Best Summer Events in Lacey, Olympia, and Tumwater in 2026

If you’re thinking about moving to the Olympia area, one thing many people don’t realize is how many great summer events happen here every year. Lacey, Olympia, and Tumwater each bring something different to the table, and once summer hits, there’s something going on almost every weekend.

In Lacey, the Lacey In Tune summer concert series is a local staple. This year, it runs from June 23 through August 12 at Huntamer Park, and it’s packed with outdoor concerts, movies in the park, and food trucks. There’s also the Lacey Night Market running throughout the summer. Between all the different events under the Lacey In Tune umbrella, you could fill most of your summer calendar just from that one series. Definitely check out their website for the full schedule.

Olympia brings some huge local favorites. Capital Lakefair is a five-day community festival at Heritage Park along Capitol Lake, running July 15 to July 19. It’s been a Thurston County tradition since 1957, with carnival rides, live entertainment, a car show, a grand parade, and fireworks over the water.

The South Sound Block Party is another one to watch, a waterfront music festival at the Port of Olympia that’s become a real summer highlight. And if you love barbecue, the South Sound BBQ Festival is happening July 11. It’s becoming one of the area’s biggest summer traditions, and you don’t want to miss it.

Then there’s Tumwater, home of the Artesian Brewfest on August 15. It’s one of the largest summer events anywhere in the South Sound, held at the Tumwater Valley Golf Course in the shadow of the former Olympia Brewery. Over 50 craft breweries, food vendors, live music, and games. If you’re into craft beer, this one is a must.

Add in the farmers markets, the lakes, the hiking trails, the parks, and the countless community events happening all season, and summers here in Lacey, Olympia, and Tumwater are pretty hard to beat.

If you’re looking for things to do this summer or you want to know more about what it’s like to live in the South Sound, shoot me a message. I’m always happy to help. Call or text me at 360-868-8648, email me at Jason@munozhomegroup.com, or visit blog.munozhomegroup.com.