Fun Things to Do in Olympia in Summer

Summer is one of the best times to explore Olympia. With longer days, waterfront views, outdoor markets, and community festivals, the city comes alive with events and activities perfect for spending time with friends and family.

Whether you're planning a girls’ day, looking for local festivals, or simply want to enjoy the sunshine, here are some of the best things to do in Olympia during the summer.

Celebrate at Capital Lakefair

One of Olympia’s most beloved summer traditions is Capital Lakefair. This week-long festival has been bringing the community together for decades with carnival rides, parades, live music, food vendors, and fireworks over Budd Inlet.

The event attracts thousands of visitors each year and offers something for everyone, from family-friendly activities to evening entertainment. The Grand Parade and the fireworks show are especially popular highlights of the festival.

✨ Learn more about the event:
https://www.lakefair.org/

Experience Capital City Pride

Another exciting summer event is Capital City Pride, a celebration of inclusivity, community, and love. The festival includes live performances, local vendors, food trucks, and activities that bring people together to celebrate diversity and support the LGBTQ+ community.

It’s a vibrant and welcoming event filled with music, art, and community connection.

✨ Learn more about Capital City Pride:
https://www.capitalcitypride.net/

Visit the SWAE Night Market

Summer evenings are perfect for visiting the SWAE Night Market, a lively community event featuring local vendors, artists, food trucks, and live entertainment.

The night market creates a vibrant atmosphere where you can browse handmade goods, discover local businesses, and enjoy great food while spending time with friends. It’s a fun way to experience Olympia’s creative community and support local makers.

✨ Explore upcoming night markets:
https://www.swaenightmarket.com/

Walk the Olympia Waterfront

One of the simplest and most beautiful ways to spend a summer day in Olympia is walking along the Percival Landing waterfront.

The boardwalk offers scenic views of Budd Inlet, marina boats, and the Olympic Mountains in the distance. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing stroll, sunset photos, or simply enjoying the fresh air.

Many locals grab coffee downtown and walk the waterfront while enjoying Olympia’s laid-back summer atmosphere.

Explore Capital Lake

Another great outdoor destination during the summer is Capital Lake. The path around the lake offers peaceful views of the water and the Washington State Capitol building.

Walking or biking around Capital Lake is a popular activity for locals and visitors alike, especially during warm summer evenings.

Visit the Olympia Farmers Market

The Olympia Farmers Market is a summer favorite and one of the most vibrant places in the city during the warmer months.

Local farmers, artists, and food vendors gather to offer fresh produce, handmade goods, and delicious meals. With live music and a lively community atmosphere, it’s a great place to spend a few hours exploring with friends.

✨ Visit the market website:
https://www.olympiafarmersmarket.com/

Create Custom Jewelry at Kin & Gold

If you're looking for a creative activity during your summer outing, visiting Kin & Gold for a custom jewelry experience is a perfect stop.

At the Charm Bar, you can design your own bracelet or necklace by choosing your chain and selecting meaningful charms. From birthstones and initials to symbolic charms, each piece becomes a personalized keepsake from your day in Olympia.

Kin & Gold also offers permanent jewelry, where delicate bracelets are custom fit and welded closed to create a seamless piece designed to be worn every day.

Whether you're celebrating a girls’ day, birthday, or summer outing with friends, creating jewelry together is a memorable experience.

✨ Explore the Charm Bar experience:
Book a Charm Bar Appointment

✨ Learn about permanent jewelry:
Book a Permanent Jewelry Appointment

Enjoy Summer in Olympia

From waterfront walks to festivals and night markets, summer in Olympia offers countless ways to explore the city and connect with the community.

Whether you're attending Capital Lakefair, celebrating at Capital City Pride, browsing vendors at the SWAE Night Market, or designing a bracelet at the Kin & Gold Charm Bar, there’s always something happening in Olympia during the summer.

Gather your friends, explore local events, and enjoy everything Olympia has to offer during the sunny season.