There are so many exciting events that take place
annually in downtown Olympia; they can easily fill up a Washington
State events calendar. Our area has something to offer everyone,
whether you're an artist, athlete, or a person who just loves to
have fun.
Visiting art lovers will enjoy both our Sand in
the City and Artswalk events. The former is a uniquely delightful
display of numerous sand sculptures by locals and visitors alike.
Each year, over 240 tons of sand invades the downtown area! We
guarantee it will be one of the most unusual art displays you will
ever witness. The Artswalk is a biannual event that takes place in
April and October, and features the work of local artists
displayed throughout downtown Olympia shops, boutiques and
restaurants. The October Artwalk is followed quickly by the
Olympia Film Festival in November. They feature an eclectic mix of
fine small features and larger budget films over the years.
The athletes in the family will appreciate our
Kick in the Grass soccer tournament and our Capital City long
distance running events. Kick in the Grass is a three-day
tournament held in the second half of July. Grab some picnic
fodder and watch local teams battle it out for the top spot - the
quality of soccer is well worth earmarking a day of your visit to
head out to the fields. The Capital City Marathon takes place in
May and is a popular event for area runners, all of whom look
forward to custom, designed shirts, awards, and medals each year.
For those of you whose spirit is willing but body is less sure -
the website also "relays" information regarding their
half-marathon, five-miler, and kids run.
If you are visiting Olympia and just want to kick
up your heels and have a good time, our area is home to a few
festivals and carnivals throughout the year. Olympia Harbor Days
is in its 33rd year and is one of the most locally beloved events,
celebrating our area's maritime heritage and featuring over 30
tugboats and 120 arts and crafts booths. The Dixieland Jazz
Festival has been swinging since 1991 and is dedicated to the
continuing tradition of American music. The event has attracted
some of the best jazz musicians in our country. The Capitol
Lakefair Festival was founded in 1957 to promote the construction
of Capitol Lake Park. Every few years new aspects were added to
the event, including floats, water skiing, sailboat races, street
dances, a car show, and much more. Today, the festival has a
budget just shy of a quarter of a million dollars and is one of
the biggest entertainment draws to Olympia.
For more information about our local events,
please click on the link below. The Governor Hotel is ideally
located for you and your family to enjoy them
For a more detailed listing
of events please click here
