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Summer’s official start can be confusing. Is it the first heat wave, solstice in June, or last day of school? Personally, I think it’s when balmy evenings wind down with music in the air and outdoor activities every night.

thurston solid wasteThis year, the Olympia Downtown Association’s Music in the Park series promises to keep Wednesday’s bopping from July 6 until August 24. Celebrate the mid-week with free concerts from 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. at downtown’s Sylvester Park with an extra show on Friday, August 5 at Port Plaza from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.

Kim Combs, ODA’s Event and Volunteer Coordinator, is proud that “Music in the Park has been a much loved and family-friendly summertime event in downtown Olympia spanning 37 years. Last year, we averaged just under 800 people at each concert. Our numbers typically climb a bit higher for our Port Plaza concert, but also when the military bands perform.”

olympia free concert
Picnics, blankets, dancing, pets, and families are always welcome at the Olympia Downtown Association’s annual Music in the Park series. Photo courtesy: Olympia Downtown Association.

All performers are either from or have ties to the Olympia area, showcasing our region’s best talent. Explains Combs, “We are happy to take suggestions and recommendations from community members. We work hard to include a variety of genres in our lineup to ensure there’s something for everyone.”

The ODA uses these shows as a “weekly forum to promote other downtown events. These folks who share their family time with us each week are exactly the same families who need to be coming downtown to enjoy more family-friendly outings. It is also a perfect opportunity to share more of what the Olympia Downtown Association is about, and where we’re working to make a difference in downtown.”

olympia free concerts
All concerts take place on Wednesday evenings at Sylvester Park with the exception of one held Friday, August 5 at Port Plaza. Photo credit: Olympia Downtown Association.

This year’s line-up includes:

Shows are all free and family- and pet-friendly. “We see many people enjoying picnics before or during the concerts which is awesome,” says Combs. “We have so many great restaurants and eateries in our downtown core, so we hope you’ll come early enough to check them out before you head to the park to find your perfect picnic spot.”

olympia summer concert
All Music in the Park performers have ties to the Olympia area, building community spirit and interactive fun. Photo courtesy: Olympia Downtown Association.

But plan accordingly: there is no public restroom at Sylvester Park, the nearest is two blocks away at Heritage Park. Also pack comfy chairs, blankets, and a jacket with your snacks since evenings can be cool. Dancing is encouraged to warm you up and burn off late-night treats.

Musicians interested in performing next year are encouraged to contact the Olympia Downtown Association between December 2016 and February 15, 2017. The ODA also sponsors Girls Night Out and Downtown for the Holidays, community fun for all ages.

Whether your summer is dedicated to camps and projects, lazy days outside, or staycations in our beautiful backyard, set aside Wednesday nights for Music in the Park. They’re the ultimate seasonal celebration destination for families, friends, visitors, pets, kids, and fun.

Thrifty Thurston highlights inexpensive family fun in Thurston County. The weekly series focuses on family-friendly activities throughout our community. 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, Lacey, Tumwater and the surrounding area, visit our complete event calendar.

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