Editor’s note: You have reached an article from 2015. For the most current 4th of July information, click here.
By Kathryn Millhorn
Parties in the gorgeous Pacific Northwest continue long into our late summer nights. Most nights, that’s one of the best parts of the season. But keeping everyone occupied until it’s dark enough for fireworks can sometimes make the Fourth of July a little tricky.
This year, there are many daytime events to tide you over and wear you out so you’ll relax and enjoy (or sleep through!) the big displays.
Below we have listed the Independence Day activities around Olympia.
July 2 – 3
On Friday, July 3, Thrive Community Fitness will host a fun run benefitting educational funds for children who have lost a parent in the Iraq or Afghanistan war. Runners and walkers of any level are encouraged to sign up and enter to win prizes, medals, and have fun supporting those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Registration and check-in begins at 7:30 a.m. with an awards ceremony at 10:00 a.m.
The Bridge Summer Concert Series
Head to downtown Olympia’s Artesian Commons on July 3 for a free concert featuring DJ’s and a beat battle with more than a dozen contestants. The Artesian Commons are located at 4th Avenue and Jefferson Streets and the event is open to everyone. The activities begin at 6:30 p.m. on July 3.
Adults needing a little 21+ relaxation are invited to kick off the holiday weekend at The Brotherhood Lounge in downtown Olympia. Join in a dance party benefitting the Thurston County Food Bank. There is no cover to attend; the event starts at 9:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 2.
July 4
Fairways & Fireworks Fore On The 4th Fun Run
Another fun run happens July 4 at Tumwater Valley Golf Club. Check-in is also at 7:30 a.m. and there will be special prizes, breakfast buffets at the River’s Edge Restaurant, and prizes for the best patriotic outfit.
This first annual 5K takes you throughout the Capitol Campus, around Capitol Lake, and back up to the campus again. Awards and prizes are available and registration is available the day of the event at 8:00 a.m. on July 4. Your kids can also participate in the free kids dash.
Tumwater Independence Day Parade
The 25th annual parade takes place down Capitol Boulevard on July 4 at 11:00 a.m. Including animals, bands, dancers, community groups, and motorcycle drill teams, the event is fun for all ages. Bring lawn chairs and set up early for the best views.
The Tenino Quarry Pool will hold a family fun day and carnival from 12:00 until 5:00 p.m. on July 4 to raise money for the pool. There will be bounce houses, face painting, carnival games, entertainment, food, dunk tank, and raffles with amazing local prizes.
The event is $3 a person or $10 a family and includes pool admission.
Just up the road is JBLM’s massive 4th of July celebration. The festivities are open to the public and begin at 12:00 p.m. It ends with fireworks at 10:00 p.m. Freedom Fest offers a day of fun, food, carnival rides, games, music, and fireworks. This year’s free concert is music from Frankie Ballard.
Before the fireworks light up the sky, the biggest July 4th festival in town is in Tumwater at the Tumwater Valley Golf Course. With loads of family-friendly activities to keep even the littlest kids entertained, you won’t have trouble staying awake for the main event. The best part – the festival is entirely free! Gates open at 6:00 p.m. and fireworks begin at 10:15 p.m. on Saturday, July 4.
For a complete calendar of events happening around Olympia during the 4th of July weekend, click here. For information on fireworks shows in Olympia, Lacey, and Tumwater, click here.
