. 9 years ago, the 12-year-old All-Stars ended up being the NW representatives at the Little League World Series in Williamsport, PA. This year the 10-year-old and 11-year-old boys All-Stars teams both finished 2nd at the state tournament. This year, the 12-year-old girls softball All-Stars won the state tournament for the 2nd year in a row! The took 2nd place in the regional championship game to represent the West in the World Series. They lost a heartbreaker 1-0 in extra innings, but went down in history as the best softball team to ever come out of Mill Creek!”

If your 5-18 has expressed interest in baseball or softball, sign them up for Mill Creek Little League this year!

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Giggle & Wiggle Playscape

• Located at 3226 132nd St. S.E. #105 Mill Creek, WA 98012
• Hours: Drop-In Play: 10:00am-1:30pm & 3:00pm-6:00pm Monday-Friday, 10:00am-12:00pm Saturday-Sunday; Birthday Party Time Slots: 6:00pm Monday-Friday, 12:00pm, 2:15pm, & 4:30pm Saturday-Sunday

When it comes to spending fun, quality time with your little one, no place beats the Giggle & Wiggle Playscape. This local indoor playground features soft equipment that gives kids the chance to jump, climb, run, and tumble, and develop motor, coordination, and balance skills in the process. Get your kid away from the screen and into some real-world adventure today at Giggle & Wiggle.

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Applause Studio

• Located at 17903 Bothell Everett Hwy. #103 Bothell, WA 98012
• Hours: Click here for complete schedule of upcoming classes

If your child loves being on stage, they will love the opportunities that await at Applause Studio. Varieties of dance, musical theater and acting, and other great classes teach students the fundamentals of performing and help them to build confidence and stage presence (all while having fun). With a free trial class offered for all new students, there is nothing to lose by checking out this fun spot!

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SafeSplash Swim School Mill Creek

• Located at 15024 Main St. Ste. A Mill Creek, WA 98012
• Hours: 8:30am-8:30pm Monday-Friday, 8:30am-4:30pm Saturday, 9:00am-3:00pm Sunday; Class Hours: 3:45pm-8:00pm Monday & Wednesday, 10:15am-2:15pm Saturday

Summer may be winding down, but that doesn’t mean the summer fun has to! At SafeSplash Swim School, kids get the opportunity to learn how to swim in a safe, state-of-the-art environment from passionate instructors who know how important swimming is for a child’s lifelong safety, development, and confidence. No matter what level your child is at, there is a lesson tailored to his or her needs with individualized attention and top-notch customer service that makes SafeSplash unlike any other swim school around.

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Mill Creek Parks with Playgrounds

Mill Creek certainly has no shortage of great local parks with playgrounds that kids will love. Buffalo, Cougar, Heron, Highlands, Hillside, Library, Nickel Creek, Pine Meadow, and Silver Crest Park all offer playgrounds perfect for climbing, sliding, jumping, and running off some steam while parents enjoy some much-needed relaxation time at a picnic or open grass area. Click here to learn more about these parks and to find the one closest to you.

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North Creek Trail

• Located from McCollum Park (600 128th St. S.E. Everett, WA 98208)-North Creek Park (1001 183rd St. Bothell, WA 98012)

According to Tonya, “there are some nice walking trails near the downtown area and around Village Green Drive.” One of these trails is the scenic North Creek Trail, which links the cities of Mill Creek, Bothell, and Everett. Filled with lush plant life, a serene duck pond, and other natural beauties, this trail provides the perfect opportunity for you to get your kids off the couch, active, and making meaningful connections with their local environment.

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Arena Sports and Entertainment

• Located at 13500 Bothell-Everett Hwy. Mill Creek, WA 98012
• Opening: Fall 2017 (click here for construction updates)

Sports lovers will have even more to enjoy in Mill Creek near the end of this year. “Just down from Mill Creek Sports is the new Arena Sports complex that is scheduled to open this Fall,” says Travis. “It is a 98,000 square foot facility that will include a full family entertainment center destined to be the go-to-destination for parties, special events, group activities and more. Activities include an indoor inflatable playground, bowling (both full-size lanes and mini five-pin lanes), multi-floor laser tag arena, rock climbing tower, two-story ropes course, 100 arcade games, on-site dining and two indoor soccer fields that can be used for recreational games and practices.” Check out all the info on Arena Sports now because once it’s open, your kids will never want to go anywhere else!

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Recreation, Community Events, & Other Programs

On top of all of the amazing opportunities for sports, education, and fun in Mill Creek, the city itself also offers a wide variety of recreation, seasonal community events, and unique programs for kids. From annual holiday favorites like “Trunk or Treat” or the Santa parade, to innovative cooking, sports, and other creative classes, your children can get off the couch and socialize, learn new skills, and make friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. Registration for fall and winter is now open, so be sure to check out the guide here for a complete list of available programs and upcoming events.

 

If you’re looking to stay active in Mill Creek, you’re in luck. From sports venues to miles of trails, there is no end to the opportunities you can take advantage of!

Here are a few of my favorite tips for staying active in Mill Creek:

 

Mill Creek Sports Park

• Located at 13903 North Creek Dr. Mill Creek, WA 98012
• Hours: 7:00am-9:00pm

If you’re a baseball, softball, or soccer lover, you will find the perfect place to play at the Mill Creek Sports Park. Field lights over the diamond and soccer field, a concession stand, and bleachers allow your family and friends to stay and cheer your team onto victory, while the Tot Lot and ADA accessibility means that everyone can enjoy all that the park has to offer. “This Mill Creek Sports Park also has a huge, brand new facility,” shares Jen Bowman, so you are guaranteed to experience top-of-the-line amenities at this popular park.

 

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Arena Sports Family Entertainment Center

• Located at 13500 Bothell Everett Hwy. Mill Creek, WA 98012
• Hours: 9:00am-10:00pm

Arena Sports’ newest location is now open in Mill Creek. With various locations around the Sound, Arena Sports is a family-run business focused on family fun. They offer year-round indoor soccer for people of all ages and abilities. Their newest addition in Mill Creek also offers a fantastic Family Entertainment Center with an arcade, bowling alley and laser tag. You’ll also find an inflatable FunZone, great dining options and rockin’ birthday parties.

 

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Mill Creek Country Club

• Located at 15500 Country Club Dr. Mill Creek, WA 98012
• Opening Times: 11:00am Monday; 7:30am Tuesday-Thursday; 7:00am Friday; 6:30am
• Saturday-Sunday
• Range Hours: Closes at 7:00pm Tuesday-Wednesday & Friday-Sunday; Closes at 3 Thursday; closed Monday

If golf is more your thing, you will want to check out the Mill Creek Country Club. “The Country Club is a private club that has a gem of a golf course that people love to play,” says Travis DeFries. You can enjoy the picturesque sites of Mill Creek while testing your skill on this beautifully-manicured 18-hole course. Dust off your clubs and come see why the Mill Creek Country Club is regarded as one of the premier golf facilities in all of Snohomish County.

 

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Mill Creek Walking Trails

Staying active in Mill Creek is easier than you might think. “Miles and miles of walking trails linking parks all over Mill Creek is one of my favorite features of the city,” Jen shares. 60 different trails loop throughout Mill Creek, providing some of the most scenic walking, running, biking, and horseback riding opportunities around. Whether you need a place to get in your daily workout or just want to enjoy some fresh air and peaceful nature, you will find what you’re looking for on these gorgeous trails.

 

 

If there is one thing that Mill Creek does right, it’s hosting amazing community events. From 5K charity runs and holiday happenings to fun festivals and solemn ceremonies, Mill Creek does it all and then some!

 

Here is your complete guide to upcoming 2018 community events in Mill Creek:

 

APRIL

Flashlight Egg Hunt

• Where: Heatherwood Middle School (1419 Trillium Blvd. S.E. Mill Creek, WA 98012)
• Friday, March 23, 2018; 6-7pm
  

Let your teens get in on the Easter fun at Mill Creek’s annual Flashlight Egg Hunt. Students from 6th-12th grade can bring a flashlight and scour Heatherwood Middle School for candy and other fun prizes while listening to today’s top radio hits. (Student ID and a signed parent/guardian waiver are required for participation.)

 

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Eggstravaganza Egg Hunt

• Where: Heatherwood Middle School Field (1419 Trillium Blvd. S.E. Mill Creek, WA 98012)
• Saturday, March 31, 2018; 10:30am – noon

A Mill Creek Easter tradition, families love coming together for the Eggstravaganza Egg Hunt. Over 18,000 eggs are spread out across multiple egg hunts and there is also face painting, balloon animals, music, fire truck tours, bounce houses, and a special visit from the Easter Bunny himself. The price of admission is a canned food item to benefit the Mill Creek Community Food Bank.

 

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MAY

Memorial Day Commemorative Ceremony & Parade

• Where: Ceremony: Mill Creek Veterans Monument (15429 Bothell Everett Hwy. Mill Creek, WA 98012); Parade: Main Street (between LA Fitness (15024 Main St. Mill Creek, WA 98012) & City Hall (15720 Main St. Mill Creek, WA 98012))
• May 28, 2018; Ceremony: 9:00am, Parade: 11:00am

Join the community on May 28 to pay respects to those who have given their lives for our country at Mill Creek’s Memorial Day Commemorative Ceremony & Parade. The event kicks off with a ceremony at the Veterans Monument featuring remarks by the mayor, a prayer from the police chaplain, a laying of a wreath, and more, and continues with the parade. Pay remembrance to a group of brave men and women at this touching event.

 

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JUNE

Summer Art Walks

• Where: Town Center (1/2 mile north of S.W. 164th St. on Bothell Everett Hwy. Mill Creek, WA 98012)
• June 7, July 12, August 9, 2018; 5:00pm-8:00pm

Explore the talent of the local community at Mill Creek’s annual Summer Art Walks. Stroll through Town Center, visit local artists and businesses, and observe a variety of art forms from photography to jewelry and even music. Free for all, this event is a great way to connect with the creative minds that make Mill Creek a beautiful place to live.

 

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Run of the Mill 5k

• Where: In the Mill Creek Town Center (15418 Main Street, Mill Creek WA 98012)
• 2018 Dates & Times: TBD

Enjoy some healthy competition at Mill Creek’s Run of the Mill 5K. “This is…becoming a very popular 5K run/walk that attracts the highest of competitors from the area, along with parents pushing their children in strollers,” says Travis. “All proceeds are donated to local charities! This event is normally held the end of June each year.” Keep your eyes on the Run of the Mill website for more information on registration for 2018.

 

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JULY

3-on-3 Star Fest Basketball Tournament

• Where: Mill Creek City Hall Annex Parking Lot (15720 Main St. Mill Creek, WA 98012)
• July 7-8, 2018; Time is TBD

Unleash your inner basketball star at Mill Creek’s 3-on-3 Star Fest Basketball Tournament. “…The city hosts a very popular outdoor 3-on-3 basketball tournament for participants of all ages and abilities,” Travis shares. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or still learning the ropes, you can have a great time at this event. Check the website for updates on registration for 2018.

 

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Mill Creek Festival

• Where: Part of Mill Creek Blvd. behind Albertsons, Heading up a Portion of 161st Between Bank of America and Rite Aid (for full festival map, click here)
• July 14, 2018 11:00am-6:00pm; July 15, 2018 11:00am-5:00pm

No city is complete without an annual summer festival and Mill Creek is no exception. “One weekend each July, the city hosts the Mill Creek Festival and it is quickly becoming a hot ticket item,” shares Travis. “There are several stages set up around the festival to host music, a community stage with family friendly acts and even a large pet plaza! There are also over 50 vendors for shopping and eating opportunities!” If you want a sample of what Mill Creek has to offer, you will find that and so much more at this fabulous event.

 

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Summer Children’s Concerts

• Where: Library Park (15429 Bothell-Everett Hwy. Mill Creek, WA 98012)
• 2018 Dates & Times: TBD

If you want a fun summer event for your little one, look no further than the Summer Children’s Concerts at Library Park. Featuring four concerts over four weeks full of music, laughs, and entertainment for all ages, this event is sure to make for a memorable afternoon picnic for the whole family.

 

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AUGUST

National Night Out

• Where: Buffalo Park (13401 44th Ave. S.E. Mill Creek, WA 98012)
• August 7, 2018; 5:30pm-8:30pm

Working to build communities across the country, National Night Out is a campaign that promotes police-community partnerships, camaraderie among neighbors, and the development of safer, more caring communities overall. Block parties, cookouts, and other events are hosted throughout local neighborhoods and feature visits from emergency personnel, safety demonstrations, exhibits, and more. Mill Creek’s National Night Out is being held at Buffalo Park on August 7, so come out and show your support for local law enforcement and healthy neighborhood building at this event.

 

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SEPTEMBER

Run with Heart

• Where: McCollum Park (600 128th St. S.E. Everett, WA 98204)
• 2018 Dates & Times: TBD

Grab your best pair of tennis shoes and join the community in the 5th annual Run with Heart, benefiting the Ironheart Foundation and Colton’s Army. This event offers a 5K, 8K, Kids 1K, and Toddler Dash races, so the whole family can compete, have fun, and support two wonderful non-profit organizations. Check the website for 2018 details and to register.

 

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OCTOBER

Trunk or Treat

• Where: City Hall North Parking Lot (15728 Main St. Mill Creek, WA 98012)
• October 31, 2018; 6:30pm-8:00pm

After hitting up the Town Center on Halloween, head to City Hall and continue the fun at Travis’ other suggested event. “At Halloween, they [Mill Creek] host[s] a “Trunk or Treat” event at City Hall where the city employees decorate their vehicles parked throughout the parking lot and hand out treats to kids as they walk by.” A safe and fun alternative to traditional trick-or-treating, this is one annual event you will not want to miss.

 

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NOVEMBER

Veteran’s Day Ceremony & Parade

• Where: Ceremony: Mill Creek Veterans Monument (15429 Bothell Everett Hwy. Mill Creek, WA 98012); Parade: LA Fitness (15024 Main St. Mill Creek, WA 98012)-City Hall (15720 Main St. Mill Creek, WA 98012)
• November 10, 2018; Ceremony: 9:00am; Parade: 11:00am

Come out on November 11 and honor those who have fought for our freedom. According to Travis, “the city…has a yearly Veteran’s Day Parade. There is a large monument area to honor its veterans and it is located just south of the Mill Creek Library on Bothell-Everett Hwy.” With a ceremony at the monument before the parade, this event is the perfect way to show your support for our nation’s armed forces.

 

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DECEMBER

Santa Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony

• Where: Santa Parade: LA Fitness (15024 Main St. Mill Creek, WA 98012)-City Hall (15720 Main St. Mill Creek, WA 98012); Tree Lighting: City Hall (15720 Main St. Mill Creek, WA 98012)
• December 1, 2018; Santa Parade: TBD; Tree Lighting: 4:00pm

When the holiday season rolls around, Mill Creek celebrates in style. “Around Christmas time, the city has a Santa Parade and Tree Lighting ceremony that is a lot of fun,” Travis shares. Past events have included complimentary train rides for the kids, pictures with Santa before the parade, and other activities provided by the merchants in Town Center. Keep your eyes peeled for more information about this year’s rendition of this yuletide favorite.