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More InfoThe communities south of Olympia proper in Thurston County offer a variety of enriching events and programs waiting to be explored. From Tenino's Oregon Trail Days and Bucoda's month-long Boo-Coda Spooktacular to Rochester's Swede Day and Rainier's Bluegrass Festival, there are plenty of experiences for the whole family to enjoy along the Thurston Bountiful Byway.
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Oct. 1-31: Boo-Coda Spooktacular Haunted House and Festival
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!
Oct. 5: Family Fun Day
The official kickoff for Boo-Coda Spook-Tacular with games for the kids, face painting, balloon twister, and a costume contest.
Oct. 12: Hearse Procession and Viewing
A Hearse procession is like a parade and a viewing is like a car show. Enjoy more than 15 Hearses from the PNW and their amazing decorations.
Oct. 19: Casket Races
Yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like! Attendees can build their own casket, or borrow one from the town of Bucoda, and compete in the 175-foot race. A team consists of 4 Pallbearers and 1 Corps.
Oct. 26: Thrill the World-Trunk & Treat
People from around the world perform the Michael Jackson Thriller Song at the exact same time.
Sept. 28: Ground Mound FunFest
June 30: All American Jubilee
Get ready to celebrate Rainier's Fourth of July in advance at our All-American Jubilee. The family-friendly event will have games, vendors showcasing goods and treats, food options, and a car show.
Aug. 23-25: 30th Annual Rainier Bluegrass Festival
Celebrating its 30th year, all are welcome to enjoy music played continually during the day, corn hole competitions, a parade on Aug. 24, and more.
June 2-3: Culpepper & Merriweather Circus
Expect to be in the middle of it all at this one-ring circus featuring trapeze, unicycles, daredevils, performing animals, and much, much more! No seat is further than 40 feet away from the ring, so you don't have to worry about missing any of the action!
June 15: Swede Day Celebration
Swede Day is an annual event of family activities including vendors and entertainment, serving a traditional Swedish lunch to attendees.
June - Sept.: Tenino Arts Creative Market 2nd Saturday Street Fair
From June to September, the street comes alive with a variety of artisan creations, all original and unique to the artists themselves.
June 22: Tenino Family Fun & Pool Opening Day
This day will be special – the Quarry Pool will have its grand opening! Kick off summer with fun activities at Tenino City Park with bounce houses, pony rides, and a petting zoo.
July 26-28: Tenino Oregon Trail Days
Experience more than 40 hands-on activities for families that demonstrate what life was like when the Oregon Trail participants arrived in Tenino.
Aug. 18: T-9-0 Quarrymen Car Show
More than 300 antique and classic automobiles will be on display – car lovers, this is for you.
Sept. 21: Railroad & Heritage Day
Tenino Railroad Day celebrates Tenino's roots as a Northern Pacific Railroad Town. For a brief time in 1772, the Tenino Station was the northern terminus of the Railroad. Railroad Day celebrates not just the railroad, but also all local history with history booths, activities, music, and food - free fun for the whole family!
Thanksgiving Weekend: Tenino Holiday Market
Treat yourself to some serious artistry as you stroll and shop through the beautiful Kodiak Room in downtown Tenino where more than 30 local artisans will have gifts, decor, and treats ready to dazzle you.
June 22: Prairie Days 2024: Centennial Celebration
Yelm Prairie Days is an annual summer event that brings the community together for free family fun. Kids of all ages can enjoy the different activities, splash pads, and playground equipment. Don’t miss the Prairie Days Parade!
July 27: Nisqually Valley BBQ Rally
Expect a mouthwatering array of BBQs of all kinds for purchase, a beer garden, dance routines from local studios, a pie-eating competition, and of course, a BBQ competition.
Aug, 3-4: Jazz in the Park
Yelm City Park will turn into a relaxing evening in August where visitors are serenaded by live jazz bands while enjoying breathtaking views of Mt. Rainier. Bring the family and a picnic basket for a zen evening on the grass.
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