Downtown Olympia
In Olympia's downtown, you will find a rich diversity of community who come together as a confluence of personalities, perspectives, and ideas. A chance meeting at a downtown café or on the sidewalk can often lead to powerful connections, inspiration, and partnerships.
Community, Energy, Possibilities
Downtown’s unique energy engages the senses, gets the synapses connecting, the creativity flowing, and the fun going. Join a procession of luminaries, exchange ideas with local business owners, or vibe with some local music in the middle of the (closed) street, and you’ll feel it!
The historic downtown core. The quaint shops, cafés, and restaurants. The dazzling waterfront. Views of the Olympics and the Capitol Dome. The public art and private murals. It’s alluniquely Olympia and here to be enjoyed.
Olympia is a haven for artists, too, with murals on walls throughout the city, art walks, galleries, theaters, and music venues. Acclaimed restaurants take up prime real estate along the waterfront, while an incredible assortment of dining opportunities abound downtown.
Downtown for the Holidays is a month-long celebration from November 29 through December 24, 2024.
Downtown for the Holidays: Ongoing Festivities:
- LoveOly Holiday Edition: Shop & Dine Promotion (Nov 29 - Dec 24): Pick up or download a LoveOly passport at any participating shop or restaurant. For every $10 you spend, collect a sticker. Redeem five stickers for a special LoveOly gift, with options like a power bank, fanny pack, or beanie.
- Holiday Lights and Décor: Enjoy over a mile of garland and holiday decorations brightening storefronts throughout Downtown Olympia.
- Snowfall at The Washington Center for the Performing Arts: Experience the magic of snowfall in Olympia.
- Nutcracker-Themed Selfie Scenes: Perfect for holiday photos, including themed backdrops like the Land of Sweets, a Gingerbread House, and Winter Wonderland.
- 12 Days of Free Parking (Dec 12 - 24): Courtesy of the City of Olympia, enjoy complimentary parking at 2- and 3-hour meters.
How We Love Oly!
By now, we're sure you do, too!
Whether you're looking for downtown Olympia inspiration, events and activities, or you can't wait to share the good times you've had in downtown with your friends and family, make sure you're following us on our social media channels and using the #howiloveoly hashtag!