Good morning, Olympia.

Residents can take part in community events this weekend as live theater with Magic Curtain Mornings and a BYU-Idaho Symphony Band concert happen today while Earth Day volunteering, Tumwater’s Easter Egg Dash, a Sea Day swap meet, and a Pride Song Walkabout will take place on Saturday. The Bonsai Beginners Workshop started on April 17 and runs again today and on April 24—each event offering a chance to learn and have fun—bringing a variety of local activities to families.

Lacey horse farrier Michael Bennett lost his home, work tools and beloved pet when a fire destroyed his friend Jeremy's RV on April 13, leaving him heartbroken and unable to resume his craft.

A 20-year-old man was arrested on April 16 for alleged armed robberies at two massage parlors in Thurston County (the incidents occurred in Olympia and Lacey) after video evidence linked him to both crimes and police recovered several firearms, a balaclava, and his sweatshirt.

The new Trading Post, a convenience store and fuel station built by the Squaxin Island Tribe, opened with a private blessing on February 28th to boost local economic strength—yet it will have a grand opening on May 25th with gas discounts and vendor events to invite community support—cementing the Tribe's role in Tumwater's growth.

Governor Ferguson demanded $100 million for a police hiring grant program on April 17th, warning that the state will have no budget without the funds—debates continue in the Senate over public safety support without new taxes.

Olympia’s Community Livability and Public Safety Committee recommended that staff begin contract negotiations with the OIR Group, a firm with over two decades of police oversight expertise, to fill the civilian police auditor role.

The draft contract will be presented to the city council on May 6 and the auditor will investigate police misconduct while maintaining regular mid-year and annual reports.

Local organizers have planned Mother's Day events near Olympia that include a hands-on weaving workshop at Our Local Yarn Shop starting April 29 and a free happy hour estate planning session on May 2 at Rumors Wine Bar—other events feature dinners on May 8, a ballet and a retreat for moms and daughters on May 10 to 11, along with brunches at venues like 1889 Prime Steakhouse and Budd Bay Café on May 11—each offering a unique way to celebrate mothers in the community.

IPC Trekkers at Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually Wildlife Refuge

9 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge — Free entry — Explore diverse habitats at a stunning wildlife refuge in Olympia.

Narcotics Anonymous Weekly Meeting

8:00 PM — 2700 Evergreen Parkway NW — Free — Attend a supportive gathering focused on recovery and overcoming drug addiction.

Thurston County Master Gardener Foundation 2025 Plant Sale

4-8 p.m. — Nursery at 530 Alta St SW — Free entry — Explore a variety of beautiful plants cultivated by local Master Gardeners.

Comedy Underground Featuring Rodger Lizaola

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Washington Center for the Performing Arts — $36 Reserved Table, $28 General Admission — Enjoy a night of laughs with a talented comedian known for his high-profile achievements in comedy.

Encanto Sing Along Experience

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Washington Center for the Performing Arts — $12 Adult, $10 Youth — Sing along to your favorite Encanto songs while enjoying the movie on the big screen.

Unity and Diversity Festival

7 PM – 12 AM — Heritage Park, Olympia, WA — Free entry — Celebrate cultural diversity with lively entertainment and engaging booths for all backgrounds.

JBF Consignment Sale in Olympia

10 AM – 12 AM — Capital Mall — Check website for cost — Find deals on children's and maternity items at this popular consignment sale.

Super Sitters Certificate Course

9 AM – 2 PM — The Olympia Center — Registration required — Earn your Super Sitters Certificate while learning essential babysitting skills and leadership.

Prairie Appreciation Day

7 AM – 12 PM — Glacial Heritage Preserve — Free entry — Explore the prairie ecosystem through engaging activities and expert-led bird walks.

Solarize Thurston Workshop

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Olympia Timberland Library — Free entry — Discover solar energy options and get answers from local experts.