As we gear up to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, you won’t want to miss all the exciting events happening! You will find all your favorites returning, like Lacey’s Firework Spectacular, as well as new and unique events happening to celebrate this milestone. Here are the 2026 July Fourth Fireworks and other activities near Olympia celebrating America’s 250th birthday.
Planning on having a fireworks show at home? Be sure to check out the Washington State Patrol’s guidelines and information resources on which Thurston County cities have firework bans and/or restrictions.
Tenino Famy Fun Day, America 250 Celebration and Quarry Pool Opening
June 26, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Tenino
Free
Families can look forward to a vibrant lineup of entertainment, including live music from America’s 1st Corps Big Band Jazz ensemble and performer Bill Lenker. Activities spanning the park include pony rides, bounce houses, live reptiles, model train exhibits, carnival games, a dunk tank, local non-profit and food vendors, and rich historical displays. Don’t miss the parade and of course, come prepared to take a dip in the pool for the first time this season!
In honor of the nation’s semiquincentennial, the Tenino Depot Museum will offer a special, limited-edition Red, White, and Blue Tenino Wooden Money Piece. The front features “250,” and the back reads “Happy Birthday America.” It is the first time the Museum has ever printed in 3 colors. These rare pieces will sell for $5 each as a fundraiser to support museum operations. To maintain their exclusivity, only 500 pieces will be minted in total:
- First 250 pieces: Released during Family Fun Day (June 27)
- Remaining 250 pieces: Released during Tenino Oregon Trail Days (July 24–26)
Find the full list of events at the City of Tenino website.
Governor’s Mansion Celebrates America 250: Stitching History Quilt Show
July 1 and July 8
In honor of America 250, the Governor’s Mansion Foundation presents “Stitching History” a display of quilts from private collections and local quilt guilds throughout the Governor’s Mansion during tours on July 1 and July 8. The quilts celebrate America’s history, spirit, community, pride and culture. The quilts range from the 19th century to contemporary masterpieces honoring veterans. The tours will conclude with patriotic music.
Visit the Department of Enterprise Services’ website to complete an online reservation Governor’s Mansion Tours | Washington State Capitol Campus. Adult tour guests must show photo identification and all visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Lacey Fireworks Spectacular
July 3, 2024
4 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Free
Rainer Vista Park
5475 45th Ave SE, Lacey
The Lacey Firework Spectacular is back for 2026 with an incredible show to celebrate America 250! Don’t forget to pick up your 3D glasses starting June 16 at Lacey Collision, Capital Collision or at their booth on July 3, while supplies last. The show is synchronized to music. Enjoy food vendors, a kids zone and live music while you wait for the show.
City of Tumwater’s Independence Day Parade
July 4, 2024
Capitol Boulevard to Israel Road SW, Tumwater
11 a.m.
Free
The Tumwater Fourth of July parade is a fun event for the whole family! This year’s theme is, of course, “250 Years of US” – so bring out all that red, white and blue! The parade includes classic cars, horses, veterans’ groups, high school cheer and dance, floats, bands and more.
Want to join the July 4th Parade? Entries must be received by June 19, 2026. Find out more on the City of Tumwater’s website.
Tumwater Family Festival and Nisqually Red Wind Casino Fireworks Show
July 4
6 p.m.
Tumwater Valley Golf Course
4611 Tumwater Valley Drive SE, Tumwater
Parking, $10 (cash only, benefits Thurston County Special Olympics)
Attend the free Tumwater Family Festival and Nisqually Red Wind Casino Fireworks Show! Live entertainment, vendors, family activities and more will keep your busy while you wait for the big fireworks show to begin at 10:15 after the national anthem. Learn more on the City of Tumwater website.
Fourth of July Marathon
July 4, 8:30 a.m.
Olympia
Kick off your Independence Day celebrations with a marathon! The Eagle 5K, 10K and half-marathon is going to take you around the Capital Lake loop, giving you a scenic run. Pick up your packet 30 minutes before the race starts. Enter online.
First Reading of the Declaration of Independence
July 8, 3 p.m.
Capital Rotunda
Capital Campus, Olympia
Free
This ceremony is presented by George Rogers Clark, Sons of the American Revolution, and Sacajawea Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution will be a reading of the Declaration of Independence across the country at the same time in every state.
All-American Jubilee
Wilkowski Park
Rochester Street E, Rainier
Information for this year’s event is TBD. Check back!
Boston Harbor
Boston Harbor will not be doing fireworks this year.
If you have a Fourth of July event not listed, email details to submit@ThurstonTalk.com.
