Events Calendar | ThurstonTalk

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The ThurstonTalk Events Calendar shares things to do around Thurston County including Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, Yelm, Tenino and beyond. Find fun activities and adventures throughout the region on our comprehensive events calendar.

Have an event that isn’t listed? Please email events@ThurstonTalk.com with the following information:

Name of Event
Date, time and location (name of business if applicable and complete address)
Organizer(s) name
Cost
URL to purchase tickets
Website URL
SHORT description of event
Photo

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Olympia Harbor Days @ Percival Landing

Aug 30 @ 10:00 am – 7:00 pm

Olympia’s waterfront will come alive again this Labor Day weekend as Olympia Harbor Days returns with three days of ships, music, food, and maritime magic. This free South Sound Maritime Heritage Association event returns Friday, Aug. 29, through Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025.

Experience the magic of the waterfront as downtown Olympia transforms into a vibrant hub of nautical excitement with tall ships, steamships, tugboats, tribal canoes, and other historic vessels of twentieth-century commerce.

Guests can savor the flavors of the Pacific Northwest with over 15 food vendors throughout two food alleys, including traditional fire-roasted Tribal Cedar Smoked Salmon from Lucky Eagle Casino. The festival will feature numerous art and craft vendors, sand sculptures, stone etching, and a dedicated kids’ area.

Many talented musicians will perform throughout the weekend on various stages, including Thurston County favorites the Olson Brothers Band, Niko and the Night Shift, and Humor & Heart.

For history buffs, the Virginia V will offer harbor cruises on Saturday, along with the tugboat race viewing cruise on Sunday. Reservations and tickets are required and can be purchased here.

“From the historic ships to the incredible local talent and flavors, this festival is a true celebration of the people, stories, and traditions that make our waterfront unforgettable,” said Megan Ready, Executive Director of Olympia Harbor Days. “We’re excited to welcome everyone to the waterfront for a weekend of fun experiences you won’t want to miss.”

For more details on the festival lineup and activities, visit www.harbordays.com and follow along on Instagram or Facebook, and for additional information on what to do and see in Thurston County, visit www.experienceolympia.com.

Categories: Family Events Festivals, Expos, and Parade Food & Beverage Kids Local History Outdoor Recreation

Zumba in the Park @ See Facebook For This Weeks Park Location

Aug 30 @ 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm

Zumba in the Park Olympia Lacey (ZIP) kicks off at East Bay Public Plaza (in front of the Hands On Children’s museum) on Saturday, June 7, 2025 at 2 pm.
Join us for our fifteenth year of providing free family fun and fitness at various parks throughout the county. These activities are organized by a group of volunteer licensed and experienced Zumba®️ instructors who love to share their passion for active living.
Enjoy 90 minutes of dancing to a variety of rhythms, easy to follow and lots of fun. Children who enjoy dancing are welcome with adult supervision. No child care available.
For our full summer schedule, look us up on Facebook “zumba in the park Olympia Lacey” or email Zipolympia@gmail.com.

Categories: Family Events Health and Wellness Outdoor Recreation

Olympia Harbor Days @ Percival Landing

Aug 31 @ 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

Olympia’s waterfront will come alive again this Labor Day weekend as Olympia Harbor Days returns with three days of ships, music, food, and maritime magic. This free South Sound Maritime Heritage Association event returns Friday, Aug. 29, through Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025.

Experience the magic of the waterfront as downtown Olympia transforms into a vibrant hub of nautical excitement with tall ships, steamships, tugboats, tribal canoes, and other historic vessels of twentieth-century commerce.

Guests can savor the flavors of the Pacific Northwest with over 15 food vendors throughout two food alleys, including traditional fire-roasted Tribal Cedar Smoked Salmon from Lucky Eagle Casino. The festival will feature numerous art and craft vendors, sand sculptures, stone etching, and a dedicated kids’ area.

Many talented musicians will perform throughout the weekend on various stages, including Thurston County favorites the Olson Brothers Band, Niko and the Night Shift, and Humor & Heart.

For history buffs, the Virginia V will offer harbor cruises on Saturday, along with the tugboat race viewing cruise on Sunday. Reservations and tickets are required and can be purchased here.

“From the historic ships to the incredible local talent and flavors, this festival is a true celebration of the people, stories, and traditions that make our waterfront unforgettable,” said Megan Ready, Executive Director of Olympia Harbor Days. “We’re excited to welcome everyone to the waterfront for a weekend of fun experiences you won’t want to miss.”

For more details on the festival lineup and activities, visit www.harbordays.com and follow along on Instagram or Facebook, and for additional information on what to do and see in Thurston County, visit www.experienceolympia.com.

Categories: Family Events Festivals, Expos, and Parade Food & Beverage Kids Local History Outdoor Recreation

Scherler Sundays @ 7th and Franklin St

Aug 31 @ 3:00 pm

SCHERLER SUNDAYS is a completely-free, non-profit outdoor concert series, now in its fourth year. All ages are encouraged to attend. Wide variety of musical styles with over 30 regional and national performers over the course of 9 weeks.

Each artist is interviewed briefly onstage for a taping of the podcast Low Profile.

Local merchants plus food and beverages available on site, lawn chairs encouraged. Earplugs and sunscreen provided free of charge.

Categories: Arts and Entertainment Family Events Music Concerts Outdoor Recreation

Back-to-School Specials for Kids and Families @ Brewery City Pizza

Sep 1 all-day

As the school year kicks into gear, we’re helping teachers and families
stay fueled and focused with limited-time back-to-school specials, plus a cheesy bonus
for National Cheese Pizza Day.
Now through October 1st, we’re serving up exclusive perks that celebrate education and the return to routine:

Kids Eat Free Every Monday now through Oct 1st!
Mondays just got tastier. Kids 12 and under receive a free kids meal with the purchase
of any entrée (calzone, pasta, sandwich, pizza, or large salad).
(In-house only. One free kids meal per purchased entrée. Cannot be combined with
other offers. Mondays only.)
From after-school pick-me-ups to well-earned teacher treats, our back-to-school offers have something for everyone in the classroom.

Teachers Get 20% Off!
Show your valid school ID or badge and enjoy 20% off your meal, because you deserve
a break!
(In-house only. Cannot be combined with other offers.)

Available now through October 1st. Stop in and take advantage before the bell rings on
these tasty savings!

Plus, Don’t Miss National Cheese Pizza Day – One Day Only!
On September 5th, get a free original 12″ cheese pizza with the purchase of any 12″, 14″, or 16″ pizza.
(In-house only. Valid September 5th only.)

Categories: Education Family Events Food & Beverage Kids

Governor’s Mansion Fall Tours @ Governor’s Mansion

Sep 3 @ 10:00 pm

As summer gives way to fall, public tours at the Governor’s Mansion will begin on September 3^rd and 10^th, at 10:30 a.m., 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and noon.

Washington’s red brick Georgian-style Governor’s Mansion located on the grounds of the State Capitol campus dates from the early 20th century, a time when the concept of a governor’s mansion was gaining in popularity. Completed in 1909, the Governor’s Mansion has been the home of seventeen governors and their families.

The thirty-minute tour will feature the history of the building, furnishings, art and library collections of the public rooms – the Great Hall, Drawing Room, Library, Ferguson’s Family Room, Gallery, West and East Corridors, State Dining Room and Ballroom. Tours also include the family photo display of the six state governors who served before the Mansion’s completion.

Reservations – Visit the Department of Enterprise Services’ website to complete an online reservation https://capitol.wa.gov/tours/governors-mansion-tours at least 24 hours in advance. Adult tour guests must show photo identification and all visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The Mansion is accessible to wheelchairs and walkers. Visitors must walk a 200-yard incline up to the Mansion.

Questions or additional information – Please email the State Capitol Tour Office at tours@des.wa.gov (please put in subject line Governor’s Mansion Tours).

Cancellation Policy – If you need to cancel your reservation, please do so with at least 72 hours’ notice (3 days) prior to your tour date. Call the Tour Office at 360.902.8880 to cancel your tour.

Categories: Education Family Events Local Government Local History

Celebrate National Cheese Pizza Day @ Brewery City Pizza

Sep 5 all-day

Don’t Miss National Cheese Pizza Day – One Day Only!
On September 5th, get a free original 12″ cheese pizza with the purchase of any 12″, 14″, or 16″ pizza.
(In-house only. Valid September 5th only.)

Categories: Family Events Food & Beverage

A Nautical Adventure @ WET Science Center

Sep 6 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Ahoy there! Climb aboard for a nautical day filled with coastal crafts and seafaring activities. Practice tying knots like a sailor, decode signal flag messages, and build a miniature lighthouse.

Categories: Family Events Kids Outdoor Recreation

Coffee & Cars @ Forza Coffee Company

Sep 6 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Remember Coffee & Cars at Forza?
If you were there, you know the vibes—nice rides, good coffee, and even better company. Well… it’s BACK!

Saturday, September 6th
10 AM – 3 PM
Our brand-new Forza Coffee location in West Olympia

Come relive the memories (and make some new ones!) with:
Coffee & food specials
Live DJ
Raffle prizes
And rows of stunning cars that make your heart race!

Bring your favorite ride—or just bring yourself—and let’s bring back that Forza magic

Categories: Business Networking Events Family Events Food & Beverage Outdoor Recreation Volunteer and Community Enrichment

Friends of the Poor® Walk/Run @ Saint Michael Parish

Sep 6 @ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Join us for a day of giving and goodwill. Friends of the Poor® Walk/Run will raise funds and create awareness to support those in poverty in the Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater area with essential needs such as rent assistance to avoid eviction, reconnection of utilities, clothing, laundry services, propane for cooking and heating, gasoline, IDs and much more.

The walk/run route is deal for all ages and fitness levels. Participants will enjoy a pleasant 5K walk/run along a beautiful nature trail and neighborhood sidewalks.

All registered participants are invited to a delicious complimentary “Thank-you Lunch,” catered by Pellegrino’s Italian Kitchen.

Every registered walker who receives $100 or more in pledges from family and friends receives a commemorative T-Shirt as a keepsake to show their support for helping the poor.

You can register to walk/run or donate on our website at www.fopwalkrun.org.

Categories: Family Events Health and Wellness Non-profit Fundraising Events Outdoor Recreation Volunteer and Community Enrichment

Under The Big Top Community Resource Fair @ ASHHO Cultural Community Center

Sep 6 @ 11:00 am – 2:00 pm

Stop by the “Under the Big Top” Community Resource Fair to get connected to local organizations, nonprofits, and government agencies. You can get your questions answered in person or sign up for services.

On The Road with PartnerCafe is a small nonprofit with the mission to get information and resources into the hands of people like YOU! We host these resource fairs and partner with the organizations we invite to join us. That way we can collaborate together to bring social and human services directly into communities that need them.

Categories: Adult Focused Events Family Events Festivals, Expos, and Parade Food & Beverage Volunteer and Community Enrichment

Rain or Shine Show & Shine @ Shelton Ford/Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/Ram

Sep 7 @ 11:00 am – 2:00 pm

This is an all car car show. If it has wheels, we want to see it. Free Street Tacos & Corn (donations accepted but not required) Family & pet friendly, raffle, and presentations by NW Battle Buddies.

ALL monies raised through the day, will be given directly to NW Battle Buddies, providing service dogs for veterans.

https://www.sheltoncjdr.com/

https://www.sheltoncjdr.com/

Categories: Family Events Outdoor Recreation

Back-to-School Specials for Kids and Families @ Brewery City Pizza

Sep 8 all-day

As the school year kicks into gear, we’re helping teachers and families
stay fueled and focused with limited-time back-to-school specials, plus a cheesy bonus
for National Cheese Pizza Day.
Now through October 1st, we’re serving up exclusive perks that celebrate education and the return to routine:

Kids Eat Free Every Monday now through Oct 1st!
Mondays just got tastier. Kids 12 and under receive a free kids meal with the purchase
of any entrée (calzone, pasta, sandwich, pizza, or large salad).
(In-house only. One free kids meal per purchased entrée. Cannot be combined with
other offers. Mondays only.)
From after-school pick-me-ups to well-earned teacher treats, our back-to-school offers have something for everyone in the classroom.

Teachers Get 20% Off!
Show your valid school ID or badge and enjoy 20% off your meal, because you deserve
a break!
(In-house only. Cannot be combined with other offers.)

Available now through October 1st. Stop in and take advantage before the bell rings on
these tasty savings!

Plus, Don’t Miss National Cheese Pizza Day – One Day Only!
On September 5th, get a free original 12″ cheese pizza with the purchase of any 12″, 14″, or 16″ pizza.
(In-house only. Valid September 5th only.)

Categories: Education Family Events Food & Beverage Kids

Governor’s Mansion Fall Tours @ Governor’s Mansion

Sep 10 @ 10:00 pm

As summer gives way to fall, public tours at the Governor’s Mansion will begin on September 3^rd and 10^th, at 10:30 a.m., 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and noon.

Washington’s red brick Georgian-style Governor’s Mansion located on the grounds of the State Capitol campus dates from the early 20th century, a time when the concept of a governor’s mansion was gaining in popularity. Completed in 1909, the Governor’s Mansion has been the home of seventeen governors and their families.

The thirty-minute tour will feature the history of the building, furnishings, art and library collections of the public rooms – the Great Hall, Drawing Room, Library, Ferguson’s Family Room, Gallery, West and East Corridors, State Dining Room and Ballroom. Tours also include the family photo display of the six state governors who served before the Mansion’s completion.

Reservations – Visit the Department of Enterprise Services’ website to complete an online reservation https://capitol.wa.gov/tours/governors-mansion-tours at least 24 hours in advance. Adult tour guests must show photo identification and all visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The Mansion is accessible to wheelchairs and walkers. Visitors must walk a 200-yard incline up to the Mansion.

Questions or additional information – Please email the State Capitol Tour Office at tours@des.wa.gov (please put in subject line Governor’s Mansion Tours).

Cancellation Policy – If you need to cancel your reservation, please do so with at least 72 hours’ notice (3 days) prior to your tour date. Call the Tour Office at 360.902.8880 to cancel your tour.

Categories: Education Family Events Local Government Local History

LOTT Clean Water WET Science Center: Crafts, Trivia, and Give-Aways! @ Olympia Farmers Market

Sep 11 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm

On the one hand, you love fun…on the other, you love education…put those hands together friends, because Lott Clean Water’s Wet Science Center is bringing BOTH. Enjoy family-friendly interactive crafts and their famous water trivia wheel…you just might win something to take home!

Categories: Education Family Events Health and Wellness Kids Workshops, Classes and Lectures

Free Introduction to Square Dancing @ Lac-A-Do Hall

Sep 11 @ 6:30 pm

Free Introduction to Square Dancing: Olympia Area Square Dancers will have you dancing right away. Try this fun activity for free on Thursday, September 11th, 6:30 p.m. At Lac-A-Do Hall, 1721 46th AVE NE, Olympia. Couples, singles, and families welcome, ages 10 to 110. Good exercise for mind and body in a friendly atmosphere. Information at OlympiaSquareDance.com or 360-438-1284.

Categories: Arts and Entertainment Family Events

Tumwater Craft Concert Series Back to School Bash: Brian Vogan and his Good Buddies @ Craft District Amphitheater

Sep 12 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm

Tumwater Parks & Recreation, in collaboration with the Craft District, presents the Tumwater Craft Concert Series. The series will feature a diverse lineup of local and regional artists, offering something for everyone. In addition to live music, enjoy everything that the adjacent Craft District has to offer – wonderful food, incredible craft beverages, and a well-curated shopping experience just steps away from the amphitheater. We encourage the community to join us for an unforgettable summer of music and fun.

Individual concert dates:

Thursday, June 26; 6 – 7:30 p.m. Rockin’ Summer – Nikko & the Night Shift

Thursday, July 24; 6 – 7:30 p.m. Global Tunes: Mariachi Monarcas

Thursday, August 28; 6 – 7:30 p.m. Sizzling Symphony: Dirty Cello

Friday, September 12; 6 – 7:30 p.m. Back to School Bash: Brian Vogan and his Good Buddies

Categories: Arts and Entertainment Family Events Music Concerts Outdoor Recreation

Farm and Nursery Tours @ Burnt Ridge Nursery & Orchards, Inc

Sep 13 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

SUMMER FARM AND NURSERY TOURS AT BURNT RIDGE NURSERY

Burnt Ridge Nursery will be hosting a public farm and nursery tour, with founder Michael Dolan leading the way as he shares all about their 20 acres of organic fruit and nuts. He’ll show crop plants, including hazelnuts, chestnuts, figs, mulberries, blueberries, kiwis,
and more! Cultivation and propagation techniques will be discussed, as well as varieties that do well here in the Pacific Northwest. A fruit sample plate will be provided after the tour.
Tickets must be purchased in advance. Single Tickets are $15, Party of 3 is $35, Party of 4 is $40.
Tickets can be purchased online, on our website at www.burntridgenursery.org or by calling our office at 360-985-2873.

There are 2 tour times scheduled each day. All of the events will be held outside.

Saturday, July 19th, 2025
10:00am-12:00pm or 1:30-3:30pm

Saturday, August 16th, 2025
10:00am-12:00pm or 1:30-3:30pm

Saturday, September 13th, 2025
10:00am-12:00 pm or 1:30-3:30pm

Categories: Family Events Food & Beverage Health and Wellness Home and Garden Outdoor Recreation

Tales from a Tardigrade + DHH Interpreted Tour @ WET Science Center

Sep 13 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Meet one of the tiniest, toughest creatures on Earth – the tardigrade! Discover the extreme environments in which these microscopic marvels can survive and make tardigrade crafts to treasure. Join us at 2pm for a tour of LOTT’s wastewater treatment plant, which will include interpretation for people who are deaf and hard of hearing. Tour participants must be 10 or older and wear closed-toe, closed-heel shoes.

Categories: Family Events Kids Outdoor Recreation

Farm and Nursery Tours @ Burnt Ridge Nursery & Orchards, Inc

Sep 13 @ 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm

SUMMER FARM AND NURSERY TOURS AT BURNT RIDGE NURSERY

Burnt Ridge Nursery will be hosting a public farm and nursery tour, with founder Michael Dolan leading the way as he shares all about their 20 acres of organic fruit and nuts. He’ll show crop plants, including hazelnuts, chestnuts, figs, mulberries, blueberries, kiwis,
and more! Cultivation and propagation techniques will be discussed, as well as varieties that do well here in the Pacific Northwest. A fruit sample plate will be provided after the tour.
Tickets must be purchased in advance. Single Tickets are $15, Party of 3 is $35, Party of 4 is $40.
Tickets can be purchased online, on our website at www.burntridgenursery.org or by calling our office at 360-985-2873.

There are 2 tour times scheduled each day. All of the events will be held outside.

Saturday, July 19th, 2025
10:00am-12:00pm or 1:30-3:30pm

Saturday, August 16th, 2025
10:00am-12:00pm or 1:30-3:30pm

Saturday, September 13th, 2025
10:00am-12:00 pm or 1:30-3:30pm

Categories: Family Events Food & Beverage Health and Wellness Home and Garden Outdoor Recreation

August – September 2025 Aug – Sep 2025