Your trusted source for local Olympia, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The Lovely & Dapper Bakery opened in Olympia, offering a cozy atmosphere and a range of baked goods, including vegan and gluten-free options. Owned by Emily and Drew Crain, the couple transitioned from a pop-up business in Seattle to a physical location, aiming to become a community staple. Their motto, "Everyone deserves cake," reflects their commitment to inclusivity in baking.
Tumwater School District will implement play-based learning in kindergarten classrooms this fall, marking a shift from traditional teaching methods. The three-year rollout aims to support children who have faced disruptions in early education due to COVID-19. Teachers Meagan MacKenzie and Jess Bergstrom endorse this approach, believing it fosters engagement and reduces stress for young learners.
Kylan Thulin, a Thurston County 4-H member, stands out as one of the few male participants in equestrian events. He recently qualified for state competitions but opted out to focus on training his horse, Apollo, for future competitions. Kylan's achievements highlight the underrepresentation of male riders in lower-level equestrian events.
September marks #EatLocalMonth, and Serenity Springs Farmstand in Olympia offers farm-fresh produce, eggs, and flowers. Owners Adam and Marilee Williams emphasize sustainability and community support, planning to host crafting and gardening workshops.
The Washington State Library features a scrapbook by Jessie Hartsuck Scott, an often-overlooked piece from its microfilm collection. The scrapbook, which dates back to the late 19th century, captures significant moments from Scott's early education. This unique artifact highlights the importance of preserving local history.
RatsPacNW hosts rat shows in Thurston County, showcasing the intelligence and trainability of pet rats. Founded in 2001, the club aims to promote rat fanciers and has grown to include members from multiple states. After a pause due to COVID-19, the club resumed its shows in 2024, averaging around 300 attendees.
New York Times bestselling author Jonathan Evison will speak at Saint Martin’s University on October 15, 2025, as part of the Les Bailey Writers Series. The free event invites the community to engage with Evison’s literary journey and features a book signing after his reading.
Comcast volunteers joined hundreds of military personnel and local leaders at the 63rd Annual Thurston County Foofaraw last Friday. The event, held at Budd Inlet, honored nearly 400 military guests with games, social activities, and a salmon BBQ, emphasizing community and gratitude. Comcast, as the exclusive broadband sponsor, aimed to strengthen ties with the military community and reaffirm its commitment to veterans.
A series of explosions on February 20, 1936, damaged the Olympia Milk Producers’ Association plant and destroyed the Sanitary Dairy in Olympia. Investigators determined that dynamite was used, but the perpetrators were never caught. Total losses from the blasts were estimated at $40,000.
The Olympia Farmers Market celebrated its 50th anniversary on August 9, 2025, showcasing local food and crafts. The market has become a vibrant community hub, attracting visitors with its diverse offerings.