We started the festival in 1997 to celebrate Auburn. Auburn is an awesome community located in the picturesque Sierra Nevada foothills, about half way between Sacramento and Lake Tahoe along Interstate 80.

Auburn is such a wonderful place to live work and play that it’s well worth celebrating. It’s the gateway to the Sierra, located just above the confluence of the middle and north forks of the scenic American River.

But even more important than its Sierra location are the people who live here. They enjoy having a good time, and guests are always welcome.

At the Community Festival we feature quality live music, giant pumpkin and scarecrow contests, arts and crafts booths showcasing local artisans and a costume contest and parade for young and old alike.

There are carnival games and pony rides for kids, food and vendor booths hosted by local nonprofits and Auburn’s own Sugar Plump Fairies are out in friendly force.

We produce a day of wholesome activities that cater to the entire family.

And it’s free, thanks to our generous sponsors.

A volunteer committee works all year long to put on this unique event that is designed just for fun.

As committee chairman and editor of the community’s daily newspaper, the Auburn Journal, I want to personally invite everyone to come and see what we’re so excited about.

And please let our sponsors know you appreciate their important contributions.

This year the festival is Oct. 15th in beautiful Recreation Park. I’ll be the guy with the microphone announcing the weight of the giant pumpkins being lugged onto a huge digital scale in the morning. Some of the pumpkins are expected to top 800 pounds, but we encourage all pumpkin growers to bring their gourds and get a free T-shirt.

Come on out and say hello. And check out Auburn while you’re here.

We’re sure you’ll like what you find.