Slideshow: WinterFest 2025

Deer Park’s WinterFest 2025 brought the community together with fun traditions like outhouse races, a bustling craft fair, and live music. Check out our online gallery.

Deer Park’s annual WinterFest 2025 was well attended on the second Saturday of this month. Hosted by the Deer Park Kiwanis and WinterFest Committee, the day featured a packed schedule of activities, including the crowd-favorite outhouse races, live music, and a family dance.

The WinterFest 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament kicked off the day’s events at 7:30am. Teams competed in high school, middle school (13+) brackets, and recreational men’s and women’s groups, with matches continuing throughout the day.

Jennifer Follansbee-Moss’s logo design was selected for this year’s event. The design adorned commemorative sweatshirts that were sold as a fundraiser for the event next year. Karen and Doug Watson, this year’s Honored Citizens, were celebrated during the Opening Ceremony for their dedication and contributions to the Deer Park community. To check out our WinterFest 2025 Honored Citizen’s article go to: https://dpgazette.com/2xoul

Throughout the day, the high school was bursting with activity. From 9am to 4pm, visitors browsed the craft and vendor fair and enjoyed an impressive art show and sale showcasing local talent. Families found plenty to enjoy, including the Kiwanis Children’s Book Giveaway, a cake walk, and Lego building competition. The Friends of the Library Book Sale and a lively chess tournament added to the diverse lineup of attractions.

Music filled the air, with performances by various artists throughout the day, giving a lively atmosphere. As the evening approached, the festivities continued with a family-friendly game of Bingo, followed by a celebratory dance at the VFW Hall.

Check out our gallery of images from the event to relive the highlights and capture the spirit of WinterFest 2025 until next year.

Art Show, Craft and Vendor Fair, Deer Park High School, Deer Park Kiwanis, Doug Watson, Friends of the Library Book Sale, Jennifer Follansbee-Moss, Karen Watson, Lego Contest, Outhouse Race, VFW Hall, Winterfest, WinterFest 2025

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In Memory of Don/Donnie Gilmore

July 18, 2026

Donald “Donnie” Eugene Gilmore of Deer Park, Washington, passed away on June 12, 2026, at the age of 73. He was born in Spokane, Washington, on August 22, 1952. In 1973, Don enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served on active duty for two years. In 1983, he graduated with a degree in education from Eastern Washington University. Don was a beloved teacher at Springdale Elementary for 25 years. He even got to teach his two sons when they were in the fifth grade (much to their chagrin!). He retired in 2015. Don was married to Denise
Wurz (Lesmeister) from 1983 to 1995.

US 395 Lanes Reopened After Collision Near Monroe Road

June 16, 2026

A traffic collision at the intersection of North US Highway 395 and West Monroe Road temporarily blocked northbound traffic. Emergency crews, including multiple fire units and ambulances, responded to the scene to treat individuals and manage traffic flow. All lanes have since been cleared and reopened to regular traffic.

Roberta Anne Cade

June 12, 2026

Roberta A. Cade, 81, of Deer Park, Washington, passed away on April 19, 2026. Roberta was the oldest of eight siblings, a role she carried with strength, care, and a deep sense of responsibility throughout her life. She will be remembered for her kindness, resilience, and for giving so freely to her friends and family.

Deer Park Kicks Off Summer With Packed Weekend

June 12, 2026

Deer Park area residents can look forward to a busy weekend filled with community events, fundraisers, and live entertainment starting this Friday. Activities ranging from a downtown block party to a charity golf tournament offer something for every member of the family. The multi-day lineup includes local businesses, musicians, and charitable organizations working together to welcome the summer season.

Luitgard Margrete Griffin

June 8, 2026

One of a kind is what most people stated about Luitgard (Margaret), and that is truly what she was! She was born in Bamberg, Germany, to Johann and Betty Wagner, as the second child. She had an older brother, Hans, and a younger sister, Elfriede.

Luitgard was trained as a seamstress in school and worked making men’s suits, among other things. She met the love of her life, Albert Leroy Griffin, in 1951, and they were married on December 6th, 1952.

Local Scholar Abram J. Lyons Earns Doctorate in Social Welfare

May 26, 2026

Claymont, Delaware — Abram J. Lyons’s family proudly announces that he has earned his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Social Welfare from the University of Pennsylvania, marking a significant milestone in his academic and professional career.

Dr. Lyons began his academic career at Loon Lake Grade School and graduated from Deer Park High School in 2005. He went on to earn his Associate of Arts degree from Spokane Falls Community College and his Bachelor of Science from the University of Idaho before serving as a Peace Corps volunteer in Western Ukraine.

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A Dream Come True: 2026 Miss Deer Park Royal Court Crowned

The “Dream a Little Dream” 2026 scholarship program has officially named the young leaders who will represent the heart of our community this year. This production served as a brilliant showcase of local talent and poise, celebrating the ambition and grace of ten exceptional young women.

March 14, 2026

WinterFest 2026: Sign-Ups Open and Activities Announced

The Deer Park Kiwanis and the WinterFest Committee are finalizing preparations for the annual WinterFest 2026 celebration. The essential sign-up forms for vendors and competitors are included within this article for easy access. The extensive lineup includes sports tournaments, crafts, entertainment, and the popular Outhouse Races, offering something for every age group.

December 9, 2025

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