Handmade items like soap and candles that you can’t help but sniff, fluffy scarves that you just love to run your fingers through, and the samples of homemade fudges and jellies that beg to be tasted—these are just a few reasons craft fairs and holiday bazaars are so popular.
Craft fairs are also the perfect place to shop for the holidays—you support local artists, and because each item is handmade, your gift becomes a thoughtful and unique way to show you care. Read on to learn more about when and where to find craft fairs and holiday bazaars in Thurston County. Events are listed in chronological order but a complete list is available on the ThurstonTalk events calendar.
#1 – Obsidian in downtown Olympia will transform into a fall-themed bazaar with Maker’s Market at Obsidian Autumn Wonderland. The venue/bar/restaurant will fill with vendors offering gifts and goodies you may not find at other craft fairs, such as handmade story games that unroll from a scroll, tinctures, teas, and herbs from a local apothecary, and hand-pressed patches, pillows and prints. Some more traditional craft items include scarves and other handmade clothing, candles, and chocolates.
Saturday, November 5, 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at Obsidian, 414 4th Ave E. in Olympia
#2 – Tumwater Holiday Bazaar features vendor items and goods that are all handcrafted. Door prizes will also be given. This fourth annual event is becoming a favorite for locals, and is early enough in the season to get a head start on holiday shopping. Plus, Pellegrino’s will be serving up cheeseburgers, polish dogs, sweet potato fries, beer, wine, and more.
Saturday, November 5, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., Pellegrino’s Event Center, 5757 Littlerock Road SW in Tumwater.
#3 – Join in the fun at Olympia High School’s Antique and Craft BEARzaar. The 17th annual event continues to grow. This year, hunt for that special gift from more than 160 vendors, including crafters who can personalize your items right on the spot. Admission, childcare, and parking are free, with refreshments available for purchase. This event benefits the OHS Associated Student Body (ASB) and canned food donations are being accepted for the Thurston County Food Bank.
Saturday, November 19, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Olympia High School, 1302 North St. SE in Olympia.
#4 – Thurston County Fair Holiday Bazaar is a a festive shopping experience, with lots of vendors offering quality, holiday-themed crafts and items, and gourmet treats. Other refreshements will be on site like Oskar’s Deli, and espresso and kettle corn vendors. Bring your holiday shopping list. Parking and admission are free.
Friday, November 25, 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. and Saturday, November 26, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Thurston County Fairgrounds, 3054 Carpenter Road SE in Olympia
#5 – Fall Arts and Craft Fair at The Evergreen State College. There’s not a lot of information out there about this craft fair, but if you know Evergreen and the creativity of students and staff, you know it’s going to be good.
November 30, 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. on the second and third floors of the CAB building at Evergreen, 2700 Evergreen Parkway NW in Olympia
#6 – The Eastside Urban Farm & Garden Center likes hosting events, and the holidays are no different. Upstairs in their community hall, expect to see all local crafters, with items and gifts like wreaths, candles, fudges and fruit syrups. The event is free.
Saturdays, December 3 & 17, 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., Eastside Farm & Garden Center, 2326 4th Ave E in Olympia
#7 – With more than 165 vendors, Hawk’s Holiday Happening Gift & Craft Fair may be Thurston County’s largest craft fair, and it’s only one day. Vintage handmade jewelry, leather workers, homemade baked and canned goods and more. Free parking, admission, entertainment, and door prizes add the festival atmosphere
Saturday, December 3, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., River Ridge High School, 350 River Ridge Drive SE in Lacey
#8 – Feline Friends of Olympia is hosting their annual Holiday Bazaar and Craft Fair featuring more than 20 local vendors, baked goods, and Santa Paws. While some of the handcrafted items will be pet-themed, such as pet beds and toys, there will also be garden art, Christmas wreaths and decorations, fiber arts, candles and soaps, and more. Proceeds help benefit local animal rescue, and the cat house will be open nearby if anyone is interesting in adopting a new cat for the holidays.
Saturday, December 3, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., Griffin Fire Department, 3707 Steamboat Loop NW, Olympia.
#9 – Duck the Malls has become a tradition in downtown Oly, and this year is no different. The 14th annual arts and crafts sale has more than 50 vendors participating, and a gigantic bake sale with proceeds benefiting Olympia Film Society. Visitors come back year after for the unique and alternative gifts from local blacksmiths, wood, toy, and game makers, jewelry designers and more. Free admission.
Saturday, December 10, 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m, Capitol Theater, 206 5th Ave E in Olympia
Looking for even more craft fairs? Check out the holiday bazaars listed on the ThurstonTalk events calendar.
