Community
Opportunities Abound
As trusted ambassadors, we ensure communication and collaboration with our community members to continually improve the quality of life and business across Thurston County. There are a variety of opportunities for participating with the Port, from communicating directly with the Commissioners, to volunteering, to enjoying the sites and views on the waterfront.
Businesses and nonprofit associations can take advantage of educational events which the Port sponsors through Thurston County Chamber of Commerce, Thurston County Economic Development Council and Experience Olympia & Beyond.
Port Hosted Events
At the Port of Olympia, we believe in fostering a sense of community and creating unforgettable experiences for all who visit. So whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, come join us as we come together to celebrate the joys of summer by the sea. Visit our Summer Events at the Port page for more information.
Port-Promoted Events
The Port of Olympia may provide community advertising and promotion support to qualifying organizations to be used for events and other activities that will positively market the Port and Port businesses, and the Port’s mission to support trade, tourism and economic development. Requests will be made in writing, using the application form, consistent with written procedures developed in accordance with this policy. Funds for community advertising and promotion are included in the annual budget, which is adopted in November. The level of Port participation will be tailored to match the anticipated benefit to the Port.
- East Meets West: In the Footsteps of Marco Polo, January 9, 2025
- Governor's Inaugural Ball, January 15, 2025
- Procession of the Species, Spring 2025
- On the Water, Spring 2025
- Shoestring Circus, June 2025
- Olympic Air Show, June 14-15, 2025
- Summer Splash! June - August 2025
- Movies at the Marina, August 30 & September 6, 2025
- Capital City Pride, Summer 2025
- Summer Nights at the Port, June 20, June 27, July 13, 2025
- Music in the Park at the Port Plaza, July 30, 2025
- South Sound Block Party, August 22-23, 2025
- Olympia Harbor Days, August 29-31, 2025
- ELL Fieldtrips, Fall 2025
- Oly on Ice, November 2025 - January 2026
- Community Roots Oral History Project, Ongoing 2025
Explore the Working Waterfront
The Port of Olympia offers free educational and fun tours of its operations nearly every month. These tours are an opportunity to watch the workings of an international shipping terminal in Thurston County and learn about the Port’s other lines of business including Swantown Marina, the Olympia Airport and the Port’s Property Development program.
Education
During the tour, participants will observe cargo operations, including the mobile harbor crane, log loaders, and other equipment. They will also learn how Thurston County is connected to the global trade network and the crucial role the Port plays in moving a wide range of goods to their final destinations. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the Port’s economic impact on the community and acquire knowledge about the Swantown Marina & Boatworks, Olympia Regional Airport, and the Port’s Real Estate Development program.
Tour Details
Tours are outdoor walking tours lasting approximately 1 hour. Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. A vessel in port is not guaranteed. Children of all ages are welcome. Tours are stroller and wheelchair accessible. Photo identification is required for anyone over 17 years of age.
Reservations Required: Space is limited. Reserve your spot by emailing Tours@PortOlympia.com
Photo ID Required for 17+: Due to federal regulations, government issued photo identification (i.e.; Driver’s License, Passport, etc.) is required for everyone over 17 years of age to access the secured Marine Terminal.
Location and Duration: Tours start at the Port Plaza, 701 Columbia St NW, Olympia, WA 98501, and last approximately one hour. Metered parking is available outside of Port offices.
Attire: Tours are outdoors, so participants should wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.
Accessibility: Children of all ages are welcome, and tours are stroller and wheelchair accessible.
Vessel Availability: Seeing a vessel in port is not guaranteed.
2025 Port Public Tour Schedule
Tours are held on the first Tuesday of each month at 11 a.m. on the following dates: June 3, July 1, August 5, and September 2.
Reservations close 24 hours prior to a tour.
Group Tours
In addition to the monthly scheduled tours, we can also accommodate groups from schools or other organizations, of 10 or more people. School and group tours will be scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis and according to Port availability.
To schedule your group tour, or if you have questions, please contact the Port via email today.
Request a Speaker
The Port of Olympia has speakers available to talk about the Port in general or items of special interest to the group. You can ask for a Port overview or information on a specific topic such as budget/finance, environment, economic development, airport, seaport, real estate, marina/boatworks, etc.
Whether your group is a neighborhood association, community or civic group, professional association or other special interest group of Thurston County citizens, the Port has a brief presentation to share with you.
For more information, please fill out the form and the Port of Olympia’s Outreach staff will contact you.
Request a Speaker
Community Outreach Staff
Emily GirtonMarketing & Outreach Coordinator |
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Taber LeeCommunications and Marketing Senior Manager |
