Our sunny skies and record-high temperatures seem to be on their way out, but summer-like temperatures were fun while they lasted. Photos submitted by our fantastic readers showed the amazing beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities that Thurston County has to offer. And this weekend, we showcase one of Olympia’s most beloved traditions – Spring Arts Walk and the Procession of the Species. 2016 marks the 21st year for this community festival celebrating Earth Day, an embracing of the arts and a sense of togetherness.
If community festivals aren’t your thing, never fear. Our calendar is chock full of theater, Earth Day service opportunities, charity bowling, and so much more. Check out some of the highlights below and visit our Events Calendar to see all that’s going on.
- Explore a Washington State Park for free in honor of Earth Day on Friday.
- Check out classic cars at Quinault Beach Resort and Casino’s 2-day High Rollin’ Hot Rods event.
- Welcome The Evergreen State College’s new President with inauguration events for the entire family on Friday and Saturday.
- Mix and mingle with your neighbors at Spring Arts Walk Friday night.
- Be enchanted at the Luminary Procession Friday night at 9:30 p.m. in downtown Olympia.
- Head to Hood Canal to experience Earth Day in nature with these ideas.
- Visit the WET Science Center to see Carrie Zeigler’s newest art installation, One Water – The Infinite Journey.
- Get a green thumb at the Tenino Community Garden Earth Day workshop, Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to noon.
- Sing along at Capital High School’s production of The Addams Family. Details here.
- Did your limit with three days of early morning razor clam tides.
- Sign up for a CSA box to ensure fresh produce all season long.
- Get dirt under your fingernails at one of eight “Day of Service” events on our calendar.
- Run or walk a 5K in the shadow of “The Traveler” at Alderbrook Resort. Full details here.
- Find your inner peace with Maureen Oar at The Yoga Loft.
- Bring your budding musicians to the free Instrument Petting Zoo at The Washington Center on Saturday.
- Cheer the bowlers and join the raffle at Bowl for Kids’ Sake benefitting Big Brother Big Sisters.
- Learn what Joyful Hands Ministries is doing each Saturday morning in downtown Olympia.
- Grab tickets now for the YWCA of Olympia’s Mission Showcase.
- Experience an essential Olympia event at the Procession of the Species. Event details are all included in this article.
- Visit an open house event this weekend. Click here to see the list of Van Dorm Realty’s open houses.
- Submit an event for our calendar here.
ThurstonTalk aims to be your source for positive information and events happening in Olympia. If you have a suggestion for a post, send us a note at submit@thurstontalk.com. For more events and to learn what’s happening in Olympia and the surrounding area, visit our events calendar.
