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More InfoDiscover our signature events that keep people coming back to our region every year.
Discover a variety of annual festivities across the Olympia region. Whether you're looking for family-friendly activities or seeking ways to celebrate the local communities of Thurston County, Olympia features a variety of year-found excitement which will fill your calendar with unforgettable experiences.
As the kick-off event for Downtown for the Holidays, Winter Fest is a family-friendly event full of festive activities. Relax in a carriage ride, listen to holiday storytelling and other live entertainment while perusing local shops for gifts.
Every winter visitors and locals alike are invited to try their hand at ice skating at this pop-up ice skating rink in Olympia. There are special events throughout the season including skating while enjoying live music and family-friendly activities.
Ring in the new year with a variety of exciting events and activities in the Olympia Region. Thurston County offers a variety of winter festivities on New Year’s Eve. Traverse across the Olympia area, finding live performances, thrilling parties, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable New Year’s extravaganza or planning an action-packed itinerary with your little ones, Olympia is the ultimate New Year’s destination for all ages and party goers.
The Olympia region is brimming with vibrant activities for Lunar New Year. Honor the year of the snake with a variety of Asian festivities, from authentic bites to traditional dances.
A free, family-friendly event, the Lacey Spring Fun Fair features rides, games, live performances, vendors, food, and other special attractions visitors of all ages will love.
Held in Fall and Spring, the Olympia Arts Walk celebrates the arts in Olympia. There are live art demonstrations as well as live performances and gallery showings throughout this event.
Celebrate spring and Yelm's wide open prairies at Yelm Prairie Days—a lively, family-friendly festival that captures the heart of the community. Visitors can enjoy interactive activities like Touch-A-Truck, explore local creativity through a photography exhibition and chalk art contest, and experience the wonder of live entertainment, including a crowd-pleasing magic show. With delicious food and festive fun for all ages, it’s the perfect weekend to connect, create, and celebrate in the vibrant city of Yelm.
Aviation enthusiasts from across the country gather each year at the Olympia Regional Airport for the highly-anticipated Olympic Air Show. Hosted by the Olympic Flight Museum for over two decades, this two-day event promises to be a spectacular showcase of aviation, featuring an even more spectacular lineup of aircraft and performers.
Held annually in Rochester, Washington, Swede Day is a beloved celebration of the town’s Scandinavian heritage. The festival features a lively parade, traditional Swedish cuisine such as lingonberry meatballs, folk dancing, and family-friendly activities. It's a charming small-town event that brings the community together with culture, fun, and local pride.
Celebrate the Fourth of July with floats and live performances during the Annual Independence Day Parade. Then head to the Artesian Family Festival & Thunder Valley Fireworks Show to enjoy live music, food, games and more leading up to the largest fireworks show in the county.
Founded in 1997, the Washington State Senior Games is the largest Olympic-style multi-sport event in Washington, bringing seniors from across the country to the South Puget Sound to compete in a variety of events. The games are open to both in-state and out-of-state participants.
The annual Rainier Bluegrass Festival brings toe-tapping tunes and small-town charm to Rainier, Washington each summer. This lively event features talented bluegrass bands, jam sessions, and camping, creating a welcoming atmosphere for music lovers of all ages. It’s a weekend of great music, community spirit, and classic festival fun in the scenic Pacific Northwest.
Gather with friends and neighbors at the annual, two-day South Sound Block Party. Watch live performances by talented musicians while playing games, eating at food trucks, and relaxing in the beer garden, all along the shore of the Puget Sound.
Beer lover's rejoice! The Tumwater Artesian Brewfest feature 50 breweries from the Pacific Northwest as well as other beverages available including wine, cider, and spirits. Guests can participate in a variety of games including stein holding competitions.
The Capital Lakefair is a week long event featuring a carnival, parade, fireworks, food, vendor booths, and a car show. If you're seeking thrills, the carnival has plenty of exhilarating rides and games for people of all ages.
Held each summer in historic Tenino, Washington, the annual Oregon Trail Days festival celebrates pioneer heritage with family-friendly fun and local flair. Visitors can enjoy a lively parade, explore the Pioneer Village, browse arts and crafts vendors, and take in live entertainment throughout the weekend. It’s a festive tribute to Tenino’s past that brings the community together in celebration.
Olympia Harbor Days Festival is an annual non-profit festival celebrating the maritime heritage of the Puget Sound in Olympia. Give a final farewell to summer with a Labor Day weekend full of vintage tugboat showcases and races and a wide variety of fun activities on land.
Support the LGBTQ+ community and be immersed in lively festivities during Capital City Pridefest in downtown Olympia. The celebration features exciting activities, live performances, mouthwatering eats, and more. Don't miss cheering on local community members and performers during this annual event.
Held in Fall and Spring, the Olympia Arts Walk celebrates the arts in Olympia. There are live art demonstrations as well as live performances and gallery showings throughout this event.
Hop on a bike and head to the beach while raising money for the American Lung Association. Cyclists are invited to ride from Lacey to the beach in Westport during the Reach the Beach event held every September.
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly things to do, or seeking an unforgettable date idea, the Tumwater Fall Festival offers many captivating activities. Engage in art making, or participate in problem solving adventures. Complete your festival itinerary with live music, food, and more.
Every October the town of Bucoda comes together to transform the town into Boo-Coda. Throughout the month visitors can enjoy a haunted house, hearse procession, pine box derby, and more!
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Off Hwy 507 and George Road SE Yelm, WA 98597 (206) 696-8804
8345 Steilacoom Rd SE Olympia, WA 98513 (206) 512-3280
110 Deschutes Way SW Tumwater, WA 98501 (360) 754-4160
582 Tilley Ct SE Olympia , WA 98501 (564) 669-4826
Whether you're looking for family-friendly celebrations or seeking new things to do during each season, the Olympia, WA region features annual fun for all ages. Don't miss some of our iconic events that embrace the colder and warmer months with exciting festivities. Mark your calendar for an array of holiday happenings, special fairs, and unforgettable festivals around the Olympia area.
Top 5 Ways to Spend Memorial Day Weekend in Olympia and Beyond
Commemorate our fallen heroes for this Memorial Day weekend and embark on a military-centered itinerary in the Olympia region.
Olympia Harbor Days
Olympia Harbor Days (OHD) is an annual free non-profit festival celebrating the maritime heritage of the Puget Sound in Olympia…
Capital Lakefair
Enjoy five thrilling days of fun and excitement at Capital Lakefair where you can delight in exhilarating carnival…
Celebrate Yelm’s Centennial
Visit Yelm, Washington to celebrate its Centennial with a walking tour, free concert, and more.
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