City of Mukilteo unveiled new Welcome Figures during Lighthouse Festival

MUKILTEO, Wash. — The City of Mukilteo unveiled new Welcome Figures carved by James Madison and Joe Gobin at the Lighthouse Park Bandshell on Saturday, Sept. 6, during the annual Mukilteo Lighthouse Festival.

The ceremony featured remarks from Mayor Joe Marine and Tulalip Tribes Board of Directors Vice Chair Hazen Shopbell.

“These welcome figures are a meaningful addition to our community,” Marine said. “They have been in our long-range plans for the park and honor the cultural heritage of the Tulalip Tribes.”

Also on Sept. 6, Madison and Gobin unveiled new story poles at Mukilteo Lighthouse Park. The carvings reflected a deeply traditional Coast Salish style, honoring cultural heritage while carrying forward stories for future generations.

This year’s festival parade also recognized Shopbell as Grand Marshal, a tribute to his leadership and dedication to the community.

The celebration held special meaning as it took place near the site of the 1855 Point Elliott Treaty signing — land tied to Tulalip history, resilience and identity. The story poles and festivities served as reminders of the deep connections between this place, the Tulalip people and the stories that continue to be told through art and community.