Olympia’s historic downtown waterfront with family, friends, and visitors at the annual Harbor Days. The much-anticipated Labor Day weekend event features tugboat races and classic vessels on the water side, with plenty of food choices, kid-friendly activities, and art and craft vendors interspersed along the boardwalk. Watch the nautical past of Puget Sound unfold around you as you enjoy music,
entertainment and food.
The three-day celebration is hosted by the South Sound Maritime Heritage Association. For a taste of history, the Virginia V offers harbor cruises. See first-hand historic steam ships, wooden boats, and small recreational watercraft. The Sunday tugboat races are a perennial favorite. Experience tribal culture and food. Watch the creation of fantastic sand sculptures, let your imaginations go at the LEGO Harbor Build, and take home a balloon animal. You might even see dancing pirates along the way. With well over 300 things to do, see and taste, you will want to be part of the fun. “Our relatives are usually in town this time of year, so sometimes we even go twice,” says an enthusiastic resident.
Each year brings new offerings. The illuminated procession will be a fun addition. It happens as the food and music spill out onto Colombia Street at the Friday Night Market which lasts until 9:30pm. “I like to tie in local art groups like Samba OlyWa,” says Megan Ready, Executive Director of Olympia Harbor Days and the Olympia Wooden Boat Festival. “Being involved with the community is wonderful,” she adds.
Downtown Olympia is home to the Hands On Children’s Museum, hotels, and innovative local retailers specializing in coffee, clothes, vintage items, household goods, and personal care. Adults will find beer, wine and distillery products. Stores and restaurants are walkable from the event.
Olympia Harbor Days is an award-winning maritime heritage festival honoring the rich history of Puget Sound. The generous support from local partners and advertisers keeps this cherished tradition vibrant. Remember to take your sunglasses. The weather is usually just right.
For Additional Information
Olympia Harbor Days
harbordays.com
BY MARY ELLEN PSALTIS