Listen for the steam whistles and the churn of Puget Sound when you attend Olympia Harbor Days in downtown the first weekend in September. The popular festival showcases tugboat races and a vibrant collection of vendors that pleases both visitors and residents. The whole family can engage with over 250 various activities and vendors. Harbor Days offers a sensory bridge between Washington’s rugged maritime past and its creative present.
The Friday night kickoff hosts two live music stages. The evening market will be open along with two food alleys, one at the Port Plaza and the other at the corner of Percival Park and Columbia Street. Along the boardwalk, explore the plethora of local artisans who display everything from hand-carved woodwork to intricate coastal jewelry. Families can dive into STEM-themed activities like the LEGO Harbor Build and then catch live music or tribal storytelling.
Over the weekend, tour the polished brass decks of a historic steamship or cheer from the pier as vintage tugboats race in the inlet. Tours will be available go out onto the water. This year you can meet pirates in person, try the fun run connecting local parks, and discover all sorts of whale decorations.
Funds raised at Harbor Days support the South Sound Maritime Heritage Foundation, a nonprofit organization. The Foundation acquired and has been restoring the historic tugboat Parthia. The result will be a covered, outdoor shoreside educational exhibit on the Olympia waterfront. The SSMHF originated Harbor Days and is its ongoing host.
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. While you are downtown, wander the sidewalks of historic Olympia. It a treasure of local, creative businesses and all walkable from the waterfront. Remember your sunglasses and parasol to savor the end of summer.
Consider riding the bus at no cost with Intercity Transit. There is free parking at Market Street and Marine Drive made available by the Port of Olympia. Metered parking downtown is free on the weekends and after 5pm on weekdays.
For Additional Information
Olympia Harbor Days
harbordays.com
BY MARY ELLEN PSALTIS