August 19, 6:30pm-7:30pm

Author Talk: Lisa Knickels Talks about Tugboat “Sand Man”

Timberland Regional Library, 131 8th Avenue SE

The Olympia Historical Society & BigelowHouse Museum (OHS & BHM) is partnering with the Downtown Timberland Regional Library to host author Lisa Nickel of the recently published local history book “Tugboat Sandman.” Lisa will be speaking about the vessel’s history and showing “never before seen photographs” during her talk. Her book event will take place on Tuesday, August 19 at 6:30 to 8:30 PM at the downtown library at 313 8th Avenue SE. Sadly, the National Register and Olympia Heritage Register listed vessel is charting threatening waters unless someone is willing to step forward and purchase the historic tug from the Port of Olympia to restore and continue it’s service as an icon of our local maritime heritage and commerce. Copies of Lisa’s book will be available for purchase and autograph at the event.

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August 21, 6:30pm-8:30pm

Restoring Earth Connection: Reducing Your Travel Footprint

Good Shepherd Church, 1601 North St SE

Restoring Earth Connection is hosting an event that focuses on how to reduce your transportation footprint. The Federal Tax Credit for buying used and new Electric Vehicles will end Sept 30th, so if you’re interested in buying one, come hear a panel of owners talk about their experiences, range issues, all about charging, and more. You’ll hear about how the credit works and other ways to reduce the cost of buying an EV. Panel members will have their vehicles in the parking lot for people to check out and sit in. In addition, speakers will discuss ways for people with gas cars to reduce their carbon footprint: trip reduction, full tires, more walking and biking. Build a community of resilience with the Restoring Earth Connection. For more information, reach out to Lynn@fitz-hugh.org.​

 

August 24, 1pm-4pm

Equality Day Celebration at the Bigelow House Museum

918 Glass Avenue NE

Visit the Bigelow House for a special event commemorating women’s voting rights. The 19th Amendment to the US Constitution was certified in August 1920 empowering most women nationally to vote. However, 2025 marks the 115th Anniversary of women’s permanent voting rights in Washington.

The Bigelow House is on the National Votes for Women Trail—recognized for its role in women’s suffrage history. Join us for special tours with costumed docents, a musical presentation, refreshments and crafts. Admission is by donation.

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August 29-31

Harbor Days at the Arts & Heritage Alliance Museum

203 Columbia St NW

The new Olympia Arts and Heritage Alliance Museum is up and running at 203 Columbia Street NW at the corner of State Avenue and on the ground floor of the Lurana Apartments. The Museum is open Thursdays thru Sundays from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM and features displays on local arts, history, and culture. Special activities are planned for Harbor Days on August 29 through 31. 

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October 25, 10am-12pm

Bigelow Springs Park Fall Work Party

Bigelow Springs Park

Help the Bigelow Neighborhood Association maintain our neighborhood park! Tools, snacks, and drinks will be provided by our partners at the Olympia Parks Department.

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November 8, 2pm-4pm

Legion Way: Preserving a Living Memorial to Our Veterans

Event begins at Madison Elementary School

Celebrate the beautiful and historic Legion Way street trees, planted in 1928 as a living memorial to World War I veterans on Saturday November 8 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm. Events start at Madison Elementary School with speakers on the history of the trees, followed by tree re-planting, tree give-away, and dedication of the Armory interpretive marker at Eastside Street. Refreshments will be served. Free admission; donations welcomed.​

 

December 14, 2pm-4pm

2025 Historic Home Holiday Home Tour

Bigelow Neighborhood

Focused on the Bigelow Neighborhood, the ever-popular annual home tour of historic homes will take place on Sunday, December 14 from noon to 4:00 pm. Six historic homes, including the Bigelow House Museum, will be open for touring and learning about rehabilitating and stewarding Olympia's historic residential architecture. Tickets are $35.00/person and will be available on-line, at local retailers, and on the day of the event.  ​​

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