Events Calendar | ThurstonTalk

Home Olympia Events Calendar

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

Our editors will review and post within a few business days.

Thurston County Fair @ Thurston County Fairgrounds

Aug 3 @ 10:00 am – 8:00 pm

Thurston County Fair Returns July 31- August 3 with Classic Summer Fun for All Ages

Carnival ride wristbands are back! On Friday August 1 you can ride all you want for $50.

LACEY, WA – Get ready to Boogie on Down to the Thurston County Fair, back this summer with four days of classic fair fun from Thursday, July 31 to Sunday, August 3 at the Thurston County Fairgrounds in Lacey!

Gates open daily at 10 a.m. with carnival rides rolling out at 1 p.m.
Tickets range from just $7–$9, with season passes also available.
Find daily deals online: www.ThurstonCountyWA.gov/fair/tickets

This year’s county fair brings the perfect mix of wild rides, live entertainment, local agriculture, 4-H and FFA showcases, and small-town community magic. Come hungry—fair food favorites are back, plus tasty new eats from first-time vendors. Don’t miss the lineup: www.ThurstonCountyWA.gov/2025-fair-entertainment.

DAILY DEALS

Thrifty Thursday (July 31): $1 entry with non-perishable food donation.
Wristband Friday (Aug. 1): Unlimited rides for $50.
First Responders & Military Saturday (Aug. 2): $2 entry with ID.
Youth Sunday (Aug. 3): Kids 6–14 just $2!
Every Day: Kids 5 & under get in FREE!

Daily Baking Contests (Fri–Sun)

Calling all bakers! Bring your best and compete for sweet bragging rights:

Friday: Cookies
Saturday: Berry Pies (in partnership with Thurston County Food Bank)
Sunday: Cupcakes

Details & entry info: www.ThurstonCountyWA.gov/2025-thurston-county-fair-baking-contests

Demos That Dazzle

From creative crafts to hands-on know-how, educational demos offer something for everyone:

Quilting & Sewing
Floral Design
Wildfire Preparedness
Manure Management
Gardening with Native Plants

“We’re thrilled about this year’s fair,” said Thomasina Cooper, Fairgrounds & Event Center Manager. “We’ve packed in something for everyone – exciting new vendors, hands-on demos, baking contests, and great deals every day. Come make some unforgettable memories with your friends and family!”

Find full details at www.ThurstonCountyFair.org.

Categories: Arts and Entertainment Family Events Festivals, Expos, and Parade Food & Beverage Outdoor Recreation

Sip & Paint Night! @ The Bus Stop Olympia

Aug 5 @ 6:00 pm

Join us for a fun, instructed painting class where you’ll create “The Wave” – a summertime favorite!

Bring a friend, sip your favorite drink, come early and grab a bite to eat and let’s make it a night to remember. No experience needed – just good vibes and creativity!

All supplies provided Perfect for a night out with friends

Categories: Arts and Entertainment Food & Beverage Workshops, Classes and Lectures

Lacey South Sound Chamber Forum Luncheon @ Indian Summer Golf and Country Club

Aug 6 @ 11:30 am

The Lacey South Sound Chamber hosts a monthly forum luncheon at Indian Summer Golf & Country Club on the first Wednesday of every month. This is an educational event with the opportunity to network and listens to educational speakers.

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

Green Drinks Olympia @ Lakeside Tap Millersylvania

Aug 6 @ 5:30 pm

Just a quick reminder that Green Drinks Olympia is happening again this month! It’s a great chance to connect with others working on or interested in sustainability, climate action, and community building.

This month’s gathering is especially welcoming to newcomers to the area, so feel free to bring a friend or forward this along to your networks!

Categories: Adult Focused Events Education Food & Beverage Volunteer and Community Enrichment

Summer at the Schmidt – a 1950s Garden Party @ Schmidt House

Aug 9 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Swing Into Summer with a 1950s Garden Party at the Schmidt House

Break out the pearls, pinstripes, and your best Rat Pack swagger—Summer at the Schmidt is bringing vintage glam to the garden on Saturday, August 9, 2025, from 5:00 to 8:00 pm at the historic Schmidt House.

This isn’t your average garden party. It’s a swingin’ soirée where cool cats and classy dames gather for a night of mid-century magic—all in support of local students and community history.

Expect:

A 1950s-inspired garden party set against the stunning backdrop of the Schmidt House
Live tunes to get your toes tappin’
Delicious local fare and summer refreshments
An opportunity to support the Olympia Tumwater Foundation’s college scholarship fund and the Tumwater Youth Music program

“Summer at the Schmidt is our way of blending timeless style with a timeless cause,” said Todd Cutts, Executive Director of the Olympia Tumwater Foundation. “It’s Frank Sinatra meets fundraising—and it’s gonna be a gas.”

So grab your favorite hep cat, throw on your vintage best, and join us for Glam in the Garden, Giving with Heart. You’ll be making a difference while having the time of your life.

Categories: Adult Focused Events Business Networking Events Food & Beverage Non-profit Fundraising Events Volunteer and Community Enrichment

Harlequin’s Annual Gala & 2026 Season Announcement @ State Theater

Aug 9 @ 6:00 pm

Harlequin Productions’ Season Announcement Gala gets bigger and better every year, and 2026 will be no exception. Expect delicious food and drink, live entertainment, engaging auction offerings, and of course, an immersive onstage presentation revealing Season 35. Dress to impress!

Categories: Arts and Entertainment Food & Beverage Non-profit Fundraising Events Theater Performances Volunteer and Community Enrichment

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

Aug 16 @ 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

Free Community Block Party @ Olympia Lacey Church of God

Aug 16 @ 11:00 am – 2:00 pm

Our Community Block Party is a FREE event for the whole family! Mark your calendars for August 16th from 11:00am to 2:00pm! We will have: Giveaways, Insert Coin Video Games, Mr. Twister Balloons, Sensory Toolhouse, Inflatables, Face Painting, Haircuts, Hot Dogs, Cotton Candy, Italian Sodas, and more!

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

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

Aug 16 @ 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

Driven by Community Block Party @ Toyota of Olympia

Aug 16 @ 3:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Toyota of Olympia Hosts “Driven by Community” Event to Celebrate Cars, Culture, and Local Connection

Toyota of Olympia is proud to announce the Driven by Community Block Party, a high-energy summer event that brings together local car enthusiasts, families, and small businesses for an unforgettable evening of culture and connection.

Set to take place at the Toyota of Olympia dealership on Saturday, August 16th from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM, this free, family-friendly gathering will showcase custom cars, live music from local DJs, food trucks, games, and a vibrant celebration of what makes the South Sound community special.

“Driven by Community isn’t just about the cars, it’s about the people,” said Amber Markland, Marketing Manager at Toyota of Olympia. “We’re honored to support and connect with the community we serve every day, and this event is our way of giving back and creating space to celebrate together.”

Highlights of the event include:

Local DJ performances and live music
Street food and desserts from favorite local vendors
Show-stopping vehicles from car enthusiasts across the region
Family activities and giveaways
Special appearances from community partners and local talent

Toyota of Olympia will also be rolling in with a showcase of their latest vehicles, along with some surprises.

Community is what drives Toyota of Olympia—and this event is a celebration of just that.

Categories: Arts and Entertainment Family Events Food & Beverage Music Concerts Outdoor Recreation Volunteer and Community Enrichment

Farms Forever Dinner and Auction @ Little Creek Casino Resort

Aug 16 @ 3:30 pm – 8:00 pm

Join the Community Farm Land Trust at our annual dinner and auction, Farms Forever. This farm to table dinner and ask benefits farmland preservation in the South Sound. Enjoy an evening of community, farm-fresh food, drinks, music, and a vibrant live auction. Hear fromHilary Aten, the Office of Farmland Preservation Coordinator at the Washington State Conservation Commision, on Bridging the Gap: Addressing Farmland Loss Through Access & Affordability. As you wine and dine, know your generosity helps keep this vital work growing.

Categories: Business Networking Events Food & Beverage Non-profit Fundraising Events Outdoor Recreation

Sweet Treats for a Sweet Cause @ Little Creek Casino Resort – Sa-Heh-Wa-Mish Room

Aug 22 @ 11:30 am – 1:00 pm

Mason Health Foundation is delighted to announce its highly anticipated annual Business Luncheon & Confections Auction, set to take place on Friday, August 22, 2025, at the Little Creek Casino Resort’s Sa-Heh-Wa-Mish Room, located at 91 State Route 108, Shelton, WA 98584. This signature event, supported by Silver Level Sponsor Our Community Credit Union, brings together Mason County’s business leaders and community members for an afternoon of networking, philanthropy, and indulgent desserts — all in support of a vital cause.

Proceeds from this year’s event will benefit the purchase of a new high-field open MRI machine, enhancing diagnostic imaging services for the Mason County community. The highlight of the luncheon is the Confections Auction, featuring an array of delectable desserts donated by local businesses and community members. Attendees will have the opportunity to bid on favorites such as long-time volunteer Mary Anne Munson’s famous kettle corn, generously donated by Foundation board member Beth Gregg, and Oreo cheesecake provided by Mason Health EVS Manager Trevor Madison; artisan baked goods from local businesses such as The Cuppiecakesqueen and Kookies and Cream, and tasty treats from various Mason Health employees, including a three-month supply of desserts from Chief Human Resources Officer Carolyn McCain and a special treat from Senior Executive Assistant Shelly Dunnington.

Categories: Business Networking Events Food & Beverage Non-profit Fundraising Events

South Sound Connections @ Indian Summer Golf and Country Club

Aug 27 @ 11:30 am – 1:00 pm

We welcome our Chamber members and guests to join South Sound Connections for a fun and educational networking group. This will be a great opportunity to brand your business, meet business professionals, and learn how to enhance your business to business relationships

Categories: Business Networking Events Food & Beverage

Brushstrokes and Bagels @ Schwartz's Bakery

Sep 1 all-day

Olympia area artists display their work. A wide range of art, paintings, collage, prints, wire and metal art and more. Come see us!

Categories: Arts and Entertainment Food & Beverage

Lacey South Sound Chamber Forum Luncheon @ Indian Summer Golf and Country Club

Sep 3 @ 11:30 am

The Lacey South Sound Chamber hosts a monthly forum luncheon at Indian Summer Golf & Country Club on the first Wednesday of every month. This is an educational event with the opportunity to network and listens to educational speakers.

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

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

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

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

South Sound Connections @ Indian Summer Golf and Country Club

Sep 24 @ 11:30 am – 1:00 pm

We welcome our Chamber members and guests to join South Sound Connections for a fun and educational networking group. This will be a great opportunity to brand your business, meet business professionals, and learn how to enhance your business to business relationships

Categories: Business Networking Events Food & Beverage

Lacey South Sound Chamber Forum Luncheon @ Indian Summer Golf and Country Club

Oct 1 @ 11:30 am

The Lacey South Sound Chamber hosts a monthly forum luncheon at Indian Summer Golf & Country Club on the first Wednesday of every month. This is an educational event with the opportunity to network and listens to educational speakers.

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

August – October 2025 Aug – Oct 2025