Community Events

Experience the cultural richness of the world in your own home this summer. Washington 4-H International Exchange offers families the opportunity to host a youth delegate from Japan for a 4-week homestay. Youth delegates are ages 12-14 and eager to make new friends, improve their English, share their culture, and experience real American family life in Washington.

Host families need to have a child of the same gender and within 3 years of the delegate’s age and provide a bed and meals. No special activities are required, and host families do not need to be members of 4-H.

Do you have room in your life this summer for an amazing cultural experience? Apply online to be a 4-H International Exchange Host Family at https://www.states4hexchange.org/ Hosting dates are July 26 – August 21, 2019.

For more information contact State Coordinator, Dianna Ullery at 360-867-2153, dianna.ullery@wsu.edu

The American Red Cross has a critical shortage of type O blood and citizens will be rewarded for their contribution! Give now to help patients facing trauma and other life-threatening situations and receive a $5 Amazon gift card via email! Through Thursday, June 6th. See the American Red Cross website or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

With supplies running low, consider donating blood! Do so at Grays Harbor College on Monday, May 20th from 10am-3pm.

Guitarist Hiroya Tsukamoto’s impressive, innovative playing comes to Timberland libraries! His gentle, lively and impressionistic journey evokes gorgeous soundscapes that impart a mood of peace and tranquility. Monday, May 20th, 1-2:15pm at the Tumwater Timberland Library and 6-7:15pm at the Aberdeen Library; Wednesday, May 22nd 6-7pm at the Yelm Library; and Thursday, May 23rd, 7-8pm at the North Mason Timberland Library in Belfair.

Author Sarah Eltantawi will discuss and sign copies of her book “Shari’ah on Trial: Northern Nigeria’s Islamic Revolution” in Olympia! An assistant professor of Comparative Religion at the Evergreen State College, she is an analyst on several media outlets. For adults. Monday, May 20th, 6-7:30pm.

Attend “Estate Planning 101,” the first of three classes that puts you in touch with experts! Learn about key planning issues and explore revocable living trusts versus will-based plans, and many more issues. Estate planning can be difficult to talk about, so let the professionals break down the process! Tuesday, May 21st, 5:30-7pm.

This class is one in a three-part series that will navigate the various estate planning and elder care planning subjects and break down the process. Experts in the field will lead discussions on topics such as the basics of estate planning, wills vs. trusts, the emotional side of estate planning, how to have difficult conversations for end of life care, and how to plan for long-term or nursing home care. Classes can be taken individually or the whole series can be taken at a discounted price.

Free Adult Compression Only CPR with AED training.  Tumwater Fire  Department, Tuesday, May 21st at 6PM

Tuesday-Thursday May 21-23 7pm shows 

The Amazing Acro-cats featuring Tuna and the Rock Cats are a troupe of REAL performing house cats, and you can see them in Renton! Trainer Samantha Martin will have the cats riding skateboards and jumping through hoops – all to benefit mobile foster and rescue efforts. The finale finds them as the only all-cat band in the world! Tuesday-Thursday, May 21st-23rd, 7pm.

The Acro-cats experience all started with Chief Executive Human (CEH for short) and animal trainer Samantha Martin. She has not only rescued her own pets, but also has found happy homes for 220 homeless cats and kittens. Using the magic of clicker training (a stress-free positive reinforcement method) Samantha and the cats take their newfound amazing abilities on the road, and tour the nation’s stages in the famous Acro-cat bus! A portion of the proceeds always benefits mobile foster and rescue efforts.   They have cats riding skateboards, jumping through hoops, and Alley, their rising star, has even leapt into the Guinness Book of World Records, holding the record for the longest cat jump! 

The finale is the ONLY ALL-CAT BAND IN THE ENTIRE WORLD – Tuna and the Rock Cats! The current band lineup features Roux on guitar, Asti on drums, Nue on keyboard, and NOW some brand new members: Ahi and Albacore on cowbell and woodblocks, Buggles on trumpet, and Oz on Saxophone.  There is even a chicken – Cluck Norris – rockin’ the tambourine!  

Featured on TV shows like The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, their most recent appearance was halftime of the 2019 Puppy Bowl! 

Get the best seasonal produce, handmade baked goods, fresh eggs, kombucha and shrubs, artisan jewelry, coffee, honey, soaps and salves. Enjoy live music and hot lunch. Every Wednesday through September 25, 10am to 2pm, at the corner of Capitol Blvd and Israel Rd in Tumwater.

Attend the Meals That Matter (formerly Brighten Lives) Luncheon! This is a free lunch for people to come and learn more about Senior Services for South Sound and support ending senior hunger in our community. Consider making a contribution to this fundraiser! Find out about the great programs offered at Senior Services. Wednesday, May 22nd, 12-1pm.

Free Adult Compression Only CPR with AED training Wednesday, May 22nd at 7PM.

Free Adult Compression Only CPR with AED training.  Griffin Fire Department, Thursday, May 23rd at 6PM.

Learn how to handle and prevent mold, indoor air pollution and other housing-related health risks at the free Healthy Homes Workshop on Thursday, May 23 from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Don’t miss the heart-gripping and cathartic broadway musical, “Fun Home”! Based on the 2006 graphic memoir of Alison Bechdel, the show depicts her at three different stages in life, revealing memories of a uniquely dysfunctional family and the struggle to discover and be true to one’s self. Thursday-Saturday, May 16th-25th, 7pm.

Harlequin Productions is presenting Henrik Ibsen’s “A Doll’s House”! Nora’s realization of her own position as a doll in her husband’s house was far too controversial for 1879 audiences but rings harrowingly true to millions of women today. Thursday-Saturday, May 2nd-25th. For more details, call 360-786-0151.

Like a pop-up book that comes to life, “Go, Dog. Go”! is a musical, fun world! Don’t miss the amazing physical comedy, amusing acrobatics and magic music. Recommended for all ages. Friday-Sunday, May 10th-June 2nd. 360-570-1638

Come to the “Best Buds” session at GRuB’s Victory Farm and discuss the benefits of companion planting! Learn about pest control, soil health, plant grown and ecological services. Friday, May 24th. RSVP via Beau@goodgrub.org, or call 360-753-5522.

After losing his job at a steel factory, Gaz learns that his wife wants to sue him for missed child support payments. Desperate for money, Gaz and his friend Dave decide to create their own male strip-tease act. They find themselves extremely exposed and somehow must conquer their fears. See “The Full Monty” live at the Tacoma Musical Playhouse Fridays-Sundays through June 2nd. 253-565-6867.

Join your friends for fiesta time – the next Lacey Bingo Night! “Bingo de Mayo” features a south-of-the-border themed delicious dinner (optional). You’ll have the chance to purchase special game cards, enter into the 50/50 raffle and take part in the south-of-the-border themed costume contest, all to benefit seniors in our community. 21 and over only. Friday, May 24th, 7pm (doors and dinner at 6pm). For more information, call 360-407-3967. Special thanks to Olympia Federal Savings for their sponsorship of Oly Bingo Night and Lacey Bingo Night.

Join the “Food for Thought” Roundtable discusssion! Attendees can chat and taste local food served on ceramic vessels created by students with hand-mixed clay and view food-themed student artwork from SPSCC. Artist Shalene Valenzuela will do a brief presentation on her work before food tasting and discussion begins. Friday, May 24th, 6-8pm.

Timberline High School Choirs present “That ’70s Show”! Come hear your favorite tunes from Queen, Don McLean, Fleetwood Mac, ABBA, The Jackson 5, Blondie and more! Friday, May 24th at 7pm.

Residents of Kitsap County can dispose of unwanted passenger and light truck tires in a waste and recycling event! There is a limit of 10 per visitor, with or without rims on Saturday, May 25th from 9am-4pm. And take advantage of a junk furniture roundup Sunday, June 9th, from 8am-4pm and a household hazardous waste/styrofoam collection Saturday, July 27th, 9am-3pm. Address for May 25th & July 27th events: 1200 Fairgrounds Rd. NW, Bremerton 98311. Address for June 9th event: 9380 SW Barney White Rd., Bremerton 98312.

Olympia residents can take advantage of the drop-off site and rid themselves of yard debris, tools, fencing and more! Some items, like cardboard, some plastic and scrap metal, are taken at no cost. For the rest, rates are assessed on the size of the load. Residents must unload their own vehicles. For a list of restrictions, see the City of Olympia website. Saturdays through November 23rd, 9am-2pm.

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 25th, Lacey Forza Spring Bazaar! Lots of vendors. Handmade items from blankets to hats to scarves and towels. Wood and metal pieces, handmade jewelry, inspirational gifts, greeting cards, plaques, wall hangings, wreaths, photographs and quilted items. Commercial vendors. Food products, pies, bread, jams, jellies, honey, etc.

The Tenino Farmers Market is celebrating its 15th year by being bigger and better than ever but still the best little market in Washington! Come and see them in historic downtown Tenino every Saturday from 10am -3pm May through September.

There will be “1980s Prom Gone Bad” murder-mystery dinner in Winlock! Clues start at 5:30pm, buffet dinner at 6pm. DJ and dancing; costumes from the ’80s encouraged! Proceeds benefit the Senior Center in Winlock. For adults only. Call 360-785-4325. Pre-sale tickets $15, at door $20. Saturday, May 25th, 5:30-8pm.

The six solo cello suites of Johann Sebastian Bach are considered the Baroque composer’s most iconic set of chamber music! See legendary British cellist Colin Carr perform these epic pieces, which have been described as “profound” and “lifechanging.” GET TICKETS NOW! Saturday, May 25th, 7:30pm. For tickets, call 360-753-8586.

Hattie’s Hideaway – Longtime South Sound stage favorite and burlesque persona Hattie Hotpants brings you a new kind of show that pushes the boundaries of traditional and contemporary theater by incorporating neo and modern performance styles. Join Hattie and friends as they take a trip to the center of it all, and experience a powerful blend of music, theater, burlesque, dance, drag, illusion, story and healing.

WHEN: Saturday, May 25, 2019

TIME: 8:00PM SHOW
6:30PM VIP Meet & Greet
7:00PM GA DOORS

COST/COVER: $30 VIP/$20 GA

TICKETS: https://olympiafilmsociety.org/hatties-hideaway/
In person at the Box Office during open hours
360-754-6670

Mature Content/Beer Garden 21 with ID

-Ambiance performers, surprises and art in the lobby for an immersive
experience.
-Dress to impress yourself for a night to remember! You will discover
intentional spaces to take photographs and explore.
-A new performance format that blends the best elements of theater, dance and
burlesque shows…not your standard “Talent Show”.
-A cross-section of local entertainers to enjoy in a new way, and mystery
performers!
-Sound and light MAGIC by Philip Allison and Donald Palardy III of Pupis.
-VIP Ticket holders are invited early for a special meet and greet to enjoy
refreshments with performers, and will receive entry in the door prize drawing and
delightful surprises. Seating in the first 3 rows center means you’ll be very
close to the action!

MORE INFO:

Starring, conceived and created by Hattie Hotpants (aka Lauren O’Neill) Featuring: Vanessa the Witch, Rainie Dae, Elizabeth Lord, The Amazing Anthony and Chivan Lim as “Calculated Risks”, EpiScene, Papaya Magic Cabaret, Louis Van Camp, the highly anticipated return of Nani Poonani and MORE!  Sound and lightwork by Donald Palardy III & Philip Allison. Art and engagement in the lobby pre-show with Nickhole Arcade & RANGA. Magical happenings! Is it really just all in your head?

Hands On invites families of children with sensory sensitivities to join popular teacher Lahela Peterson and enjoy the museum before it opens to the public for “Special Mornings of Play”.

Led by museum educators, these are special events for families of children with autism or other special needs that provide a private, less over-stimulating time to experience the museum with other families who may share the same life experience.

Note: Whenever possible we create a quiet space with calming activities during normal weekend business hours. Noise cancelling earphones always available free of charge. Sunday, May 25th, 9-10am.

Be among the attendees of the Waterside Memorial Service at Olympia’s Percival Landing! It’s a way to honor and remember all of our men and women lost at sea and it’s presented by the Thurston County Veterans Council. FREE! Sunday, May 26th, 1pm. For more information, call 360-813-4444.

Military families – come to Hands On Children’s Museum on Memorial Day Monday, May 27th. All military families will receive half-price admission thanks to Coldwell Banker.

Memorial Day is a time to honor those who have served our country. The public is invited to attend a free open house at Forest Funeral Home Cemetery and Cremation, 2501 Pacific Ave. SE, Olympia. Memorial Day, Monday, May 27, beginning at 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Grave marker cleaning supplies will be available for those who want to clean their loved ones’ markers.

Light refreshments will be served during the open house. A horse drawn coach will be on display along with circa 1900 vintage photos (photos on loan from Washington Media Services, Inc., and Joyce Willms).

There will be a Memorial Day ceremony to the nation’s Unknown Soldiers at the Capitol Rotunda! Speakers include Lieutenant General Gary J. Volesky, who is Commanding General of Joint Base Fort Lewis-McChord, as well as U.S. Representative Denny Heck and Olympia Mayor Cheryl Selby. The Brass Quintet form the First Army Band will be playing. Sponsored by the Thurston County Veterans Council. Monday, May 27th, 10:30am. For more information, call 360-813-4444.

The Corporal Christopher Nelson American Legion Post 49 in Rochester will hold a Memorial Day Ceremony at the Grand Mound Cemetery Monday, May 27th beginning at 11:00 am.

The Tacoma Historical Society is presenting a Memorial Day Service to honor our veterans! Speakers include CSM (Retired) Jim Pickering and Chaplain Danny Riggs. There will be a FREE light lunch after the program at noon. On-site transportation is available. Monday, May 27th, 11am (program 12pm). For more details, call 253-472-3738.

This Memorial Day, join Mills and Mills Funeral Home and Memorial Park in honor of those who have proudly served our country! Memorial Day comes once a year, but gratitude is endless. Monday, May 27th, 2-4pm.

A Memorial Day commemoration event will be held Monday, May 27, at Woodlawn Funeral Home Cemetery and Cremation, 5930 Mullen Rd. SE, in Lacey. The public is invited to attend this free event that begins at 3:30 p.m., with the American Legion Band playing patriotic music, and the tribute program commencing at 4:00 p.m. The program will be presented by the American Legion Post #94 and Woodlawn Funeral Home. Also participating are Veterans of Foreign Wars, #318. Immediately following the ceremony, appetizers will be served.

Grave marker cleaning supplies will be available for those who want to clean their loved
ones’ markers.

Get the best seasonal produce, handmade baked goods, fresh eggs, kombucha and shrubs, artisan jewelry, coffee, honey, soaps and salves. Enjoy live music and hot lunch. Every Wednesday through September 25, 10am to 2pm, at the corner of Capitol Blvd and Israel Rd in Tumwater.

Free Adult Compression Only CPR with AED training.  South Bay Fire Department, Wednesday, May 29th at 7PM.

Attend the next talk at the Schmidt House, which will focus on the Panorama Retirement Community! Join Deborah Ross as she presents discoveries made while delving over 50 years of scrapbooks, blueprints and photo albums. Ross is Panorama’s resident archivist. FREE! Donations are appreciated. Thursday, May 30th, 12-1pm. For more details, call 360-786-8117.

Adapted from the celebrated Broadway musical, Marshall Middle School’s production of “Once on This Island Jr.” is a rousing Calypso-flavored tale that follows one small girl who finds love in a world of prejudice. Thursday-Saturday, May 30 – June 1 at 7pm.  Saturday, June 1 at 2pm.   

Writer, jornalist, and jazz saxophonist James McBride is best known for his memoir, The Color of Water, which discusses the complexities of race and identity growing up in an interracial family. Following the college’s own jazz band, McBride will take the stage for a night of truly unforgettable music Thursday, May 30th, 7:30pm. Get tickets by calling 360-753-8586.

Based on the 1968 film, Mel Brooks’s musical The Producers is a laugh-out-loud, outrageous, crowd-pleasing farce. A fading Broadway producer hypothesizes that one could make far more money with a flop of a show than with a hit. What could possibly go wrong? May 31 through June 30 (Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm, Sundays at 7pm) . 253 588 0042

It’s a good time to give blood! Donate at the Washington State Patrol at 4811 Werner Road in Bremerton on Friday, May 31st from 11am-4pm.

Support the Lacey Veterans Services Hub at the “Mayor’s Gala,” a night of fun and fundraising! Dress in cocktail attire and enjoy a great dinner and dessert dash before the program of inspiring speakers. More than 32,000 veterans live in Thurston County and proceeds will help with benefits, housing, nutrition, employment, training and counseling. Friday, May 31st, 6pm (social) 7pm (dinner).