Autumn Festivals to Winter Magic: Explore Thurston County’s Seasonal Delights
The changing seasons bring a wealth of exciting events and activities to enjoy in Thurston County, Washington. From vibrant fall festivals celebrating local culture and harvest traditions to enchanting winter gatherings that light up the coldest days, there’s something for everyone to discover. Explore picturesque pumpkin patches, skating on ice in the heart of downtown Olympia, or savoring seasonal delights at festive markets. Our region offers a rich tapestry of experiences that capture the magic of autumn and winter. Join us in celebrating the season’s best, where every event is an invitation to create lasting memories.
Festivals and Events
Rutledge Family Farm (Season opens September 21)
- Rutledge Family Farm has fall activities for everyone in the family. For those seeking a thrill, the Haunted Corn Maze promises spine-chilling fun, while the Pumpkin Patch provides a perfect opportunity to pick out the ideal pumpkin for autumn decorations. Fight off the fall chill around the farm’s intimate private fire pits surrounded by cornfields.
Tumwater Falls Festival (September 28)
- A delightful celebration filled with vibrant music, delicious food, and local crafts, all set against the stunning backdrop of Tumwater Falls at Brewery Park. It’s a perfect family-friendly event where everyone can enjoy a day filled with fun activities and the natural beauty of the falls.
Fall Harvest Festival at Schilter Family Farm (September 28-October 31)
- Schilter Family Farm’s Fall Harvest Festival in Olympia is a popular autumn destination, offering a 5-acre corn maze, pumpkin patches, and a variety of family-friendly activities. Visitors can enjoy hayrides, a petting zoo, and delicious fall treats – especially on the weekends!
Boo-Coda (October 1-31)
- The Boo-Coda Spooktacular in Bucoda, is a month-long celebration of Halloween, filled with ghostly attractions, eerie tours, and spine-tingling fun for all ages. From haunted houses to pumpkin carving contests, this festive event offers a thrilling mix of family-friendly activities and spooky surprises that make October a month to remember!
Olympia Fall Arts Walk (October 4-5)
- The Olympia Fall Arts Walk is a vibrant celebration of creativity, where the city’s streets come alive with colorful displays of local art, music, and performances. It’s a wonderful opportunity to explore the rich artistic talent in the region while enjoying a festive atmosphere filled with inspiration.
Boo-Bash at Hands on Children’s Museum (October 25-31)
- Celebrate fall with a bounty of family-friendly thrills and spooky treats at Boo Bash! Little ghouls and ghosts, superheroes, and princesses will enjoy displaying their favorite costumes for a haunting good time. Enjoy Halloween-inspired experiences like finding long-lost gold in the ghostly gold mind, and enchanting delights without the fright.
Winter Fest (November 2)
- Enjoy Lacey’s annual Sip, Savor, and Shop Winter Fest – a festive gathering for indulging in local wines, delicious bites, and a charming market filled with unique holiday gifts. It’s the perfect way to kick off the winter season, enjoying good company and discovering delightful treasures in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Oly on Ice (November 15-January 20)
- The annual Oly on Ice event in downtown Olympia transforms the heart of the city into a winter wonderland, complete with an enchanting indoor ice rink. It’s a magical experience where families and friends can glide across the ice, enjoy festive music, and create joyful holiday memories together.
Kris Kringle Market (Nov. 16)
- Explore the annual Kris Kringle Market in Lacey, a delightful holiday event featuring a variety of artisan crafts, festive decorations, and seasonal treats. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and unique shopping experience, it’s the perfect place to find special gifts and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit.
LoveOly WinterFest (Dec. 1)
- LoveOly Winterfest in downtown Olympia is a festive celebration full of holiday lights, live music, and cozy winter activities. Enjoy delicious food from local vendors, shop for unique gifts, and soak in the cheerful holiday atmosphere that makes this event a beloved tradition.
Seasonal Experiences
View the Salmon Run in Olympia & Tumwater
- Gather near the 5th Avenue Bridge in Olympia and at the viewing windows along the fish ladder to see the salmon making their way upstream. Continuing the journey, spectators in Tumwater can observe the salmon atTumwater Falls and Brewery Park, where some fish are held for spawning and others continue their natural migration.
Experience Harvest Along the Thurston Bountiful Byway
- The Thurston Bountiful Byway offers a scenic journey through lush farmland and orchards with endless opportunities to savor the bounty of fall. Enjoy farm-fresh produce, sip apple cider, nibble on apple cider donuts, visit charming markets, and indulge in delicious seasonal treats that celebrate the rich agricultural heritage of our region.
View Fall Foliage Along Unforgettable Trails and Parks
- Thurston County offers numerous trails and parks perfect for enjoying the vibrant fall foliage, such as the scenic trails at Watershed Park or Tolmie State Park. Hikers and bikers can immerse themselves in the breathtaking autumn colors and crisp fall air while exploring the diverse landscapes along the Chehalis Western Trail and Yelm-Rainier-Tenino Trail.
- Thurston County boasts a variety of Christmas tree farms offering families a festive experience with activities like hayrides, visits with Santa, and warm drinks by a bonfire. The highlight for many is choosing and cutting down their own perfect Christmas tree from a vast selection of firs.
- As summer transitions into fall and winter, the Olympia Symphony Orchestra offers a captivating lineup of performances that warm the soul and celebrate the changing seasons. Enjoy the rich, resonant sounds of classical and contemporary pieces, bringing a touch of elegance and joy to the cooler months. Visit their website for a full lineup.
The Washington Center for the Performing Arts
- Experience a diverse array of performances, from theater and dance to music and comedy this fall and winter, making it the perfect destination to enjoy the arts and escape the chill.
Embrace the cozy charm of fall with pumpkin patches and vibrant foliage, then skate into winter’s wonderland with festive lights and snowy trails. Olympia and Thurston County offer a delightful escape for all seasons, making memories that will warm the heart year-round.
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