Olympia Harbor Days will be back this September. Here are the details
Even outdoor festivals were no stranger to COVID-19’s hold on gatherings. But a full-scale return is planned for Olympia Harbor Days in September, with tugboat races included.
According to a news release from organizers, the festival will run for the 49th year after a pandemic-forced hiatus. Presented by the South Sound Maritime Heritage Association, the festival will take place on Labor Day weekend starting at 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 2 and ending at 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 4.
The festival takes place along the downtown waterfront boardwalk from Percival Landing to Port Plaza Park, bringing vintage tugboats and historic ships to Budd Inlet for tours and rides.
Visitors also will have the chance to check out arts and crafts vendors, as well as food from local restaurants. According to the release, the Squaxin Island Tribe will be sharing stories, dances, art and more. There also will be activities for children such as a hands-on LEGO activity area, marine science activities and more.
Vendors and food booths can register to participate online, as can people wanting to show their vintage or historic boats. SSMHA, a nonprofit organization, also is seeking volunteers, who can register online as well.
During the pandemic, Olympia Harbor Days and SSMHA scaled back Harbor Days, hosting virtual shows and creating the Maritime Heritage & Tugboat Walk along the downtown boardwalk, according to the release.
This story was originally published April 29, 2022 at 2:47 PM.
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