Olympia Washington
Olympia Washington has a thriving art community. Being the state capital, music, film and art play a special part in the city on the Puget Sound. Olympia Symphony Orchestra is very active as are various community theatre companies. Since the 1980s, the area has had a vibrant music scene with live venues and many record labels contribute to the scene.
The annual Capitol LakeFair Festival takes place in July over five days. It's a traditional family event with games and rides on the shore of Capitol Lake, arts and crafts displays and a parade. The final day of festivities is celebrated with a bang in a big fireworks display. Activities can be enjoyed throughout the year on Capitol Lake, including kayaking, canoeing, sailboating and swimming. A pleasant walking trail goes round the edge of the lake.
The largest Farmer's Market in the state brings people together in Olympia Washington on the scenic waterfront. The best organic food is available and there is live music from jazz, country, bluegrass, folk rock and steel drum performers. Food vendors provide meals and snacks and arts and crafts stalls display the work of local artists and artisans. Food items sold include meats, fish, fruit and vegetables, clams and oysters, cheese and herbs. Fresh flowers are also on sale and desserts and jam and jellies for those with a sweet tooth.
Museums offer local history and culture with educational programs for the local community in Olympia Washington. Children love visiting the Hands On Children's Museum where they are encouraged to take part in interactive exhibits. They can create works of art and crafts; learn about life on the waterfront and construction and design projects. There is also an opportunity to let off steam in the soft play area.
The area was originally settled by Salish Native Americans and history of this can be found at the State Capital Museum. The museum contains tribal artifacts and also a re-construction of a Salish dwelling. The grounds are beautiful with maintained lawns and a botanical garden which also displays the Olympia Washington areas native plants. The garden contains flowers, trees, and shrubs which the tribe used as food and medicine.
Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge on the Nisqually River Delta is 3,000 acres of habitat for the preservation of waterfowl, wading birds, songbirds and raptors. The refuge has a visitor center and visitors can enjoy looking at the wildlife from the river trail.
Summary
Olympia is the state capital of Washington. The annual Capitol LakeFair Festival takes place in July over five days complete with fireworks, food, and fun. The largest Farmer's Market in the state is here with seafood, vegetables, and locally made cheese. It offers a museum which highlights the history of Olympia, which was originally settles by Salish Native Americans.
