Vintage vessels, family friendly activities, tugboat races, live entertainment and more will highlight the 2024 Olympia Harbor Days Maritime Festival, August 30 – September 1.

Get ready to set sail for an unforgettable weekend of maritime fun at Olympia Harbor Days, a South Sound Maritime Heritage Association event. This beloved free community event is back, bigger and better than ever, from Friday, Aug. 30 to Monday, Sept. 1, with a 9:30 p.m. drone show Friday, Aug. 30 and a preview on the evening of Aug. 29, over the East Bay in downtown Olympia.

Tugboats racing in Budd Inlet. Photo courtesy of Shanna Paxton Photography.

The maritime heritage festival takes place along Olympia’s Downtown Budd Inlet Waterfront Boardwalk from historic Percival Landing to the Port of Olympia’s Port Plaza Park.

Experience the magic of the waterfront as downtown Olympia transforms into a vibrant hub of nautical excitement with tugboats, workboats, tall ships, steamships, dragon boats, and other historic vessels of twentieth-century commerce. Savor the delicious flavors of the Northwest with 22 different food vendors, including traditional Tribal Cedar Smoked Salmon from Lucky Eagle Casino. More than 30 talented bands and musicians will perform throughout the weekend, alongside over 100 art and craft vendors, sand sculptures, stone etching, and dedicated kids’ activities.

For history buffs, the iconic Lady Washington will be open for tours, offering a glimpse into life on a historic tall ship, the Virginia V will offer daily harbor cruises and Schooner Pterodactyl will offer 2-hour private day sails. Reservations and tickets are required and can be purchased on the Olympia Harbor Days website.

Prepare to be mesmerized by the Friday evening drone show featuring 150 drones creating a breathtaking maritime-themed spectacle. As the sun sets, glowing entertainment with illuminated belly dancing will take over Percival Park, and a fire and LED light show will be held at Port Plaza.

“Olympia Harbor Days is more than just an event, it’s a cherished tradition that brings our community together to celebrate our maritime heritage,” said Carol Riley, Executive Director of Olympia Harbor Days. “We’re excited to welcome everyone back to the waterfront for a weekend filled with fun, entertainment, and unforgettable memories.”

For more details on the festival lineup, activities, and program visit www.harbordays.com and follow along on Instagram or Facebook.

Olympia Harbor Days Festival: 

FRIDAY, AUGUST 30, 2024  5:00 PM – 9:30 PM
SATURDAY, AUGUST 31, 2024  10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2024 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
WITH A 150 DRONE SHOW AUGUST 30 (PREVIEW ON AUGUST 29)

Note: Feature image courtesy of Karla Fowler.