Things to Do in Spring in Olympia: Markets, Festivals, and Local Experiences

Spring in Olympia is one of the best times of year to get outside, explore local events, and spend time with friends and family. As the weather warms up, the city comes alive with art walks, night markets, fairs, and community celebrations.

If you're looking for ways to enjoy the season, here are some of the best things to do in Olympia during spring.

Explore Olympia Arts Walk

One of Olympia’s most beloved spring traditions is the Olympia Arts Walk, a citywide celebration of creativity and community. During this event, downtown Olympia transforms into a vibrant art experience filled with galleries, performances, installations, and local artists showcasing their work.

Hundreds of artists participate across dozens of downtown locations, making it a fun way to explore Olympia while supporting local creativity. The event also often features the famous Procession of the Species, a colorful community parade celebrating art and nature.

✨ Learn more about the event:
 https://www.artswalkoly.com/

Visit the SWAE Night Market

As spring evenings get longer, the SWAE Night Market becomes a lively gathering place for the community. These markets bring together local vendors, food trucks, artists, and live music in an energetic evening atmosphere.

It’s the perfect place to wander with friends, discover local makers, grab something delicious to eat, and enjoy live entertainment. Events often feature themed nights and highlight small businesses from around Thurston County.

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

Enjoy the Lacey Spring Fun Fair

Just a short drive from Olympia, the Lacey Spring Fun Fair is a classic spring tradition for families and friends. The fair features rides, games, food vendors, community booths, and live entertainment across a weekend celebration.

The event includes activities like carnival rides, a kids’ zone, crafts, and even a car show, making it one of the most popular community events of the season.

✨ Learn more about the fair:
https://laceyparks.org/funfair/

Walk the Olympia Waterfront

Spring is the perfect time to enjoy Olympia’s beautiful waterfront. The Percival Landing boardwalk offers scenic views of Budd Inlet, marina boats, and the Olympic Mountains on clear days.

A waterfront walk is a great way to slow down and enjoy Olympia’s natural beauty. Many locals like to grab coffee downtown and stroll along the water while enjoying the fresh spring air.

Visit the Olympia Farmers Market

Another favorite spring activity is visiting the Olympia Farmers Market. As the season begins, local farmers, artists, and food vendors gather to sell fresh produce, handmade goods, and delicious food.

It’s a lively community space where you can shop local, try new foods, and enjoy live music while browsing the market stalls.

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

Create Custom Jewelry at the Kin & Gold Charm Bar

If you're looking for a creative indoor activity during your spring outing, visiting Kin & Gold for a custom jewelry experience is a perfect addition to your day.

At the Charm Bar, you can design your own bracelet or necklace by choosing your chain and selecting meaningful charms like birthstones, initials, and symbols. It’s a fun activity to do with friends and a great way to create a keepsake from your day exploring Olympia.

For those who prefer something minimal and designed for everyday wear, Kin & Gold also offers permanent jewelry, where delicate bracelets are custom fit and welded closed to be worn continuously.

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

✨ Learn about permanent jewelry:
Book a Permanent Jewelry Appointment

Make a Spring Day of It

One of the best things about spring in Olympia is how easy it is to build a full day around local experiences.

Start your day exploring downtown during Arts Walk, browse vendors at the Olympia Farmers Market, spend the evening at the SWAE Night Market, or plan a weekend visit to the Lacey Spring Fun Fair.

Add a creative stop at Kin & Gold to design your own jewelry, and you’ll have the perfect Olympia spring day.

Plan Your Spring Visit

From vibrant art festivals to night markets and community fairs, spring is one of the most exciting seasons to explore Olympia.

Gather your friends, explore local events, and take time to enjoy the creativity and community that make Olympia such a special place.