Top 5 Ways to Spend Memorial Day Weekend in Olympia and Beyond

Commemorate our fallen heroes for this Memorial Day weekend and embark on a military-centered itinerary in the Olympia region.

Relish your Memorial Day weekend in Thurston County, kicking off the summer with a variety of family-friendly events and activities. Looking for ways to fill up your three-day itinerary? Whether you’re spending the weekend with the military members in your life or delving into the historic side of the region, we’ve got you covered with an assortment of patriotic festivities for this Memorial Day.

1. Pay Homage to Our Military Members at the Washington State Capitol Campus

Honor our veterans and fallen soldiers at the Washington State Capitol Campus, where a Memorial Day Ceremony and an Olympia Thunder Run will pay tribute to the memories of individuals who have made the ultimate sacrifice on May 27. The Memorial Day Ceremony will be held at the rotunda of the Legislative Building from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., while the Olympia Thunder Run will take place at the Vietnam War Memorial from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Seeking more commemorative events? The Landing at Hawks Prairie will be hosting a Military Appreciation Day. Experience live music, raffles, and free ice cream on Memorial Day.

2. Embark on a Fascinating Tour Around Monument and Memorial Sites

The Washington State Capitol Campus features an array of monuments and memorial sites, including the Winged Victory Monument, World War II Memorial, and the Medal of Honor Memorial. Enjoy a self-guided tour across these significant landmarks with a brochure from the Tour Information Desk or the Visitor Services Office. Explore a digital tour option like an interactive map, diving deeper into our local history and military community. Stroll through lists of soldiers’ names that have been engraved in stone, permanently marking their place in history.

TIP: Before heading out to the Washington State Capitol Campus, plan for your tour by checking the weather forecast, ensuring a pleasant outing across the landscaped grounds.

A group of people walk through the landscaped grounds of the Washington State Capitol Campus.
Washington State Capitol Campus

3. Support Veteran-Owned Businesses

Memorial Day is all about uplifting our local military community, and the Olympia region is home to a diverse range of veteran-owned spots. Peruse through all-natural soaps and bath salts at the Stone City Farm in Tenino. This veteran- and family-owned location is based on a picturesque farm that’s surrounded by lush greenery. Participate in Stone City Farm’s bath bomb class on May 26, customizing your own chemical-free product.

Savor bold flavors and indulge in rich textures at Ikonic Wings–a casual eatery in Lacey. Generous portions, affordable prices, and welcoming services are just a few of culinary highlights at this friendly neighborhood establishment. Ikonic Wings generates support for youth groups and nonprofit organizations for veterans, unhoused individuals, and people who are affected by cancer.

A child laughs while cuddling with a few goats at the Stone City Farm.
Stone City Farm

4. Create Patriotic Arts and Crafts at the Hands-On Children’s Museum

Bring your little ones to a red-, white-, and blue-filled arts and crafts session at the Hands On Children’s Museum. Have your children unleash their creativity by constructing patriotic pinwheels and paintings. The pinwheel sessions will run from May 25 to 28, while the patriotic paintings will be held from May 25 to 27. Spending the Memorial Day weekend with a military member in your family? From May 24 to 27, enjoy discounted admission at the Hands On Children's Museum and traverse across interactive exhibits.

A white retro plane with red markings is on display at the Olympic Flight Museum.
Olympic Flight Museum

5. Soar Through Military History at the Olympic Flight Museum

Stroll through decades of aviation history with vintage planes and rare artifacts at the Olympic Flight Museum. Nestled in the Olympia Airport, this unique museum showcases impressive aircraft such as military helicopters, which were used for firefighting and rescue missions. Military and first responders can also enjoy discounted tickets to the museum.

Looking for more Memorial Day events and activities? Discover upcoming occasions with our events calendar and scope out more ways to start your summer around Olympia.

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